Because behind “fine” can be the grief you cannot explain, the resentment you feel guilty admitting, the endless mental list you cannot turn off, the fear you are holding for your children, or the pressure to keep everyone else okay.

In our first episode of our Unspoken season, we are talking about the things Christian women often feel pressure to hide: the overwhelm, the sadness, the anxiety, the loneliness, the questions, and the emotions that do not seem “faithful enough” to say out loud.

But here is the truth: God already knows what you are carrying.

You do not have to have the perfect words. You do not have to tell everyone everything. And you do not have to keep holding it all by yourself.

This conversation is an invitation to pause, look inward, and ask: What am I carrying that no one knows about? From there, we can begin to name what is heavy, bring it honestly to Jesus, and take one small step from hiding to healing.

In This Episode

• Why “I’m fine,” “I’m good,” and “I’m busy” can be such loaded responses.
• The invisible mental and emotional load so many women carry for their families.
• How grief can show up long after the loss—and in moments you do not expect.
• Why unspoken burdens can affect our bodies, reactions, relationships, and thoughts.
• The fear behind naming what is hard: What will people think of me? Will this land safely?
• Why you do not need to broadcast your pain to begin healing.
• How to bring your real thoughts, emotions, questions, and burdens to God.
• The value of safe, trusted community that can pray, listen, and gently say, “Are you sure you’re fine?”
• A simple prayer prompt for when you feel overwhelmed but do not yet know why.

Share This Episode

Know a woman who looks like she is holding it all together but may be carrying more than she says? Send her this episode and remind her: she does not have to be “fine” to be loved, seen, or held by God.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
— Matthew 11:28

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🇺🇸Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

💌Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

Maybe you are not lazy. Maybe you are not failing. Maybe you are not ungrateful for the life God has given you.

Maybe you are simply carrying more than you were meant to carry alone.

Here’s a snapshot of our new Unspoken season, where we are naming the things Christian women often feel pressure to hide: the emotional exhaustion beneath the full calendar, the quiet doubt behind the faithful smile, the fear of rejection, and the relentless pressure to be enough as a mom, wife, friend, and woman of faith.

You can still show up for everyone, get the kids where they need to go, keep the house moving, serve at church, answer the texts, and look “fine” from the outside—while feeling emotionally and mentally depleted inside. And sometimes, instead of acknowledging what hurts, we get busier. We take on more. We keep moving because slowing down might mean admitting that something feels too heavy.

This conversation is not about shame, fixing yourself, or telling the whole world your deepest struggles. It is an invitation to pause, tell the truth about what has gone unspoken, and bring it honestly to Jesus.

“This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all… But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another…”
— 1 John 1:5–7

What have you been carrying quietly that you can bring into the light with God this week?

You do not have to explain every detail publicly. You do not have to have perfect words. But you can begin with honesty: Jesus, this is what I have been holding. I need You here.

If this episode spoke to the exhaustion or pressure you have been carrying, add these episodes to your queue:

• Episode 107: Rest Must Be Stronger Than Exhaustion
• Episode 9: You Actually Are a Good Mom; Don’t Fall for the Shame & Guilt

If this conversation encouraged you, share it with a woman who may be tired of pretending she is fine. And be sure to follow, rate, and review The Unlikely Housewives wherever you listen.

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🇺🇸Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

💌Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

We touch upon key elements such as feeling safe, seen, heard, and valued in relationships, and how these needs can be met both in earthly and spiritual realms. Listen in as we explore how unmet expectations in relationships can cause resentment, highlighting the significance of vulnerability and open communication in fostering healthy relationships.

We also highlight the "four horsemen of the apocalypse" in relationships as identified by relationship researcher John Gottman, namely criticism, contempt, defensiveness, and stonewalling. With us, explore the manifestation of these behaviors and their potential to predict the strength or fragility of a relationship.

Alongside Noreen, we unpack the use of sarcasm, discuss the intent versus impact of words, and illustrate the effectiveness of 'I' statements in neutralizing criticism and contempt. We underline the value of self-awareness, self-regulation, and vulnerability in building intimacy and trust in relationships. Join us in this transformative conversation as we inspire you to reconsider your own communication styles and initiate positive changes within yourself instead of attempting to alter your partner. Remember, a strong and healthy relationship is not a destination but a journey of constant communication.

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We talk about the subtle ways our culture tells us to buy more to feel like “enough,” and how that pressure shows up in our homes, holidays, and even our parenting. Then we contrast that with God’s heart for simplicity, presence, and intentional living—choosing game nights over gadgets, road trips over random purchases, and time with Jesus over the constant chase for the next “new” thing. You’ll hear how we’re personally wrestling with these decisions in our own families, what we’ve learned the hard way, and the small shifts that are making a big difference in our peace and joy.

If you’ve ever felt guilty for saying no to more stuff, stretched thin trying to keep up with everyone else’s lifestyle, or convicted that your calendar and Amazon cart don’t match your values, this conversation is for you. We’ll share practical ideas for creating meaningful shared experiences on any budget, how to invite your husband and kids into the process, and how to anchor it all in a biblical perspective on contentment, stewardship, and “treasures in heaven.” Expect a mix of conviction and encouragement—with plenty of grace.

By the end of the episode, you’ll feel empowered to:

• Identify where “things” might be crowding out what matters most in your life.
• Reframe experiences as investments in your family’s spiritual and emotional legacy.
• Take simple, realistic steps toward a more intentional, Christ-centered lifestyle that values presence over possessions.

This is your gentle nudge to loosen your grip on stuff and tighten your hold on the people and moments God has placed in front of you. Tune in, share it with a friend, and then go make a memory that lasts longer than anything in your shopping cart.

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Episode Highlights

Pull up a chair amid the shoe piles and dive into these relatable rants:

• Dishwasher loading drama: Tetris pros vs. straw-in-lid purists, plus basement dishwashers that hide Tupperware forever.
• Toilet paper wars: Over vs. under, and the horror of rolls just set on top (or worse, under in guest baths—we fix it!).
• Shoe explosions & "rapture" moments: Six pairs by day's end, lining stairs, and magic coffee tables that "disappear" messes.
• Wet towels on floors (then screams in the shower), overflowing trash with face-up paper plates, and couch pillows/blankets everywhere.

Our audience chimed in with duplicates galore—proving pettiness unites us:

• Cupboards/drawers left open (ADD or awareness fail?).
• Trash Q-tips bouncing off full cans, couch chaos, and blankets strewn like nobody lives here.
• The "think less, laugh more" mantra for overthinkers, because God created humor for sitcom families like ours.

We asked the men—they've got petty gripes about us too (stay tuned to the end). Awareness is step one; grace covers the rest.

These "ridiculous yet relatable" quirks point to bigger heart lessons, but today? Just laugh. God likes us wild ones anyway. Think less, laugh more!

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🇺🇸Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

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Desiree's story takes us through the deeply personal journey of navigating an unplanned pregnancy while confronting society and family expectations. She courageously shares her profound spiritual experience of hearing God’s voice that guided her decision to keep her child, highlighting the strength found in personal faith. As she recounts her story, Desiree draws powerful parallels between the unconditional love of a parent and God's love, offering insights into how these relationships provide comfort and purpose. Her message is one of hope and the power of love to redefine our understanding of family and faith.

Desiree's journey of writing her book over nearly a decade is a testament to overcoming personal barriers and building a community of support. This episode is a heartfelt tribute to Desiree's courage and the enduring message of redemption and freedom in Christ. We invite you to explore more about her journey and insights on her website, www.arenewedcreation.com, where you can find resources that continue to inspire and guide.

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Midwest Parent Educators: https://bit.ly/mpeuh25 If you are a first-time conference attendee, you qualify for their First-Time Family discount code. Even better - if you’re parents of preschoolers, you can get FREE conference admission by applying for the Parents of Preschoolers discount code. More details are on the webpage link.

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This week we had the pleasure of talking with Kaety Bowers, newly elected Blue Valley School Board member. If you are one of our local (Johnson County) listeners, you will LOVE getting to hear her heart and her story. If you are not one of our JoCo listeners, you will love the practical advice and suggestions she gives to us as parents how to be a better advocate for our children in their schools. 

She shares with us a little about her background, her family, and mostly about her journey to running for a political office, the school board. But her desire for helping and serving others didn’t just start with a political campaign! She is a licensed cosmetic tattoo artist working with mostly cancer survivors who don’t have eyebrows after their chemotherapy treatments! 

When she felt called to run for school board, she had so many feelings about it: she’s too young, not enough experience, her reasons for running not good enough, etc. But God! He orchestrated it the way it came together and she was elected in November 2021! 

She shares with us 2 specific negative circumstances where God used them to spark her calling for school board! They will yank at your heart strings! But her reasons quickly grew when she started to dive into the campaign process. (Tori here! I’m tearing up just thinking about our conversation again) 

➡️ Kaety shares the most practical advice on how to be the best advocate for your kid:

💙 it begins at home! 

💙 get kids off of social media!

💙 check your kids parental controls on your kid’s devices

💙 be mentally in the game! Read ALL those emails they send!

💙 preview your kid’s library books

💙 be kind! 

💙 learn to agree to disagree!

💙 share what is going on in your schools with your board members

💙 go to school board meetings

Want to learn more about the Blue Valley School Board members? Click here ➡️ Blue Valley School Board Members

Want to reach out to Kaety? Find her here on Facebook and Instagram

Kaety Bowers on Facebook

Kaety Bowers on Instagram

Join our fast growing community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram! 

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

For the woman who keeps asking, “Am I falling behind?” or “Shouldn’t I be doing more?”—this episode is your permission slip to breathe, be where your feet are, and trust that God has you exactly where He wants you.

• Tori’s 10-year wrestle with being a stay-at-home mom and constantly chasing “God’s will” in the next opportunity, title, or achievement.​
• Tracy’s journey of stepping away from a good, successful thing to lock in at home during a hard season and what it looked like to quiet the noise and get off social media.
• How the word “just” (as in “just a wife and mom”) sneaks into our language and steals the value of the most important roles God has given us.
• The craving for affirmation and recognition—why words of affirmation feel so good in work and ministry, and how unseen faithfulness at home still deeply matters to God.
• Letting go of guilt, comparison, and cultural pressure to “be more” and instead anchoring your identity as a daughter of the King.
• The idea of being grounded not as being stuck or stagnant, but as being anchored in trust like a boat on the waves—still moving, but held secure by Jesus.
• Seeing each season (babies, teens, moving, new church, college-bound kids) as temporary, purposeful, and part of God’s timeline, not a permanent label on your worth.​
• Gratitude for past seasons—even ones that may have come from striving or partial disobedience—and how God still used them for provision, growth, and connection.

This episode is especially for you if:

• You feel pulled between home and hustle and wonder if you’re “wasting” your gifts at home.
• You’ve stepped away from something good (a job, business, or ministry) and are grieving, doubting, or second-guessing the decision.
• You’re struggling with comparison on social media and feeling like everyone else is “ahead” of you.
• You’re longing for peace, presence, and permission to be fully where God has you right now.

• Trusting God’s placement and timing in every season.
• Holding dreams, homes, churches, and plans with open hands.
• Remembering that nothing is wasted in God’s hands—even the seasons we’d label as striving or misaligned.

You are not “behind.” You are not “just” anything. You are loved, called, and placed on purpose right where you are today.

If this episode encouraged you, send it to a friend who is wrestling with her worth, her work, or her role at home, and remind her she doesn’t have to keep chasing the next thing to be in God’s will.

You can also share your biggest takeaway by tagging us on Instagram and telling us what “being grounded” looks like in your current season.

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🇺🇸Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

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In this conversation, Terri opens up about:

• Why the desire to be a “good mom” can become a trap.
• The difference between parenting behavior and parenting the heart.
• How faith changes the way we approach motherhood.
• Why Christ-centered parenting matters more than perfection.
• Practical ways to build a home that points children to Jesus.
• The power of relationship, consistency, and spiritual surrender in motherhood.

If you have ever felt like you are falling short as a mom, this episode will remind you that your job is not to be perfect — your job is to lead your children toward Christ.

Grab The Good Mom Trap https://a.co/d/0gRyXMGP

The easiest first step to connect with Terri is emailing info@terrihitt.com or visiting www.terrihitt.com to book a complimentary 30-minute coaching call.

*********************

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🇺🇸Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

💌Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

We hope you enjoyed Part 1 of this episode with our husbands.  In last week’s episode we shared how we each met our spouses, grew in our marriages, struggled with letting our husbands be the spiritual leaders of our homes and last but not least, how the pandemic affected each of our families. 

💙 This week’s episode focuses on some more in depth conversations around what our husbands thought when we said we wanted to start a podcast. You have to know, before we recorded with them we told them they could be honest and not hold anything back. (We've always got Craig in our back pocket if it doesn't go as planned, right? ha!) We bet you can hear us blushing when they started to share their perspective as they gave us some incredible worlds of affirmation. (Awww 🥰)

💙 We talk about how difficult it is for some couples to parent together as the parenting styles we each grew up with were so different. We also acknowledge that after the kids come along, the dynamic of just being a couple can be a challenge as it takes intentionality in dating and communicating.  Each couple is stronger in one area than the other, listen in to find out which one is which.

💙 “Living for self” is a struggle we each had at one point and it really takes us each having a relationship with Jesus, and a stronger one at that, to really focus on our marriage. We also know how important it is for each marriage to talk through the hardships and continue to work at being a team during the tough parenting years.  

💙 We each share some challenging conversations we’ve both had in our marriages around us putting our husbands on pedestals, putting them at a higher standard than they actually can meet. Believe it or not, our husbands are not our saviors. 

💙 The messes and blesses in marriage go together…evaluate where you are and where you can go!  

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

(12:11) - The Evolution of Hormone Therapy

(20:42) - Women's Health

(31:22) - Benefits of Hormone Replacement Therapy

(36:51) - Advocating for Women's Health Options

Dr. Kathy Gaumer, MD, FACOG, Medical Director and Shelby Campbell APRN, FNP-C, a dedicated family nurse practitioner, bring their expertise to our discussion on the life-changing potential of hormone therapy. Our conversation offers a fresh perspective on menopause management, dismantling the myths and outdated fears that have long surrounded hormone replacement therapy (HRT). We explore Tracy's courageous journey from frustration to empowerment, highlighting how bioidentical hormone therapy provided her a beacon of hope amid the challenges of energy loss, hot flashes, and mood swings.

We journey through the evolution of HRT, addressing the historical misconceptions rooted in the Women's Health Initiative study. By diving into the specifics of modern hormone therapy options like estradiol, we provide clarity and reassurance to women seeking safer, more effective solutions. Our conversation aims to transform the narrative around aging and hormone health, encouraging a proactive stance on wellness that women can embrace with confidence.

Our episode emphasizes the critical importance of informed advocacy for women's health, particularly during perimenopause and menopause. By sharing Tracy's story and our comprehensive approach to healthcare, we aim to inspire women to explore their options and advocate for their well-being. Our practice's commitment to education, telehealth accessibility, and personalized care supports women nationwide in making empowered healthcare decisions that enhance their quality of life.

Book your consultation:  https://ifeelmuchbetter.com/

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Do you feel like a conventional mom or do you feel comfortable doing things that are best for you and your family without the thought that it might not be “normal”? In this episode we discuss unconventional motherhood…doing things against the norm in our homes and with work.

Everyone has standards of what the perfect mother should be and to some degree, we all fall short and feel guilty that something, somewhere is not getting done right or on time. But this isn’t truth because no one sets your standard for your kids but YOU!

Normal is familiar, cultural norm is something that you see happening around you, on social media and we’ve taken notes, trying to implement what others are doing…but is it always best for us or our families? Not always and we are here to encourage you that it’s ok to be an unconventional mom.

A few of our favorite mom memes, lighthearted mom tips: 

😂 The majority of my diet is made up of foods my kids didn’t finish. —Carrie Underwood

😂I always say if you aren’t yelling at your kids, you’re not spending enough time with them. —Reese Witherspoon 

😂When you are children are teenagers, it’s important to have a dog so that someone in the house is happy to see you. —Nora Ephron 

💙 This episode is full of light and hope that you can let go of whatever you think you normal is…let go of what you think is some kind of standard.  Embrace the weird, embrace the hard.  Let got of the stimga that you need to be a perfect mom. 

Join our fast growing community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram! 

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

(03:29) - Navigating Faith, Love, and Authenticity

(17:33) - Godly Leaders and Their Imperfections

(22:57) - Parenting Through the Culture War

(30:50) - Navigating Cultural Shifts in Faith

(43:09) - Parenting Challenges in Modern Culture

(51:50) - Love, Accountability, and Faith

Can cultural differences coexist harmoniously with faith? Join us as we uncover surprising journeys of atheists who embraced Christ by aligning with church's worldview on contentious issues like the trans movement and socialism. With Pastor Zach Terry bringing his no-nonsense approach to faith and community, we promise you'll gain insights into navigating challenging conversations with love and authenticity. This episode isn't just about belief—it's about the courage to build bridges beyond disagreement and discovering how community thrives even in diversity.

Podcasting is more than a medium; it's a movement reshaping spiritual discourse, and we're eager to explore its transformative power with you. We discuss how sermons are evolving into motivational messages, influenced by public figures like Russell Brand and Jordan Peterson, who are on their own spiritual journeys. Through candid conversations, we consider the authenticity of these transformations and the role of sincerity in faith. As we navigate these cultural shifts, we reflect on how podcasts can spread the gospel with boldness and truth, creating a ripple effect in today's digital age.

Parenting in modern culture isn't for the faint-hearted, especially when navigating complex issues of gender identity and sexual orientation. Our episode offers a guiding hand, sharing personal stories and lessons learned in support of families facing these challenges. From tackling unexpected topics like exposure to unconventional subcultures to the importance of mercy and acceptance in faith, our conversation reaffirms the strength found in community.

https://zachterry.org/

https://www.instagram.com/zachterry

*********************

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In this episode, we look back on the past year and what God has done through this podcast and in our lives. There were a couple lessons learned too.

➡️ There is a big difference between quitting, getting lost, and pausing. 

➡️ Work when you can work, and then when you have to PAUSE it is okay! 

➡️ We can share from a place of struggle, not strength. 

➡️ Work for an audience of ONE.

➡️ You are still not alone. 

What do YOU want to hear about? Is there a topic you want more  of? Ask us a question! (email: UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com)

We will see in January!!

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

Amid the backdrop of Anthony's career change, we unravel the complexities of balancing the rush of police work with the sanctuary of home. Tales from Union Station, a symbol of bravery and the fragility of safety, paint a vivid picture of the sacrifices made by those who protect us. The Sherman's unfiltered insights into the emotional landscape of law enforcement families offer a rare glimpse into the love, fear, and unwavering support that binds them together. It's not all high tension, though; the fun of school spirit and community camaraderie shines through as we recount the highlights of school field days and the lighter moments that keep spirits high.

The episode peeks behind the curtain of Sherman's latest endeavors, from laying down roots in Kansas to launching his own podcast, 'Buddy Listen'. Ambition doesn't stop at the microphone, as we discuss the evolution from radio to podcasting and the construction of a home that serves as both a gym and a creative hub. Anthony and Jessica's approach to fitness, parenting, and forging a legacy of leadership sets an inspiring tone for us all. It's a narrative about building the foundations—literal and metaphorical—of a life well-lived, encouraging each of us to pursue our passions with the same fervor.

You can find Anthony’s podcast “Buddy Listen” here 

Follow Anthony on X

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As we settled into our conversation, the importance of family values in guiding day-to-day life became abundantly clear. Mell shared how establishing a set of values acts as a compass during conflicts and decisions, and we laughed over her stories that showed just how impactful a well-timed family dinner can be. It's not just about the food—it's about gratitude, connection, and the roles we each play in the dance of family life. Plus, Mell offered up the secret sauce for turning mundane 'chores' into 'contributions', which has the power to transform how our families work together.

Rounding off our chat, we uncovered the underestimated magic of family meetings. Think less boardroom, more living room—a space where schedules align, achievements are applauded, and each voice is valued. Through Mell's engaging stories, including how a simple handshake can skyrocket a child's confidence, we learned that the strength of a family's foundation can weather the storms of modern life. The Strong Family Project isn't just a guidebook or an online community—it's a starting point for families looking to redefine their journey, and Mell is leading the way with a heart full of dedication and hands ready to help. Come, be inspired to make your family's path one that's strong, connected, and full of joy.

💙 You can connect with Joe & Mell at: 

https://strongfamilyproject.com/

💙 Listen to their podcast at: Strong Family Project Podcast:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/strong-family-project/id1677418124

💙 Connect with the Hashey’s on Instagram:

@officialstrongfamilyco

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(00:00) - Boys' Fight Club Support Group

(11:19) - Teen Boys Support Group Format

(16:53) - Building Trust Through Boys' Support Group

(25:45) - Youth Support Group Discussion Format

(29:58) - Youth Support Group Expansion Plans

(37:13) - Father-Son Spiritual Connection and Growth

(47:10) - Social Media and Teen Mental Health

Join us as we explore the powerful and transformative concept of the Fight Club, a peer support group created for young men to navigate the spiritual and social challenges they face in today's world. This unique initiative, led by Ryan Bevins and supported by JP Claxton, provides a confidential space for boys to step away from digital distractions and engage in real-life relationships. Through open and honest discussions, the club encourages vulnerability and brotherhood, aiming to help boys build trust and express their struggles in a safe environment.

Our discussion covers the innovative structure of the Fight Club meetings, where boys participate in meaningful high-low sharing exercises that foster trust and emotional support. As the boys grow more comfortable, they open up about deeper emotional issues, creating a supportive atmosphere where they can truly be themselves. Additionally, the sessions feature topical discussions on themes like gratitude and are often tied to relevant scriptures, encouraging self-reflection and appreciation for loved ones. These peer-led conversations are conducted in small groups to ensure continuity and trust among participants, creating a sense of belonging.

We also explore the future expansion plans for the Fight Club, including the development of a girls' support group set to launch in 2025. This initiative seeks to create a supportive space for young girls, led by relatable peer leaders, to engage in discussions that resonate with their personal experiences. Our discussion focuses on the involvement of fathers and the importance of nurturing positive peer interactions from a young age. Through emotional intimate stories, we highlight the impact of social media on teen mental health and the crucial role of real-life connections and spiritual mentorship in combating the challenges faced by today's youth.

Update from Fight Club: In this first year, Fight Club has been able to start up 4 new groups at 3 new schools this Fall with a few more getting ready to launch in the coming months… including our first GIRLS group which we’ve very excited about!!  This will give us a total of 10 Fight Club groups across 6 different high schools listed below.  And we’re just getting started!

www.FightClub-US.com

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We talk about what it means to move from simply consuming Bible teaching to truly applying God’s Word in everyday life, especially in the middle of motherhood, ministry, and ordinary responsibilities. Pat also shares practical ways she has made time for Jesus in different seasons of life, from early mornings to car lines to quiet moments at home, and reminds listeners that faithfulness does not have to look the same for everyone.

The conversation also explores grace, shame, identity in Christ, and how easy it is for even good things to crowd out our time with God. Pat encourages women to stay in process, give themselves grace, and keep returning to the Word as God continues shaping them.

Pat Domangue is a Bible study author and women’s ministry leader who is passionate about helping women ignite their love for Jesus and apply God’s Word to everyday life. Her latest Bible study, My Maker and Me, is based on Isaiah 64:8 and the imagery of the potter and the clay.

If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend who needs a reminder that Jesus is near in every busy season. Subscribe, leave a review, and keep walking with us as we pursue faith, wellness, and authentic encouragement together.

OnFire Ministries

Pat's Instagram

Pat's Facebook

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(10:33) - Breaking Free From Overwhelming Shame

(16:09) - The Destructive Power of Shame

(29:52) - Navigating the Layers of Shame

(37:10) - Navigating Parenting Through Shame

(44:03) - Empowering All Housewives With Confidence

Imagine a world where shame no longer dictates your life. Join us as we peel back the the intricate layers of shame and its impact on identity, alongside the brilliant Dr. Zoe Shaw, licensed psychotherapist and author of "Stronger in the Difficult Places." With her unique blend of insights rooted in psychology and faith, Dr. Shaw guides us through understanding how shame can lead to isolation and affect our relationships. Her story, which has also been highlighted in a docuseries on the OWN Network, offers a fresh and hopeful perspective on building authentic connections.

In a deeply personal narrative, we confront the shadows of past experiences and the isolation they breed. From the struggles of being a pregnant teenager in a conservative family to raising a child with a rare genetic disorder, these challenges sparked a journey of healing and growth. Discover how creating a language for complex shame not only facilitated personal recovery but also offered guidance to others grappling with similar burdens. This episode is a testament to the power of shedding shame and embracing authenticity for a truly fulfilling life.

As we peel back the layers of shame, we look into how it manifests in parenting and social interactions. Our conversation with Dr. Shaw emphasizes the importance of teaching children to recognize and respond constructively to shame, highlighting the need for compassion and understanding in both words and actions. We also discuss the transformative journey of overcoming both simple and complex shame and how it empowers individuals to live freely and intentionally. Join our online community to continue this important conversation, and don't forget to subscribe and share your thoughts on this enlightening episode.

https://drzoeshaw.com/

https://www.instagram.com/drzoeshaw/

 Order Dr. Zoe's book here! "Stronger in the Difficult Places"

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(14:30) Modern Distractions and Exhaustion

(21:49) Rest and Intentionality in Daily Life

What happens when life's little interruptions, like a sick child or a surprise snow day, throw off your podcasting groove? Tune in as we share a candid, light-hearted chat about these chaotic moments and more. Amidst the snores of pets and partners, we find humor in the unpredictability of daily life, discovering joy in the disarray. Our conversation then takes a thoughtful turn as we ponder the concept of rest, inspired by a sermon from Pastor Jon Tyson. Together, we explore how to find peace even during our busiest times, all while enjoying the camaraderie of matching robes and under-eye patches.

Ever wondered why true rest feels so elusive in today's hustle culture? We explore this timely issue, discussing the impact of social media and streaming on our abilities to genuinely connect and rejuvenate. With rising rates of burnout, especially in ministry, we emphasize balancing work with intentional rest, sharing personal tips for managing intense periods without losing sight of what's important. We also spotlight the empowering idea of women proactively planning vacations, whether with a partner or solo, offering practical advice for housewives eager to embrace the world on their own terms. Join us for a blend of laughs, insights, and inspiration to carve out your own peace amidst life's inherent chaos.

Sermon Link: https://youtu.be/WtlCRF92SG8

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Ladies, are you wondering what is happening to your body? Are you noticing more changes and possibly more cellulite than you ever expected? Have you started seeing and feeling the physical, mental and emotional changes of your body aging?  Some women are okay with hearing that it’s just part of life, yet for others, they want answers…not just the quick fix either, getting to the root issues, and Michelle and Kristie shine light on how to start getting these answers. 

Fitness and nutrition experts Kristie Winter and Michelle Hutton (Owners of TwinFitness) are not only personal trainers, small group instructors, and nutritionists, but they are also former Fitness Bikini Pros! They understand the struggles you face trying to balance work, family, and self-care, as busy mothers themselves! The systems, willpower, and knowledge of the human body that led them to victory on the stage makes it possible for them to face every day with a smile, no matter how hectic their schedules get!

The twins share the two types of body shapes and the changes that occur due to specific hormonal bodies. 

Estrogen dominant: carrying extra weight in hips and thighs, lower body. How can you improve your body's response to this? 

1. Nutrition (90% of the equation) 
2. High intensity cardio, plyometrics, jump squats, jump rope 
3. You should not spend more than 30 minutes. As we age, the stress hormone does increase as well and it could backfire on you storing body fat. 
4. Patience

Insulin resistant: carrying extra weight in stomach, mid section. How can you improve your body's response to this? 

1. If you change your diet, and focus on nutrition, you will see the results in your mid section. Getting good fats and lower carbs. Helpful tip & place to start: Count carbs and stay under 100g per day.
2. Exercise: Slower pace, walk, resistance training.
3. Cut back on sugars!

Michelle and Kristie started TwinFitness to empower women to be their best versions of themselves. By focusing on mothers and busy women, they can guide more women than ever to a healthier, happier lifestyle. Your goal is their goal. They are ready to help you get the body that supports the lifestyle you want!

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We all know the Public School Board of Education has been in the media.  Most people only know what they see or hear on the news or social media, however, there is so much more to your school board.  In our conversation with Erika, we covered a variety of topics in which we hope will give you some encouragement to learn more about your own public school board and how you can play a part for the future of your/our children.

We discuss some myths vs facts, how do you judge a successful school board, how you can get involved, and more challenging topics like the new comprehensive sexual education programs rolling into our schools.  

Erika Sheets has become a friend of ours in the last few years. She is to us an expert as she has taken the time, going above and beyond, researching and building a foundation to help support our community. Erika, her husband and two teens have been Johnson County residents since 2010. She has been a Blue Valley parent for 13 years in six different buildings and has consistently served the district on various committees, PTO and more over that time. 

Professionally, Erika has spent 30 years in revenue generation & leadership development and holds an MBA from Case Western Reserve University as well as a BA from the James Madison residential college at Michigan State University. 

To learn about your own local school board, do a basic search of your school name + school board and the meeting times, locations and previous sessions should be available to you. 

You can learn more about Erika at momsforliberty.org and find the closest chapter to you. Listen to learn more on the Joyful Warriors podcast. 

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“Our grief is an equal measure to our love.”

Have you ever thought about your children’s behaviors being affected by grief or loss?  Loss of a friendship, a bad grade on a test, a loss of a pet, a big move, a family miscarriage, parents divorcing, or the loss of a loved one…these are all things that can truly bother a child yet they don’t have the words or tools to vocalize. In this episode, Valerie Rhodes does an incredible job of giving us some tools and shining some light on ways to cope with grief. 

Valerie Rhodes is a grief counselor, author, speaker, workshop instructor, and Christian Grief Counseling, LLC owner. She earned her BA in Management of Human Resources from MidAmerica Nazarene University in Kansas. All continuing education focuses on dying, death, grief, loss, and disaster, with hope for recovery, rescue, and restoration. 

As a long-term cancer survivor and then caregiver for a cancer survivor, Valerie has continued to serve others with chronic illness and death-related issues. She offers grief support workshops and teaches skills and tools to help others cope with their personal grief and losses. With her biblical worldview and as a trained member of the Overland Park, KS, FEMA Community Emergency Response Team, she specializes in helping others deal with diverse grief and disaster. 

When our children are dealing with so many things at once, it feels like their whole world is falling apart.  But can we learn to ask the right questions and help them get to the answer of “what is really bothering them the most?”

You can find Valerie here https://valeriestevensrhodes.com/

Or you can email her at christiangriefcounseling@gmail.com

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Kirstin became a travel agent after realizing her knowledge and experience was attracting her friends and family in order to help them plan specifically for Disney vacations. She loves helping people plan for small trips, staycations and family travel.

We run through a gammet of local attractions as well as those around the KC area.  We also share tips on some great ideas to check near you or the next time you’d like to travel. 

Local KC attractions: 

CrossRoads First Friday’s

Cat Sanctuary

Cat Cafe

Joco park mom insta

Drive through Safari

Other Ideas:

National parks (Every Kid Outdoors Program Provides Fourth Grade Students with Free Entrance to Public Lands) 

St Louis (The Arch & City Museum are our favorites)

Weston, MO

Hermon, MO (Missouri Wine Country Bed & Breakfast):  

Broken Bow, OK

Omaha (Zoo, College World Series) 

Tulsa, OK The Gathering Place

HGTV spots across the country: 

Waco, TX Magnolia Farms

Laurel, Mississippi with Ben & Erin

Indy Two Chicks and a Hammer

1,000 hour outdoor challenge 

Geocaching

If you’re flexible: 

Last minute deals: check airfare last minute 

Hoteltonight.com

Southwest Airlines tip: if the flight you are on is cheaper than the one you originally booked, you can rebook the same flight and get a travel credit for a future flight. 

Search for last minute cruise deals…gotta fill the boat.

Working with Kristin is completely FREE!  She works with the most incredible brands and the agents are taken care of by these brands.  She also works with beach properties, cruise lines, all inclusives, etc. Most feel like working with a travel agent would be an extra cost to the customer, but it is not…it’s a huge benefit and not only a time saver but a penny saver too. 

You can find Kristin here: @KristinMOMT

ksmith@momentsofmagictravel.com

Viator

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In this episode you will hear us talk about Tracy’s own personal story as well as: 

-What is a thyroid gland? 

-How do we tell if we have a thyroid dysfunction? Testing? Labs?

-What affects our thyroid function the most? Ex: sleep, stress, virus?

-What changes would you need to make to help your thyroid heal?

Our ultimate goal is to encourage women’s advocacy in getting to the bottom of their thyroid dysfunction. The #1 reason in the US for hypothyroidism is Hashimotos, an autoimmune disease. Usually with autoimmune disease there is a genetic component, gut component, triggering event (stressor) such as pregnancy or postpartum or big life event and we break each of these down in today’s episode.

Some common health symptoms that may lead you to wondering what’s off for you are cycle issues, hormonal imbalances, sleep issues, weight gain, fatigue, and so much more. These are all signs of something going on in your body…it’s not normal to feel these issues and we want to encourage you to keep seeking answers to help your body feel safe!  

Women are needing more health support now more than ever due to stress and hormonal imbalance that typically gets labeled “normal”. Lindsay spends some time with us sharing some of her tactical tips and steps that will encourage you, our listeners, into action of helping yourself. 

Lastly, we want to encourage you to continue advocate for your health…don’t stop at “normal” if that’s not how you are feeling. Reach out to Lindsay and schedule a consultation. 

Follow Lindsay on Instagram

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Tip #1: Prep yourself for a good morning the night before. 

Ex: Clean sink, dishes done (run your dishwasher at night) and coffee prepped for brewing before you are awake.  Morning made!

Tip #2: Create an organized drop zone. Ex: Kids papers, mail, etc. There will always be clutter, but designating a place for the drop zone, helps keep the clutter off the counter!

Tip #3: Laundry…start ‘em young. Your kids can do their own laundry. Start them young with the square wash clothes, move onto pairing socks, etc. Hanging separators also help with organization for adults and help for the younger kids when they are putting things away, they know exactly where they go. 

Tip #4: Sports Uniforms…the uniform AND the socks go directly to the laundry room in the uniform laundry bin so they don’t get lost amongst their dirty laundry in their bedroom. They also have a uniform bin in their closet so they know exactly where they are when hustling to get to practice or a game.

Tip #5: Instacart: Online grocery ordering service.  Yes, it actually saves time and money-absolutely worth it!! 

Tip #6: Rakuten: Go to Rakuten and create an account.  Any website you would use to purchase something for your home, pet or shopping for fun, go through Rakuten and allow yourself to earn an additional 1% to 10% off.  You’ll get a check cut for your savings.  Ex: great savings on dog food, a big purchase, Black Friday deals, etc. 

Tip #7: Dosh: This is legit FREE savings!! Create an account and add your most commonly used credit cards.  Each time you use that credit card at participating stores and restaurants will automatically add the savings to your Dosh account and you can cash out after you’ve earned $15 or more. 

Below are affiliate links to help save you money with things you are already doing! $$$

Dosh

Rakuten

InstaCart

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You are going to love this episode with our guest, Noreen Dupriest.  Tracy has been working with sweet Noreen as her therapist for herself and with her husband, Chris, to help in redefining their marriage and helping to build them stronger together. 

Noreen has a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy, working with individuals, couples, and families. She is married, has 4 boys and never leaves home without her red lipstick.  Noreen loves being an artist and a sculptor. The areas of focus in her office are: Anxiety, Couple Conflict, Depression, General Unhappiness, Infidelity, Loss, Grief and Heartbreak, Low Self-Esteem, Relationship Problems, Religious, Spiritual, or Faith Concerns and Women’s Issues.

In this episode we highlight:

—Tips and advice for someone considering therapy.

—Reasons why some may be fearful of taking the first step into therapy.

—Learning to sit comfortably in the discomfort, in order to process what’s really going on. 

—Therapy is a place to, in your time, find your safe place to break down and allow the issues to unfold.  

—You have value. Period. For who you are, not what you do. Sometimes you just need to be reminded of what those characteristics & attributes are. 

—Childhood trauma creates such a mindset that puts expectations and standards on yourself and other relationships that just cannot always be met. 

—Generational patterns will repeat themselves or Either you sit in that heat and realize that heat will either break you or bend you…you have to decide.

—“Expectations are the number one killer of relationships.” 

Recognize it just takes ONE person in the family system to change and work on things to change the whole system.

Scripture reference:

“The Lord will fight for you, you need only to be still.” Exodus 14:14

Book reference: 

“Wild at Heart” by John Eldridge.

Wild at Heart - Audiobook

What Did You Expect - Audiobook

“What did you expect” by Paul David Tripp (Rebranded Version) 

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Mamas, it doesn’t matter if you do anything else at all during motherhood…if you’re a mom, you are a badass…it’s both/and.  Mamas if you choose nothing else other than to love your children with everything you’ve got, then you are a badass. If you choose to be WAHM, corporate moms, teacher mom, ministry mom…whatever else you do alongside your motherhood is perfectly a-ok and y’all are badasses. Period.  

One of our greatest struggles is finding the work/life balance when we are trying to do more and keeping boundaries around family time. We encourage you to do have awareness and be intentional with your time to keep this balance.  Do you know your red flags when the tide begins to turn? You can be passionate about something other than your children and it is truly ok.  God has created each one of us for His purpose and if He has given you something with deep meaning and purpose that can come alongside being a mother, then absolutely go for it. You are a badass! 

We have each struggled with the feelings of killing it in our business one minute and then shaming ourselves for missing out on being our best as a mom. We have talked many times on this podcast about mom guilt and we don’t comply…we cannot feel guilty for doing the best we can in managing all that we do.  The feelings of guilt and shame do not come from God…don’t accept them b/c they serve no purpose!  

💙 We want you to celebrate the AND of being a mom and a badass.  Celebrate stepping up into God given courage and confidence and shine bright mama because you are a badass!

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Have you ever been offended?  Like really hurt by something someone said about you, your beliefs or ideas?  How about when they have attacked your character?  Then there are those times where we take offense by a story we tell ourselves…that probably isn’t true.

➡️ We share a couple personal stories of how we were offended and then ask the question…Is being offended justified? Sometimes? Always or never?

We were highly encouraged by a statement in the book “The Opposite Life” by Alex Seely (link below) and shared this quote:

“I truly believe there is a fine line between being offended and staying offended that can make or break someone.” 

➡️We discuss what people often find offensive…

Racism, patriarchy, religious beliefs, political views, parenting styles, all the way to how someone dresses, what size they are, etc.

➡️Offending an idea sparks discussion, offending the person leads to hurt. 

Ted talk we refer to: 

https://youtu.be/f4JiSQxdl6M

➡️We want to recognize that being offended and then staying offended is a choice. There will always be people who are offended…whether that was the intent of the person inferring the offense or not. 

➡️We also discuss what some of the reasons are for some people getting offended…past hurts not healed, comparison, unmet expectations and more.

➡️Offending someone if inevitable, so many emotions and feelings on high…BUT what if we learn to be intentional about living unoffended? 

“Imagine a world where the people of God lived unoffended.  Imagine a world where people pursued relationships even when they got hurt.  Imagine a world where people lived like Jesus, full of God’s spirit, where nothing could affect their love and mission for the people God had called them to serve.” —Alex Seely

➡️So HOW do we live like that?  We are human and when we are hurt, it hurts.

“When God comes into our lives to save us and make us whole, we need to receive the fullness of His love. Then when we face inevitable disappointment or hurt from others, we aren’t wounded and offended.” 

Alex Seely’s “The Opposite Life” book we referenced:

https://amzn.to/3FROz5u

💙 Are you living offended?  We encourage you to let go of some past hurts and feelings in order to let go, and let God!  Live more freely, with joy & peace.

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We are honored to have our friend and guest, Jill Renfro, on our show to share her unlikely story of battling through infertility. God has already been using her to share His message, and we hope this podcast is not only an extension of what she has already shared, but hopefully one that reaches many mama-in-waiting hearts. 

Jill, and her husband Dakota, have a precious little boy now, but their journey in the waiting and battle of infertility is a beautiful story as it unfolds, through the valleys, the good, the bad and ugly.  Jill uses humor and her passion for Jesus to share the heart of this journey. 

It’s not easy to boldly share how the enemy tries to deceive in our personal lives.  God has moved through Jill in her words and sharing via social media to bring people to her inbox that breathed hope and light to her during this journey. Women who have gone before her and who have been praying with her gave her peace and comfort.

The pandemic brought an extra layer of darkness as they lost their 2nd baby the day before the world shut down and they were told, “we don’t know when the doors of the specialist would reopen” 

God’s timing is always perfect and as they opened ALL doors after the pandemic allowed, they stepped into a specialist’s office and hope was provided once again. 

Her message for others is that “It is ok to not be ok.” That is a message all mom’s need to hear…when it’s hard, it’s hard and we don’t have to pretend it’s not. You deserve grace and to be loved where you are at, but it’s hard to receive if your family and friends don’t know what you are going through or that you even need the space, prayer or support. 

Jill encourages other women to be vulnerable to allow those that want to love you in your valley to be there for you. While this episode is about their fertility journey, the faith journey she shares is one that many can relate to as well.  

💙 If you’d like to connect with Jill, please feel free to email her at Jillhrenfro@yahoo.com or connect with her on Instagram at @jillhrenfro as she continues to be a voice for infertility and the joys of being a new mom. 

Join our fast growing community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram! 

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

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We understand that being a mom makes you question everything, while also feeling like you know it all. Due to our current culture, we have resources and help from every angle, however we also have advice and criticism on EVERYTHING we do as a parent…which brings along so much shame & guilt for the motherhood journey.

We start this episode by sharing how initially doubting your own motherhood intuition is the beginning of mom guilt and developing that inner sense.  It’s different for each of us, becoming moms, that first mom guilt for Tracy was “failing at breastfeeding” which led her into postpartum depression. Tori’s experience was going on an antidepressant due to anxiety while pregnant and having an 8 month old. 

➡️ Mom guilt: my kid isn’t reading at grade level, my kid doesn’t play competitive sports, whether your kid goes to college, quality time with each kid, cooking for them or hitting the drive thrus, the way that you support your kids 

➡️ We want to encourage you to not put yourself in a box to what type of mom you are: homeschool mom, stay at home mom, work from home mom, working mom, step mom, foster mom, adoptive mom. All those titles are just circumstance around you…it doesn’t define you, you’re a mom! Remove the adjective before mom and be confident that “You are a good Mom!” Motherhood doesn’t need to be defined as a certain type of mom.

➡️ Mom shaming is becoming more apparent due to social media and the freely sharing of conflicting ideas. It’s caused a lot of comparison: to what other moms have time for, their Pinterest ideas, how they are handling the pandemic and more. The feeling of if you aren’t doing it the way someone else is, you aren’t a good mom, is a false claim and we encourage you that you are exactly the kind of mom your kids need, and your kids are exactly what you need.

💙 What we want for you is to say “I’m a good mom”…not I’m a good mom because I do this or that…just simply  “I’m a good mom” 

💙Housewives, each one of you are a good mom 💙

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We share our own stories of:

• Following countless Christian influencers, pastors, and worship accounts
• Binging sermons and Christian podcasts while calling it “time with God”
• Letting quiet time become an aesthetic or performance instead of a genuine meeting with Jesus
• Using planners, Bible highlighters, apps, and “spiritual” shopping as a substitute for actually opening the Bible

You’ll hear us unpack:

• How to recognize when Christian content has become an idol or a distraction
• The difference between being with Jesus and just consuming information about Him
• Why Mary vs. Martha still matters in a digital, always-on world
• Signs you’re spiritually overloaded, even when everything you’re consuming is “good”
• Simple swaps to trade constant content for real time in God’s Word and presence

We’ll also share practical ideas to help you gently detox from content overload:

• Small ways to turn off the noise (even if you love sermons and podcasts)
• Simple, realistic rhythms for quiet time as a worn-out Christian mom
• Creative tools like verse walls, Bible note-taking, and Scripture memorization that pull you into the Word instead of back onto social media

This episode is for you if:

• You feel guilty that you’re “always listening” but rarely in your Bible
• You call podcasts, reels, or sermon clips your quiet time
• You’re exhausted, overwhelmed, and wondering why Christian content isn’t filling the emptiness
• You’re ready to meet with Jesus Himself, not just the people talking about Him

If this episode hit home, share it with a friend who’s drowning in “good” Christian content but craving real time with Jesus. Then come tell us in the Unlikely Housewives community one small swap you’re making this week to spend more time with the Creator instead of the scroll.

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🇺🇸Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

💌Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

• How Barbara’s simple idea that “clutter is postponed decisions” instantly reframes the shame you feel about your home.
• Why your physical clutter is often a reflection of emotional and even spiritual clutter—unprocessed grief, fear, guilt, or perfectionism.
• Real‑life mom examples: the mail pile you keep “just in case,” the kids’ art you don’t know how to handle, the closets you avoid opening.
• The difference between organizing and deciding—and why pretty baskets won’t fix a house full of undecided stuff.

• You’re not messy, you’re maxed out: your brain is carrying too many open tabs and unfinished decisions.
• God is not asking you for a Pinterest house; He’s inviting you into a more peaceful, sustainable way of living.
• Small faith‑filled steps count: one drawer, one surface, one decision at a time is still holy work.
• There is no “behind” in your home—there is only the next loving decision you can make today.

Action Steps from the Episode:

• Choose one “hot spot” (counter, nightstand, chair) and work on just that area for 10–15 minutes.
• Use the 3-decision rule for every item: Keep (and give it a home), Toss/Recycle, or Donate/Give away.
• Create one simple “home” for your biggest daily frustration (backpacks, mail, keys, toys, shoes) and tell your family where it now lives.
• Start a “grace bin” for sentimental or “I don’t know yet” items and only decide when it’s full.
• Pair decluttering with your faith: pray as you sort, play worship music, and let each decision be an act of surrender.

Connect with Barbara's here:

FREE WEBINAR: http://lesscluttermorelife.com/unlikely

https://www.productiveenvironment.com/

https://www.facebook.com/barbara.hemphill.73

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🇺🇸Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

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In this conversation, we sit down with Doug Ell—MIT grad, former atheist, lawyer, and self-proclaimed ultra-nerd—who spent decades studying molecular biology, physics, and the human genome, only to discover that the evidence points powerfully toward a Creator, not away from Him. He shares how reading dense grad-level science texts on airplanes slowly dismantled his atheism and led him to Jesus through logic, data, and wonder at the “code of life” written into our DNA.

We talk about how public schools often present only one narrative (Big Bang, Darwinism, no design allowed) and why that can quietly bully kids into believing faith is anti-science. Doug walks us through simple, accessible ways moms can talk about DNA, fine-tuned physics, and creation with their kids—even if you don’t consider yourself a science person.

If you’ve ever worried that you’re sending your kids into a spiritual battle with rubber bullets while the culture is fully armed, this episode will encourage you, equip you with better questions, and remind you that God is not afraid of science—and neither do your kids have to be.

• Doug’s website and book: Counting to God (science-and-faith resources, talks, and articles) https://countingtogod.com/
• Doug’s graphic novel: Godproof https://a.co/d/040nVjQk
• Short animated videos explaining science and faith for teens https://www.discovery.org/v/all-life-runs-code/
• Books we referenced:
  • Counterfeit Gods by Tim Keller
  • The Case for Christ by Lee Strobel
•  Creation Museum and Ark Encounter

******************

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🇺🇸Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

💌Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

Michelle Spottifora inspires many women via Christian workouts, retreats, and programs transforming lives through scripture and community. Her path: 1980s fitness without faith, then motherhood/church sparked conviction to infuse Jesus into her classes. 

Key Topics

• Faith-fitness fusion: ABCs—Ask God (James 4:2), Believe (Mark 9:23), Check motives (1 Peter 5:7).
• Momentum starters: 5-min songs, routines, alarms, cues like shoes by your Bible.
• Ideal workouts: Cardio, strength (fights 40+ muscle loss), core (back pain prevention), balance, stretch—target 150 min/week.

4 Health Tips for Women Over 40 Evidence-based from diverse studies, tailored for women:

1. Movement

150 min/week across cardio, strength, core, balance, flexibility; efficient multi-muscle moves.

Sustains metabolism, averts falls/injuries, fuels purpose.

2. Whole Foods

Emphasize real foods; embrace "get to" gratitude over diets.

Acts as medicine, builds lasting vitality.

3. Hydration

Flavor water (berries/mint); maintain 70% body water.

Sharpens focus, accelerates calorie burn.

4. Added Sugars

Cap at 24g/day; gradual cuts via labels.

Curbs cravings, promotes youthful joints/skin.

Learn more about Michelle and connect with her here: https://faithfulworkouts.com/

Join Michelle’s faithful workouts community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/faithfulworkouts/

Workout videos on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/faithfulworkouts

*********************

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🇺🇸Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

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You’ll hear Robin unpack what it really means to “give up grace” you never knew—laying down the counterfeit stories, self‑protection, and secret shame—in order to receive the true Grace your soul has been starving for. Tracy and Tori lean all the way into the hard topics: abortion’s lifelong impact, spiritual warfare around telling your story, bringing baggage into marriage, and how Jesus can do a complete “rebrand” of your heart, mind, and identity.​​

• How Robin describes her 40‑year “wandering in the desert,” looking for love in all the wrong places and repeating a heartbreaking pattern of abortions and broken relationships.​​
• The powerful river encounter where God met her in a vivid, five‑senses experience and opened her eyes—literally and spiritually—to His presence and love.​
• Why she titled her book Giving Up Grace and what it means to surrender the “grace” you withheld from your unborn child in order to receive the life‑changing grace of Jesus.​​
• How God orchestrated her relationship with her husband, from unexpected “friends first” boundaries to a marriage conference first date and a Christ‑anchored 32‑year marriage.​
• The emotional and spiritual layers of infertility after multiple abortions and how God surprised them with adoption and motherhood at 48.​​
• Robin’s heart behind Exodus Women’s Retreats and why wellness of spirit, soul, and body has become central to her ministry with women.​​
• Encouragement for the woman who feels too far gone, too old, or too broken for God to use her story for His glory.​​

• The woman carrying abortion grief, shame, or secrecy who wonders if she’s disqualified from God’s love.​​
• Wives navigating marriage with “baggage” from their past and longing for deeper emotional and spiritual intimacy.​​
• Moms and spiritual moms who became mothers later in life or through adoption and need reassurance that God’s timing is not late—it’s intentional.​​
• Christian women craving an honest, hope‑saturated conversation about spiritual warfare, redemption, and identity in Christ.​​

• Unlikely Housewives of JoCo – Podcast & Community: UnlikelyHousewivesofJoCo.com​
• Book – Giving Up Grace: A Spiritual Rebranding of the Soul by Robin Gerblick​
• Exodus Women’s Retreats – Robin’s retreat ministry for spirit, soul, and body wellness​
• Book - "No Longer Hidden: You Cannot Resist What You Do Not Recognize." By Athena Dean Holtz.

If this conversation with Robin stirred something in you, share this episode with a friend who needs to know she is not alone and that her story is not over. Leave a review for the Unlikely Housewives and tell Tracy and Tori what part of Robin’s story most resonated with your own.​​

Support the Unlikely Housewives!  Represent with our UH Merch! bit.ly/unlikelymerch  

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

Want to be a guest on Unlikely Housewives? Send Tori Shirah a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/unlikelyhousewives

• How Chaz went from campus missionary to cofounding Storied with his wife Madison to help believers grow in mental health and emotional maturity through spiritual practices and coping skills.
• Why so many Christians are “bible nerds” with good theology but still emotionally reactive, easily offended, and struggling to stay on mission with Jesus and people.
• The difference between emotional awareness and emotional maturity—and why both matter for how you parent, love your spouse, and do life in community.
• A real talk on “helicopter parenting,” college kids still calling mom for permission, and what it actually looks like to launch kids into adulthood with healthy boundaries and responsibility.
• How the mental health crisis has collided with discipleship, leaving many believers exhausted, fearful, and unable to have hard conversations without shutting down or blowing up.
• Why so many people can’t handle disagreement, debate, or uncomfortable conversations without taking everything personally—and how a secure identity in Christ changes that.
• Chaz’s picture of the “joy tank”: how joy is different from happiness and is rooted in being delighted in by God, not in circumstances or people pleasing.
• Why arguing on social media rarely changes hearts, and how the early church actually grew through radical, embodied love and community rather than information fights.
• A powerful reminder that people may forget your words, but they will not forget how they felt with you—and why that matters for every “for the one” story you carry.

• Your emotions are not too much for God. This episode reminds you that your relationship with Jesus is deeply personal—you can bring all of your feelings to Him instead of hiding or managing them alone.
• Emotional maturity is discipleship. Growing in emotional awareness, boundaries, and conflict skills is not “extra”; it’s part of following Jesus and loving people well.
• Joy is available right now. Joy is found in knowing you are delighted in by God, even when people misunderstand you, disagree with you, or can’t give you what you need emotionally.
• You’re not crazy for feeling worn out. The cultural climate, post-COVID kids, and nonstop online debates are real factors, and this conversation gives language and hope for what you’re sensing in your home, church, and friendships.

Chaz spent over a decade in ministry, including years in college ministry with CRU at the University of Toledo, focusing on fraternity and sorority students and helping many come to know Jesus. After stepping out of full-time ministry, he and his wife Madison—a mental health counselor—launched Storyed to create emotional discipleship tools that integrate mental health, spiritual formation, and everyday life with Jesus.

Storyed exists to help believers:

• Grow in emotional maturity and self-awareness.
• Integrate therapy-informed tools with spiritual practices.
• Become healthier disciples who can love others well, handle conflict, and live on mission in their neighborhoods and churches.

Connect with Chaz: https://www.storyed.org/ and https://www.instagram.com/chazabecker/ Connect with Chaz and Storyed to explore emotional discipleship tools and resources for you or your church.

*********************

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🇺🇸Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

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Dr. Long walks us through what “normal” sleep looks like from newborns to teenagers, why some people fall asleep in seconds while their spouse hears every tiny noise, and how insomnia develops over time. He also breaks down his “sleepless night rules” from his new devotional‑style Sleep Habits Journal and shows how meeting God in the middle of the night can slowly transform both your habits and your heart.

Whether you’re a mama with a newborn, a parent of a night‑owl teen, or a woman walking through hormonal insomnia, you’ll walk away with validation, language for what you’re experiencing, and simple next steps to try tonight.

• Why heavy sleepers and light sleepers always seem to marry each other (and what might actually be going on).
• What “sleep efficiency” is and why falling asleep the second your head hits the pillow isn’t always a good sign.
• How much sleep babies, kids, and teenagers typically need in a 24‑hour period.
• When sleep training can realistically start and why there’s no one‑size‑fits‑all method for every family.
• The 3P model of insomnia (predisposing, precipitating, and perpetuating factors) and what that means for moms and teens.
• How anxiety, environment, and family history can all contribute to sleep struggles.
• The connection between cognitive behavioral therapy, spiritual formation, and what you do during a sleepless night.
• Why getting out of bed after about 15 minutes awake can reset your brain and your body.
• How God meets you in the dark when you feel isolated, exhausted, and unseen.

Dr. Long shares five simple “sleepless night rules” from his Sleep Habits Journal that you can start using right away:

1. Cease activities before bedtime and lie down once you feel sleepy.
2. Rise from bed if you cannot fall asleep.
3. Connect with God and wait to feel sleepy.
4. Lie down again and repeat rules two and three if you still can’t fall asleep.
5. Resist sleeping in and taking naps so you don’t make insomnia worse over time.

He explains how these steps are drawn from cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia but also intentionally shaped by a Christian worldview, helping you practice self‑control, reset unhelpful patterns, and turn toward God instead of staying stuck in frustration.

Dr. Long reminds us that the sleepless night is often isolating, but it is not unseen. As a believer and physician, he points to the truth that God sees you in the dark, walks with you when you’re sleep‑deprived, and cares about both your mental health and spiritual formation. Each choice you make in those 2 a.m. hours is shaping the kind of person you’re becoming—and you don’t have to make those choices alone.

• https://thewholeheartedmd.com/
• The Whole Hearted MD Instagram
• Book: Sleep Habits Journal: Practices, Prayers, and Devotions to Ease Your Sleepless Nights

*********************

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🇺🇸Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

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Instead of asking, “What can I add to my life this year?” The Unlikely Housewives flip the script and challenge you to prayerfully consider what you might need to take away—noise, distraction, or even social media—to make room for the good things God wants to do. They also share their heart for this podcast in 2026, including a peek at their content plans, a new mother–daughter Bible study with close friends, and how community has carried them through a whirlwind of change.

In This Episode, You’ll Hear About

• The “New Year hangover” and why brain fog and last year’s hard things don’t magically disappear on January 1.​
• Parenting in a year of big milestones: fifth-grade farewells, eighth-grade farewells, seniors, middle schoolers, and the reality of counting down to an empty nest.​
• How 2025 became a year of “Change 1.0, 2.0, 3.0” for Tracy—emotionally, physically, spiritually, and even locationally—and how God used it to grow her up spiritually.​
• The idea of choosing one thing to remove this year (like Tracy stepping away from social media) so you can actually make room for new, life-giving habits.
• A hilarious but convicting cussing story (hello, Mike Tyson illustration) that leads into a conversation about intentionality and how much of our lives really are choices.
• The heart behind their new mother–daughter Bible study with a close-knit group of six moms and their girls, and how they hope to create a safe, multi-age community of faith.​
• What they’re learning while “church shopping,” the difference between seeker-friendly spaces and deeper community, and why authentic, slower-paced church community matters so much in this season.
• The Unlikely Housewives 2026 plan: recording ahead, staying consistent through May, taking a summer break, and returning in the fall—God willing.​

• You don’t have to carry everything from last year into this one; ask the Lord what needs to be laid down so you can walk lighter.
• Everything from your schedule to your words is largely a choice; small, intentional shifts can create big change over time.​
• You are not behind if your church situation or friendships are in transition—God is faithful to provide community and connection in new ways.​

• Subscribe to the Unlikely Housewives so you never miss a Tuesday episode.
• Share this episode with a friend who’s feeling overwhelmed walking into the new year.
• Screenshot and tag us (or send us a message if you’re off social like Tracy!) with what you’re choosing to take away in 2026 so you can make room for more of Him.

*********************

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🇺🇸Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

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Tracy shares the story of her family’s unexpected move: downsizing, letting go of the pool and the “dream house,” and discovering that less house and more time can actually be the greatest gift. Tori opens up about how walking through Tracy’s moving season has impacted her own heart and conversations at home, especially with a husband who feels restless and kids who are racing toward new stages.

They also reflect on:

• What it’s like raising teens and near-adults in a post-Covid world.
• The tension between wanting to plan everything and realizing that God doesn’t do “conference calls.”
• How motherhood and marriage look from the eyes of their kids—and the surprising answer when they ask, “Do we make this look fun?”

From college decisions and menopause to cross-country road-trip dreams and learning to travel solo without guilt, this episode is a warm, honest reminder that God is present in the waiting, the moving, and the everyday carpool chaos.​

• Recording the season finale back in the sauna and celebrating four years of the Unlikely Housewives podcast.
• Why Tracy’s family chose to move, downsize, and say goodbye to the pool—and what that taught her about time, stress, and contentment.
• The emotional and spiritual side of feeling “unsettled” for an entire year and still trusting God’s timing.
• Parenting teens and soon-to-be college students in a post-Covid world, from increasing independence to the “Let me ask my mom” culture.
• Honest conversations about menopause, aging, and making motherhood and marriage look appealing (or not!) to the next generation.
• Why experiences and travel (including solo trips and mom–dad getaways) matter more than more “stuff” or bigger homes
• Looking ahead to 2026 with hopes of feeling more rooted, more confident as moms, and more intentional with the time that’s left at home with their kids.

• Sunlighten Amplify II Sauna – the at-home sauna Tracy is adding to her new space; great for joint support, thyroid support, stress relief, and overall wellness. (Tell them “Tori Shirah” sent you for current discounts.)
• Glow Tanning membership and spa services that offer saunas and spa beds as a budget-friendly way to invest in health and relaxation.

• Follow the Unlikely Housewives on Instagram
• Share this episode with a friend who is in a moving, waiting, or “unsettled” season
• Leave a rating and review to help more housewives find authentic encouragement and faith-filled real talk

Support the Unlikely Housewives!  Represent with our UH Merch! bit.ly/unlikelymerch  

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Write an apple review and YOUR review could be read on our next episode! 

Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

(19:59) - Unwavering Faith in God's Timing

(20:24) - 26-Year Journey to Publishing Dream

(25:13) - Empowering Women in Pregnancy Centers

(28:45) - The Power of Books and Podcasting

(36:11) - Pursuing Dreams

Ever find yourself laughing at life's little mishaps, like realizing your shoes don't match just as you're about to step out the door? Our guest, Jennifer Bosma, sure has, and she's here to remind us how laughter can be a powerful ally in navigating the unpredictable landscape of motherhood and marriage. Jennifer, a former teacher turned podcaster and children’s author, brings her unique perspective on embracing imperfections and celebrating the joyful chaos that defines family life. Through her witty stories and hard-earned wisdom, you will find encouragement to let go of perfection and revel in the delightful unpredictability of daily life.

Jennifer's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the unexpected paths our dreams can take. From reviving a children's book project 26 years in the making to connecting with mothers through podcasting, her story underscores the importance of faith and patience. We discuss how dreams, no matter how long they might take to materialize, are worth pursuing, and how trusting in God's perfect timing can lead to outcomes beyond our wildest expectations. Jennifer's experiences highlight the enduring impact of children's literature and the crucial role it plays in forging connections across generations.

We wrap up our conversation by reflecting on personal growth and the courage to chase dreams beyond traditional roles. Jennifer's adventures, from completing transformational courses to auditioning for Survivor, embody the spirit of stepping out of comfort zones and setting bold examples for our children. These stories remind us of the significance of empowering ourselves and others in everyday life. Subscribe and connect with us to keep the conversation going!

https://jenniferbosma.com/

https://www.instagram.com/frontparkingspot/

*********************

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

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(15:59) - Challenges Facing Kansas Growth and Business

(30:00) - Stepping Out in Faith and Trust

(34:42) - Preparing for Spiritual Battles in Public

(44:16) - Courage, Sacrifice, and American History

What if stepping out of your comfort zone could lead to a life driven by faith and purpose? Join us as we uncover the remarkable story of Philip Sarnecki, a Kansas businessman who left behind a thriving career to answer a higher calling—running for governor. With ventures spanning industries from entrepreneurship to movie production, Philip's journey into politics is a testament to courage, faith, and a business-minded approach to governance. His inspiring leap from humble beginnings to the political stage serves as a reminder of the powerful transformation that can occur when you trust in a greater plan.

Guided by God, Phillip and his wife, Heidi, have embarked on this new path as a family. We dive into Philip's admiration for leaders like Ronald Reagan and the impact of formative experiences such as the National Youth Leadership Conference. As he shares his frustrations with the current political landscape and his transition from business to politics, Philip emphasizes the importance of faith, prayer, and family support. This candid conversation reveals the deep-rooted motivations and the significant role of faith in Philip's decision to enter the gubernatorial race.

Kansas faces unique challenges, from population retention to bureaucratic barriers hindering small businesses. Together, we explore these issues and the opportunities they present for growth, especially in a post-pandemic world. Personal anecdotes highlight Kansas's potential as a family-friendly state, while insights from John Maxwell's leadership principles underscore the value of stepping out and trusting in a higher calling. Through themes of courage, sacrifice, and the influence of American history, this episode encourages listeners to embrace their faith-driven journeys and pursue impactful change.

https://philipsarnecki.org/

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

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We also journey through life's challenging terrains, exploring how these experiences can be woven into a greater purpose. Whether you're grappling with health issues, a painful divorce, or personal battles, you don’t have to face it alone. We dive into the concept of spiritual warfare and the quest for meaning during tough times, enriched by redemption stories from our summer series. Embracing vulnerability and community, we reflect on how sharing our deepest struggles can break down walls of judgment and misunderstanding. Inspired by Jonathan Pokluda's "Your Story Has a Villain," we delve into the idea that while life’s path may be unclear, our stories are opportunities to help others and find strength in obedience and openness.

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Write an apple review and YOUR review could be read on our next episode! Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

Unlikely Housewives (00:04) Validating personal struggles, reaching out for support, and the importance of community in facing life's challenges.

Spiritual Warfare and Finding Purpose (12:21) Navigating through life's challenges, the importance of vulnerability and community, and finding purpose in our struggles.

(05:33) - Family Struggles With Anxiety and Depression

(14:17) - Desperate Struggles of Motherhood

(23:11) - Recovery Journey From Trauma and Suicide

(26:59) - Navigating Therapy and Counseling With Children

(41:36) - Empowering Communication With Teenagers

Jenn Robb, a warrior mom and nurse practitioner, shares her emotionally charged journey in navigating her daughter's mental health struggles, including anxiety, depression, and self-harm, that disrupted their seemingly perfect family life. As someone who understands the pressure of maintaining appearances in Christian communities, Jenn speaks candidly about the stigma and isolation that comes with these challenges, particularly when sensitive topics like sexual assault are involved. Through her story, Jenn reveals how faith, prayer, and persistence became her guiding lights, and how she found healing and purpose amidst personal battles.

Together, we explore the painful yet hopeful aspects of motherhood, from the emotional burdens of discovering self-harm to the desperate measures taken after her daughter Chloe's unresponsive night due to alcohol consumption. Jenn brings to light the critical nature of addressing root causes rather than just symptoms, emphasizing cognitive behavior therapies like EMDR that played a significant role in Chloe's recovery. She also reflects on her own healing journey, finding peace in the belief that trials can be transformative, presenting opportunities for growth and deeper understanding.

Jenn's commitment to fostering open communication within her family stands out as a powerful testament to the importance of emotional safety and trust. By sharing techniques such as using code words and encouraging free expression of feelings, Jenn has cultivated a supportive environment for her children. Her insights are further expanded in her book "Warrior Mom Rising," a vital resource for mothers facing similar struggles. Through this episode, we find encouragement and reassurance that God's timing, though sometimes delayed, is never absent.

Warrior Mom FB Group

Connect with Jenn on Instagram warriormom_jennrobb

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

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(11:36) - Identifying Spiritual Gifts Through Conversation

(36:11) - Discovering Spiritual Gifts Through Everyday Interactions

(42:42) - Guidance in Spiritual Gifts

(47:30) - Deepening Faith Through Challenging Conversations

(01:01:48) - Navigating Spiritual Gifts and Callings

Join us as we explore the often overlooked yet essential topic of spiritual gifts among believers. In our conversation, we share personal stories of discovering our own spiritual gifts, initially through church activities such as marriage retreats and Bible studies. We discuss the importance of approaching these gifts with a God-centered mindset, guided by scripture, prayer, and teachings like those of Jack Hibbs. Our discussion highlights how spiritual gifts are a value to the Christian faith, as emphasized in 1 Corinthians 12, and how they are meant to glorify God, not ourselves.

Listen in as we embark on a journey to identify and understand our spiritual gifts through both structured tests and everyday interactions. We explore the differences between natural talents and supernatural abilities, sharing insights from online tests and biblical teachings. Through personal anecdotes, we highlight how these gifts manifest in daily life, offering moments of connection, wisdom, and support that are often attributed to divine promptings.

We share stories of spontaneous moments where spiritual gifts have played a crucial role, whether through sensing others' needs or offering guidance and support. This episode encourages listeners to be open to challenge teachings, and engage in meaningful dialogues that can lead to spiritual growth. As we navigate the journey of recognizing and applying our gifts, we remind ourselves and our listeners that God equips those He calls, and even long-awaited promises can unfold in unexpected ways.

One Life to Live Sermon with Jack Hibbs (Feb. 16, 2025)

https://5lovelanguages.com/quizzes

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(16:05) - Understanding Freedom in Christ

(23:26) - Finding Freedom in Faith and Healing

(34:23) - Discovering True Freedom in Christ

Join us as we embark on a lively and unscripted exploration of freedom, both culturally and personally. With a humorous nod to the American flag sweater one of us happened to wear, we kick off the conversation by pondering the various dimensions of freedom. From the political and constitutional angles to the spiritual liberation found in our faith journeys, we invite you to reflect on whether we truly live in a democracy or under more authoritarian influences. Embracing authenticity, validation, and wellness, we encourage you to navigate these complex topics with sincerity and humor, reminding you that you're not alone in this journey.

Our conversation then transitions into understanding freedom through the lens of faith, particularly focusing on freedom in Christ. We discuss the historical sacrifices made for freedom in America and the continuous struggle to maintain it. Comparing popular definitions of freedom with the biblical perspective, we highlight the distinction between a self-centered and a Christ-centered life. In a world that often promotes inward focus, we emphasize that true freedom in Christ is about loving and serving others, trusting in God's plan beyond personal circumstances.

In the final segment, we tackle the challenges and uncertainties of life, from health issues like Hashimoto's and perimenopause to financial struggles. Sharing personal experiences, we illustrate how faith plays a crucial role in navigating these trials, offering peace and understanding that God’s plan is at work. Reflecting on biblical stories, we highlight the importance of selflessness and trust in faith as sources of strength. We also address fears about the future, particularly when considering bringing children into a challenging world, and emphasize overcoming fear to recognize life's blessings.

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(01:57) Exploring Love Languages 

(12:00) Exploring Love Languages Through Online Test 

(14:58) Love Language and Relationship Fulfillment 

(28:42) Gift of Answered Prayer 

(31:05) Understanding Love Languages for Better Relationships 

(37:47) Unconditional, Meaningful Love in Relationships 

Remember the first time you realized your spouse just didn't get you? That aha moment when you discovered love languages could have been the game-changer for your relationship. In our latest episode, we share the laughter and lessons we've learned from trying to involve our husbands in this journey of understanding and communication. Initially, our focus was on being understood, but this adventure has taught us the power of loving better by recognizing others' needs. Listen as we navigate through personal stories, filled with humorous attempts to engage our spouses and the valuable insights gained on setting realistic expectations in relationships.

Our conversation takes an intriguing turn as we additionally discuss the Enneagram, a tool that uncovers personality traits and enhances personal growth. It's fascinating how our personality types impact our relationships, especially marriage, and we share this using light-hearted cooking analogies that are sure to tickle your funny bone. From words of affirmation shifting to acts of service, the episode highlights how our love languages evolves with life's stages. We also emphasize the importance of not letting these tools box us in or excuse behavior, but rather using them as a way to deepen our connections.

In our final segment, we broach the profound intersection of love languages and biblical teachings. We share how our desire for affirmation is reframed through the lens of divine love and grace. We remind ourselves and our listeners that while love languages are a great guide, true fulfillment comes from our Heavenly Father. The conversation encourages an outward-focused approach to love, urging us to fill others' "love tanks" while acknowledging that only through God's love can we find complete satisfaction. Join us for a heartfelt discussion on embracing love languages with a selfless mindset, and walk away inspired to nurture more meaningful and spiritually guided relationships.

Love Languages book: https://a.co/d/0loqMNd

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(14:44) - Family Vacation Planning Philosophies

(22:25) - A Mother's Political Sightseeing Vacation

(35:17) - Vacation Planning and Self-Awareness

Join us friends, as we share the crazy world of snow days and family vacations in this hilariously relatable episode. Picture this: it's a frosty winter morning, snowflakes are piling up, schools are closed, and parents are frantically trying to keep their sanity intact. We explore the chaotic beauty of snow days, where routines are thrown out the window, and creativity is put to the ultimate test. Whether you're a stay-at-home parent or part of a double-income family, you'll find yourself nodding along to the logistical juggling and unexpected joys of these winter wonderland adventures.

But fear not, as we shift gears from snowy escapades to the sunlit horizons of family vacations. Whether you're a meticulous planner or a spontaneous spirit, family trips demand a delicate balance between structure and freedom. Tori’s journey to Washington DC becomes a tale within a tale, complete with planned tours and impromptu adventures that make for unforgettable family memories.

As we navigate through educational travels and tight schedules, we sprinkle humor and warmth throughout, sharing amusing anecdotes about our kids, pets, and the occasional parental quirks. Before signing off, we remind you of the beauty in life's unpredictability and the power of laughter to guide us through the ups and downs. So grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and enjoy this rollercoaster of snowy mishaps and vacation joys—because, let's face it, everything is figureoutable.

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Danni’s passion and expertise gave us a lot to talk about as we dive into effective parenting strategies, exploring the transformative power of Positive Discipline—a philosophy that shifts the focus from punishment to encouragement. Through shared personal experiences, we highlight the importance of understanding our children's needs for belonging and contribution, fostering a nurturing environment where they feel valued and heard. This episode offers valuable insights into the emotional balancing act of parenthood, from keeping promises to handling the dynamics of introducing a new sibling.

As we wrap up, we reflect on the unpredictable yet rewarding journey of parenting. We share candid stories about the challenges of postpartum depression and the surprising hurdles even seasoned parents face. With a focus on grace, adaptability, and the power of faith, we emphasize teaching children to seek help from God in any situation through prayer. Our conversation is sprinkled with practical tips, like the simple joy of using paper plates to save time, reminding us that not everything needs to be perfect in our parenting journey.

The Healing Mama Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-healing-mama-podcast/id1712164985

Follow Danni on instagram

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(12:55) Using Bible App for Audio Devotionals

(15:54) Join us for a Bible Study Accountability Group

(16:49) Prioritizing Time and Commitment

(20:43) Social Media Addiction and Bible Study

(25:38) Faith Growth Through Challenges

(28:00) Trusting God and Finding Peace

(33:25) Starting a Bible Plan Anytime

In this inspiring episode, Tracy shares her personal experience of reading through the Bible in a year with the support of The Bible Recap and other resources. Discover how this fresh approach to scripture transformed her perspective on the Bible's full story and helped her overcome past struggles with traditional reading methods. Together we discuss the challenges of committing to daily scripture reading. With accountability and prayer, Tracy was motivated to start this journey on January 1 and now finds herself nearing the completion of this meaningful endeavor.

Listen in as Tori encourages Tracy through her personal experiences of managing life's unexpected challenges while staying committed to daily Bible reading. We discuss tools and methods that enhanced her reading experience, including the YouVersion Bible app, The Bible Recap book and podcast, and resources like the Bible Project's videos on Youtube. By emphasizing flexibility, we highlight how these tools can cater to different preferences, making it easier to integrate a Bible study into daily routines and create a personalized, enriching experience. We also don’t shy away from talking about the struggle of managing screen time and prioritizing spiritual growth.

In our conversation, we discuss the importance of setting daily habits and taking one day at a time. We discuss how breaking down goals into manageable chunks can lead to significant achievements, using examples like gradually giving up alcohol and maintaining spiritual discipline. Strategies for overcoming distractions, such as using 'do not disturb' mode, are shared to help maintain focus. Lastly, we reflect on finding peace through faith and the importance of trusting in God through all things in life!

Bible in a Year with the Unlikely Housewives

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Kelly Collins Lintz has been a working actress for over 30 years, appearing in films like We’re the Millers and Miracles From Heaven, recurring on network series like Surface, Army Wives, One Tree Hill, and is currently…hard at work on one of Netflix’s top rated series!

She also raised 4 children who grew up in the industry landing series regular roles on shows like The Walking Dead, The Alienist, Under the Dome, Bosch, and Ms. Marvel to name a few! She supported all the above artistic journey…by becoming a 6 figure earner with Plexus Worldwide!

This episode isn't just about the dazzle of the silver screen; it pierces through to the heart of current societal tensions, examining the contentious issue of cancel culture and its impact on the entertainment world during the pandemic. Kelly offers a candid look at the dilemmas faced by actors, including the controversial stance on vaccination proof and the intricacies of navigating personal integrity amidst career-threatening pressures. With personal stories, including her experiences on set with Mel Gibson during the height of COVID, Kelly provides a window into the fraught atmosphere and the profound choices that can define one's professional and personal life. Join us as we uncover the layers of Kelly's rich and varied experiences, offering insights that resonate far beyond the glitz of Tinseltown.

You can follow Kelly’s journey on instagram @kellycollinslintz

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In a time where issues like border security and voting rights are taking center stage, we share our excitement over the progress being made and emphasize the importance of civic engagement beyond just casting a ballot. Our episode unpacks how critical thinking and a thirst for diverse perspectives can equip us—and our children—for meaningful participation in the democratic process. We challenge the narratives fed by mainstream media, advocating for a truth-seeking approach that goes beyond headlines. Let's work together to stay informed, involved, and hopeful for a unified future, all while trusting in God's sovereignty.

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Please join us as we sit down with Kendra Tann, a mother of four who bravely opens up about their family’s need of a kidney donor to save their daughter’s life, however this isn’t the first time they have walked this path.  When Kendra noticed her oldest daughter Sydney's high blood pressure and liver abnormalities, little did she know that it was the onset of a condition that would transform their life. The diagnosis of cranioectodermal dysplasia came as a shock and propelled them into a world where rare genetic disorders are not just medical terms but everyday realities. As Kendra shares her heartfelt story, you'll be moved by her strength and the journey towards Sydney's life-saving kidney transplant at the tender age of four. Her story is one of courage and resilience, bringing much-needed awareness to the realities families face when dealing with similar health battles.

The path from diagnosis to transplant is never walked alone. This episode is a tribute to the support systems and the profound connections that grow within the transplant community. Kendra opens up about the physical and emotional toll of becoming a living donor for her daughter, Sydney, a role that comes with its own set of post-surgery obstacles. Yet, amidst the talks of unexpected pregnancy and the balancing act of family life, there's an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the community that stands with them. 

Just a few years after Sydney’s transplant, Kendra and her family are faced with the same diagnosis as they race to find another living donor for their youngest daughter, Olina. The journey Kendra and her family have been on and will continue to be, illuminates the process and support network for those considering the selfless act of organ donation. In this conversation, we aim to empower our listeners with information and avenues for support. Every act of engagement, from sharing our podcast to reaching out, strengthens the fabric of our community. Join us in this essential conversation as we share a family’s picture of faith & resilience, the importance of advocacy, and the undeniable power of sharing - one that might just save a child’s life.

Follow Olina's Journey On Instagram: @tannkidneykid Live Donor Inquiries: Living Donor Nurse Coordinators Samantha Brenner 913-588-5049 sbrenner@kumc.edu Brittney 913-588-0266

To read more about their story and donate financially:

www.COTAforOlina.com 

*ALL donations made on this site to COTA for Olina go directly to the family to use for transplant related expenses. COTA is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. Gifts to COTA in honor of Olina are tax deductible to the fullest extent by law. This includes but is not limited to medical costs, pharmacy costs, surgical costs and much more. Funds raised can even go towards any live donor expenses such as household utility costs, transplant travel expenses and more. 

COTA also provides the family with a free website to share via a blog platform, this is coming soon! 

Fundraise in your community for Olina: 

Lisa Hoskins, a dear friend of the Tann family and a momma to four is the main volunteer contact for fundraising events through COTA in honor of Olina. Please contact Lisa Hoskins to inquire about setting up a fundraiser in your community to directly help the Tann's during this difficult season. Ideas: 5K fundraiser, a contest fundraiser, lead a matching gift drive or simply lead a neighborhood picnic fundraiser. 

Lisa Hoskins: hoskinsLM@gmail.com 

Helpful information: 

Paired Donation Explained

Living Donor Explained

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Bryan Sarff is the founder and CEO of True Wealth & Company and has been serving clients’ financial needs since 2003. His services cover all areas of the wealth management process, including business succession planning, investment strategies, business value acceleration, retirement planning, legacy planning, and insurance planning. Bryan acts as a personal wealth manager for successful business owners and thrifty millionaires who want to ‘Make Work Optional’. When working with clients, his highest priority is to help them “achieve financial independence and economic freedom” so they can spend more time doing what they love.

Our conversation didn't just revolve around traditional money management. With the world becoming increasingly digital, the concept of money is evolving and it's crucial that we adapt our financial education to reflect that. From digital transactions to the concept of virtual cash, we explored how to ensure our kids grow up understanding the value of money in an increasingly cashless age. 

During our conversation, we found ourselves discussing one of the most challenging concepts for kids to grasp - debt. To aid in this, we explored a range of online resources and even AI that can help explain it in a digestible way. We also touched on the importance of teaching children how to find information for themselves, fostering independence and curiosity. Bryan also shared his insights on retirement planning, underlining the importance of having a plan and managing debt. So, join us on this journey where we cover financial literacy, offering valuable tips and insights to help prepare your kids for a financially secure future. 

To learn more about Bryan, please connect with him on LinkedIn.

To contact Bryan and schedule time with him, their office at (913) 653-8783 or reach out to his assistant, Emily, at Emily@RetireWithTrue.com.

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As a former teacher turned homeschooling mom, I bring my personal insights to the conversation, discussing the evolving landscape of educational options for children. This episode is not just about our stories, but it's an invitation to re-evaluate the myriad of choices available, from public schools to homeschool co-ops, especially in a post-pandemic world. Mila and I delve into how these decisions are not set in stone and the importance of adapting to what best serves the learning styles and emotional well-being of our children. Our discussion promises a fresh perspective on the educational journey that many families are navigating today.

We wrap up with an encouraging reflection on the 'family first' philosophy, highlighting the joyous news of Mila's fifth pregnancy and how their Florida retreat played a role in this surprise. Emphasizing the significance of personalizing parenting and education to fit individual needs, this conversation is a heartfelt reminder of the beauty found in living with less and uncovering more joy. Listen in for a comforting blend of personal experiences, practical advice, and the affirmation that prioritizing your family's unique path can lead to a more fulfilling life.

Connect with Mila: Instagram  Facebook

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Kristie & Michelle graduated with their Bachelor of Science Degrees in Exercise Science and Nutrition from Kansas State University in 1997. This dynamic duo founded TwinFitness in 2003, and has since continued their education with certifications from Precision Nutrition, as well as The American Council of Exercise as Personal Trainers and Group Exercise Instructors.

Key Takeaways:

• The average age of menarche (first period) has decreased by several years over the past century. This is likely due to a combination of factors, including increased body fat, decreased physical activity, and exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals.
• Body fat produces hormones, so girls with higher body fat percentages are more likely to start their periods earlier.
• Sugar can also disrupt hormone production. Eating too much sugar can lead to high insulin levels, which can promote weight gain and make it more difficult for the body to regulate blood sugar levels.
• There are a number of things parents can do to help their teen girls stay healthy and manage their hormones, including:

• Encouraging them to eat a healthy diet that is low in processed foods and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Helping them to get regular exercise.
• Talking to them about the importance of body positivity and healthy self-esteem.

• If you are concerned about your daughter's health or hormone levels, talk to her doctor.

Michelle and Kristie started TwinFitness to empower women to be their best versions of themselves. With their knowledge and experience of raising daughters as well, they are able to guide women and their daughters to a healthier, happier lifestyle.

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Listen in as we engage in an insightful discussion with Brittany Richmond, a professional speaker and believer who dedicates her work to tackling teen anxiety. Brittany emphasizes the need for creating safe spaces for teenagers to openly discuss their anxieties. She shares her own journey with anxiety, and how this led her to her current work. As part of the discussion, we touch on the balance between pushing teens to achieve and being mindful of their mental health, and the tell-tale signs of anxiety to look out for in ourselves and our children.

In our journey through the world of teen anxiety, Brittany points out a significant milestone - the power of genuine relationships. We explore the importance of authenticity in creating and maintaining these relationships. Brittany guides us on how to help our teens carve out their space, navigate fluctuating relationships, and most importantly, embrace themselves. The rising influence of social media on our perceptions and realities is a critical part of this conversation. Let's encourage our teens to build resilience and self-acceptance in the face of digitally altered realities.

Ending on a powerful note, we discuss Brittany's new book launch, "Lies My Anxiety Told Me," which will be a valuable resource for individuals battling anxiety. Brittany shares her personal battle-tested strategies for dealing with anxiety, illustrating how they can be tailored to suit different individuals. Finally, we look at her approach to connecting with students through conferences and social media, providing a personal touch amidst the vast digital expanse. 

Brittany’s narrative is not one of despair but of hope. It is filled with the grit of a fighter and the vulnerability of a survivor. Now, she uses her journey as a lifeline to others, sharing her experiences and offering a hand to those who find themselves lost in the complex maze of mental health.

She can be reached through her Instagram at @thebrittanyrichmond 

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Mark and Jill Savage are passionate about encouraging, educating, and equipping families and marriages.  After serving in church ministry for twenty years, the Savage’s are now meeting the needs of families as authors, speakers, and coaches. Known for their honesty, humor, and practical teaching, Mark and Jill bring hope and encouragement to every audience.

Jill is the host of the No More Perfect Podcast and the author of fourteen books including Real Moms…Real Jesus and No More Perfect Moms. Together Mark and Jill have created five online courses and authored several books including Living With Less So Your Family Has More, No More Perfect Marriages, I Really Messed Up, and My Heart Is Broken. The parents of five adult children, and grandparents of six, the Savage’s make their home in Normal, IL. 

You can find them online at www.MarkandJill.org

Online courses: 

Rebuilding Trust

The Wait is not Wasted

Book recommendations:

Real Moms...Real Jesus: Meet the Friend Who Understands Here

God Empowered Wife: How Strong Women Can Help Their Husbands Become 

Godly Leaders Here

How We Love, Expanded Edition: Discover Your Love Style, Enhance Your Marriage Here

“No More Perfect Podcast” is like a Hearts at Home Conference for a new generation. Here

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We gained a lot of wisdom and tools from all our guests, however, this specific guest blew our mama minds.  Being able to have an open conversation with a parenting coach, one whose philosophy is rooted in relationships and trust, who knows and understands that parenting is the most important work we will ever do, truly blessed us and we know will bless all of our Housewives.  

Jodie Maddox graduated from Central Missouri State University in 1995 with a BS in Special Education. She received a Masters Degree in School Leadership from Benedictine College in 2009. Jodie taught Special Education and has been a Principal at all grade levels, kindergarten through 12th grade. Because she has worked with students, parents and teachers at every stage of development, her scope covers the “big picture”, not just the current age or grade level. She brings a unique perspective to the coaching world. Jodie provides support to parents by asking curious questions and building a strong one-on-one relationship. She helps guide parents through the decision-making process, loaning them her experience and support. Jodie’s goal is to help parents make decisions based on what is right for their families. 

Jodie’s coaching style is forward thinking: What’s the goal, where do you want to be and how can she get you there.

4 steps to her coaching style: Appreciative inquiry

1. Discovery: get to know the family.
2. Dream: as parents, what is our dream for our kids?
3. Design: create the plan together.
4. Destiny: accountability to help you live it out. 

She helps empower parents to answer the questions themselves and create this new design together. If you are interested in following Jodie or working with her in the future, here is where you can find her:

jodiemaddoxicoach.com

jodiemaddoxicoach@gmail.com

Jodie on Facebook 

@jodiemaddoxparentcoach

Subscribe to Jodie's Newsletter 

Two websites Jodie recommended and loves for trusted reliable information about ADHD and Anxiety!

https://childmind.org/

https://www.additudemag.com/

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Listen into today’s episode to hear Caris share her tough moments of doubting her purpose and finding herself feeling breathless.  She describes her anxiety as if feeling like an elephant was on her chest. Caris is super transparent in sharing that before she was diagnosed and battled on her own, she was someone who believed anxiety and depression was not real. She starved her anxiety to the point of numbing the pain. Caris pulled away from everything she possibly could in order to keep hiding from her true pain. When the darkest moments came, she felt like a burden to everyone. Please listen in to hear how God pulled her from the trenches and how He has used this in her life for His Glory!

Our guest this week, Caris Snider, is a Christian Communicator who shares the hope of God as a speaker, writer, certified life coach, and podcaster on her weekly show, Car Line Conversations. She is the author of Anxiety Elephants 31 Day Devotional and Anxiety Elephants 90 Day Devotional for Tween Boys and Girls. She has two new books that have just released. A Children’s Picture Book, There’s an Elephant on My Chest, and a book for moms titled, Car Line Mom Devotional. She shares personal experiences of overcoming depression, anxiety, fear, and shame. Caris desires to help people of all generations see their value and worth through the eyes of the Lord to grow in their faith and mental health. Caris offers inspiration to those who feel purposeless to discover their God-given calling no one else can accomplish. Caris lives with her husband, Brandon, and two daughters in Alabama. 

For more information about Caris, her ministry, books, or speaking, go to: https://www.carissnider.com/

Caris Snider website

Link to all her books: Books

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

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Kristin and her husband were both huge Disney fans prior to having children. Disney is also the home of their wedding proposal so it holds a special place in their hearts.  With so much experience traveling as adults to Disney as well as a family, in addition to having helped many friends plan their trips, she decided to become a travel agent who specializes in Disney vacations.  

Working with Kristin is completely FREE!  She works with the most incredible brands and the agents are taken care of by these brands.  She also works with beach properties, cruise lines, all inclusives, etc. Most feel like working with a travel agent would be an extra cost to the customer, but it is not…it’s a huge benefit and not only a time saver but a penny saver too. 

Kristin’s knowledge and experience is such a great advantage to your planning but also her connections of knowing when the promos and deals drop will help with your overall budget. She is also on call for your entire trip when anything comes up while you are traveling. 

Listen in to hear some tips on what time of year to go, how to plan a vacation on a strict budget, avoiding peak seasons, etc. And if you are interested in the Disney Wish 3 day cruise, ask Kristin, because she’ll have been on that cruise 3 times by the end of this year and will have a great idea with all the ins and outs! 

Happy Traveling!! 

You can find Kristin here: @KristinMOMT

ksmith@momentsofmagictravel.com

Viator Travel

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

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In this episode you will hear us talk about our own personal stories as well as: 

💙Women’s health around sleep, energy, mood, weight loss (the common issues).

💙You aren’t alone if you’re tired, stressed, sluggish and just can’t figure out what’s off.

💙Pre and postpartum health (very common triggers for the roller coaster)

💙When we don’t feel good, where do we start? Nutrition, sleep, stress, exercise, etc?

Women are needing more health support now more than ever due to stress and hormonal imbalance that typically gets labeled “normal” 

We want to reiterate that you aren’t alone if you’ve been on a health journey “your whole life” as so many of us say. So much of our journey started long before having kids yet so much develops postpartum, all while trying to raise those newborns and kiddos. We also address how gut health plays a part in your overall health.

Lindsay did some digging deep with us and shared some of her tactical tips and steps that will encourage you, our listeners, into action of helping yourself. 

Lastly, we want to encourage you to advocate for your health…don’t stop at “normal” if that’s not how you are feeling. Reach out to Lindsay and schedule a consultation. 

Follow Lindsay's Instagram

Book we recommend: 

In the FLO: Unlock Your Hormonal Advantage and Revolutionize Your Life 

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

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Our guest, Brent Dusing is changing the face of the gaming industry for Christ!  He’s a Christian, father and CEO of the gaming studio TruPlay Games. Brent has a bachelor’s degree in economics from Harvard University. He’s using his knowledge and entrepreneurial heart to bring high-quality, fun and biblically-sound entertainment to families worldwide. It gets more complex every day for parents to combat what their kids see online, so Brent is committed to providing children and parents with a safe corner of the web. 

Check Out TruPlay Here!

The story of TruPlay first began with Lightside Games, a company dedicated to bringing God‘s truth to the video gaming space. Lightside had 7 million people play its games worldwide including 25,000 decisions for Christ. The games included Journey of Jesus, the most played Christian game of all time, as well as Stained Glass which was the top Christian game on the App Store for years. Lightside was acquired by TruPlay in 2021. TruPlay is currently upgrading the Lightside portfolio and bringing them into the mobile world on the TruPlay platform.

Over his career, Brent has been featured on CNN, Fox News, ABC News, The Wall Street Journal, New York Times, USA Today, Entertainment Weekly and other news media. We feel so fortunate to have spent some time with Brent here on the Unlikely Housewives Podcast. 

Brent has been featured on podcasts with: 

True North Leader with Bobby Albert

The Pursuit of Manliness 

Christian Men at work 

Gospel Tech with Nathan Sutherland 

Guys like us

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

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Farrah has such an incredible heart and was open sharing how she struggled finding resources for women over 40 who have newly entered into motherhood. She shared that she feels as if no one talks about the physical strain of “older parenthood” after 35-40’s. It’s not going to look like what you expected with having energy like you did in your 20’s and 30’s, on top of the “getting older” exhaustion. 

A common perspective she hears in the midlife mom world is “When you’re young you have the energy for kids, when you're older you have the money for it.” Farrah feels that the mentality is so different among the young moms vs midlife moms…each handles things differently between what causes you to freak out over and other things that you just don’t care to stress. She doesn’t see as much helicopter parenting and finds there is a lot of room for more grace. Must come with wisdom!

Lastly, she shares how midlife motherhood feels like a double edge sword. It is having had all the years before motherhood succeeding in your career and then waking up one morning and wondering where that woman went. It’s been a struggle as she knows that woman still exists inside her but she’s searching for what that looks like now within her heart & raising 3 toddlers. 

We sure hope you’ll check back in next week when Farrah’s other episode releases where we share her family struggles, victories, coming to know the Lord and some major life triumphs.  

Follow Farah at @marvil_ouslyfabu & @marvilbeautyco

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

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In today’s episode we discuss with Amy how she got into the Enneagram.  She loves the framework of this personality test, getting to know people better and falling in love with how people think differently, and why they do what they do.  

We just love how Amy describes the tool of the Enneagram.  She says, “The Enneagram amplifies the light and Christ brings the Freedom.” So good! 

Amy covers the basics of the Enneagram, the nine points of the core personalities and how you can use this resource. It can help you learn how you respond to stress, healthy situations and relationally. What separates the Enneagram personality from others is it helps you learn your childhood message and how it plays a part in who you are today. We love how Amy digs a bit more into this aspect and how it can help you in your life now and as you mother your children.

Motherhood feels different for all women and understanding the Enneagram and yourself a little better, helps you understand why motherhood looks differently on others. Motherhood can feel limiting to some and life-giving to others. 

Amy leaves us with some incredible resources to learn more as well as ways to connect with her!

💙How to better communicate with your teens episode

💙Full Story Enneagram Quiz 

💙Find Amy on Instagram

💙Resources at her website

💙Amy’s book: Should Christians Use the Enneagram

💙 Her favorite book about the enneagram: 

Self to Lose, Self to Find: Using the Enneagram to Uncover Your True, God-Gifted Self 

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

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To give a quick shout out, I found Amy’s podcast through following Lindsay O’Reilly on Instagram. Lindsay is a Thyroid RD, who is local to the KC area helping women with Hashimoto’s and hypothyroidism to get to the root and feel better.  You can follow her Instagram

Amy shares all the highs and lows about her health journey, having battled an eating disorder, body shaming and a negative body image. She started Weight Watchers at the early age of 10 years old, in the 4th grade. The culture at the time allowed her to feel like this was normal, yet it set her up for years of struggling. She battled the feeling of always working to change her body, and never feeling happy with the way she looked. 

Motherhood changed her heart as she did not want to pass down these feelings and struggles to her children.  However, full healing had not taken place and God continued to work on her heart and soul because as motherhood changes our souls it also changes our bodies. While we know and love our bodies well for what they are able to do and how God created them, it is still difficult to battle the physical changes.

Amy encourages women that feeling comfortable in our bodies is important, but it’s beyond the number on the scale…it’s also what’s going on between your two ears.  Women are fed so much toxic information on how they SHOULD look and feel that we struggle finding peace within how we look and feel. Body autonomy is what should be promoted and it’s just not the whole message.

Years of trauma and years of abuse equals years of healing. You have to love your body through it all with so much compassion. 

We are talking about “God love” versus “self love”. It’s exhausting to compete with our own self-health goals.  Welcome God into this journey and forgive yourself for what you’ve already done to yourself/body and reframe your mind and heart. Give yourself more empathy and compassion for who you are and where you’ve been.  

Ask your body what do you need today? Do you need a workout? Sleep? Extra sleep? More water? Get something off your chest?

It’s not just what you eat or how you exercise…it’s so much more than that. 

How are your relationships? How are your finances? Your sleep? Your stress?

We hope this episode stirred something inside of you to continue to love your body like God loves you! 

You can follow Amy on Instagram and listen to her podcast here

Check out the resources we mentioned ⤵️

Audible Premium Plus

“The Collapse of Parenting: How we hurt our kids when we treat them like grown-ups” by Leonard Sax

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

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Ladies, last week’s episode has been so encouraging to many women. Amy’s being real and raw about her struggles with body shaming, negative self talk and her health issues is so inspiring.

We decided to take this episode a little further into our own health journeys and what we’ve learned along the way. 

What does our own taking care of ourselves look like?

Have you received an answer from a Dr, bloodwork, etc that says “this is normal”yet you don’t feel normal?

We aren’t supposed to live overtired, overwhelmed, or feeling crappy!

Do you treat your body like it’s His temple? Loving it to fuel your body, brain, and energy supply. 

One of our greatest struggles as women is making ourselves a priority to better serve our God, our spouse, and our kids. When we’ve hit some health roadblocks, it truly throws us off from balancing everything and into total chaos. We need to feel our best in order to keep order in our homes and lives, yet how do we do that?

Slow down enough to listen to YOUR body and see what you need. Can you stop to think about how you feel after you eat, after a night’s sleep, after a workout…how are you feeling? Be strong and courageous enough to keep finding the answers as to what the root of your issues are. 

Comparison will not serve you in this way! You cannot eat the same, workout the same or supplement exactly the same as someone else to receive the same results. Your body, your health journey, your healing is NOT the same as the person you are following. Are you listening to your body? It is sending you information…listen to the symptoms…brain fog, insomnia, energy levels, sex drive, mood swings, etc. 

Don’t give up finding answers, until you feel your best!  We didn’t say, fit into the right jeans, see the right number on the scale, etc…we said until you FEEL your best!

Podcast & Book recommendations below:

➡️Try Audible Premium Plus

💙Female Biohacking: Hormone Balancing, Morning Routines & Time Management with Alisa Vitti

Books: 

💙In the FLO: Unlock Your Hormonal Advantage and Revolutionize Your Life

💙Glucose Revolution: The Life-Changing Power of Balancing Your Blood Sugar 

Join our community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram! 

Write an apple review and YOUR review could be read on our next episode! 

Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

DM us your funny #momfail and we may use it in a future episode. 

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

Anyone hit a milestone birthday and you take a minute to reflect and realize you just aren’t where you wanted to be with your personal goals?  

Maybe your career, your health, being married and having children?  

Have you set some expectations that aren’t being met because they are actually out of your control, but you can’t let go of that control?

We share with you the two reasons we have recognized for our own unmet expectations and hope they help you. 

Our top two reasons for unmet expectations:

1. Lack of communication…even with yourself! If you have a goal, a love language, something you value, tell your spouse, a friend, write it on your mirror to hold yourself accountable.  We know what it’s like to break a promise to yourself time and time again…it’s time to break that cycle.
2. Unrealistic…if you have the bar way too high for your current circumstances, then your expectations of someone, or even yourself are surely not going to be met.  

We also believe there’s an issue with having silent expectations for others as it is just unfair to hold anyone to something they don’t know about.  Have you ever taken a moment to write down and make yourself aware of your unmet expectations…what is important to you personally, in your marriage, and other relationships. It’s so freeing when you start to become comfortable communicating exactly what you want and need! 

Communicate your expectations with everyone…it will only help you feel more authentic, and will help you feel free from all the internal judgment, guilt, shame and anything that is holding you back.

Book links mentioned in this episode: 

“I Guess I Haven't Learned That Yet: Discovering New Ways of Living When the Old Ways Stop Working”

“What Did You Expect? (Redesign): Redeeming the Realities of Marriage”

Join our community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram! 

Write an apple review and YOUR review could be read on our next episode! 

Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

Much love, 

Tori & Tracy XOXO

Hey Housewives!

We understand that being a mom makes you question everything, while also feeling like you know it all. Due to our current culture, we have resources and help from every angle, however we also have advice and criticism on EVERYTHING we do as a parent…which brings along so much shame & guilt for the motherhood journey.

We start this episode by sharing how initially doubting your own motherhood intuition is the beginning of mom guilt and developing that inner sense.  It’s different for each of us, becoming moms, that first mom guilt for Tracy was “failing at breastfeeding” which led her into postpartum depression. Tori’s experience was going on an antidepressant due to anxiety while pregnant and having an 8 month old. 

➡️ Mom guilt: my kid isn’t reading at grade level, my kid doesn’t play competitive sports, whether your kid goes to college, quality time with each kid, cooking for them or hitting the drive thrus, the way that you support your kids 

➡️ We want to encourage you to not put yourself in a box to what type of mom you are: homeschool mom, stay at home mom, work from home mom, working mom, step mom, foster mom, adoptive mom. All those titles are just circumstance around you…it doesn’t define you, you’re a mom! Remove the adjective before mom and be confident that “You are a good Mom!” Motherhood doesn’t need to be defined as a certain type of mom.

➡️ Mom shaming is becoming more apparent due to social media and the freely sharing of conflicting ideas. It’s caused a lot of comparison: to what other moms have time for, their Pinterest ideas, how they are handling the pandemic and more. The feeling of if you aren’t doing it the way someone else is, you aren’t a good mom, is a false claim and we encourage you that you are exactly the kind of mom your kids need, and your kids are exactly what you need.

💙 What we want for you is to say “I’m a good mom”…not I’m a good mom because I do this or that…just simply  “I’m a good mom” 

💙Housewives, each one of you are a good mom 💙

Join our fast growing community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram! 

Write an apple review and YOUR review could be read on our next episode! 

Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

Much love, 

Tori & Tracy XOXO

Hey Housewives!

This week’s episode is going to cover a great deal of things as we address being overscheduled mamas and families.  Our main goal with discussing this topic is to challenge you to ask yourself a few questions & determine if you are finding joy in all of the busyness or if you are living underwhelmed.  Our hope is that you would bring awareness to some of these feelings whether excited for the next season of chaos or paralyzed by the thought that you don’t know how you’ll get everything done.  Either way, there’s some encouragement on this episode for you.

When we sign our kids up for things whether sports, activities, camps, etc…we ultimately put ourselves in the position of being a manager, a chaos coordinator and for those of us who have multiple kids, we become carpooling schedulers. 

At some point it becomes overwhelming and we do have to weigh the cost…not just money, it’s the time, energy, and what else we are sacrificing in our family.  

While sports and activities are a huge part, what about the other things that happen to fill our calendars: birthday parties, play dates, homework, and keeping up with household chores such as: laundry, cooking, cleaning, etc.  The lists keep growing and the ability to keep up gets to be too much sometimes that we just shut down.  Is that the way we are supposed to be living?  

Even our society and culture is training us to stay busy…they have convenience options for us to do grocery pick ups, door dash for fast food to be delivered to you, and Tracy’s personal favorite: Instacart…groceries delivered straight to your door! (link below) 

One thing we have each found important is setting boundaries.  There needs to be room for white space in your calendar…the margin, between the busy schedule…to spend quality time in relationships: with your spouse, your kids, friends, other family members and most importantly, God! 

We cover the common misused word “balance”.  To us it is a double edged sword and for moms it’s undefinable. We like to say that the only thing you can truly balance is your priorities. 

We ask these questions: Is it true that we have to be this busy? Or has culture created this and FOMO keeps us there? Are you feeling underwhelmed? What is your personal capacity? 

The truth is that busyness will stick around if you have kids unless you do something different to change it…this is life. So consider this…have you decided what your world looks like with complete peace and joy? 

💙 What brings you joy? Your kids joy? Your spouse joy? Where’s your peace? Your margin? Evaluate…are you living for the next event and activity or are you living with your family? If it’s on a calendar, is it required? Does it bring you and your family joy? How does it affect the rest of the family? 

Instacart link https://inst.cr/t/UHV3NEg1NTV2

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

Much love, 

Tracy XOXO

Hey Housewives!

We hope you enjoyed Part 1 of this episode with our husbands.  In last week’s episode we shared how we each met our spouses, grew in our marriages, struggled with letting our husbands be the spiritual leaders of our homes and last but not least, how the pandemic affected each of our families. 

💙 This week’s episode focuses on some more in depth conversations around what our husbands thought when we said we wanted to start a podcast. You have to know, before we recorded with them we told them they could be honest and not hold anything back. (We've always got Craig in our back pocket if it doesn't go as planned, right? ha!) We bet you can hear us blushing when they started to share their perspective as they gave us some incredible worlds of affirmation. (Awww 🥰)

💙 We talk about how difficult it is for some couples to parent together as the parenting styles we each grew up with were so different. We also acknowledge that after the kids come along, the dynamic of just being a couple can be a challenge as it takes intentionality in dating and communicating.  Each couple is stronger in one area than the other, listen in to find out which one is which.

💙 “Living for self” is a struggle we each had at one point and it really takes us each having a relationship with Jesus, and a stronger one at that, to really focus on our marriage. We also know how important it is for each marriage to talk through the hardships and continue to work at being a team during the tough parenting years.  

💙 We each share some challenging conversations we’ve both had in our marriages around us putting our husbands on pedestals, putting them at a higher standard than they actually can meet. Believe it or not, our husbands are not our saviors. 

💙 The messes and blesses in marriage go together…evaluate where you are and where you can go!  

Join our fast growing community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram! 

Write an apple review and YOUR review could be read on our next episode! 

Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

Much love, 

Tori & Tracy XOXO

Hey Housewives! 

Have you ever been offended?  Like really hurt by something someone said about you, your beliefs or ideas?  How about when they have attacked your character?  Then there are those times where we take offense by a story we tell ourselves…that probably isn’t true.

➡️ We share a couple personal stories of how we were offended and then ask the question…Is being offended justified? Sometimes? Always or never?

We were highly encouraged by a statement in the book “The Opposite Life” by Alex Seely (link below) and shared this quote:

“I truly believe there is a fine line between being offended and staying offended that can make or break someone.” 

➡️We discuss what people often find offensive…

Racism, patriarchy, religious beliefs, political views, parenting styles, all the way to how someone dresses, what size they are, etc.

➡️Offending an idea sparks discussion, offending the person leads to hurt. 

Ted talk we refer to: 

https://youtu.be/f4JiSQxdl6M

➡️We want to recognize that being offended and then staying offended is a choice. There will always be people who are offended…whether that was the intent of the person inferring the offense or not. 

➡️We also discuss what some of the reasons are for some people getting offended…past hurts not healed, comparison, unmet expectations and more.

➡️Offending someone if inevitable, so many emotions and feelings on high…BUT what if we learn to be intentional about living unoffended? 

“Imagine a world where the people of God lived unoffended.  Imagine a world where people pursued relationships even when they got hurt.  Imagine a world where people lived like Jesus, full of God’s spirit, where nothing could affect their love and mission for the people God had called them to serve.” —Alex Seely

➡️So HOW do we live like that?  We are human and when we are hurt, it hurts.

“When God comes into our lives to save us and make us whole, we need to receive the fullness of His love. Then when we face inevitable disappointment or hurt from others, we aren’t wounded and offended.” 

Alex Seely’s “The Opposite Life” book we referenced:

https://amzn.to/3FROz5u

💙 Are you living offended?  We encourage you to let go of some past hurts and feelings in order to let go, and let God!  Live more freely, with joy & peace.

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

Who’s ready to laugh? We laugh a TON in this episode!! 

We are pretty excited for this week’s episode to finally be released.  We had so much fun having our husbands on the show, and we truly know the message of our messes and blesses of our marriages can encourage you and your marriage. 

💙 We of course had to start with sharing our stories of how we met our spouses and a few stories of how we have grown in our marriage. We will also point out that we haven’t “made it” yet…always a work in progress.

💙 If you have ever moved for a spouse’s job, there are so many moving pieces of managing home life, packing, emotions, and keeping the kids in a routine to help them manage the change. We each have a different story of moving…Chris & Tracy moved together while Andrew & Tori were apart for 5 months while Andrew started his job. Andrew & Tori have also moved twice, once without kids and with kids. 

💙 Tori & Tracy share some of our personal stories of how we have maybe over stepped in trying to lead our husbands.  We talk about the battle of wives sometimes thinking we are the only ones the Holy Spirit talks to, however, we know that’s not the case.  

💙 We discuss all about how the pandemic changed our worlds…working from home, kids at home, homeschooling, stay at home orders, our husbands trying to work, and more. 

Next week’s episode will be part 2 and we ask our husbands what they think of our non traditional jobs. Also, which couple do you think is a better parenting team or marriage team? We think the Stine’s and Shirah’s rock at both, however, we know that most relationships are more dominate in one area…tune in next week to find out. 

Lastly Tracy’s husband, Chris, threw in a plug for his business of Foldies sunglasses.  Don’t hesitate to jump over and get yourself a pair of shades with promo code: UNLIKELY or click on this link ➡️  Foldies

Join our fast growing community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram! 

Write an apple review and YOUR review could be read on our next episode! 

Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

Not too often is the confidence that women carry talked about... it is even perceived as a gift from God.  For us, we fully believe that the confidence we have, in what we do, in who we are, comes from our creator and the act of obedience to what He has called us to.  When you are out of alignment of your purpose and calling, confidence is the first piece that women feel in lacking in order to move forward to reach their goals. 

Are you a confident woman? Are you confident in who you are? What you look like? Feel like? Are you confident in who you are becoming? 

💙 In this episode we share some stories and encouragement to help you step into a confidence that is not arrogant but one that is unshakable…because between you and God, there’s no one that can come in between. 

💙 We cover some of the largest confidence killers and for starters, it's the comparison game. Comparison is the thief of joy. We know it’s easy to walk around in your world trying to experience what everyone else is (from social media, keeping up with the Jones’, expectations) instead of living in the present. A few other confidence killers are when circumstances change, more money (the thought that more will be better), achievement (not hitting a goal or once you hit it, it’ll bring more confidence) and last but not least…other people will kill your confidence because you are waiting on their approval. 

💙 We know that dreaming, goal setting, vision casting, whatever you want to call it, is a common source of seeking greater achievements.  But our question for you is, have you prayed about it? What are the hardest things for you to pray about? Why? (emotions, sins, needs, dreams, desires, pain, gratitude).  We encourage you to be courageous and pray about the hard things. Make a choice to trust God at the end of your prayer.

💙 Confidence doesn’t just develop overnight.  It’s just like all disciplines in other areas of your life – eating healthy, working out, keeping in touch with friends and family, or finishing a book. Consistency is key, we are sure you can relate. Anything that has gone well in my life has been because I’ve stuck with it isn’t enough. We must do the same with God and believing our confidence lies in his hands. 

💙 Where does your confidence lie?  Find one scripture that aligns with building your confidence and seek His guidance through prayer.

Join our fast growing community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram! 

Write an apple review and YOUR review could be read on our next episode! 

Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

We had so much fun chatting with Ellen, a pastor’s wife in this episode! We absolutely loved hearing how she and her husband met, and how unlikely their path into ministry really was…and for those sports loving families, she has some truly incredible nuggets on being competitive!! 

Ellen sheds some light on what it’s like to be a pastor’s wife and how she learned to extend grace and be flexible as her husband gets called away from home for counseling, prayer, sermon prepping, etc.  God truly has given her an inner strength and she shares how she feels pastors wives are truly gifted to hold this title. We couldn’t agree more.

It’s not always easy to put your marriage first in any family network, and Ellen encourages every couple to make it a priority to have date nights and take trips together, apart from the children. She also dives into how parenting styles can affect the marriage relationship that sometimes creates a wedge, stressing how important it is to be intentional in communication.

Ellen is well known as not your typical pastor’s wife and has become one of the top leaders in a direct sales company.  It’s common for some to judge such a venture, especially one that has been extremely successful yet this opportunity actually became one that allowed her to honor God even more than she could have ever imagined. 

We loved how she debunked a few of the typical pastor’s wife myths such as they can’t be authentic or real. She and her husband are both enneagram 3’s and their love languages are words of affirmation so you can imagine how that can be entertaining and challenging yet of course she sheds light on how they bond. 

Competitive nature is also an internal drive for each of them.  Having an “I want to win” attitude and feelings being brought into a marriage and family is not an easy feat.  Ellen shares how they have had to set some boundaries, and pull back some on the pushing in order to allow God to do the work in their kids to become who He intended them to become. 

If you’d like to connect with Ellen, you can find her on instagram at @thefunpastorswife

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

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Hey Housewives! 

We are so excited to share with you our dear friend, Christian life and business coach, Melissa Batt.  She is a stay-at-home-mama turned top six-figure direct sales leader who found herself exhausted, checked out of life, and sacrificing her mental health and main priorities to chase success, status, and money. (Unintentionally, of course!) She spent years putting the hustle in front of her marriage, her family, and her faith until God let her fall flat on her face. Through that hard season, she learned to lean on Him for peace, rest, and rescue. Today, she is a life & business coach who helps women slow down, remember their purpose, and lean in closer to Him to live the life He is calling them to. She is super passionate about entrepreneurship because of the freedom and flexibility it allows for those mamas who need to work from home.

💙 We each have worked privately with Melissa as she has been our life coach helping us listen to what God has called us to do…and truth be told, led each of us to the discussion of hosting a podcast and in turn we created this incredible podcast and became the Unlikely Housewives!

💙 Melissa shares with us how she walked into the direct sales world as an outlet to get out of the house, meet new people and connect socially after moving across the country for her husband’s job. She’s always loved the industry and shared with her friends, but never wanted to do it. (So many can relate to this!)

💙 We love Melissa’s heart so much and how open she is about how her multiple moves & diving into her career to escape all the things really affected her marriage and kids.

💙 Once she took her foot off the gas of working her business, she started to see what she was missing in her marriage and with her kids. She started to set business hours, and it really helped.  She finally started dreaming again, hearing what God had in store for her, & finally jumped in to starting a nonprofit. In 2020, she started reading “Jesus over Everything” (link below), and this book changed everything for her.  She heard God say “You’re done, you are released” and it allowed her to go all in on her coaching.  Melissa surrendered everything in her business: a full calendar of events, a six figure paycheck and accolades all in order to obey God.  

💙 She walked right into life coaching and quickly added business coaching as she realized her experience and gift God has given her truly aligns within both.  

💙 Melissa offers a few pieces of advice for someone who is “stuck” in their vision with their direct sales or network marketing business. Tune in to hear her greatest piece of advice that she truly believes equals peace in your heart.  

Book we mentioned: Jesus Over Everything

Connect with Melissa here:

Real Talk Tribe Facebook Community 

Melissa's Instagram

Melissa's website

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

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    In this episode, you are going to hear the beautiful unfolding of how Stephanie & her husband, Jeremy, became a family of 8, one by one building an incredible family with 6 children through fostering and adoption. 

    Stephanie shares how their story is the definition of UNLIKELY as fostering or adoption wasn’t their plan…yet it ended up being their journey. 

    We love how Stephanie talks about the divine plan and God’s orchestration in how each child became their own.  Our conversation touches on the effects on foster kids, families, and the foster care system due to the pandemic.  Stephanie shares how advocacy has changed in so many ways especially with caseworker visits being held virtually instead of in person.

    As mamas, we understand that every day is like spinning plates in the air. And Stephanie hits on a few important topics (or plates) that this pandemic has heightened such as fear, mental health, emotional well being, & stress on marriages, just to name a few.  

    She touches on the statement of  “it’s ok, children are resilient”…but are they?  This phrase isn’t a blanket statement that holds true for every child…something we should all consider. 

➡️ If you’d like to connect with Stephanie, please feel free to email her at skdulin@yahoo.com or find her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/stephanie.tayloedulin

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We are going to dive into the TOXIC side of our mental health.  The space that fills our days and minds with information that simply isn’t true about who we are and who we have the potential to become.

God calls us to step into our purpose, and yet we allow one of these areas to stop us. Why? Because we feel overwhelmed and perhaps we fully don’t believe we were made for a greater purpose.  

T—Talk (negative self talk)

O—Occupation (hustling to hard or truly not happy)

X—eXit a relationship (if someone causes you more stress/anxiety than filling your spirit then it may be time to allow space)

I—Inner belief (do you truly believe you are worthy of success, happiness and true love? It’s time to stop doubting yourself, overthinking to a point of talking yourself out of what you are being called to.)

C—Consumption (social media, news media, porn, rom coms: things that cause you temptations & distractions)

💙 Press play & listen to some ways we’ve overcome these TOXIC areas in our headspace.  Maybe it’s time you take out your head trash and open yourself up for opportunities that you could be missing.

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What are we talking about now: 

• Natural fear vs unnatural fear…
• Natural fear: experiencing fear naturally and facing it confidently because you know it feels right…going off to college, marriage, Motherhood.
• Unnatural fear: (an experience or circumstance that we choose) work, owning your own business, working out, health journey, dreams. people don’t always understand, people haven’t done what you are about to do.

Everyone deals with fear…in natural or unnatural circumstances…how will you handle it? Paralyzed and stay where you are OR step into a great adventure…be courageous and brave!

Flip the thinking on the unnatural fear…an adventure…

1. What keeps us afraid—the fears of not doing what you are called to do…or just doing anything at all…being a people pleaser “what will they think of me”, judgment, offending someone, imposter syndrome, why aren't there enough out there like us?
2. Look back at the natural decisions you’ve made to build your confidence in stepping into the unnatural space.
3. If God brings you to it, he’ll bring you through it. 

“For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future. '” — Jeremiah 29:11

What we want to leave you with today…

• Housewives…what adventure do you want to have in 2022? Will you stay where you are in your comfort zone or will you step out into your unlikeliness and into who God calls you to become? 

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

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What are we talking about now:

• Finding the healthy balance of saying Yes and saying No.
• Not letting guilt of what used to be drive your current decisions…let the past go and create new boundaries. 
• Boundaries don’t have to have a negative connotation. It’s setting limits and can set you free from what’s holding you back. 
• We encourage you to protect your mental health, guard your heart and sustain the peace of this season for your family. 
• Lastly, the greatest boundary to consider this Christmas season is protecting your health and wellness by limiting your stress and restraining yourself from overindulging in eating all the holiday goodies and drinking too much. 
• Boundaries have a place in your life and are helpful.  We’d love to know what boundaries you have set in place to protect your peace, your health and your heart. 

Join our fast growing community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram! 

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UnlikelyHousewivesofJoCo.com

(08:48) - Creative PR Strategy Involving Celebrities

(15:30) - Taboo Topics of Infidelity and Divorce

(27:24) - Recognizing Signs of Marital Infidelity

(34:47) - Grateful for Friend's Support and Faith

We take a trip back to our early podcasting days, where we were huddled in a makeshift studio, with the incredible Stephanie Dulin, our very first guest as we discussed the complex issues of foster care and adoption. Fast forward to now, and we're diving headfirst into a heartfelt discussion and the isolating experience of divorce within the Christian community. Stephanie shares how a seemingly unrelated event, like a Coldplay concert incident, can mirror personal trials, offering unexpected lessons and insights. Through laughter and candid conversation, we remind each other—and our listeners—that no one is truly alone in their journey.

This episode tackles the tough conversations many shy away from—infidelity and divorce—and the societal judgments that often accompany these topics. Stephanie bravely recounts her experience of addressing these issues at a church event, highlighting the delicate balance of vulnerability and strength needed to break the silence. Together, we explore the signs of marital infidelity and the emotional turmoil that comes with being dismissed. Trusting one's instincts, leaning on community support, and seeking guidance from scripture emerge as key themes in navigating these rocky paths. We also touch on the invaluable role of empathy and accountability in personal relationships, hoping to empower others to share their stories for personal healing and communal support.

*********************

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(04:10) - The Resilient Journey of Stephanie Jordan

(09:18) - The Power of Marriage Restoration

(26:16) - Protecting Your Marriage Through Challenges

(42:16) Defining Domestic Abuse and Marriage

(55:01) - Heeding God's Voice in Marriage

(56:47) Divine Guidance in Relationship Choices

Resilient women are inspiring; that includes Stephanie Jordan who shares her journey through faith, marriage, and life's unexpected challenges! Stephanie opens up her heart and life to explore the trials and triumphs she has faced. From domestic abuse and widowhood to the vibrant spirit of a punk rocker single mom, this conversation shines a light on the power of faith and humor in overcoming hardships. 

Step into the world of marriage restoration and divine intervention as we examine relationships tested by addiction, severe health issues, and unexpected pregnancies. Learn how spiritual guidance can transform a relationship on the brink of collapse into one of renewed strength and connection. We also address the realities of marital challenges, emphasizing that love requires effort and spirituality can be a vital support. Together, we uncover the importance of respecting each other as partners, acknowledging that marriages with children add unique layers of complexity and shared responsibility.

Recognizing the fine line between healthy marriages and abusive relationships is crucial. This episode challenges cultural definitions and encourages a deeper understanding. We explore how discerning God’s voice can offer clarity and perspective, helping couples navigate minor grievances and embrace the bigger picture.

You can connect with Stephanie at https://www.thestephaniejordan.com/

https://www.facebook.com/authorstephaniejordan/

*********************

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The conversation takes an intriguing turn as we examine the powerful effects of neurotransmitters on our wellbeing. With Dr. Burns' expertise, we learn about the vital balance needed between serotonin and adrenaline and how tweaking medication can lead to remission of symptoms. You'll hear heartfelt stories illustrating the potency of adrenaline in extreme situations, alongside a candid discussion on the side effects of antidepressants and the misconceptions about psychiatric medication. This chat is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intricate workings of our inner chemistry and its profound influence on our daily lives.

Wrapping up this deeply personal and insightful episode, we confront the stigma surrounding men's mental health and the challenges faced by those struggling to reconcile faith with medical understanding. Dr. Burns shares tales of intuition and determination, being one of the first Kansas City doctor's to detect COVID-19 in the winter of 2019. You'll be left with a renewed sense of gratitude for the medical professionals who listen closely to their patients and a deeper appreciation for the complex relationship between our physical and emotional health.

You can connect with Dr. Burns at

Pure Health

7500 W 160th St, Suite 200, Stillwell, KS 66085

https://purehealthmedical.com/

(913) 814-8800

info@purehealthmedical.com

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We swap stories with Kori, shedding light on how humor and respect evolve as our kids grow older, and how understanding their actions within a broader social context can lead to stronger emotional intelligence.

As we say a heartfelt thanks to Kori for her wisdom, we leave you with the thought of embracing change for our children's benefit. Don't forget to catch Kori’s upcoming parenting class and the launch of her new podcast for more on navigating the wonderfully wild world of raising kids.

You can connect with Kori on Instagram or Facebook and learn more about her podcast and classes at https://www.consciousnotcrazy.com/

March 3rd Event Tickets

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Amidst the backdrop of the National Religious Broadcasting event, we recount a series of incredible interviews Misty hosted with thought leaders such as Lucas Miles and Seth Gruber, and she shares the delightful surprise of speaking with '90s heartthrob Kirk Cameron. Their wisdom underscores the theme of asserting biblical truth in an ever-shifting cultural landscape. For listeners who might feel overwhelmed in their journey as advocates for faith, Misty's encouragement to persist for the heritage of future generations shines as a beacon of hope.

To wrap it all up, we discuss the spiritual depths that anchor us, in Christ, amidst the stormy battles of life and podcasting. We ponder the profound words of Jack Hibbs and share strategies for staying disciplined in our walk with God. You'll hear how personal prayer, time management, and a heart steadfast in scripture are vital for any podcaster or listener looking to navigate the rough waters of spiritual attacks. Join us as we share our adventures, the imminent challenges, and the unshakeable encouragement that comes from walking a path paved with faith and conviction.

Connect with Misty on Instagram

Follow Misty on Facebook

Listen to her podcast, “It Is Time to Stand Up”

Learn more about Misty’s company, Spark Media

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Join us as Caleb shares his unique coaching philosophy, one that's been honed outside the traditional paths, offering a fresh perspective on guiding athletes of all levels. We dissect his 'five-fight framework'—a holistic approach focusing on faith, focus, and composure—vital elements in the mental toolkit of any competitor. Whether it's discussing how self-belief can elevate performance or the significance of emotional control in high-stakes situations, Caleb's insights shed light on the practicalities of mental coaching and its impact on both young athletes and seasoned professionals.

Wrapping up this session, we talk about the delicate art of parenting, particularly through the lenses of education and athletics. From strategies to foster open communication to the importance of role modeling and letting go, we examine the influence parents have on their children's development. We also reflect on the transformative power of sports in building character and confidence, reminding listeners that while competitive activities can shape one's identity, they shouldn't wholly define it. Tune in for a conversation filled with actionable advice for parents and coaches alike, aiming to nurture the next generation with resilience and integrity.

Connect with Caleb:

info@mentalsensei.com

https://www.mentalsensei.com/

@mentalsensei on Instagram

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Please join us as we sit down with Kendra Tann, a mother of four who bravely opens up about their family’s need of a kidney donor to save their daughter’s life, however this isn’t the first time they have walked this path.  When Kendra noticed her oldest daughter Sydney's high blood pressure and liver abnormalities, little did she know that it was the onset of a condition that would transform their life. The diagnosis of cranioectodermal dysplasia came as a shock and propelled them into a world where rare genetic disorders are not just medical terms but everyday realities. As Kendra shares her heartfelt story, you'll be moved by her strength and the journey towards Sydney's life-saving kidney transplant at the tender age of four. Her story is one of courage and resilience, bringing much-needed awareness to the realities families face when dealing with similar health battles.

The path from diagnosis to transplant is never walked alone. This episode is a tribute to the support systems and the profound connections that grow within the transplant community. Kendra opens up about the physical and emotional toll of becoming a living donor for her daughter, Sydney, a role that comes with its own set of post-surgery obstacles. Yet, amidst the talks of unexpected pregnancy and the balancing act of family life, there's an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the community that stands with them. 

Just a few years after Sydney’s transplant, Kendra and her family are faced with the same diagnosis as they race to find another living donor for their youngest daughter, Olina. The journey Kendra and her family have been on and will continue to be, illuminates the process and support network for those considering the selfless act of organ donation. In this conversation, we aim to empower our listeners with information and avenues for support. Every act of engagement, from sharing our podcast to reaching out, strengthens the fabric of our community. Join us in this essential conversation as we share a family’s picture of faith & resilience, the importance of advocacy, and the undeniable power of sharing - one that might just save a child’s life.

Follow Olina's Journey On Instagram: @tannkidneykid Live Donor Inquiries: Living Donor Nurse Coordinators Samantha Brenner 913-588-5049 sbrenner@kumc.edu Brittney 913-588-0266

To read more about their story and donate financially:

www.COTAforOlina.com 

*ALL donations made on this site to COTA for Olina go directly to the family to use for transplant related expenses. COTA is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. Gifts to COTA in honor of Olina are tax deductible to the fullest extent by law. This includes but is not limited to medical costs, pharmacy costs, surgical costs and much more. Funds raised can even go towards any live donor expenses such as household utility costs, transplant travel expenses and more. 

COTA also provides the family with a free website to share via a blog platform, this is coming soon! 

Fundraise in your community for Olina: 

Lisa Hoskins, a dear friend of the Tann family and a momma to four is the main volunteer contact for fundraising events through COTA in honor of Olina. Please contact Lisa Hoskins to inquire about setting up a fundraiser in your community to directly help the Tann's during this difficult season. Ideas: 5K fundraiser, a contest fundraiser, lead a matching gift drive or simply lead a neighborhood picnic fundraiser. 

Lisa Hoskins: hoskinsLM@gmail.com 

Helpful information: 

Paired Donation Explained

Living Donor Explained

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Join us as we unwrap the little moments that forge a lasting relationship, such as navigating gift-giving and decoding love languages. The Shermans' candid tales reveal how they keep their spark alive against the backdrop of the demanding world of the NFL. With laughter and sincerity, they invite us into their world, sharing the significance of meaningful milestones and the art of maintaining a deep connection amidst a bustling life.

The spirit of camaraderie and personal growth takes the spotlight as the Sherman’s share their journey from Arizona to Kansas City, illustrating the emotional rollercoaster of an NFL career move. They further highlight their path to finding a supportive faith community, offering hope and encouragement in these trying times. Their experiences showcase the transformative power of faith, community, and an enduring love that stands as a beacon for all listeners navigating their own life's challenges.

You can find Anthony’s podcast “Buddy Listen” here 

Follow Anthony on X

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Our society and culture has definitely changed the picture of manhood and what being a good Dad requires. TV Dad’s have not accurately depicted what it takes to be a good father.  We know the media and more have stopped celebrating the men and how incredible God designed them! 

While all earthly fathers fall short of our perfect Heavenly Father, we believe their role is one of the greatest ones on earth. We are grateful for our own Dads, the incredible models and fathers our husbands are to our children and our hope and desire is that everyone has a chance to stop and recognize no matter your circumstances, that the role of a Dad is extremely important. 

Some statistics we shared: 

*When fathers are involved, children are two times more likely to go to college, 80% less likely to spend time in jail and 75% less likely to experience teen pregnancy!

*Children in father absent homes account for 71% of all high school dropouts, 90% of homelesss and run away children and 63% of youth suicides. 

Just take a minute and let those statistics sink in…the numbers don’t lie. 

We just want to encourage you that if you have the opportunity, to tell your Dad “thank you” or send your husband a text to say “Thanks for being a great Dad to our kids.” Our hope and prayer is that we continue to value the role of a Dad in (or out) of your home no matter your circumstances. 

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We are hitting all the heavy and hard topics and discussing some fun things too! We have loaded up our guest list with so many incredible people we can’t wait for you to meet! We are focusing this season on mental and emotional well being…of mamas, parents and our children. 

Get excited to hear our episodes this fall which will include:

A Parenting Coach

An Author of anxiety books, devotions & podcaster

Fitness and women’s health coaches

Grief Counselor — focusing on loss, not just a death, but a move, a transition, the loss of a job, a divorce, and loss/failure in a kid’s world. 

Sports Mentalist

Teen Anxiety

Financial Planner — Saving for college and how to set your kid up for success financially.

And more…

We are looking forward to finishing out 2023 strong with our listeners and cannot wait to see what 2024 brings for our community!

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Our longtime editor Craig is going through the aftermath of a tornado hitting his neighborhood. We are asking for you to pray with us for him, his family, and community!

In the meantime, we are coming at you unedited for a fun detour. We've been approached many times asking, "Where do you start a podcast?" so we decided to share the why/how/when/where of podcasting with you. We know you have a voice and a story, it's now time to use it!

Links Mentioned:

💙Fiverr

💙How To Use a Press Release For Your Podcast

💙Tori's Podcast Coaching and Services

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One common theme for them both is that we discovered if we aren't talking, we aren’t learning. And it’s so important to learn where each other comes from to understand their beliefs and values. Perspective is everything.

“I never considered a difference of opinion in politics, in religion, in philosophy, as a cause for withdrawing from a friend.” Thomas Jefferson

We found this above quote to be one that pertains more now to our culture today than ever before.

Bulgarism Video: CS Lewis reference

We cover some common stereotypes that have been used in referencing those of faith and in political parties yet we believe This gives false understanding of who people are and what they truly believe.

Not talking, learning and involving yourself and understanding leads to

Avoiding conflict with relationships you value. 

Our hope is that friends will give more weight to the person they've known for years, more than whom she chooses to vote for.

There’s also something to say about finding people who align with you, your views and your values. 

“You don’t lose friends because real friends can never be lost.  You lose people masquerading as friends, and you’re better for it.” ~Mandy Hale 

We call this pruning!

Just remember that whenever you are in need and want support, you will need friends, and not governments. 

What to do if people don’t have the same view points as you? 

💙Accept the fact that not everyone needs to be in your inner circle 

💙Talk on the phone or FaceTime, not in text or messaging…you need to hear their heart and voice. 

💙Also, Gma was right, you can agree to disagree…we like to say “you can agree AND disagree AND still be friends” 

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Trigger warning: This episode is on suicide and suicide prevention. We discuss the loss of two teens and give hope and helpful resources for suicide prevention.

Join us as we have a candid conversation with two mothers who are turning their pain into a greater purpose. 

Statistics show, often teens are choosing to end their life in a snap decision. Lost in a moment of darkness, many teens go from thinking about suicide to acting on it in less than 20 minutes. Just 20 minutes to decide life isn’t worth living. Both families realized they had to do something to educate teens and the people who love them. #GiveMe20 was born.

Two amazing Kansas City area teens, 17 year old Chad Harrell and 16 year old Regan Johnson, tragically ended their lives in 2017. Both teens were happy and making plans for tomorrow, next week, next year... yet both teens ended their lives suddenly and without warning. Their moms, Sylvia Harrell and BJ Thomas Wilson, joined together through the common bond of losing a child, began to ask questions and research things that would have helped their children. 

We were so honored to have BJ & Sylvia share their stories, hearts and resources with us for this episode. 

“Suicide doesn’t end the pain, it transfers all the pain to the ones you love.” -Sylvia 

National Suicide prevention hotline: 800-273-8255 or Text HOME to 741-741

To learn more about Sylvia and BJ and their foundations, check out the links below to connect. 

Keep the Spark Alive

Shifting Gears for Regan

GiveMe20

GiveMe20: Amazon Wish List

GiveMe20.LifeBox - Home Facebook

Keep The Spark Alive - Home | Facebook

Shifting Gears - Home | Facebook

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We are farrrrrrr from perfect but how easy is it to start the comparison game of "at least I'm not as bad as 'so-and-so', I don't do drugs, I haven't been to jail..." and that list can go on and on. All of sudden we are putting ourselves above those around us... and that is very HUMAN. But we shouldn't be comparing ourselves to other humans, we need to be comparing ourselves to the ONE perfect human, Jesus Christ. 

This is not about beating ourselves up. This is about realizing we need more self-compassion rather than self-confidence. What is self compassion? Shauna Niequist in her book I Guess I Haven't Learned That Yet: Discovering New Ways of Living When the Old Ways Stop Working she says "self compassion is letting yourself off the hook letting yourself be human and flawed and also amazing it gives yourself credit for showing up instead of beating yourself up for taking so long to get there."

Tom Brady "There's got to be more than this..."

And as hard as it is to learn humility and how to be humble, it's even more difficult to teach our children the value and lesson of humility. If you are not in the word, if you are not in a close relationship with Christ then you truly are not going to see how much of a sinner you are and how much grace you do in fact need. 

💙 Do you have peace in your heart knowing that other's judgments and opinions mean absolutely nothing compared to how much Jesus loves you and adores you?

💙 Where do we learn humility? 

💙 Send the Happy New Year's Card in July, who cares!

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We can’t believe we are here…wrapping up our first season of our podcast! We had no idea we would have a season, let alone how many episodes we’d get to before a break or even how many downloads we’d have. We just started and prayed. 

In this episode we share with you our favorite clips whether funny, impactful, or emotional. We review some highlights of our behind the scenes on our top episodes and what you may need to go back and listen to if you missed. 

💙Ep #1 Unapologetic: I’m not who I used to be and that’s ok

💙Ep #6 Unfinished: the hangover of resolutions

💙Ep#11 Fostering through a pandemic

💙Ep# 8 Unhealthy head trash 

💙Ep #9 You are actually a good mom

💙Ep #13 Mama in waiting…Infertility journey 

💙Ep #3 Boundaries 

💙Ep #21/22 Messes and Blesses of marriage 

Lastly we close by sharing a few pieces of how we grew personally and technically in our podcast in the last 6 months. We started in a closet and now our setup is in Tori’s basement. 

We cannot wait to kick off our summer series…we’ll launch our trailer on May 24th with episode 1 being released on June 7th. 

🥰 Don’t worry, we’ll be releasing some of our favorite episodes for the next couple of weeks. 

Until next time, Housewives, let us know what your favorite episode has been out of all 25! 

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

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Welcome back to season four of the Unlikely Housewives! We're thrilled to celebrate this milestone with both our returning listeners and newcomers. Join us as we embrace the chaos and humor of motherhood. In this episode, we discuss the ongoing transformation that comes with family life, accepting that we are not who we used to be, and that's perfectly okay. We share our experiences adjusting to the new school year, managing multiple children's activities, and the decisions we both made to leave the social media world behind us.

We explore the evolution of friendships during motherhood, balancing school routines, & extracurricular activities. We reflect on how friendships change over time, particularly post-pandemic, and the importance of evaluating whether these relationships are mutually beneficial. Through personal stories, we emphasize the significance of setting healthy boundaries and prioritizing meaningful connections over sheer busyness.

Our conversation also covers the journey of stepping away from social media to focus on personal growth, spiritual development, and family life. We share how this shift allowed for more meaningful, in-person interactions and a greater focus on living in the moment. From balancing screen time with spiritual commitments to modeling healthy phone habits for our children, we discuss the ongoing challenges and rewards of reducing our reliance on social media. Join us as we outline exciting plans for the upcoming season, including episodes on parenting, mental health, marriage, and new inspirational stories.

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Listen in as we discuss the unique approach Joe's family takes towards goal-setting with the concept of Masagi goals, which encourages each member to pursue ambitious yet safe challenges every year. From the inspiring story of Sam, who climbed El Capitan at the tender age of eight, to the significance of celebrating personal achievements beyond traditional milestones, this episode offers a refreshing perspective on nurturing ambition and resilience in children. The conversation highlights how these practices not only build self-confidence but also strengthen the family bond through shared adventures and accomplishments.

We also explore modern parenting challenges, balancing personal and family goals, and the importance of intentional decision-making in education and career paths. Joe shares his insights on preparing children for a rapidly changing world, emphasizing skills like personal branding, salesmanship, and adaptability. As we wrap up, we touch on the lighter side of parenting, underscoring the value of nurturing a sense of humor in children to help them navigate life's ups and downs with grace and confidence. Join us in this enriching episode as we share laughter, wisdom, and the courage to embrace life's adventures together.

Joe’s YouTube

The Evermore’s on Instagram: 

Samuel’s Instagram: 

Joe Evermore’s Facebook: 

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The conversation is raw and deeply emotional as Libby bravely shares Cooper's series of events that led to his tragic overdose. Through her story, we're reminded that even those well-versed in healthcare are not immune to this crisis, and the necessity for honest conversations with our youth about the dangers of drug experimentation becomes ever more clear.

In the wake of Cooper's passing, Libby's advocacy work has taken on new urgency, particularly in the context of Kansas's recent legalization of fentanyl testing strips — a contentious yet potentially life-saving tool. As we examine the multifaceted fentanyl crisis, touching on border control and public health strategies like Narcan distribution, it becomes apparent that the fight against this epidemic is as complex as it is critical. This podcast not only honors Cooper's memory but also serves as an essential platform for educating families and communities on the steps we can take together to prevent further loss.

💙You can connect with Libby Davis and/or support their cause at: https://www.cooperdavismemorialfoundation.org/

💙Follow along on their journey of awareness and education at: https://www.facebook.com/keepincleanforcoop/

💙Look to see if there is a local DEA office near you: https://www.dea.gov/engage/operation-engage-kansascity

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Navigating the intricacies of marital covenant is no small feat—especially when intertwined with the responsibilities of parenting and career pursuits. Suzanne shares her personal narrative of seeking harmony with her husband, Mitch, and the invaluable role mentorship has played in her journey. We tackle the often-misunderstood concept of submission within a biblical marriage, clarifying its noble place in God's plan. With sincerity, we discuss the societal labels affixed to men and the sacredness of intimacy and communication within the bonds of matrimony. Join us for an honest dialogue that promises to reinforce your marriage through a deeper connection with your faith.

As we wrap up, the episode casts a spotlight on the transformative power of love and respect in shaping marriage dynamics, as well as the vital function of a woman in fostering a secure and respectful partnership. Through personal stories and biblical truths, we illustrate how placing Christ at the core of your relationship can weather the toughest storms. We leave you with an invitation to join our vibrant online community, where we continue to foster meaningful connections and support each other on this journey. Let your spirit be uplifted, and let your faith be fortified as we partake in this ongoing conversation about life, love, and the pursuit of God’s intentions for us.

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Welcome back for Season 2!  We are so thankful for our 4 month break and all the lessons we’ve learned.  We are excited to be sharing with you this season from a new perspective that “Nothing is wasted.”  

“And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.” Romans 8:28NLT

Do you find yourself living moment by moment but not fully living? 

Do you feel like your life has gotten back to “normal” after these last few years?

How are you handling the stress you’ve been under? 

What does your emotional load do to your body physically?

Are you bitter, angry & confused OR are you at peace, feeling a greater sense of purpose and enjoying the slower pace of life?

Have you attached yourself to a false identity?  

If you have experienced a hardened heart, a loss of identity, or are struggling to see hope, we are here to tell you that “nothing is wasted”.  We are a couple of pretty honest women who share about some of our struggles we’ve gone through in a difficult season.  Family life and marriage is ALWAYS a top priority for each of us, and yet it comes with a variety of seasons and struggles as well. Mama, if you are struggling personally, it is truly hard to manage it all. We are here to say “it’s ok…you are not alone”.

“Bring the joy” is going to be our new focus for 2023.  We know that finding who you are, living for your purpose and going through hard seasons in life moment after moment is difficult, but if you have true joy that only comes from having a relationship with Christ, that you can still be joyful!!

Jack Hibbs Pilgrims 20:23 

https://youtu.be/NSDaESJTuR0

Book link: Nothing Is Wasted: A True Story of Finding Peace in Chaos 

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

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But what if we are looking at vision boards all wrong? Why do we put the incentive trip, the luxury car, and the next promotion on our boards? Because that’s what we are told to put on the boards! Of course, we will put some family specific items too, right? Like that family trip to Disney that you want your business to pay for or the home appliance you’ve been dying to replace. 

However, are you going to be okay if God’s plan for you does include the luxury trip and car and next promotion in your business?

Very rarely does God's purpose and calling for us show up with the vision of the all-expense paid trip. Yes, that is an incredible BONUS to have but that’s simply not for everyone. What vision is God giving you that is consistent? 

The most peace and contentment you will ever feel is when you are in the smack-dab middle of God’s will for your life. 

When we are told about purpose and calling in the bible, it never says that a purpose equals a career. He may use your career to help facilitate our calling in life, but it does not require it. 

Who’s vision are you chasing, yours or God’s?

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It’s a New Year, now what?  Time to set some New Year's resolutions…or not?  We know the #1 resolution revolves around health goals, weight loss and dieting.  We have an interesting take on this new diet culture.  We feel it brings shame and guilt instead of focusing on wellness and that we have one body & we should take care of it the best we can.  

“Diet culture” refers to a set of beliefs that values thinness, appearance, and shape above health & well-being.

In this episode we are here to validate you around this heavy topic as we’ve been there and battled all the same thoughts…there are emotions with food, working out, past issues, health issues, and more…THIS IS A CONSTANT LIVING BATTLE for most.

➡️ We both share the list of diets we have tried and the good and bad of all 

➡️ Healthy relationships with our bodies…WHOLE picture…body is a temple 

➡️ Unhealthy where are our mobility, level of activity, paralyzed by something mental/emotional, insecurities…

➡️ We know this is HARD…it is sensitive and as mamas…we battle the post baby bods into taking care of ourselves for our kids, to how do our kids see we take care of ourselves and it’s honestly scary knowing the diet culture our kids are growing up with…

➡️ We can speak on this now because we’ve been there and found an answer for us…it’s addressing gut health and healing from the inside. 

💙 What we want for you is to find your answer, your breakthrough. What’s your relationship with the diet culture? Is it healthy? 

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

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Listen in as we address the complexities of teaching compassion versus empathy, especially within a Christian context. We explore the challenge of distinguishing feelings from facts, highlighting the concept of "toxic empathy," where emotions can cloud judgment. Through personal anecdotes, we discuss the importance of teaching children to appreciate different perspectives and emphasize discernment in an era of biased narratives and algorithms. We also examine the struggle of feeling disconnected from foundational values during times of misinformation and societal pressure, urging our listeners to stay informed and engaged, particularly when it comes to civic duties like voting.

While acknowledging the importance of God's love, we emphasize the need for teachings on sin, repentance, and transformation through Christ. The conversation touches on the financial and social impacts of illegal immigration, highlighting the importance of enforcing immigration laws to maintain order. As we seek facts and unity in political discourse, we encourage listeners to evaluate candidates based on their policies and track records, empowering them to make informed choices that align with their values. Throughout, we emphasize the importance of grounding beliefs in biblical truth and staying engaged in meaningful conversations about faith and politics. And most importantly…we encourage and invite you to VOTE this election!

SHOW RESOURCES:

Link to register to vote: https://vote.gov/

Relatable podcast with Allie Beth Stuckey: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/relatable-with-allie-beth-stuckey/id1359249098

Allie Beth Stuckey’s new book: Toxic Empathy: How Progressives Exploit Christian Compassion https://a.co/d/aseU1Kh

Glenn Beck show (includes Christians voting statistics): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-glenn-beck-program/id620967489

https://ptv.org/nna/how-a-christian-should-vote-by-dr-robert-jeffress/

https://downloads.frc.org/EF/EF15K70.pdf

Book: The Pursuit of God by AW Tozer https://a.co/d/8yeP0AM

Immigration facts

less than 1% is due to rape and incest;

Abortion Pill has more complications than surgical abortions

Medication accounted for 63% of all US abortions

Late-term Abortions Happen Every Day

Tim Walz: Comfort Care

Calling Republican Candidates Hitler is NOT new 

Additional information:

https://www.newsweek.com/mifepristone-scotus-ruling-science-abortion-drug-1795947

https://www.cdc.gov/reproductive-health/data-statistics/abortion-surveillance-findings-reports.html

https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2024/03/25/what-the-data-says-about-abortion-in-the-us/

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In this episode, we review the documentary adaptation “Letter to the American Church” from New York Times best-selling author, Eric Metaxas, and give our take on the pressing issues facing the American Church and its role in politics. Join us, as we navigate these tougher topics with a spirit of truth and unwavering faith. We kick it off with a stirring discussion on the historical lessons from Dietrich Bonhoeffer, drawing parallels between his stand against Nazism and the modern American church's response to the current political disaster. Our exploration isn't merely an academic exercise; we're here to equip you with the courage to act and the wisdom to discern God's path amidst the chaos.

This documentary highlighted so many historical and heavy topics, and our episode doesn't shy away from identity politics and the cultural Marxism's imprint on our society. We dissect the effects of these ideologies, citing influential figures who've bravely spoken against the grain. As we venture through this minefield, we discuss the impact of gender politics on our children, the integrity of women's sports, and the invasion of progressive thought in education. Our conversation is more than a debate; it's a call to safeguard the values we hold dear and protect our families against cultural infiltration.

We wrap up with a powerful reflection on emphasizing the need for love and truth in our Christian walk. We don't just scratch the surface; we bring in perspectives from this documentary that challenges the mainstream narrative, highlighting the importance of standing firm in our convictions. This isn't just your average podcast episode—it's an invitation to become an active participant in shaping our society, aligning our actions with the teachings of the Bible, and ensuring our voices resonate within our communities and beyond.

You can watch the “Letter to the American Church” on Epoch Times. https://www.theepochtimes.com/

Official website: https://lettertotheamericanchurch.com

For purchasing DVD, please visit https://lettertotheamericanchurch.myshopify.com.

For any screening requests, please visit the official website https://lettertotheamericanchurch.com for more information.

💙💙💙💙💙

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Trigger warning: This episode is on suicide and suicide prevention. We discuss the loss of two teens and give hope and helpful resources for suicide prevention.

Join us as we have a candid conversation with two mothers who are turning their pain into a greater purpose. 

Statistics show, often teens are choosing to end their life in a snap decision. Lost in a moment of darkness, many teens go from thinking about suicide to acting on it in less than 20 minutes. Just 20 minutes to decide life isn’t worth living. Both families realized they had to do something to educate teens and the people who love them. #GiveMe20 was born.

Two amazing Kansas City area teens, 17 year old Chad Harrell and 16 year old Regan Johnson, tragically ended their lives in 2017. Both teens were happy and making plans for tomorrow, next week, next year... yet both teens ended their lives suddenly and without warning. Their moms, Sylvia Harrell and BJ Thomas Wilson, joined together through the common bond of losing a child, began to ask questions and research things that would have helped their children. 

We were so honored to have BJ & Sylvia share their stories, hearts and resources with us for this episode. 

“Suicide doesn’t end the pain, it transfers all the pain to the ones you love.” -Sylvia 

National Suicide prevention hotline: 800=273-8255 or Text HOME to 741-741

To learn more about Sylvia and BJ and their foundations, check out the links below to connect. 

Keep the Spark Alive

Shifting Gears for Regan

GiveMe20

GiveMe20: Amazon Wish List

GiveMe20.LifeBox - Home Facebook

Keep The Spark Alive - Home | Facebook

Shifting Gears - Home | Facebook

Be sure to tune in next week for our final episode of Season 1! We will be revisiting some of our favorite moments (and bloopers) of our inaugural season. Don't get too sad because we will be back in June with our Summer Series! 

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

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Time to check out what the Unlikely Housewives are all about and what we've got cooking for you in the months to come! We are talking about all the things that matter to you, authenticity - freedom - wellness - validation. 

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We also discuss the growing challenge of AI in everyday life, from voice assistants and homework help to social media algorithms and AI-generated “friends.” While AI can be a helpful tool, it should never replace real relationship, real research, or discernment rooted in Scripture.

If you’re trying to raise grounded, thoughtful, faith-filled kids in a world that’s changing fast, this conversation will encourage you to stay engaged, ask questions, and lead your children well.

• How kids are already using AI in everyday life.
• Why critical thinking matters more than ever.
• The difference between using AI as a tool and relying on it as truth.
• How to help your kids test information against Scripture.
• The importance of real conversation, relationship, and discernment.
• Why parents should stay informed about apps, chatbots, and AI-generated content.

AI may be shaping the culture, but faith should shape the family

*********************

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The psychological and physical toll of living with a narcissistic partner can be overwhelming, yet escaping this toxic cycle is possible. We address the profound impacts on mental health, discussing how vital validation and support are for those caught in these relationships. By exploring therapeutic techniques like EMDR and accelerated resolution therapy, Barbara emphasizes the power of processing trauma and reclaiming personal strength. Healing is a crucial step before embarking on new relationships, ensuring that past patterns do not repeat and that one can thrive in healthier environments.

Humor, though a double-edged sword, can become a powerful tool for joy and healing in relationships. We explore how sarcasm and wit, when balanced with understanding and clear boundaries, can enrich family bonds. However, missteps can lead to misunderstandings, especially when communication styles clash. This episode celebrates the courage to live authentically, advocating for therapy and support groups as safe havens for sharing experiences and learning. 

You can connect with Barbara at her email Barbbecktherapy@gmail.com or through the Psychology Today site here: Barbara Beck

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Turning to the more introspective side, our conversation shifts to the growth and challenges of the past year, examining the delicate dance of balance between personal aspirations and family priorities. The pandemic's shadow looms, reshaping our perspectives; the simplicity of board game nights and the complexity of children stretching their wings blend into a rich tapestry of shared experiences. We muse over future uncertainties—from teenage driving tests to major sporting events—while savoring the present moments that make our shared journey so rewarding.

Wrapping up with our solid foundations, we reflect on the evolving dynamics of faith and family in the post-COVID landscape. We're candid about the need for a personal relationship with Christ, independent of external influences, and the ripple effect this has on our roles as spouses and parents. As we look to the year ahead, we set intentions for spiritual growth and leading by example, all the while keeping our trademark humor close at hand. Join us for a session that's equal parts laughter, reflection, and heartfelt connection.

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Supporting a friend through divorce can feel like navigating a minefield of emotions and unsaid words, and this is a theme we explore deeply with Brittany. We discuss the delicate balance of being present for a friend, without passing judgment or imposing our own narratives on their experience. Brittany also shares personal insights on marriage's transformative power post-divorce, and how it can lead to rediscovery and growth. In these discussions, we underscore the importance of family bonds, effective communication, and the collective effort in child-rearing that brings together generations, all while maintaining a sense of self within the whirlwind of family life.

In the realm of personal development, the episode takes a turn towards introspection as we acknowledge the transformative power of love, self-acceptance, and forgiveness. These are not just lofty concepts but lived experiences, as demonstrated by Brittany's journey through therapy and the ongoing process of learning to receive compliments without the shadow of self-doubt. We grapple with the notion that our life's purpose may be understood through the prism of our relationships, where every challenge is an opportunity for personal growth. And as Brittany shares her approach to achieving peace through forgiveness, we are reminded of the profound impact such inner work can have in all areas of life, from our personal to professional worlds.

Connect with Britany:

Instagram

Triggerz Institute

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Do you have a hard time talking about your beliefs and true feelings around abortion?  Do you feel like it’s a political topic you want to stay clear of or do you feel like it’s a biblical issue you cannot stay quiet about? You aren’t alone…even our nation's churches and pastors struggle on how much to share, but should they? 

To answer these questions and more, we have invited our guest, Seth Gruber, to bring the truth to our listeners. Seth is the Founder and President of The White Rose Resistance, and host of the popular podcast "UnAborted." A nationally renowned human rights activist and sought after speaker, Seth is fighting for a world where every person has the right to be born.

Our world is slowly being destroyed, right in front of our eyes, and Seth brings awareness to a lack of knowledge which is leading to the silence. Hosea 4:6 Seth’s mission is to build Christian resistance to our worldly culture by educating Christians about the culture of death that has led us to this point.  

We cannot settle for silence while Satan's favorite thing is our apathy. 

“From one man he made all the nations, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands.”

‭‭Acts‬ ‭17‬:‭26‬ ‭NIV‬‬

We are called to action and it’s time we stop being silent.

White Rose Resistance Ball

Tickets Here

Seth preaching at Calvary Chapel Chino Hills, Senior Pastor Jack Hibbs

Click Here

Books: 

Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Martyr, Prophet, Spy

Randy Alcorn Books

Forgiven and Set Free: bible study for women seeking healing after abortion

The Screwtape Letters

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(00:15) - Understanding Anxiety in Children

(06:29) - Recognizing Anxiety in Children

(14:04) - Navigating Childhood Anxiety and Parental Guilt

(21:20) - Parental Self-Care and Child Therapy

(28:33) - Supporting Childhood Anxiety Through Therapy

(39:23) - Parenting, Emotions, and Therapies

Join us in an engaging conversation with Bryce Hamilton, a licensed specialist clinical social worker and child and family therapist, as we explore the intricacies of anxiety in children. Bryce shares her journey of co-creating the "Accidental Experts" podcast with her best friend, a pediatrician, aiming to provide parents with strategies to navigate family life. From the humorous realities of podcasting from home to addressing serious topics like anxiety, ADHD, and autism, this episode offers a rich resource for families seeking guidance and support.

Listen in as we uncover the challenges parents face in recognizing and addressing anxiety in children. Bryce helps us understand the different manifestations of anxiety, including OCD and PTSD, and the importance of identifying symptoms like procrastination and physical discomfort. She explains the role of the amygdala in triggering false alarms and highlights the need for parents to validate their child's emotions while encouraging growth beyond comfort zones. We also tackle the issue of parental guilt, emphasizing that genetic predispositions play a significant role in anxiety, reminding parents that they're not alone in this journey.

This episode also focuses on the emotional aspects of parenting, the significance of self-care, and how parents can model healthy emotional expression for their children. We explore therapeutic approaches such as play therapy, CBT, and EMDR, emphasizing their role in helping children manage anxiety. Bryce introduces us to SPACE training, a program designed to help parents support their children without enabling avoidance. Throughout our conversation, we stress the importance of creating a nurturing and communicative environment, offering parents the tools and insights they need to support their families effectively.

You can find Bryce’s podcast on all podcast platforms. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/accidental-experts-with-bryce-hamilton/id1733294868

Here are also the links to connect with Bryce and her office:

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/k-bryce-hamilton-overland-park-ks/82059

https://www.goodtherapy.org/therapists/profile/bryce-hamilton-20100817

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(03:22) Teaching Critical Thinking to Young Children 

(13:28) Reframing Sexuality

(20:14) Basic Sex and Reproduction Explanation

(25:47) Teaching Biblical Literacy and Worldview

(30:43) Bible Reading Skills Curriculum for All

(38:50) Understanding Compassion Versus Empathy

(43:41) Curriculum Flexibility and Independence

We explore the crucial topic of early conversations about sexuality with children. It's vital for parents to be the primary source of this information, ensuring that children view sex as a positive and natural aspect of life. We discuss practical methods, such as using anatomically correct terms and utilizing resources like the "Birds and the Bees" course, to foster an open and honest environment. By doing so, children feel empowered to ask questions, and parents can confidently guide these important discussions, helping children understand sexuality in a healthy, christian-aligned context.

In our final segment, Elizabeth emphasizes the integration of video-based teaching in biblical literacy curriculums, which benefits both children and their parents. This approach not only enriches a family's understanding of the Bible's narrative but also equips them to engage critically with modern issues through a biblical framework. We look into the distinct roles of compassion and empathy within this worldview, encouraging families to align with truth. Elizabeth's work illustrates how a comprehensive grasp of scripture and its principles can prepare the next generation to navigate today's world with confidence and clarity.

You can learn more at https://foundationworldview.com/ and use code: housewives10 to receive $10 off a family license of any of the foundation worldview curricula.

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Biblical Worldview, Children, Critical Thinking, Sexuality, Parents, Education, Anatomically Correct Terms, Birds and the Bees, Video-based Teaching, Biblical Literacy, Empowerment, Truth, Compassion, Empathy, Love, Tolerance, Justice, Reproductive Justice, Abortion, Mothers, Children

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Parenting in today's world can feel lonely when the cultural noise is so loud, but Hannah Pierrou. stands as a beacon of truth, guiding others with her insights on raising children in what she describes as a 'sideways culture.' It's a conversation that ignites a spark of hope, urging parents to anchor themselves in God's Word. And just when you think the tale couldn't get any more heartwarming, Hannah recounts the magical origin of Treehouse Storyteller – emerging from the wooden planks of a family-built treehouse that now serves as a sanctuary for faith and togetherness. Hannah's story is a testament to the power of storytelling in shaping young minds. Don't miss the opportunity to connect with her and immerse yourself in a world where faith and imagination meet.

Connect with Hannah on her Instagram account @treehousestoryteller ​​

Or learn more about her on her website: https://thetreehousestoryteller.com/

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JT opens up about how emotional wounds, identity struggles, and spiritual emptiness can shape our relationship with food, success, and self-worth. He also shares the story behind his Empty Your Bucket nutrition plan and how true freedom begins when we stop trying to fill ourselves with the things of this world and start allowing Jesus to heal the heart.

This episode is a meaningful reminder that wellness is not just physical — it is spiritual, emotional, and deeply personal. If you’ve ever struggled with emotional eating, burnout, or feeling spiritually empty, this conversation will encourage you to look beneath the surface and pursue lasting healing.

• JT Tapias’ powerful journey from Colombia to the United States.
• How trauma, survival, and identity shaped his early life.
• The connection between emotional pain and unhealthy eating patterns.
• Why diets often fail when the heart is still hurting.
• The story behind the Empty Your Bucket nutrition plan.
• How faith in Jesus brought true healing and transformation.
• What it means to find freedom from food, idols, and inner emptiness.

JT Tapias is a nationally recognized speaker, nutrition sociologist, and Christian counselor. His faith-based approach to wellness has been featured on CBS, Men’s Health, and Muscle & Fitness. Through his work, JT helps people understand the deeper emotional and spiritual roots of their relationship with food and discover true healing.

• Website: emptyyourbucketplan.com – The best place to learn about his nutrition plan and resources for mind, body, and spirit health.
• Instagram (@coachjttapias): instagram.com/coachjttapias – Follow for daily insights on habits, faith, and high-impact transformation.
• Instagram (@emptyyourbucketplan): instagram.com/emptyyourbucketplan – Focused specifically on his program for Christian women looking to lose weight and thrive.
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/fitmethod413 – Connect professionally to see more of his coaching philosophy and business background.

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🇺🇸Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

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(01:58) Cheating Death Book Recommendation 

(05:38) Advice and Legacy Through Scripture

(10:39) Family First

(16:59) Finding Support and Challenge in Relationships

(23:08) Importance of Intentionality in Fitness

(26:51) Faith, Resilience, and Perspective

(40:15) Scariest Moment - 9/11 Experience

(52:04) Imagined Scenario of White House Attack

We explore the identity challenges faced by Secret Service agents, particularly when transitioning into retirement. This episode sheds light on the struggle to balance a demanding career with family responsibilities, especially when societal expectations come into play. Ken shares a personal story about the impact of an article from Focus on the Family that prompted introspection about career choices. By highlighting these experiences, we offer listeners a perspective on managing professional duties without sacrificing familial roles, emphasizing the value of prioritizing family while navigating career decisions.

Throughout our conversation, Ken reflects on some of his most significant moments, including working closely with presidents like George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, and Barack Obama. His anecdotes, ranging from running with President Bush to a harrowing night during 9/11, provide a compelling and intimate look into the life of someone who has served in high-stakes environments. Listen in as Ken recounts these personal and professional experiences, offering both inspiration and insight into navigating life's difficult decisions with faith and courage.

You can order Ken’s book here: Book

You also can connect with Ken here: Ken on Instagram

Ken's Website

Secret Service, Presidential Protection, Retirement, Faith, Family, Identity, Career Choices, Focus on the Family, God's Plan, Life Decisions, Running, Physical Fitness, President Obama, Professionalism, 9/11, Washington D.C., White House, Military Security, Evacuation Protocols, Crisis

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Esther shares why you don’t need a massive overhaul or a 75-hard style challenge to feel better and why healing often starts with the most basic, ordinary habits that connect you to your body, to the earth, and to God. She also explains how stress, your nervous system, and even your breathing patterns are impacting your energy more than you realize—and gives you practical, doable steps you can start today, even if you’re listening months after January.​

• The pressure of New Year health goals, social media “fixes,” and why most big resolutions aren’t sustainable for busy moms.​
• Esther’s journey from ER nurse to holistic health practitioner and why she became passionate about prevention instead of band-aid medicine.
• What Hashimoto’s is, why so many exhausted women are being told “your labs look fine,” and the role of stress and cellular health.​
• The two main nervous system states (fight/flight vs. rest/digest) and how they affect digestion, sleep, and healing.​
• A simple diaphragmatic breathing practice you can do anytime, anywhere—and why 10 deep breaths before meals and bed can shift your whole day.
• How to use “triggers” (like buckling your seatbelt or bedtime routines) to build tiny, consistent habits that actually stick.
• Why “simple and sustainable” beats “go big or go home” when it comes to long-term wellness for mamas.

Esther Yunkin is a registered nurse with over 25 years of experience in emergency medicine and holistic health. After 17 years in the ER, she became frustrated with conventional care’s band-aid approach and shifted her focus to helping exhausted women with Hashimoto’s regain their energy without overwhelm. She is the host of the Health with Hashimoto’s podcast and creator of the Holistic Hashimoto’s program, where she teaches simple, sustainable strategies for lasting wellness. Esther lives in rural Minnesota with her husband and their four boys, where they homeschool, garden, and raise flocks of chickens.​

• Connect with Esther:
  • Health with Hashimoto's Website
  • Facebook: Health with Hashimoto's Community
  • Esther RN Instagram

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Josh shares the power of testimony in our spiritual journeys, showing us how leaning into authentic relationships and challenging cultural norms can empower parents. With humor and humility, he guides us through the significance of setting boundaries, embracing imperfections, and the transformative power of mentorship. Together, we reflect on the spiritual dynamics of marriage and the balance that differing perspectives can bring, all while highlighting the importance of seeking peace and authenticity in our family lives.

As we navigate through topics like technology, discipleship, and the often bumpy ride of parenting teens, we invite you to join us in embracing imperfection with grace. Our conversation emphasizes the joy that comes with failing forward, owning our weaknesses, and shepherding our children’s hearts closer to Jesus. Whether you're a seasoned parent or new to the journey, this episode offers a treasure trove of insights and encouragement to help you lead your family with faith, love, and purpose.

https://parentingagainstthecurrent.com/

https://www.facebook.com/ParentingAgainstTheCurrent

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Jennifer takes us through her personal journey, from facing the stigma and skepticism surrounding her relationship with Scotty to embracing the surprising paths of love and faith. She speaks about the transformative bond they formed through letters while he was in prison, and the profound lesson they learned about grace, acceptance, and letting go of past mistakes. We uncover the misconceptions about grace and performance in faith, exploring how a deeper understanding of God's love can foster healing and connection. Her narrative is a powerful reminder that life can take unexpected turns when we allow ourselves to be seen and supported by others.

Through heartfelt stories and insightful reflections, we tackle the complexities of living with a partner struggling with addiction and the importance of seeking help for oneself. Jennifer's journey highlights the necessity of setting boundaries, trusting God, and embracing resilience in the face of uncertainty. Her story serves as a beacon of hope for those navigating similar challenges, reminding us that faith and community can guide us through the darkest times. Whether you're facing struggles with addiction or seeking inner healing, Jennifer's inspiring journey offers valuable lessons on grace, vulnerability, and the incredible strength found in trusting the process.

Jennifer Shook Instagram

Becoming Together community on Facebook

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We know the pendulum swing of all feelings in motherhood…feeling like the weight of the world is on your shoulders to full on empowerment of raising world changers. You can feel one thing one minute AND one thing the next! Totally normal! 

We also have enough experience to know that the butterflies don’t last forever…they come and go as you grow in your marriage but without  having some tough conversations, addressing the elephants in your marriage, the depth of your relationship comes to a standstill.   Intimacy is a must in marriage…emotionally AND physically! 

Friendships come and go and some stay forever. We touch on this briefly as we have had to had some “come to Jesus” conversations with each other when the blinders were on and we didn’t see what God was asking of us. 

Lastly we talk about the tough emotion that comes with the tough part of relationships…Anger. Anger isn’t a sin unless you allow it to destroy relationships! It’s also not easy to work through without tough conversations, help and even sometimes therapy. 

Good news is there is always LOVE…bad news is it depends on how much love you want to feel if you aren’t addressing the tough parts holding you back from true incredible love in all your relationships! 

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A “but” is what we insert when we are trying to validate our feelings for ourselves.  Instead we are hoping to encourage you this summer to say “And”!  

We want you to change your mind about how you view things.  You don’t have to justify everything you feel with a but…you get to say “I’m a good mom AND I need a freaking break!” We are so sick of the mentality that we have to hide our feelings of the hard and really tough feelings we face in this crazy world we live in. 

Once you realize the freedom that comes with believing in the And, and accepting the And…there is so much letting go of guilt & shame that reveals itself.

We want you to be encouraged this summer, to embrace where you are in life, the season you are walking through, and embrace the And! 

Tune in every Tuesday this summer to feel some validation in where YOU are and to learn to grow with us and Believe in the And!

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This week’s episode is going to cover a great deal of things as we address being overscheduled mamas and families.  Our main goal with discussing this topic is to challenge you to ask yourself a few questions & determine if you are finding joy in all of the busyness or if you are living underwhelmed.  Our hope is that you would bring awareness to some of these feelings whether excited for the next season of chaos or paralyzed by the thought that you don’t know how you’ll get everything done.  Either way, there’s some encouragement on this episode for you.

When we sign our kids up for things whether sports, activities, camps, etc…we ultimately put ourselves in the position of being a manager, a chaos coordinator and for those of us who have multiple kids, we become carpooling schedulers. 

At some point it becomes overwhelming and we do have to weigh the cost…not just money, it’s the time, energy, and what else we are sacrificing in our family.  

While sports and activities are a huge part, what about the other things that happen to fill our calendars: birthday parties, play dates, homework, and keeping up with household chores such as: laundry, cooking, cleaning, etc.  The lists keep growing and the ability to keep up gets to be too much sometimes that we just shut down.  Is that the way we are supposed to be living?  

Even our society and culture is training us to stay busy…they have convenience options for us to do grocery pick ups, door dash for fast food to be delivered to you, and Tracy’s personal favorite: Instacart…groceries delivered straight to your door! (link below) 

One thing we have each found important is setting boundaries.  There needs to be room for white space in your calendar…the margin, between the busy schedule…to spend quality time in relationships: with your spouse, your kids, friends, other family members and most importantly, God! 

We cover the common misused word “balance”.  To us it is a double edged sword and for moms it’s undefinable. We like to say that the only thing you can truly balance is your priorities. 

We ask these questions: Is it true that we have to be this busy? Or has culture created this and FOMO keeps us there? Are you feeling underwhelmed? What is your personal capacity? 

The truth is that busyness will stick around if you have kids unless you do something different to change it…this is life. So consider this…have you decided what your world looks like with complete peace and joy? 

💙 What brings you joy? Your kids joy? Your spouse joy? Where’s your peace? Your margin? Evaluate…are you living for the next event and activity or are you living with your family? If it’s on a calendar, is it required? Does it bring you and your family joy? How does it affect the rest of the family? 

Instacart link https://inst.cr/t/UHV3NEg1NTV2

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

(09:16) - Winter Weather Chaos and Preparation

(20:53) - Winter Storm Commiseration and Plans

Podcast Summary

Who knew a snow day could be so full of chaos and comedy? Picture this: a Jeep helplessly stuck in a snowy Kansas City blizzard while kids turn a snow-covered backyard into a playground and our pets snore by the fireplace. Our past snowy escapades in Dallas, Baltimore, and Chicago fuel our laughter as we reminisce about our own childhood snow days contrasted with today’s tech-loving kids yearning for social interactions even amidst the snowmageddon. The unpredictable challenges of snowy terrains bring humor and warmth, celebrating the joys of embracing winter’s whims with family.

Embrace the unpredictability of winter with us, sharing in the warmth and laughter amidst the storm.

*********************

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Today’s episode is going to have a different feel…Tracy is going to interview Tori and help her share her personal journey with depression in order to encourage others who have experienced these feelings, especially after these last 2 years.

Depression looks different for everyone. For some, it’s seasonal or circumstantial. Others, it starts with sad feelings while being pregnant or after the baby is born. Some can’t get out of bed, while others walk around numb. People look on from the outside and have no idea. But there is hope. It will get better. And we hope Tori’s story will show that to you and encourage you in your journey. 

💙Call to action: Open up…talk to someone.  YOU ARE NOT ALONE!  

Suicide hotline: 1.800.273.8255

Crisis text line: Text HOME to 741741 

Disclaimer: This is Tori’s personal story and is for informational purposes only. We are not doctors and this does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should always consult with a physician or other health care professional first.

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

Reflecting on our podcasting journey, we've marveled at our growth, survived the dreaded PodFade, and navigated the choppy waters of scheduling. We've tackled unexpected topics like parenting and childhood anxiety, conversations that not only moved us but our listeners as well, opening new doors and creating wonderful opportunities. And we're not stopping there - we are fueled with enthusiasm for our future ahead. So, tune in, celebrate with us, and don't forget to write us a review, helping us reach and inspire more listeners. Here's to many more years of laughs, lessons, and everything in between!

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What are we talking about now: 

• Using social media and our phones to fill a void
• Being present in our everyday lives
• Becoming aware of how much we use our phones and social media
• Comparing our reality to others highlight reel

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UnlikelyHousewivesofJoCo.com

Time to download what is going on inside us…end of year audit, a physical if you will…what’s working for us & what’s not.

Detox isn’t just “cleanses” or “eliminations”, diets, etc…it’s clearing out space for good things to come in.

• 3 areas we encourage you to do a detox download: 

                   Mental, physical & spiritual

Mental: 

• Declutter—physical space in the house…kitchen, bedroom, closet, kids toys…what frustrates you the most and keeps you overwhelmed and doing nothing. Clear your space to clear your head.  
• Give Back Box

Physical: 

• Get your sweat on—easiest way to detox. Workout, sauna, hot bath
• Drink water…Sleep…limit alcohol…

Spiritual: 

• Remove the fluff…when was the last time you just sat down and read your bible?
• Signs you need a spiritual detox: Your heart hurts…for what’s going on around you and inside. You tend to shy away from prayer or quiet time…avoidance isn’t the answer. 

Our encouragement to you is to do a detox download audit for yourself…draw awareness to what is in your control and what isn’t.

Life Coach reference: Melissa Batt

Book recommendation:Free to Focus by Michael Hyatt

So often we as mothers minimize the small things that we do that are truly making a greater impact. Tori & Tracy share some examples for all of you as reminders of the small things you are already doing that are making incredible impacts on others each and every day. 

We are creating new multigenerational impacts as well as passing on family values. Don’t ever stop believing that what you are doing now, even the small mundane tasks of motherhood, aren’t making a greater impact. 

We leave you with one of the famous quotes from Hamilton:

“What is a legacy? It's planting seeds in a garden you never get to see.”

Remembering this would make us more aware that whatever we do, no matter how trivial we think it is, would lead to a ripple effect. Mamas—continue unleashing your motherhood effect!! 

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

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Before you had children, did you think that raising your children was one of the greatest contributions to God’s Kingdom that you could provide? Motherhood is a high calling and knowing God has gifted us with His children to raise them to know and love Him, is God’s great work. 

What we do for our kids is so much more than just loving them. We came across this blog post in a Christian parenting search and decided to share our own examples and thoughts on the “Characteristics of a Good Mother According to the Bible”. 

💙A Godly mother is not perfect. Sorry not sorry.

💙A Godly mother apologizes often. 

💙A Godly mother doesn’t always put her children first. 

💙A Godly mother practices self discipline.

💙A Godly mother stays dependent on God. 

Our culture has a lot of opinions on what a good mother is and we need to be reminded that the true definition of a woman/motherhood comes from the Bible and from God. 

Blog link below:

https://bloggersforthekingdom.com/how-to-be-a-good-mom/

💙Audible Premium Plus

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

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This week we have a fun and informative conversation with our guest, Andrea Studt, a mama of 7 boys and their family’s journey of homeschooling! 

Homeschooling used to be just another option of schooling that only a few ever considered taking on for their family. The thoughts of so much extra time, effort, work, energy, emotions, & the added stigmas were all that you would hear in friendly discussion around this topic.  That was until the pandemic hit a couple years ago and families were thrust into homeschooling their own kids! Parents found zooming with all their teachers, working on projects and assignments and discovered while that was stressful, there were some benefits that came with it as well. 

➡️ We know more families than ever that have chosen to homeschool, but Andrea is one mama that was doing it long before the pandemic and their kiddos didn’t skip a beat when the world shut down. 

➡️ Andrea shares her advice on those considering homeschooling and encourages others to let go of the typical classroom standards and find your way to enrich your kids' lives in a new way.  

💙 Follow Andrea on Instagram @7boycrazy and her homeschooling, holistic-minded RN lifestyle. 

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

For so many Christian women, the pressure to be grateful, capable, selfless, and strong can make it hard to admit what’s really happening beneath the surface: the exhaustion, hormone chaos, stress, extra weight, painful symptoms, coping habits, and the quiet fear that your body is failing you.

In this honest conversation, Dr. Tabatha—a triple board-certified physician, faith-based women’s health expert, speaker, and bestselling author—invites us to stop faking fine and start bringing our whole selves to God. She shares her own story of burnout, chronic pain, and surrender, along with a faith-centered perspective on caring for our bodies as the vessels God created them to be.

Your body is not broken—and you do not have to keep carrying the burden alone.

Connect with Dr. Tabatha: Dr. Tabatha Barber Website

Gutsydrtabatha Instagram

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🇺🇸Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

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Emma helps us name the postpartum anxiety mistakes Christian moms don’t see coming: spiritualizing symptoms and assuming it’s “just a faith issue,” hiding intrusive thoughts out of fear of being judged or seen as unsafe, and buying into the “super-mom” myth that a good mom does it all alone with a smile. She also unpacks the massive hormonal crash after birth, the reality of baby blues versus postpartum depression, and how long hormones, breastfeeding, and sleep deprivation can keep your nervous system on high alert.

We get honest about Christian clichés like “just be grateful” or “just pray more,” how they unintentionally deepen shame, and what it looks like instead to anchor your heart in God’s character without denying your mental health. Emma shares why intrusive thoughts are far more common than most moms realize, why they don’t mean you want to hurt your baby, and how safe, faith-informed support can make your shoulders finally drop.

If you’ve ever thought, “I should be grateful, so why do I feel so anxious and crazy?” this conversation will help you see that you’re not broken, you’re not a bad Christian, and you don’t have to keep doing this alone.

Emma Donaldson is a licensed professional counselor and perinatal mental health specialist who supports Christian moms in pregnancy and postpartum. After years of specializing in trauma, becoming a mom revealed just how unique and intense postpartum anxiety, depression, and intrusive thoughts can be—and how often they’re minimized or spiritualized away. Emma now focuses her practice on pregnant and postpartum women and couples, offering flexible virtual counseling that fits real nap schedules and real-life chaos. She is also the founder of Joyful Mama Mental Wellness, an online space created to educate and support moms with mental-health–informed, faith-integrated care so they never have to feel like they’re “going crazy” alone.

Connect with Emma: https://www.instagram.com/joyfulmamamentalwellness/ 

Joyful Mama Mental Wellness: https://www.joyfulmamamentalwellness.com/

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In this year-end episode, we look back on a full season of podcasting, real life, and all the chaos that comes with Maycember. We talk honestly about motherhood, faith, friendship, serving others, and what it looks like to keep showing up when life feels full.

From housework and prayer to joy, relationships, and the unexpected ways God uses hard seasons, this conversation is equal parts funny, honest, and encouraging. It’s a reminder that even in the busiest months, God is still working and still faithful.

• Why Maycember feels busier than the holidays.
• Reflecting on a year of consistent podcasting.
• The most listened-to episodes from the “For the One” series.
• Why the Unlikely Husbands episode resonated with listeners.
• A real-life “report card” on housework, faith, friendships, and handling life.
• How serving others can become an act of worship.
• Finding joy in busy, emotional, and imperfect seasons.
• The importance of showing up for your people.
• What’s next for the podcast after the summer break.

• Honest laughter about the realities of motherhood and busy schedules.
• A look back at how God used the podcast this year.
• Practical encouragement for praying in the middle of life’s chaos.
• A reminder that friendship often looks like showing up, helping, and serving.
• A candid conversation about grace, growth, and real-life faith.

Thanks for being part of the Unlikely Housewives community. We’ll be back after the summer with more conversations, more laughter, and more honest faith-filled moments.

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🎙️Are you wanting to share your message with thousands through podcasts? PodMatch is the place you need to be. Join here: https://www.joinpodmatch.com/unlikelyhousewives 

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🇺🇸Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

💌Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

• 2:00 - Marriage mind-reading fails​
• 10:00 - Communication evolutions
• 20:00 - Silent treatments and fixes
• 30:00 - Parenting shifts and future focus​

• Chris (married 20 years to Tracy) and Andrew (nearly 18 years to Tori) share proof-of-life stories, poking fun at annual appearances and avoiding deep "skeletons in the closet."
• Couples explore failed expectations of spouses intuitively knowing needs, like car ride silences vs. podcasts, clothing choices, and casual suggestions turning into silent treatments.

Communication emerges as a top marriage hurdle alongside finances and parenting.

• Husbands admit poor mind-reading; wives project their preferences but learn opposites often prevail.
• Examples include budgeting blowups (Amazon vs. grocery indulgences), suppressing frustrations leading to pettiness, and silent treatments lasting days.
• Growth over years: More confidence to address issues quickly, avoiding bitterness; leaning into logic during teen parenting tugs.

Prioritize explicit talks over assumptions to prevent grudges—especially with kids nearing independence. The couples stress supporting each other against external stresses, not each other, for lasting bonds (aiming for 80+ years). Faith anchors maturity, turning obstacles into opportunities for stronger unity.

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🇺🇸Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

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Join us for a raw and honest conversation about wrestling with faith when healing doesn't come, questioning the promises of God, and ultimately finding a profound peace that transcends physical circumstances. Lara shares how she moved from desperation to acceptance, offering a powerful perspective on what it means to find purpose and hope in the midst of suffering.

This isn't just a story about illness; it's a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the surprising ways God meets us in our darkest moments.

• The Reality of Chronic Illness: Lara details the isolating and debilitating experience of being bedridden with vertigo for three years, a period that reshaped her identity, family life, and faith.
• The Exhausting Search for a Cure: Hear about the emotional and financial toll of trying 150 different therapies in a desperate search for healing, and the moment she realized she had to stop fighting.
• Wrestling with Faith: Lara speaks candidly about her struggle with scripture, particularly Romans 8:28 ("And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him"). She shares her journey from feeling abandoned by God to discovering a deeper, more authentic faith.
• Finding Joy in Acceptance: Discover how Lara shifted her focus from seeking a cure to embracing her new reality, learning to find joy, purpose, and a new way of life within her limitations.
• A Message of Hope: Lara’s story is a powerful reminder that even when life doesn't go as planned, it's possible to find strength, peace, and an unshakable hope that isn't dependent on our circumstances.

Ready to be inspired? Lara’s story will challenge your perspective on faith, suffering, and what it truly means to live a full life.

Article Lara referenced: https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/matrimony-no-more

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

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Want to be a guest on Unlikely Housewives? Send Tori Shirah a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/unlikelyhousewives

(08:57) - Parental Support for Social Media Transparency 

(13:55) - Navigating Social Media Boundaries for Kids

(22:53) - Building Confidence in Teenagers Through Scripture

(30:52) You Are Seen Book Overview

(33:08) - Overcoming Triggers and Parenting Challenges

Join us in this enriching conversation as we welcome author Amber Lia, who, alongside her son Ollie, has penned a powerful new book aimed at addressing the challenges teenagers face today. Amber shares how their collaborative effort serves as a vital resource for parents to better understand their teens' needs to be seen, heard, known, and loved, all through a relationship with God. We share practical ways to incorporate this devotional into daily life, such as reading it during breakfast, and emphasize the importance of fostering authentic relationships with your teens.

Listen in as Amber opens up about her journey from being a high school literature teacher with dreams of writing the great American novel to becoming a non-fiction author with impactful works like "You Are Seen" and "Triggers." Together, we explore the intricacies of parenting and the complexities of guiding children through anxiety and depression. Amber shares how her son Ollie's openness about his struggles and his initiative to reach out through social media were pivotal in shaping their book, highlighting the widespread need for these essential conversations and resources.

In this episode, we also tackle the pressures of social media on mental health, particularly for children and teenagers. We stress the importance of processing emotions healthily and discuss the dangers of comparison on social media. By instilling a strong sense of self-worth in young people, grounded in biblical teachings, and modeling healthy digital behaviors, we aim to equip parents and teens with the tools to navigate these challenges positively. We also highlight the significance of overcoming parenting triggers, managing emotions like anger, and creating systems to minimize chaos, offering a heartfelt reflection on the journey of seeking patience and grace in parenting.

https://amberlia.com/

https://www.instagram.com/walkin.with.ollie/

https://www.instagram.com/therealamberlia/

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

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(06:29) - Transforming Marriage Through Personal Growth

(15:42) - Love Language Dynamics and Miscommunications

(24:13) - Rebuilding Fun and Foundation in Marriage

(30:16) - Prioritizing Self-Care and Active Listening

(43:36) - Reviving and Nurturing Marital Relationships

(54:11) - Empowering Housewives for Self-Improvement

Unlock the secrets to building and sustaining magnetic marriages with insights from our special guest, certified relationship coach Cristie Cerniglia. Learn how husbands often gauge their success through their wives' happiness and discover the transformative power of personal growth in revitalizing long-term relationships. Cristie shares her journey of reigniting intimacy in her 30-year marriage using Laura Doyle's strategies, offering valuable lessons that extend beyond marriage to all types of relationships. Prepare to become the "magnet" in your connections, ensuring they thrive long after the children have flown the nest.

Discover how the right resources, such as Laura Doyle's "The Empowered Wife," can turn rocky marital paths into smooth journeys. We highlight the importance of self-investment, the pitfalls of a "holier-than-thou" mindset, and explore how gratitude and active listening can enhance marital satisfaction. Whether it's meeting the challenges of different life seasons or maintaining a strong foundation, this episode provides practical tools for adding fun and friendship back into the fabric of marriage.

Celebrate personal empowerment as key components in sustaining harmonious relationships. Find joy in small daily activities, respect your partner's autonomy, and avoid the trap of micromanagement. We also tackle the misconception that staying together for the kids simplifies future decisions, highlighting the need for proactive renewal in marriages. 

Go to Cristie’s website below to sign up for her newsletter and she’ll send you a free resource, “Five Mistakes Women Make Getting Their Man’s Attention”.

https://relationshipswithamap.com/

https://www.instagram.com/relationshipswithamap/

Relationships With A Map Facebook Page *********************

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(11:57) - Navigating Feelings of Grief AND Hope

(20:12) Finding Balance in the Grieving Process

(26:33) - Supporting Friends in Grief and Avoidance

(34:24) Navigating Pain and Questioning God

(39:59) - Nurturing Faith and Healing After Loss

Grief can feel like an isolating journey, but what if it could also be a path to purpose and understanding? Join us for a conversation with Dr. Amanda McNeil, a grief counselor who turned personal tragedy into a mission to help others navigate their own loss. As we share personal reflections on teenage emotions and the universal experience of feeling alone in our pain, Dr. McNeil offers her unique insights into the diverse ways grief can manifest. Listen as we explore the importance of recognizing and validating these differences, and how Dr. Amanda's journey from loss to leadership coaching inspires hope amidst darkness.

Children often find it challenging to understand grief and loss, and our discussion reveals how movies and shows can mirror these intense emotions. We highlight the importance of meeting kids where they are emotionally, allowing them to express their feelings without rushing to soothe them with hope. By drawing from personal experiences, we highlight the balance between sadness and hope, underscoring empathy and emotional acknowledgment as key pathways to healing. The journey through grief is not just for children but for all of us, and we explore how these lessons can resonate with adults too.

Supporting friends in grief can be a delicate task, especially when they turn to avoidance. Our conversation offers strategies for providing loving support and encouraging professional help without overwhelming those in pain. Through humor and honesty, we consider the impact of our wishes on loved ones, fostering a perspective that honors both the joy of life and the complexities of loss. Whether you're processing your grief or supporting someone else, this episode is a reminder that healing is a journey we undertake together.

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Support the Unlikely Housewives!  Represent with our UH Merch! bit.ly/unlikelymerch  

Midwest Parent Educators: https://bit.ly/mpeuh25 If you are a first-time conference attendee, you qualify for their First-Time Family discount code. Even better - if you’re parents of preschoolers, you can get FREE conference admission by applying for the Parents of Preschoolers discount code. More details are on the webpage link.

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(13:28) Reconnecting With Daughter After Adoption

(18:42) Developing Relationship With Christ 

(24:01) Teaching Unconditional Love to Children

(28:30) Parental Love vs. Acceptance

(36:14) Parents' Guidance and God's Redemption

When the phone rang that ordinary day, Dr. Zoe Shaw had no idea it would be her daughter, the one she gave up for adoption 18 years ago, reaching out through Facebook. This unexpected moment of reconnection was a profound healing experience that unraveled years of secret-keeping and shame. In our latest conversation, Dr. Zoe shares her remarkable story of redemption and the unexpected paths life can take. Her journey is a testament to how God can use even the most hidden parts of our lives for healing and transformation.

Join us as Dr. Zoe talks about her transition from a traditional psychotherapy practice to a dynamic blend of virtual therapy and coaching, focusing on empowering women to overcome shame and codependency. With a heartfelt approach that combines psychology, faith, and a sprinkle of feminism, Dr. Zoe is on a mission to guide women toward authentic relationships with themselves and others. Her insights promise to resonate with anyone who has ever felt alone or burdened by secrets. Don't miss this inspiring episode that encourages listeners to embrace their own paths to healing and wholeness.

Dr. Zoe Shaw's Website

Follow Dr. Zoe on Instagram

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Support the Unlikely Housewives!  Represent with our UH Merch! bit.ly/unlikelymerch  

Midwest Parent Educators: https://bit.ly/mpeuh25 If you are a first-time conference attendee, you qualify for their First-Time Family discount code. Even better - if you’re parents of preschoolers, you can get FREE conference admission by applying for the Parents of Preschoolers discount code. More details are on the webpage link.

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

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(04:11) - Parenting and Substance Use Awareness

(17:32) - Navigating Teenage Drug Use and Recovery

(28:36) - Grief, Recovery, and Family Healing

(39:12) - Embracing Healing Through Communication

(45:49) - Family Intervention Dynamics 

Navigating the stormy seas of addiction and recovery can feel isolating, but you're not alone. Darryl Rogers, our courageous guest, shares the heartfelt journey of supporting his son, Chase, through the throes of substance use disorder. Their story, marked by familial love and unimaginable loss, illuminates the often-misunderstood landscape of addiction. As parents, we are reminded that understanding and communication are vital lifeboats in troubled waters, offering pathways to healing and hope for both individuals and their families.

Join us as we tackle the complex challenges of parenting amidst substance use awareness. With Darryl's insights, we uncover the subtle yet significant warning signs of drug use in teenagers and explore the pressures that may catalyze addiction, such as academic struggles and ADHD. Through his candid anecdotes and wisdom, Darryl encourages parents to engage in compassionate dialogues and seek professional support when necessary. We also touch on the vital role of a nurturing community and the impact of recovery-focused environments for teenagers.

The raw emotion of grief echoes throughout this episode as we reflect on Chase's tragic passing and the far-reaching repercussions for those left behind. Darryl's narrative is a testament to the transformative power of turning pain into purpose, advocating for open communication and supportive networks. We discuss the church's potential as a sanctuary for healing and the importance of overcoming judgment to embrace those in need. By sharing these stories, we hope to foster a community grounded in empathy, where no one feels the need to hide their struggles.

Darryl's Website

When God Intervenes Podcast

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Support the Unlikely Housewives!  Represent with our UH Merch! bit.ly/unlikelymerch  

Midwest Parent Educators: https://bit.ly/mpeuh25 If you are a first-time conference attendee, you qualify for their First-Time Family discount code. Even better - if you’re parents of preschoolers, you can get FREE conference admission by applying for the Parents of Preschoolers discount code. More details are on the webpage link.

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(06:29) - Overcoming Infertility Through Nutrition

(19:39) - Biblical Principles for Health Education

(25:33) - Christian Health & Nutrition School Start

(26:38) - Discovering Surrender in God's Calling

(30:16) - Transition to Ranch Life

(35:44) - Nutrition and Faith Integration

After years of grappling with chronic health issues, Chelsea Blackbird found solace not in conventional medicine, but in the nourishing embrace of a faith-driven, holistic lifestyle. Her transition from a bustling city life in Houston to the tranquility of a West Texas ranch was more than just a geographical change; it was a profound journey toward healing and purpose. Join Chelsea as she shares how living on the ranch and learning from her husband, a grass-fed cattle rancher, ignited a passion for nutrition that not only transformed her own health but also became a beacon of hope for countless Christian women seeking vibrant wellness.

Chelsea's personal battle with infertility is a testament to the power of embracing natural solutions and dietary awareness. Steering away from medical treatments that offered little relief, she found guidance in the pages of "Taking Charge of Your Fertility" and the wisdom of a naturopath. With a few strategic changes, including cutting out gluten, Chelsea experienced the miracle of pregnancy within weeks. Her story challenges the efficacy of the standard American diet and underscores the profound impact of lifestyle on fertility and overall well-being.

But this isn't just a tale of personal triumph; it's a narrative about answering a higher calling. Chelsea shares how she created the "Genesis Prescription," exploring how biblical principles can guide us toward better health. From barefoot grounding to the importance of sunlight and rest, her practices are both relatable and grounded in faith. This episode is a heartwarming exploration of Chelsea's journey, inviting listeners to discover how surrendering to God's guidance can lead to unexpected paths filled with purpose and connection.

All of Chelsea’s freebies can be found at https://www.thechristiannutritionist.com/

Follow Chelsea on Instagram

Chelsea Blackbird, CHP, NTP

The Christian Nutritionist

Co-Founder of The School of Christian Health and Nutrition

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Support the Unlikely Housewives!  Represent with our UH Merch! bit.ly/unlikelymerch  

Midwest Parent Educators: https://bit.ly/mpeuh25 If you are a first-time conference attendee, you qualify for their First-Time Family discount code. Even better - if you’re parents of preschoolers, you can get FREE conference admission by applying for the Parents of Preschoolers discount code. More details are on the webpage link.

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(14:23) - Journey Through Faith and Marriage

(19:46) - Staying All in Through Hard Times

What happens when absolute surrender becomes the cornerstone of your faith journey? Join us for a thought-provoking episode as we welcome Cathy Garland, co-author of "Revelationship: Transformative Intimacy with Christ," who shares her incredible story of faith, resilience, and transformation. Growing up as a pastor's child, Cathy faced the complexities of religious upbringing and embarked on a spiritual journey that challenged her beliefs and ultimately led her back to an intimate connection with Jesus. Through personal experiences and reflections, Cathy shares the power of surrender and how it guided her through life’s trials, including the heartache of multiple miscarriages and a broken neck.

Cathy shares candid insights into the struggles of maintaining one's faith amidst personal and societal pressures, highlighting her father's open-minded approach to her teenage skepticism. Her story serves as a testament to the power of encouragement and exploration in developing a genuine commitment to one's faith. Through vivid anecdotes, Cathy illustrates the importance of leaning into faith, especially during life's toughest moments, and how God’s grace provides strength and resilience.

Our conversation shares the nature of God's grace, exploring how His presence can transform burdens into peace and how His justice is about setting wrongs right. We reflect on profound spiritual encounters that challenge many perceptions and reveal the miraculous aspects of faith. Cathy's unwavering spirit and joyful inspiration shine throughout, offering comfort and encouragement for anyone seeking a deeper connection with their faith. With heartfelt gratitude, we invite you to join our community and embrace this journey of perseverance, gratitude, and empowerment.

Revelationship book: https://a.co/d/4H3LD0D

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Midwest Parent Educators: https://bit.ly/mpeuh25 If you are a first-time conference attendee, you qualify for their First-Time Family discount code. Even better - if you’re parents of preschoolers, you can get FREE conference admission by applying for the Parents of Preschoolers discount code. More details are on the webpage link.

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Our discussion shines a light onto the often-unspoken challenges faced by Christian families supporting LGBTQ children, emphasizing the critical role of acceptance and an open dialogue. We acknowledge the initial fears and questions that arise when a child comes out, particularly within religious communities. Our episode addresses the pivotal responsibility of churches and pastors to foster an inclusive environment, challenging misconceptions about biblical sexuality that can lead to alienation. Kim's insights offer a delicate approach to bridging these gaps, focusing on redefining gospel love and ensuring no child feels unloved or unsupported.

In this episode, we emphasize the joy and growth that can come from life's messiest moments. Kim's journey reminds us that love and understanding can transcend differences, and faith need not be contingent on perfect circumstances. Our conversation encourages listeners to embrace the present, recognizing every challenge as an opportunity for growth and a deeper connection with one's faith journey.

https://prideandpromises.com

Kim@prideandpromises.com

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Support the Unlikely Housewives!  Represent with our UH Merch! bit.ly/unlikelymerch  

Midwest Parent Educators: https://bit.ly/mpeuh25 If you are a first-time conference attendee, you qualify for their First-Time Family discount code. Even better - if you’re parents of preschoolers, you can get FREE conference admission by applying for the Parents of Preschoolers discount code. More details are on the webpage link.

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(12:46) Unexpected Pregnancy at 19 

(19:40) Lessons on Empathy and Judgement

(29:11) Overcoming Shame and Silence

(37:09) Ministry of Love and Support

(43:59) Embracing Freedom Through Vulnerability

(49:41) Finding Worth and Redemption Through God

As a teenager, Jen Thompson made a choice that would shadow her for years, but her journey through faith and redemption has been nothing short of transformative. In this episode, Jen opens her heart about her teenage abortion and how the love of Jesus has been a constant source of healing. We dig into the challenges the church faces when discussing tough topics like abortion and highlight the necessity of authenticity and community support. Our conversation reveals the themes of isolation and secrecy while encouraging others to embrace their own stories and seek peace in knowing You Are Not Alone.

Jen shares her experience of navigating an unplanned pregnancy during college, highlighting the intense internal conflicts that arose. Through these stories, we stress the importance of open dialogue and understanding within faith communities, recognizing the need to address the moral complexities individuals wrestle with.

This episode also highlights the power of sharing personal stories and the liberation that comes from being open about one's past. Jen's decision to reveal her abortion story to her children brought varying reactions but ultimately led to a sense of freedom and healing. We explore the importance of seeking wisdom and timing from God when sharing difficult experiences, emphasizing that redemption and love from the Lord remain constant regardless of past choices. We hope Jen's journey inspires you to walk confidently in your faith, embrace vulnerability, and support others through their healing journeys.

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Midwest Parent Educators: https://bit.ly/mpeuh25 If you are a first-time conference attendee, you qualify for their First-Time Family discount code. Even better - if you’re parents of preschoolers, you can get FREE conference admission by applying for the Parents of Preschoolers discount code. More details are on the webpage link.

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

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Real and hilarious, yet our conversations take an emotional turn as we discuss the trials and triumphs of caring for pets with serious health issues. Meet Quasi, the brave pup who faced two major surgeries, and hear the bittersweet tales of Gunther and Samantha, whose health battles taught us about unconditional love and saying goodbye. These stories reveal the profound impact pets have on our families and the resilience required to navigate their care.

In a shift towards holistic well-being, we explore the world of anxiety management and dietary changes for pets. Yes, one of us makes our own homemade dog food, and it’s helped with anxious behavior. We also highlight the joys of outdoor adventures at the dog park. As we share the emotional conversations about pet loss with children, we emphasize the invaluable role pets play in our lives. Whether you're a seasoned pet parent or just beginning your journey, this episode offers a heartfelt celebration of the love and laughter pets bring into our homes.

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Support the Unlikely Housewives!  Represent with our UH Merch! bit.ly/unlikelymerch  

Midwest Parent Educators: https://bit.ly/mpeuh25 If you are a first-time conference attendee, you qualify for their First-Time Family discount code. Even better - if you’re parents of preschoolers, you can get FREE conference admission by applying for the Parents of Preschoolers discount code. More details are on the webpage link.

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(00:04) - Pet-Loving Housewives Chat About Crazy Stories

(09:34) - Heartbreaking Loss Leads to New Puppies

(22:43) - Loss and Grief After Pet Passing

(35:16) Family Dynamics and Pets 

(37:00) - Holistic Dog Care and Anxiety Management

(11:18) - Evolution of Communication Technology

(18:20) - Generational Differences in Phone Usage

(27:52) - Parenting in the Digital Age

(37:38) - Navigating Parenting Challenges With Grace

(41:22) - Screen Time and Phone Impact

What if the very devices meant to connect us are the ones driving us apart? Join us as we explore the ever-evolving landscape of phones and social media, guided by insights from the popular book "The Anxious Generation" by John Haidt.  (https://a.co/d/9P1UuX8) Reminisce with us about the days of landlines and memorized phone numbers, and consider the balanced perspective we offer on the mental health implications of constant connectivity. We openly share personal stories of managing technology use, like removing social media apps from our phones, and offer real-world examples of the benefits and drawbacks these steps bring.

We navigate the digital age's unique challenges, reflecting on generational differences in adapting to technology. Laugh along with our tales of helping parents with tech while being outpaced by our children. The nuances of social media privacy, the complexities of apps like Snapchat, and the urgent connectivity of modern communication habits are all up for discussion. We emphasize the importance of fostering healthy tech habits and setting boundaries for future generations, seeking to inspire informed decisions about technology use within families.

Parenting in the digital age is no small feat, and we don't shy away from the hurdles it presents. From discussing the emotional and physiological attachments to our phones to sharing the impact of phones in educational settings, this episode is a call to action for setting and reassessing family goals. Among the pressures of constant connectivity, we stress the significance of open communication and realistic expectations within the family. By focusing on self-awareness and intentional phone use, we aim to foster supportive environments for both parents and children. Join us for an episode that not only reflects on the past but also offers hope and actionable steps for a balanced digital future.

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(02:32) Breaking the Silence 

(06:57) Turning Hardships Into Ministries 

Podcast Summary

Ever found yourself silently screaming for someone to understand your struggles, only to be met with judgment or unsolicited advice? You Are Not Alone. We are back with a new series, welcoming you into a space where those whispered fears and unspoken challenges are finally given a voice. This trailer episode sets the stage for a transformative journey, with a focus on tackling the cultural myths that keep us shackled in shame and isolation. With humor and authenticity as our guide, we invite you in to listen and connect on a deeply personal level.

Expect a season packed with insightful guests who help illuminate the path towards breaking down emotional barriers. We discuss the natural tendency to shy away from sharing struggles, whether in the church or among friends, and how this leads to unnecessary isolation. Through genuine conversations and shared experiences, we create a space for heartfelt discussion without the pressure of immediate solutions. Together, we aim to replace feelings of being alone with a sense of community and understanding. So, pop in those AirPods and tune in as we navigate these topics together, transforming silence into strength and connection.

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Support the Unlikely Housewives!  Represent with our UH Merch! bit.ly/unlikelymerch  

Midwest Parent Educators: https://bit.ly/mpeuh25 If you are a first-time conference attendee, you qualify for their First-Time Family discount code. Even better - if you’re parents of preschoolers, you can get FREE conference admission by applying for the Parents of Preschoolers discount code. More details are on the webpage link.

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(16:30) - Social Media Impact on Relationships

(28:33) - Navigating Private Family Challenges

Can friendships survive the digital age, or are we losing genuine connection in favor of likes and comments? Join us for a heartwarming and humorous conversation of how meaningful connections shape personal growth. We share similar yet differing perspectives with the scripture of "iron sharpening iron," examining how diverse personalities approach relationships, and we uncover the unique ways everyone seeks validation and support. Learn how love languages color our interactions and why finding the right friends to challenge and encourage us is more crucial than ever.

Social media may have revolutionized communication, but what does it mean for lasting friendships? We share personal stories about stepping back from the digital realm and the surprising impact this has on our real, in-person relationships. Listen as we discuss the quest for wisdom from older, seasoned women while managing the delicate balance between personal comfort and growth, especially when parenting teens or preparing for life's transitions. Through candid conversations, we highlight the importance of companionship with those who have walked the path before us, offering insights into maintaining genuine connections in a world dominated by virtual interactions.

You can order “Cheating Death” book here: https://a.co/d/jax2cD7

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(14:45) - Letting Go and Embracing Change

(20:00) - Navigating Teen Years and Isolation

(29:40) - Navigating Teen Years and Motherhood

(44:57) - Finding Rhythm in Parenting Chaos

(56:50) - Navigating Teenage Isolation in Parenthood

Picture this: you're frazzled from juggling life as a parent when you suddenly realize you're out and about... in your bedroom slippers. We've all been there, right? Join us as we sit down with the delightful Jen Thompson, the mom behind the popular blog Truly Yours, Jen, who shares her own tales of motherhood chaos and hilarity. Jen opens up about the beautiful mess that is family life with her husband, Patrick, and their four kids. We laugh together about the moments that remind us we’re all in this together, from wardrobe malfunctions to the universal challenge of keeping track of everything and everyone.

Our conversation turns to the art of letting go, using a metaphor that will tug at your heartstrings: a child trading a cherished small teddy bear for a larger one. It's about the courage to step into the unknown for greater growth, whether that means moving cities or navigating the rocky path of parenting teenagers. We discuss with Jen the often-lonely realm of raising teens, the unexpected joys of this stage, and the importance of finding your village — those trusted confidants who get you through the thick and thin of teenage angst and joy.

Finally, we reflect on the whirlwind of transitioning from childhood to teenage years, and the bittersweet reality of watching our children grow up. With humor and heart, we touch on everything from potty-training mishaps to the daunting digital landscape, and the importance of faith and community in this journey. Amidst the chaos, we discover moments of joy and connection, whether that's in the small victories or the shared struggles. So, grab your favorite slippers (or shoes) and join us for an episode filled with laughter, love, and a reminder that none of us are alone on this incredible journey of parenthood.

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(09:38) - Rest and Healing for Anxious Moms

(22:51) - Journey Out of Anxiety Forest

(36:36) - Embracing God's Presence in Motherhood

Join us as we welcome Becky Thompson, USA Today bestselling author and founder of the Midnight Mom devotional online community, to our latest episode. With Mother's Day on the horizon, we focus on the often-overlooked need for genuine rest among mothers. Becky shares her personal journey of life in Oklahoma with her husband and three children, her prolific writing career, and her growing ministry that unites over 2 million women in nightly prayer. Our conversation with Becky highlights the importance of finding peace and experiencing God's presence amid the whirlwind of motherhood, as well as the path that brought her to our podcast, illustrating the beauty of living with purpose and authenticity.

Listen in as we tackle the challenges faced by many women balancing motherhood with other responsibilities and ambitions. We address societal pressures that make it seem like women should manage everything effortlessly, often leading to guilt when they seek help. We shift the focus to the theme of true rest and peace, found in the presence of Jesus, and explore how rest is not just about the absence of activity but an active process of healing. Our discussion emphasizes redefining rest to integrate faith and reliance on God, highlighting that true peace transcends mere physical breaks or organizational strategies.

Becky shares a personal vision that became a catalyst for healing, offering hope and understanding to thousands of women through her book, “Healing Rest”. We also explore the significance of embracing God's presence in motherhood, using prayer as a way to invite His guidance and blessings into our lives. Through personal stories and spiritual insights, we highlight the adventure of faith, the universal struggle of calling God good in difficult times, and the importance of supporting others on their path to peace and understanding.

Midnight Mom Devotions: https://www.instagram.com/midnightmomdevotional/ https://www.facebook.com/MidnightMomDevotional

Becky Thompson https://www.instagram.com/beckythompsonauthor/ https://www.facebook.com/ScissortailSilk beckythompson.com

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(11:23) - Effective Communication With Teenagers

(16:36) - Improving Parent-Child Relationships Through Communication

(31:24) - Parenting Through Understanding and Connection

Unlock the secrets to becoming the go-to person your teenager trusts and confides in with insights from Jeanine Mouchawar, an experienced parenting coach. We promise you’ll gain practical strategies to handle the challenging teenage years, reduce conflicts, and cultivate a calm, nurturing atmosphere where your children can thrive. Drawing from her own experiences of raising three children through the tumultuous teen years, including those with ADD and learning disabilities, Jeanine reveals how dialectical behavioral therapy can transform your relationship with your kids.

Discover how effective communication with teenagers requires a shift from structured guidance to more delicate support. We explore the necessity of slowing down and focusing on building a connection before addressing issues like falling grades or disrespect. Learn why managing your own emotions and avoiding the urge to offer immediate solutions is crucial. Instead, foster open-ended conversations that invite teenagers to share their thoughts and feelings, helping them feel understood rather than defensive.

We also look into the art of having meaningful discussions around tough topics like procrastination and missing assignments. By approaching these conversations with curiosity and understanding, you can encourage self-discovery and problem-solving in your kids. Jeanine shares how acknowledging different working styles and emotions can build flexibility and understanding in your parenting. Ultimately, create a home environment where every family member feels seen, heard, and valued, fostering lasting connections that keep your children returning home, eager to engage with their family.

https://www.jeaninemouchawar.com/

FREE GUIDE: 5 QUESTIONS THAT GET TEENS TALKING

https://www.jeaninemouchawar.com/5-questions-confirmed

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(11:40) - Sibling Stereotypes and Personalities

(18:32) - Childhood Camp Memories and Parental Influence

(28:25) - Family Dynamics and Parenting Perspectives

Growing up as an only child, Tori often wondered what it would be like to have siblings, yet grew fond of her independence. Meanwhile, Tracy, a mother of four, navigates the bustling world of sibling dynamics firsthand. This episode invites you into our personal stories as we explore the stereotypes tied to birth order and their impact on personalities and family roles. Whether you're the responsible firstborn, the social middle child, or the carefree youngest, we unpack these labels and share insights on how they manifest in our own lives and potentially in yours.

Join us as we unravel the cherished yet often pigeonholed roles of siblings and how these roles differ across families. We share stories that illustrate the leadership tendencies of firstborns and the free-spirited nature of the youngest siblings, considering how parenting styles and upbringing play a significant role in shaping these characteristics. Our conversation touches on the unique dynamics of being an only child versus being part of a larger family, and how expectations can shift with each new addition to the family unit.

Reflecting on the journey from childhood to parenthood, Tori shares her evolution from a reluctant camper to an independent adventurer and how her children experience their own paths to independence. We discuss the challenges and joys of raising multiple children, where surprises and sleepless nights abound. Through personal stories and shared experiences, we offer a candid glimpse into the multifaceted nature of family life and the enduring impact of early experiences on personality development.

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(04:46) - Embracing Grace Through Life's Challenges

(19:59) - Navigating Marriage Through Communication

Join us on an enlightening journey as we explore the profound differences between contentment and peace, and how they show up in our lives. We share personal reflections on how peace, despite life's inevitable challenges, can bring about a deeper sense of joy and fulfillment. Tracy opens up about her past year, marked by family trials and health issues, yet discovers an unprecedented peace through a closer relationship with God. We hope this would encourage you to embrace your current state as part of the journey, acknowledging the growth and understanding that comes from these experiences without guilt or shame.

As we navigate through life's challenges, we reflect on the balance between hardships and blessings, emphasizing how personal trials can strengthen one's faith. We touch on the feelings of unworthiness that can accompany blessings and the anticipation of future trials. This chapter is a testament to the peace and closeness found in God, even amidst surgeries, financial strains, and accidents. We also confront the underlying expectation of looming adversity, challenging the acceptance of grace and the understanding of blessings without preconditions.

We also explore the dynamics of marriage, focusing on the importance of communication and understanding each other's spiritual and emotional journeys. By sharing experiences and thoughts, like feelings of peace or anxiety, couples can support each other more effectively. We share how differing perspectives can impact decision-making and emphasize the value of transparency and mutual understanding. Join us for this deep, heart-felt conversation. 

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(09:10) - Setting Realistic Intentions for the Year

(17:28) Scheduling Quality Time for Kids (31 Seconds)

(20:26) - Family Dynamics and Eventful Pet Stories

(25:54) - Family Values and Organization Tips

(35:45) - Living With Intention and Confidence

Ever wondered how to juggle family chaos while setting realistic intentions for the new year? Join us for a cozy chat as we explore the rollercoaster of everyday life, from sipping our reheated coffee in our high-waisted yoga pants to celebrating personal milestones with a dash of humor. We're thrilled to unveil our brand-new merchandise—think trendy embroidered sweatshirts and nostalgic coffee mugs—perfect for infusing a piece of our podcast into your daily routine. As we navigate transitions, like watching our kids grow from school days to high school graduations, we embrace the changes life brings with laughter and intention.

Discover how setting one primary goal can pave the way for long-term desires. We offer tips on aligning resolutions with personal motivations and finding the right timing to start new habits. From planning couple's getaways to carving out personal time, we highlight the importance of meaningful and manageable intentions. Our stories and advice aim to inspire you to tackle the new year with confidence.

Family dynamics come alive with tales of chaotic mornings, hormonal teenagers, and the importance of maintaining family values amidst busy schedules. You'll laugh at our pet stories, like driving long distances for a furry friend's chemotherapy or whipping up homemade dog food. We look into the joy of new planners, the thrill of back-to-school supplies, and the hilarity of Christmas decoration shopping. Amidst it all, we celebrate new opportunities and projects, encouraging you to live boldly and intentionally. 

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(09:01) - Challenges and Experiences of Solo Travel

(20:01) - The Power of Solitude

Take the trip…Alone!  Have you ever traveled by yourself or even considered it?  We are here to encourage you to jump out of your comfort zone and go explore whatever, wherever you want, at your own pace! Embark on a journey of self-discovery and adventure as we unravel the surprising joys and challenges of solo travel. Ever wondered what makes traveling alone so transformative, or why some people never experience it? We promise insights into these mysteries through personal stories, from the excitement of a young woman navigating the world independently to the unexpected growth opportunities faced by a small town girl. We also reflect on the impactful moments that occur when traveling without children or alongside a spouse, a reality that remains unexplored for many.

Listen in as we examine the power of solitude and its importance, even for extroverts who thrive on social energy. We offer practical tips for embracing solo activities, from dining out to attending events, and highlight the benefits of self-reflection and personal development during these quiet moments. Additionally, we share insights on how intentional solitude can foster business growth and the importance of balancing daily responsibilities with self-care. Whether you're a seasoned solo traveler or considering your first trip alone, this episode is packed with inspiring stories and valuable advice to help you embrace the joys of traveling solo.

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Join us as we open up about the challenges and triumphs of sobriety and faith. For nearly a year, one of us has embarked on a substance-free journey, using an app as a reminder to seek peace from God, and even considering the profound step of kidney donation. We'll explore the transformative power of following personal callings, with experiences like participating in the Eisenhower Series for Women, highlighting the spiritual rewards and commitment to authenticity that have shaped our paths.

Life’s chaotic dance with podcasting is no easy feat. From turning a dining room into a podcast studio to managing a busy schedule while caring for family, we share candid anecdotes about juggling it all. Our commitment to fostering a community where personal stories and listener feedback are valued has never been stronger. With humorous tales, cultural references, and heartfelt discussions, we promise to return to more genuine conversations, reassuring you that we're all navigating this journey together.

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Have you ever considered the strength it takes to place your full trust in Jesus, to 'get in the wheelbarrow' so to speak? The 'wheelbarrow story' isn't just a narrative; it's a call to action, a challenge to step into the unknown with faith as your compass. We examined the delicate dance of following God's will, the comfort found in fellowship, and the transformative power of love through life's seasons, reminding you that embracing your faith can lead to profound relationships and renewal.

As we wrapped up, inspirational films like "The Shift" and "Unsung Hero" were highlighted, serving not just as entertainment but as fuel for the soul, celebrating the resilience of faith amid adversity. This season, we've bonded over shared experiences, encouraged each other in our spiritual walks, and discovered the balance between faith, health, and family. Join us in honoring these stories, and may you find purpose and healing in the intersection of your own life and faith.

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Throughout our conversation, we explore with Kori the delicate balance of setting boundaries while maintaining civility, particularly when children are involved. We discuss how imposing boundaries, while sometimes unpopular, is a crucial aspect of providing children with security and structure. Kori offers practical advice on communication tools. Our discussion serves as a reminder that the well-being of children should always take precedence over personal conflicts, paving the way for more effective co-parenting.

Towards the end of the episode, we shift focus to the complexities of relationships post-divorce, especially within blended families. Kori navigates the delicate process of introducing new partners to children and managing relationships with ex-spouses, emphasizing the importance of communication and clear boundaries.  

You can connect with Kori here

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Our conversation highlights the critical role of spiritual leadership and the power of faith-driven decisions. We discuss the courage needed to stand for truth, empowering both men and women to influence their communities, especially within the education system. With a focus on generational impact, we emphasize the responsibility of parents and grandparents in shaping a positive future. 

We discuss school choice, government control in education, and the implications of taxpayer-funded vouchers. We address concerns about educational policies, early childhood standards, and the recent decline of parental influence. As we discuss the complexities of digital footprints, professionalism, and personal responsibility, we highlight the importance of listening to educators and fostering critical thinking in students. We also touch on the impact of cell phone policies and the significance of parental involvement in local governance. Our episode encourages community engagement, transparency, and the need for intentional living to prioritize family values and model healthy habits for future generations.

You can connect with Danny at dzeck@ksde.org 

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Listen in as we explore how the Hashey’s successfully integrated business strategies into their family life, using corporate-style core values as a compass for decision-making and growth. They enlighten us with stories of how their children have used these principles to forge stronger friendships and how family meetings can evolve into sessions of collective problem-solving and support. The Hashey’s exemplify the transformative potential of running a family like a high-functioning team, where leadership skills are not just taught but lived, preparing every member for the challenges of the outside world.

Finally, tune in to our heartfelt discussion on the fundamental role of family values in shaping the future. The Hashey’s emphasize the power of clarity and purpose, whether it's through setting family values, enhancing communication, or instilling accountability in our children. Discover how intentional parenting, informed by a consistent set of core values, can break multi-generational patterns and pave the way for a legacy of success. Whether you're a parent, spouse, or individual seeking to build a strong foundation for your family, the insights from the Hashey family are sure to inspire and guide you towards a more structured and value-driven life.

💙 You can connect with Joe & Mel at: 

https://strongfamilyproject.com/

💙 Listen to their podcast at: Strong Family Project Podcast:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/strong-family-project/id1677418124

💙 Connect with the Hashey’s on Instagram:

@officialstrongfamilyco

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Couples often find themselves at crossroads when it comes to aligning their financial goals, a situation made trickier with children's education in the mix. Sarff invites us to peel back the layers of our money mindsets and align our investment strategies with our life goals. Through a financial therapy session of sorts, we unravel the four levels of thinking that can propel couples from financial friction to fiscal synergy. We also tackle the bumpy paths of financial planning, providing insights on how to handle the education cost conversations every family needs to have.

As our children edge toward adulthood, the conversation shifts to the essential legal and financial scaffolding they require. We dissect the legal documents that become vital once the kids hit 18, like healthcare proxies and powers of attorney. Bryan also illuminates the often-overlooked benefits of starting out at a community college and reveals how recent changes in FAFSA can impact your financial aid strategy. Whether you're considering a 529 plan or a brokerage account, Bryan’s expertise sheds light on the path to creating a solid financial foundation for your family's educational aspirations.

💙 To learn more about Bryan, please connect with him on  LinkedIn

💙 To contact Bryan and schedule time with him, their office at (913) 653-8783 or reach out to his assistant, Emily, at Emily@RetireWithTrue.com

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In a previous episode with our guest, Jodie Maddox, (#56) we focused on loving and caring for your anxious child. In this episode the focus shifts to the parents and how they can find answers when they are in a difficult season with their kids. Yes, those seasons are real…and if you are feeling stuck, then we encourage you to listen in to Jodie’s wisdom and encouragement. 

Jodie Maddox graduated from Central Missouri State University in 1995 with a BS in Special Education. She received a Masters Degree in School Leadership from Benedictine College in 2009. Jodie taught Special Education and has been a Principal at all grade levels, kindergarten through 12th grade. Because she has worked with students, parents and teachers at every stage of development, her scope covers the “big picture”, not just the current age or grade level. She brings a unique perspective to the coaching world. Jodie provides support to parents by asking curious questions and building a strong one-on-one relationship. She helps guide parents through the decision-making process, loaning them her experience and support. Jodie’s goal is to help parents make decisions based on what is right for their families. 

We have learned so much from Jodie to apply to our own parenting journeys. Her philosophy is rooted in relationships and trust, and she knows and understands that parenting is the most important work we will ever do. Jodie truly blessed us and we know will bless all of our Housewives.  

jodiemaddoxicoach.com

jodiemaddoxicoach@gmail.com

https://www.facebook.com/jodiemaddoxicoach (facebook)

@jodiemaddoxparentcoach (instagram) 

https://www.smore.com/fsezh-jodie-maddox (newsletter)

Two websites I love for trusted reliable information about ADHD and Anxiety!

https://childmind.org/

https://www.additudemag.com/

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Our conversation takes a deep dive into discussing the world of parenting, more so the crucial family investments we undertake, particularly the selection of the right school district for our children. We break down the myth that families are against teachers, highlighting that parents must make decisions based on each child's unique needs. We don't shy away from exploring the potential impact of the decreasing public school enrollment on our children's education.

The passion doesn't stop there. We tackle the importance of being proactive in our children's education, questioning narratives, and standing up against bullying and intimidation tactics. Wrapping up our conversation, we explore our voting power as citizens, the importance of researching candidates, and supporting organizations that align with our values, like Moms for Liberty. Join us, and let's empower ourselves to take a stand for our children's education!

Erika has become a friend of ours in the last few years. She is to us an expert as she has taken the time, going above and beyond, researching and building a foundation to help support our community. Erika, her husband and two teens have been Johnson County residents since 2010. She has been a Blue Valley parent for 13 years in six different buildings and has consistently served the district on various committees, PTO and more over that time. 

Professionally, Erika has spent 30 years in revenue generation & leadership development and holds an MBA from Case Western Reserve University as well as a BA from the James Madison residential college at Michigan State University. 

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

In today’s episode we let you in on some of our own personal struggles and how we continue to seek joy. How? Because our joy is found in the Lord and with all the hard and amidst the chaos, we can still see where He shines His light!! It’s not been something we’ve always been able to do, but with practice, prayer and patience we have been able to turn our hearts up and see the blessings amongst the difficult season(s). 

We will be back shortly…we promise it won’t be a long break. We’ll be adjusting to summer life and spending some time with our families then we’ll be back to more incredible guests and topics on our show! 

Some of our top episodes from this spring’s season:

#36 Unmet Expectations

#37 Therapy & Vulnerability: Interview with Noreen Dupriest

#41 Loving your body through disordered eating & diet culture with Amy Reinecke 

#42 Love your ONE Body Well

#47 The Roller Coaster of Women’s Health with guest, Lindsay O’Reilly

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Write an apple review and YOUR review could be read on our next episode! 

Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

What a turn our public education has taken in the last few years, and in order to chart a path back to Blue Valley Excellence, these candidates have joined together to bring change for our families, our teachers and our schools. 

Please join us in this episode to learn more about these incredibly faith-filled, family focused, and generous people who are giving of their time and resources to realign the future of our public school system in the Blue Valley School District.

Mike Huebner

Christine Vasquez 

Rachel Faagutu

Trisha Hamilton

Their key priorities will be:

Academic Excellence ... Back to Basics

Classroom Excellence ... Teachers & Students

Operational Excellence ... Fiscal Prudence

Community Excellence ... Parents & Safety

You can connect with each one of the candidates and read about their values and mission here: https://bluevalleyexcellence.com/

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

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The Glory of God is written all over Farah’s story and life.  Listen to today’s episode to hear how she grew up Muslim and came to know Christ.   

If you missed Farah’s episode from last week, “Entering Motherhood after 40 and carrying multiples”, you can find it here Episode 52: Midlife Motherhood

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

Gratitude & Grief are two emotions that we walk through in all of the milestones and changes we experience in life.   

We share our experiences of walking through the highs and lows of feeling both AND how it’s a must to experience each side of this spectrum in order to appreciate the other.  When you experience grief, you know it doesn’t last forever because you have felt the happiness that comes from living fully in gratitude.  

There have been so many phases of life such as going off to college, getting your first job, getting married, becoming new parents, moving, death of a loved one, kids graduating high school/college, walking by someone who has suffered from cancer or going through a divorce and so much more.

Life isn’t just a happy go lucky carousel that goes round and round…at some point you have to jump off and take some of the harder paths to fully live and grow.  We encourage you to not just live in grief, but to also have gratitude for what you have and what’s to come. 

Join our fast growing community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram! 

Write an apple review and YOUR review could be read on our next episode! 

Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

It's summer!! You survived the end of the school year, way to go! But... now what??

Do you look at summer with optimistic opportunities or do you dread the 2.5 months not knowing what you are going to do everyday with your kids?

Orrrrrr, are you BOTH? 

Either way, we have GOT you! We know what it feels like to be happy summer has arrived and completely stressed out with the camp schedules. 

Join our fast growing community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram! 

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

If you haven’t listened to the detox download episode yet, pause this episode and go listen to that one first! Or don’t! We can’t tell you what to do, ha!

➡️ Let’s discuss last year’s NY resolutions…

➡️ God is not done with you…we are all unfinished 

➡️ We are on a journey together. This is not a fix one issue per episode kind of thing. We are figuring this out together and your timeline is not anyone’s else’s. 

➡️ Unfinished resolution vs New Year resolution: 

—clean slate, starting fresh, it’s going to be different, new beginnings

➡️ Don’t change your goal, change your timeline… 

➡️ Les Brown said, Your past is not your prison! Or like Elsa said… LET IT GO!

➡️ What circumstances are you holding on to that are keeping you from moving forward? 

💙 Encouragement: What is your unfinished resolution? What is on your heart that you want to do…to step into your unlikeliness and be more of who God called you to be. 

Wrap up comments: We made it to 6 episodes…and we couldn’t be more excited where we are headed.  Thank you for helping us launch this at the end of a year, during the holidays and we’d love for you to write us a review and be ready for new episodes in January. 

DISCLAIMER:This episode was recorded before the passing of Betty White. The conversation was only in jest. We have a great respect for Betty White and her incredible impact on the entertainment industry. She will be greatly missed on the TV and movie screen. Thank you. 

Join our fast growing community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram! 

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

(16:35) - Navigating Trump Rally Chaos

(25:21) - More DC Adventures and Conference Recap

(38:29) - Nonprofit Collaboration Challenges and Transition

(43:28) - Faith, Obedience, and Adventure

Join us for an exciting episode as Tori shares the thrilling adventures and unique experiences from a spontaneous trip to Washington, DC. Tori takes us through her solo journey, originally centered around attending the Life or Death conference hosted by the White Rose organization. Coinciding with the presidential inauguration, she shares her unexpected success in securing a ticket to the 60th Presidential Inauguration. Not only was this trip exciting, but it also came with a lot of emotions. Tori shares her memorable moments of traveling alone, navigating personal commitments, and following her passions during this eventful trip.

Listen in as we recount the chaotic atmosphere surrounding a Trump rally at Capitol One Arena. With plans to attend but faced with long lines and harsh weather, Tori opted for some sightseeing, including a visit to the National Postal Museum and a few other incredible experiences. 

We round out this episode with a reflective journey on faith, obedience, and adventure, sharing insights on following God's will and understanding how these experiences weave into a greater purpose.

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

What are we talking about:

• Who is an unlikely housewife?
• In your community, are you a “lifer” or a “transplant”?
• You are not the same person, and THAT’S OKAY!

Join our fast growing community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram! 

Write an apple review and YOUR review could be read on our next episode! 

Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

Website:  UnlikelyHousewivesofJoCo.com

Have you been through a season in your life of change and in turn your friendships and relationships change as well?  We have experienced both. 

We know that loneliness doesn’t discriminate: extroverts, introverts, influencers, celebrities, and from adults to children. We believe it’s so important to find the people who love you for you, who choose to be with you, and who check in on you during the good and the bad.

We have seen God use friendships in all seasons of life from our younger years to college, first jobs to getting married, having kids to experiencing trials or loss, workmates or walking alongside in the same business…all of which hasn’t been easy but has been life giving. 

People struggle more now than ever having close friends because they worry about offending them, or we worry about what we saw on social media and tell ourselves a story about our relationships based on something they shared.  Just like any relationship, even marriage…friendship is work.  We must communicate our feelings, and be honest. A friend being honest is an act of kindness, not betrayal. Honesty needs to be held at a higher standard in your friendship. 

You get to choose your friends, so choose the ones who are choosing you back.

We want to encourage you to experience fullness in friendship…yes, even though we know it takes work on both ends of the friendship.

💙 Book Recommendation: I'll Be There (But I'll Be Wearing Sweatpants)

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Write an apple review and YOUR review could be read on our next episode! 

Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

(08:15) - Navigating Faith and Family Challenges

(19:50) - Cultivating a Deeper Relationship With Jesus

(27:39) - Reviving the Power of the Church

(31:44) - Counting the Cost for Eternity

(38:20) - Restoring Hope Through Community

(47:06) - Embracing Joy and Faith

What happens when your faith is put to the ultimate test? Listen in to this inspiring journey of Debra Mcninch, a devoted mother whose world was irrevocably changed when her eldest child came out as transgender. Despite her deep Christian roots, Debra faced her initial disappointment with resilience and transformed it into a mission of love through her ministry, Battle Cry Moms. This episode highlights her unwavering commitment to maintaining her family's unity and spiritual well-being, offering hope and guidance to parents navigating similar challenges.

Join us as we explore the unexpected curves life can throw and how they can shake the very foundations of our beliefs. In this episode, we discuss building a supportive community for mothers of prodigal children and the liberating power of breaking the silence imposed by shame. In sharing personal experiences, we emphasize the importance of finding one's voice and using it to uplift others, illustrating the profound impact of faith and community in overcoming life's trials.

We also reflect on the pressing need for churches to return to the core principles of the gospel. Inspired by the teachings of Charles Spurgeon, we explore the importance of authentic spiritual engagement and the need to address sin directly within the church. As we navigate the delicate balance of faith and family, we share our journey of embracing daunting callings and the transformative joy found in faith. Our conversation serves as an invitation to join our mission, reminding you of your inherent strength and bravery on this spiritual path. You Are Not Alone!

https://www.battlecrymoms.com/

https://battlecrydads.com/

https://www.instagram.com/battlecrymoms/

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Support the Unlikely Housewives!  Represent with our UH Merch! bit.ly/unlikelymerch  

Midwest Parent Educators: https://bit.ly/mpeuh25 If you are a first-time conference attendee, you qualify for their First-Time Family discount code. Even better - if you’re parents of preschoolers, you can get FREE conference admission by applying for the Parents of Preschoolers discount code. More details are on the webpage link.

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

In this episode, Tori and Tracy get real about the after-school unraveling that happens the moment kids get in the car and how “How was your day?” always seems to get the one-word answer: “Good.” They talk through the emotional crash kids experience after a long school day, why open-ended questions help, and how something as simple as a snack and a bathroom break can completely shift the atmosphere.

They also dig into the realities of homework in the digital age, missing assignments, and the tension between giving kids downtime and still getting things done before practice and bedtime. From decision fatigue around “What’s for dinner?” to wasting leftovers and managing everyone’s preferences, they share practical tips like deciding dinner before 2 p.m. and sometimes just serving dinner at 4:30 if that’s what the day calls for.

As the conversation moves into evening rhythms, the housewives talk about simple routines that make mornings smoother: running the dishwasher at night, setting the coffee, and waking up to a clear kitchen island instead of a catch-all clutter zone. They acknowledge mom meltdowns during the 5–9 p.m. window and why swapping that glass of wine for a comforting cup of tea can help your body, mood, and sleep.

Finally, they normalize how bedtime evolves—from toddler witching hours and bath-before-dinner survival tricks to big kids who put on their own white noise or ASMR, and even the season where mom goes to bed first. With humor, honesty, and zero pretense, Tori and Tracy remind you that you’re not the only one throwing away leftovers in secret, yelling about stuff on the kitchen island, and trying to cobble together routines that actually fit your family’s real life.

• You’re not failing because your kids are cranky after school; their brains and bodies are exhausted and need a reset, not an interrogation.
• Deciding dinner early in the day and embracing “we’re eating at 4:30 tonight” can save your sanity and reduce evening chaos.
• Tiny, repeatable routines—like running the dishwasher, setting the coffee, and clearing the island—create a more peaceful launchpad for your day.​
• You can release the guilt around leftovers, uneven dinners, and imperfect routines; God sees your faithfulness in the middle of the mess.

If this episode made you feel a little more seen in your own 5–9 p.m. chaos, share it with a mama friend who’s texting you cry-laugh emojis from the car line. Screenshot your favorite moment, tag @unlikelyhousewives on social, and tell us: what’s one small routine you’re going to try this week to make evenings feel less crazy?

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🇺🇸Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

💌Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

We reintroduce you to “Cheating Death” which was Ken’s first book about transforming his personal letters which blends life advice from a Christian perspective with stories from his 24-year career in the Secret Service. His most recent book, "Staying Sharp," is structured around support and challenge, drawing from leadership concepts that emphasize the balance of encouragement and truth-telling. We discuss the importance of finding people who can support and challenge you, particularly in spiritual contexts, as a way to ensure personal and professional growth.

Finally, we explore the dynamic nature of Jesus Christ, highlighting his embodiment of grace, mercy, justice, and righteous anger. We reflect on how engaging with scripture personally can enrich one's spiritual life, sharing practices like marking up a Bible and journaling. As we wrap up, we touch on the pressures faced by public figures like presidents and the importance of staying sharp and purposeful. We conclude with a call to action for Christians to engage more deeply in their faith and communities, urging believers to actively participate and make a difference in the world. Join us for this thought-provoking episode filled with inspiring stories and practical insights.

Order Ken’s books here: 

Staying Sharp https://a.co/d/59BtIu6

Cheating Death https://a.co/d/8gP2W9B

(07:01) - Legacy of Life Advice

(17:36) - Lessons From the Bold Jesus

(24:12) - Going Deeper With Bible Reading

(31:09) - Privacy and Pressure of the Presidency

(45:04) - The Call to Action in Church

*********************

Support the Unlikely Housewives!  Represent with our UH Merch! bit.ly/unlikelymerch  

Midwest Parent Educators: https://bit.ly/mpeuh25 If you are a first-time conference attendee, you qualify for their First-Time Family discount code. Even better - if you’re parents of preschoolers, you can get FREE conference admission by applying for the Parents of Preschoolers discount code. More details are on the webpage link.

Sunlighten Sauna Sponsor: https://get.sunlighten.com/unlikely  Save up to $1700!

Join our community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram! 

Write an apple review and YOUR review could be read on our next episode! 

Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

Annie shares how her background as an elementary school teacher led her to create a safe, encouraging space where girls can learn about their bodies, ask questions, and feel empowered instead of ashamed.

The conversation explores why waiting until fifth or sixth grade often means kids are already behind on the conversation, especially when girls may begin noticing body changes as early as third grade or even earlier. Annie explains how starting with simple, age-appropriate language, body part names, and positive affirmations can help girls develop a healthy relationship with their changing bodies.

Tracy and Tori also discuss how parents can take the lead at home by making these topics feel normal instead of taboo. Rather than outsourcing everything to school videos or hoping kids “figure it out,” they encourage families to start talking early, stay curious, and create an open door for ongoing questions.

Juicy Wellness Woman Instagram

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🇺🇸Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

💌Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

This isn’t your typical financial advice episode. Heather dives deep into the spiritual roots of financial decisions, exploring how the fruits of the Spirit—love, peace, self-control, and joy—can transform not just your bank account but your heart. Whether you're navigating debt, learning to trust God with your finances, or simply seeking a fresh perspective, this episode is packed with wisdom, humor, and practical takeaways.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How to invite God into your financial decisions.
• The importance of heart posture over budgeting tactics.
• Heather’s personal story of surrendering debt and finding peace.
• Why saying “no” to your kids (and yourself) can be a spiritual discipline.
• How to use money as a tool for God’s purpose, not a source of stress.

Links & Resources Mentioned:

• Heather Day’s book: Money and Spirit: Surrendering Our Finances to the Work of the Holy Spirit
• Connect with Heather: heatherday.net
• Learn more about Barnabas Foundation: barnabasfoundation.org
• Join the Unlikely Housewives community on Facebook (link in show notes).

If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to leave a review and share it with a friend. Your support helps more housewives find this community and know they’re not alone. Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast and follow us on Instagram @unlikelyhousewives for more inspiration and laughs!

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Support the Unlikely Housewives!  Represent with our UH Merch! bit.ly/unlikelymerch  

Sunlighten Sauna Sponsor: https://get.sunlighten.com/unlikely  Save up to $1700!

Join our community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram! 

Write an apple review and YOUR review could be read on our next episode! 

Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

Want to be a guest on Unlikely Housewives? Send Tori Shirah a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/unlikelyhousewives

(00:00) - Calm Mom Amino Acid Therapy

(04:54) - Finding Healing Through Amino Acid Therapy

(24:20) - Overcoming Challenges Through Faith and Healing

(30:34) - Brain-Centered Mom Therapy Program

(34:21) - Empowering Wellness Choices for Families

After facing years of struggle with anxiety, depression, and an eating disorder, Laurie Hammer discovered the profound impact of amino acid therapy on her mental health and energy levels. In our conversation, Laurie shares her personal journey and introduces the innovative Calm Mom Method, designed to help moms manage anxiety and restore energy. With a strong foundation in psychology and nutritional therapy, Laurie reveals how balancing neurotransmitters can alleviate cravings and mental health challenges, offering a ray of hope for anyone on a mental wellness journey.

Our discussion doesn't shy away from the complexities of transitioning from traditional antidepressants to alternative therapies. We examine the historical context of SSRIs and the decline of natural remedies, advocating for the importance of medical guidance when making such significant changes. The broader implications of long-term medication use on identity and emotional development are addressed, alongside the promising potential of amino acid therapy across all ages. Laurie's story is one of faith and resilience, underscoring how holistic approaches can complement conventional treatments and empower individuals to reclaim their mental health.

Laurie also introduces the exciting offerings of the Calm Mom Academy, where brain-centered health strategies take center stage. Joined by insights from Chelsea Blackbird, we explore how starting with brain-first therapy can lead to better health outcomes. The structured 90-day program aims to calm the brain and ground individuals, preparing them to tackle more specific health concerns. Whether you're a practitioner seeking education and certification or someone struggling with anxiety, this episode offers a wealth of information and inspiration to make informed wellness choices for yourself and your family.

➡ Grab it here: https://www.lauriehammer.com/the-5-minute-calm-hacks

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Support the Unlikely Housewives!  Represent with our UH Merch! bit.ly/unlikelymerch  

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Join our community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram! 

Write an apple review and YOUR review could be read on our next episode! 

Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com