Building Strong Homes podcast

As we've entered the last week of May, I remember how crazy this time of year is for those who have school-aged children. I know a lot of parents are in what many call Maycember. The chaotic final days of the school year entail so many parties, ceremonies, graduations, proms, concerts, teacher appreciation gifts and sports tournaments. It can also bring lots of anticipation, with kids looking forward to summer break and wondering what teacher they'll have next year. For me, however, I'm often reminded of a difficult memory that occurred over 20 years ago at the conclusion of my son's first year of kindergarten. That year I had to tell six-year-old Jacob he wouldn't be moving up to first grade with his friends in the fall. Several months earlier, Jacob's kindergarten teacher called my husband and me in for what we thought was a routine conference. Expecting to hear glowing reports of our son's schoolwork, we were instead faced with a situation that brought frustration and heartache to our family. Jacob's teacher began by saying Jacob had been very distracted over the last few months, and she felt he needed to be tested for ADD. She handed us a paper outlining the symptoms and advised us to have a doctor confirm the diagnosis. Then she dropped the bomb. “I believe Jacob would be better off if you held him back a year,” she said coolly. “Of course, the choice is yours, but he won't benefit if you send him on ahead.” Here's Jacob's story... Also, I'd love for you to become part of the Building Strong Homes Community and sign up for my email list where you'll also receive my baked spaghetti recipe. You can also click to sign up to become part of my free Facebook community. Watch on YouTube Lessons Learned and Victories Won Through Our Son's Struggle with ADD with Carol Roper https://youtu.be/IO7tY33uiCU

Liz Cobo says that nothing has deepened her faith and changed her walk with Jesus like studying the Bible. Studying God's Word literally changed her life. Things that were once important priorities aren't anymore. Things that were once afterthoughts are now at the top of her list.  Scripture is God's self-revelation and is available to anyone willing to take the time and make the effort to read and study. Liz understands that now. God promises in his Word that he will give us greater understanding of His Word when we read it.  Liz always believed in God, but didn't always know Jesus and lived a lot of her life not knowing what the Bible says and doesn't say. Maybe you've experienced (or are experiencing) the same thing? We know what it means to be an unbeliever or to be unchurched. But what about believers who don't know God's word? She describes them as soldiers who take no weapons or no armor into war.  Liz wants women to become educated believers and shares practical ways to learn. Her passion is to help them understand, study and apply the word of God in their daily lives. And to share God's truth with grace to unbelievers and the unBibled. We talk about all of this and more in this episode. Here's Liz' story... Also, I'd love for you to become part of the Building Strong Homes Community and sign up for my email list where you'll also receive my baked spaghetti recipe. You can also click to sign up to become part of my free Facebook community. Watch on YouTube Do You Know How to Gracefully Defend Your Faith? with Liz Cobo

I don't know about you, but in my home the laundry room is considered one of the most important rooms. It's command central. When my kids were still at home it was also a disaster on most days. Oh, it might be clean for a few brief hours, but then when everyone started slinging off boots and muddy clothes, you'd never know I'd darkened the door that day. Many days the frustration of laundry, picking up clothes, blankets, cups and shoes (the list could go on infinitely) is overwhelming, especially with kids in the home. Before my children flew the nest, I'd get mad and start to spew at them, wanting to ask the question my mom used to ask us in jest (mostly), “What'd your last maid die of—overwork and underpay?” I always laughed at that question, but now I can appreciate the significance of it. That's sure what it feels like sometimes. Listen as I share a perspective I learned years ago that helped me no blow a fuse every time I walked in the door to a messy house and laundry room. Also, I'd love for you to become part of the Building Strong Homes Community and sign up for my email list where you'll also receive my baked spaghetti recipe. You can also click to sign up to become part of my free Facebook community. Watch on YouTube Are You Harboring Bitterness Toward Your Messy Family? with Carol Roper

Husband-and-wife music duo, Kenny and Claire Hilliard both grew up in the upstate of South Carolina before God took them the long way around to finally settle in Nashville, TN.  In 2015, during Kenny's tenure as a senior pastor and worship leader in Asheville, North Carolina, he was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Shortly after successful surgery to remove the tumor, Kenny received a second diagnosis, Ehlers Danlos Syndrome—a degenerative genetic disease that left him temporarily impaired. The couple embraced a return to music during Kenny's recovery, founding a music teaching studio and penning modern hymns for their home congregation. Kenny and Claire also share some of their travel experiences from being on the road six months of the year touring with their 3 kids in an RV across the country. This special couple is honest about the struggles they've endured and continue giving God glory via their music through it all. If you'd like to be part of the Building Strong Homes Community sign up for my email list here where you'll also receive my baked spaghetti recipe here. You can also click to sign up to become part of my free Facebook community. Watch on YouTube Are You Weary? A Musical Duo's Story of Hope Through Life's Storms with Kenny and Claire Hilliard

When my kids were teens, I shared with both of them that I used to curse—a lot. You should have seen the expressions on their faces as their jaws dropped, and eyes grew wide with disbelief.  “Not you Mom! I don't believe it!” I was pleased that I had to convince them otherwise, glad that I'd decided when they were both very little that my speech needed to change. That, and the Holy Spirit got ahold of me. When I was thinking about this week's kitchen table topic, I was surprised by some of the pushback I received. I had no idea that cursing for Christians was a controversial subject.  No, the Bible doesn't explicitly say, thou shalt not curse, but as I looked up scriptures about our speech, I believe it's overwhelmingly clear that God does not want us using bad language to express ourselves, especially in front of those who aren't Christians. Listen as I share what I learned the Bible has to say about our speech and how we should portray ourselves as Christians in the episode. Also, I'd love for you to become part of the Building Strong Homes Community and sign up for my email list where you'll also receive my baked spaghetti recipe. You can also click to sign up to become part of my free Facebook community. Watch on YouTube Is It Really That Bad for Christians to Cuss? with Carol Roper For show notes visit CarolRoper.org

Mary Marantz knows how fear can hold us back. Even though she was able to leave the musty single-wide trailer of her childhood in West Virginia and make her way to Yale Law School, she always carried the fear that she would be found out. Even though she had worked hard and earned every grade and scholarship she received she thought others saw her as an imposter. So, she strove to be the best at everything she did, and she was. But the life of perfection has a way of draining the joy out of you. Mary finally realized that fear was holding her hostage to a life that didn't provide freedom and that he is a boring liar. In this episode she shares part of her fascinating story of growing up in rural West Virginia, which is the topic of her first book, Dirt, with a dad who was a proud eighth generation logger, a mom who cleaned houses and her amazing grandma Goldie. In her newest book, Underestimated, she shares how she overcame perfectionism, procrastination, people-pleasing and more. She understands the drive to prove others wrong and show everyone just how far you've come, while also doubting yourself at every turn. Mary has learned that we all must own the muddy parts of our stories so we can move forward in the purpose God has for us. Because, as Mary says, God does His best work in the muddy, messy, and broken if we'll only learn to dig in.  Go to Carolroper.org for show notes Join the Building Strong Homes community by signing up for email updates and receive my baked spaghetti recipe Also join the Building Strong Homes Facebook Community If you'd like to connect with me or have an idea for an episode you can email me at buildingstronghomes@gmail.com Watch on YouTube Underestimated: From a Single-Wide Trailer in W. Va. to Yale Law School withe Mary Marantz

When I started this podcast, my two best friends, Frieda Younts and Julie Bagwell, graciously agreed to be my first interview. We wanted to help other women find and experience friendship like ours, because good, godly friends can have an amazing impact on your life, as we all can testify. One of the things Frieda said during that interview describes the foundation of our friendship. She said, “We started with [honoring God in our get-togethers]. When we started with that, God knit us together. That's why we don't have huge arguments because we're knit together by God. He started our friendship, and I think we'll be friends till we die.” I sure hope so. You might be listening to this thinking, “Good for you, Carol. I'm glad you found your friends but I'm still lonely, wishing I had at least one good friend I could count on.” And I understand. I remember how hard those days were when I was a young mom. Or maybe your kids have moved out and you're struggling to learn how to live this new empty-nest lifestyle and would love to pour out your heart to other women in the same stage of life. Or you may have recently moved to a new community, and you don't know how to find someone you can relate to. As I look back at how our friendship formed, I see lessons I've learned and things we did right when we weren't even aware of it. In this episode I share some things we did that I hope will help you find your own lifelong friends. Join the Building Strong Homes community by signing up for the email updates and receive my baked spaghetti recipe.  Also join the Facebook community! If you'd like to connect with me or have an idea for a Kitchen Table episode you can email me at buildingstronghomes@gmail.com Watch on YouTube From Lonely to Loved: A Blueprint to Building Lasting Friendships with Carol Roper

Christian comedian Kerri Pomarolli knows what's it like to feel hopeless. After she and her comedian husband divorced, she didn't think anyone would want to hire her for Christian events again, so she holed up in her bedroom and hid under the covers, binge-watching all five seasons of Friday Night Lights, drinking coke and eating a balanced diet of M&M's and salt and vinegar potato chips. Becoming a member of the Single Moms' Club wasn't exactly on her bucket list, but God revealed a plan for her to reach a whole new group of people. That was the motivation for her to get out of bed and start working again as He provided opportunities she'd never expected. Kerri's resume includes being on the Tonight Show 29 times and named one of LA's Most Inspiring People by LA Voyage Magazine and Comedian of the Year by The Hollywood Red Letter Awards in 2022. In this episode Kerri shares her journey as a comedian and how she's making single parenting work for her and her two daughters. She also brings lots of humor as she shares her life experiences as well as practical advice for single moms. Even though divorce was never something she wanted, she's learned how God can use it for good. Sign up for my email list and receive my baked spaghetti recipe If you'd like to reach out to me with episode ideas or any other reason, you can email me at buildingstronghomes@gmail.com Watch on YouTube Hope and Humor After Divorce: Thriving as a Single Mom in Christian Comedy with Kerri Pomarolli https://youtu.be/w9xH51hBV_c

As I pondered the topic for this week's kitchen table episode, the same thing kept coming to mind. An important question I'd like to ask you: What's the bravest thing you've ever done? When I first thought about that question several things immediately came to mind. Quitting my job as an architectural draftsman and buying a flower shop with my sister-in-law with neither of us having had any background in floral arranging. Buying a computer and learning AutoCAD so I could freelance drawing house plans while working from home--after we lost money in the floral business and had to sell it. And going to a writer's conference all alone and barely knowing a soul there. These decisions all took considerable courage, and they had a huge impact on my life. But as I dug deeper, I realized the better answer to that question. Not only because it changed the trajectory of my life, but it also changed me, my marriage and my family. Watch The Bravest Thing I've Ever Done with Carol Roper on YouTube Go to CarolRoper.org/podcast for show notes Prayer to accept Christ: “Lord, I know I am a sinner. I ask for your forgiveness today. I believe you sent your perfect, sinless son, Jesus, to die on the cross and be raised again to save me from my sins. I know that no one comes to you except through faith in your Son, Jesus Christ. I invite you into my heart and life to forgive me of my sins and save my soul. I turn over my life to you as both my Lord and my Savior. I want to have a relationship with you and find abundant life in Christ. In Jesus name. Amen” Listen to The Importance of Friendships--Still Going Strong After 30 Years with Julie Bagwell and Frieda Younts Link to sign up for my email list and receive my baked spaghetti recipe    

Jessica Ronne has endured more heartache than most can even fathom. She found out when she was pregnant with her second son that he'd had a stroke in utero and would be profoundly disabled if she carried him to term. She and her husband made the decision to carry him to full term and let God handle the details. Lucas does have those disabilities, but Jess and her husband never wished they'd made a different choice. Then, several years and two more children later, Jess's husband was diagnosed with a brain tumor and passed away at the age of 33, leaving her to take care of their four small children. But God didn't leave her in her grief. She met a wonderful man, a widower with three children and they married, blended their families and even added one more to the mix. Even though Jess has a hard story, she's used her experience to create The Lucas Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to serving parent caregivers with respite, recognition and resources. She is also the associate producer of the documentary Unseen and the author of four books, including her most recent, Caregiving with Grit and Grace. Jessica's pain led her to create resources to help others, because she understands what it means to be in an unfamiliar world of grief and caregiving, not knowing how to navigate it all. Her relationship with Jesus is even stronger today than when she was a young mom because she learned to lean on Him, and even question Him, through it all. Even though her story is hard, she fought her way through it and made it to the other side to let you know whatever you're going through, God's got you. The Bible says in 2 Corinthians 1:4 that “He comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.” Here's Jess' story... For show notes go to CarolRoper.org/podcast

Hey listeners! I'm popping into you podcast feed with a surprise! Starting now, I'll be releasing solo episodes every other week to share some of my life experiences and Jesus moments with you! I'll still be doing interviews but thought it would be fun to be able to talk directly to you about my struggles and triumphs. And I'm calling these episodes The Kitchen Table. So why the kitchen table? I'm so glad you asked! I believe the dinner table is an important ingredient in the glue that helps us build strong families. My siblings and my children would agree. And so, these solo episodes that I'll bring to you, hopefully every 2 weeks, will be short stories of how I've seen God work in my own life through sometimes mundane, and other times amazing, experiences and how those experiences have grown my faith. Just like if you came to my house and we sat around my kitchen table enjoying a snack and a cup of coffee (or hot tea for me!). I may even share some things I'm learning in the Word that might encourage you. And since we're talking about the dinner table, you might have heard that one of my favorite recipes to make for a crowd is baked spaghetti. It's the meal my husband and I shared the first time we met, at a church youth group progressive dinner on New Year's Eve, 1979. My mother-in-law shared the recipe with me years ago and I've always made this my go-to meal when I need to feed a lot of people, especially when I had lots of kids over for youth group events or parties. Guideposts magazine picked up our story and even printed the recipe for the baked spaghetti that has kind of become my trademark. So, if you'd like to receive that recipe, go to the link below and sign up and you'll receive an email where you can download it. You'll also receive weekly updates about podcast episodes as well as any other events that might be happening and maybe even some of my thoughts on faith and family. You'll also be able to see a few Instagram posts from recent days. So, let me know what you think about this Kitchen Table episode and if you have a question or an idea about something you'd like for me to discuss, please don't hesitate to email me at buidingstronghomes@gmail.com. I'd love to hear from you! I'll have a link to that in the show notes. Show notes and link to baked spaghetti recipe CarolRoper.org/podcast

Melissa Huray lived a life of hopelessness as a former alcoholic who struggled with addiction from the time she was a child. First it was sugar and junk food. Then, because her father was an alcoholic and she saw him go to alcohol to diffuse many situations, she believed alcohol was the magic cure for all of her troubles. But instead of finding healing in the bottle, she found herself in a hopeless cycle of addiction, believing she could stop at any time, but finding that she didn't have the strength to overcome the hold alcohol had over her. Until she finally fully surrendered to Christ and prayed for healing. Melissa has a fascinating story of turning her life around through the power of Christ, not her own, and using her experience to counsel others living in addiction and bringing freedom through the gospel. In this episode she shares practical tools and encouragement to help addicts and those who love them fight the battle of addiction. Melissa is now an author and has been a part of Mike Lindell's recovery network for over a decade. She has much wisdom and insight for those looking for recovery. Melissa now experiences the longing fulfilled and is humbled to be able to share her healing story. If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction of any sort, this episode is one that will bring hope and encouragement. Find show notes at CarolRoper.org/podcast

Does God care about the little decisions you have to make every day? The Bible is full of spiritual wisdom. But does God provide specific direction for real-world questions? Questions like Is this the right job? and Which college should my child attend? The answer is a resounding yes. And in this episode, you will discover how to access God's divine wisdom in any situation. Jane Glenchur had no concept of a loving heavenly Father who longed to interact with her daily through prayer. To her, God seemed light-years away, too busy running the planet to even notice her, let alone want a relationship. She had head knowledge of God but no heart knowledge. That all changed when she took a bold step of faith and attended a Beth Moore Bible study and saw the passion Beth had for God. Having grown up in a denomination that had served Jesus up like dry toast, Jane's hunger for a personal connection with Him translated into a prayer that would change the rest of her life: "Lord, I want the same passion she has." As she continued on in the Bible study, the weekly cry of her heart became, "Lord, make me passionate about You". Jane's pursuit caused her to realize that God is looking for people who have a passion for Him and that passion unlocks doors to encounters with Him that can be entered no other way. She shares the seven secrets to praying with power that God taught her, along with other gems of prayer wisdom, to help take the guesswork and stress out of decision-making. Her numerous personal stories will motivate you to set apart time with the Lord and tune your ear to His voice during your daily routine.  In this conversation, Jane shows how ordinary believers like you and me can receive extraordinary answers to our prayers. For show notes go to CarolRoper.org/podcast

Hi listeners! Welcome back to the podcast! This is season 5 (can you believe it?) and episode 117! I took a few weeks off to enjoy my family over the holidays and to spend some time on a few exciting things I have in the works, so I appreciate your patience as I took a break from putting out the podcast. But now we're back and there are a lot of exciting episodes coming up in this season and I can't wait to introduce them to you! Did you know that 20% of the youth that age out of the foster care system are instantly homeless. Tori Hope Petersen was one of those young adults who decided it would be easier to go it alone than have to navigate the system that caused her so much pain, having been in 12 foster homes from the ages of 12-18. But Tori was blessed to have mentors to come alongside her and help, eventually becoming adopted by her track coach. Tori's mom came from brokenness and generational curses and did the best she knew how, but Tori has become intentional about breaking those curses in her own family. She also does advocacy in the foster care system and has written two books, Fostered: One Woman's Powerful Story of Finding Faith and Family Through Foster Care, and her just released book, Breaking the Patterns that Break You: Healing from the Pain of Your Past and Finding Real Hope That Lasts. As I spoke to Tori, I realized that, even though she's still so young, her experiences have made her wise beyond her years. If Tori's story encouraged you would you kindly leave a rating and a review on your favorite podcast app? You can go to my Facebook or Instagram at Building Strong Homes and find a video there that will show you how to do that if you're not familiar with the process. For show notes go to carolroper.org/podcast

Merry Christmas Y'all! I know as this episode drops it Thanksgiving week but since Thanksgiving is so late this year, I wanted to get a head start on Christmas! I've got my tree up already so I can enjoy it longer and I'm not sad about that at all! Haha. Another reason I wanted to go ahead and release this episode is because I'm sharing some Christmas traditions, and you may want to implement some of these ideas into your own family and might need a little time to prepare. So, I'm going to share a little research, a few fun and meaningful Christmas traditions and some fun Christmas stories as well as something we did when our family was grieving and having a hard time wanting to celebrate the holiday at all that helped a lot.   Check out the show notes at CarolRoper.org/podcast A Marriage That Started With Spaghetti - Guideposts

If you listened to my podcast episode this past June, Fear is a Liar, you heard me talk about a couple in our church whose testimony made me decide to keep going with this podcast. When I was ready to shut it all down their story made me want to keep going so that others will have a place to share their own amazing God stories so together, we can help others to keep building strong. You wouldn't think a breast cancer diagnosis would lead a couple into a marriage that was more joyful than they could have ever imagined, but that's what happened with Glen and Kelly Daigle. They had both been married before they met and were ready for a fresh start, having each gone through difficulties with drugs and alcohol. Glen had recently finished a self-admitted time in rehab for alcohol addiction and Kelly was looking for a man who'd been married, didn't have children and loved the Lord. Since Glen met all three requirements they dated and eventually married. But everything wasn't all rainbows and hearts. Glen spiraled into such a deep depression Kelly says many days she prayed she wouldn't come home to find that her husband had committed suicide. After Glen found help from counseling their lives were okay, but still not great. Neither of them had a strong relationship with God, they just did the bare minimum. Until Kelly's breast cancer diagnosis. Something changed in both of them as they realized the only thing they had to hold on to was Jesus, and they weren't letting Him go. There are so many ways that God showed up in each of their journeys that there's no denying the Hound of Heaven was pursuing them from the very beginning. If you feel like you've messed up so badly that there's no promise of hope in your life anymore, this episode is for you. For show notes go to Carolroper.org/Podcast Watch on YouTube No One is Too Far Gone for God to Use with Glen and Kelly Daigle

Have you ever had a life changing moment? A tragedy, unexpected diagnosis or sudden loss that left you feeling alone, confused or in despair, wondering what to do next? When Wendy Rickard's husband fell into a utility area, dropping twenty feet on his head, she began to question God. He survived, but his brain injury meant her family lost the father and husband they depended on for everything. Their family of four imploded. Wendy wondered what God's purpose was in this heartache, if He would take care of their future and if their lives would ever be the same again. God's answers were not immediate, and quite frankly, rather slow. But He did answer her questions in His own way and in His own timing. Today Wendy can tell the story of both her husband and their family's healing and she's sharing that story in this episode. If you've been through a life-altering experience, Wendy wants you to know that no matter what you are facing, God can bring hope and healing to you as well. For show notes go to CarolRoper.org/podcast If you'd like to watch the podcast on YouTube go to this link: https://youtu.be/CNwVxvCAfxg

Y'all, I've had Sophie Hudson on my bucket list of guests since before I started the podcast! She's the co-host, along with Melanie Shankle, of the Big Boo Cast podcast as well as the voice of the Boo Mama blog (she shares in this episode how that name came to be!) and author of several of my favorite books. She's a southern girl from Alabama who loves her family and her football but mostly she loves Jesus. Her books include A Little Salty to Cut the Sweet, Home is Where My People Are and Giddy Up Eunice. And she recently released her newest book, A Fine Sight to See: Leading Because You Were Made for It, where she shares how it empowers women to embrace their God-given roles as leaders and serve with boldness, both inside and outside the church. She was such a delight to talk to and has such a heart for women! I know you're going to enjoy listening to our conversation and love Sophie as much as I do! Go to CarolRoper.org/Podcast for shownotes

You wouldn't expect a bout with breast cancer and a heart transplant would lead to a better marriage, but that's exactly what happened for Anthony and Mary Mabry. In 2018, before Mary's breast cancer diagnosis, their marriage was difficult. But Anthony was there for Mary through six rounds of chemo, losing her hair, a double mastectomy and 20 rounds of radiation. Finally, she was cancer free, and they were ready to move on with their lives. But their marriage still wasn't great. Then the tables were turned in 2020 when Anthony discovered he'd been having silent heart attacks for over six months, and he was put on the transplant list. Something neither of them had seen coming even though a heart attack had taken one of Anthony's brothers a few years earlier. After 48 days in a hospital two hours away from home, Anthony was finally sent home with an electric device to keep his heart working. However, the device was only supposed to work for a year. But God showed up over and over again in their story as He provided one miracle after another as they navigated the difficult journey, waiting 2-1/2 years before finally receiving a heart and kidney transplant. Now, they say their health struggles helped to build their faith and made their marriage so much stronger than it was before both of their health crisis and they give God all of the glory. Listen to how God provided for and healed not only their bodies, but also their marriage. CarolRoper.org/podcast

Hey listeners, I just wanted to take a few minutes to address some things I've been hearing about and thought I'd share a few thoughts that I hope are encouraging to you through this little bonus episode. Right now, our country is one of the most divisive states we've been in since before the civil war. Our world has been turned upside-down where good is bad and bad is good and no one seems to know what truth really is anymore. And this is having an alarming effect on our children and young adults, especially those who haven't been educated with critical thinking skills and that is having a disastrous effect on our culture. And to be honest, it can seem hopeless, especially for our children and grandchildren, and our nation's children overall. But, I've also heard that, as far as the election is concerned, many Christians are just sitting this one out. They are also throwing up their hands and saying Jesus is coming back soon so we'll just hunker down and wait for Him to make things right again. Wow! Talk about a hopeless stance coming from a people who have the most hope of all! We think that we have no position of power or influence so what we do doesn't matter. Well, I want to remind you that we are not helpless, and we certainly aren't hopeless. Y'all, we are called! In this episode I will share what we, as Christians, need to do in order to make a difference in our nation for God's glory.   Find all the links at CarolRoper.org/podcast

Please be aware that this content is not suitable for young children. George Carneal grew up in the '70s, raised by a Southern Baptist minister in the ultra-conservative Bible Belt where his world revolved around the church, country fried chicken and trying to fit in with other boys. As disco music pulsated through the speakers in his bedroom, he plotted his escape from the misery and boredom of Southern suburbia before landing in Los Angeles; a city of glitz and hedonism. Much like Alice as she traveled through the looking glass, this is George's journey through a queer culture fantasyland filled with drag queens, drugs and dangerous situations before discovering healing, joy and peace in Christ. In this episode, George, author of the book From Queer to Christ, shares his painful journey through a secular world at odds with homosexuality, in addition to a religious world that is hostile to homosexuals. He is hopeful that sharing his story through the eyes and mind of a confused child dealing with a same-sex attraction will give some insight into the pain and difficulty of navigating those two worlds. After 25 years of living as a gay man God brought him out of that lifestyle and into His glorious truth. His story will help parents of children of all ages understand how best to influence them for God, as well as teens and adults who are struggling with the LGBTQ agenda in their own lives. George says that he wrote the book for three reasons: To give Christians insight into what it's like for someone dealing with same-sex attraction and their struggle with faith   To give hope to parents who have children in the LGBTQ lifestyle   To give LGBTQ individuals who are struggling with this lifestyle to understand that there's a different narrative and that they are being lied to and expose those lies and find peace and give them hope George has been out of that lifestyle for almost 17 years now and has a passion to help others learn the truth. Through his testimony he wants others to know that deliverance from bondage is possible and there is hope in Christ. Go to CarolRoper.org/Podcast for shownotes GeorgeCarneal.com for George's website George's book From Queer to Christ

What a pleasure it was to interview Mart Green, son of Hobby Lobby founder David Green, to talk about his family's philosophy of faith and generosity. Mart is such a down-to-earth guy who happily shares the secret to Hobby Lobby's success. I loved hearing the fun and practical ways Mart and his family celebrate each other and minister to those around them. Money isn't the only way to bless people and Mart makes that clear in the examples he gives. He also shares about the new book he has coming out, co-authored with David Bowden, Learning to be Loved: The Everyday Believer's Guide to a Rich Relationship with God, a transformative guide that will help families strengthen their relationships with God together. Mart also shares several vulnerable stories in this book, including how he had unintentionally hurt his family and through that experience learned the importance of emotional trust. And he talks about the freedom his wife gained after learning to forgive her parents. Both of these stories took time for them to heal before they felt comfortable enough to share, but they know God can use their stories to help others draw closer to Him. CarolRoper.org/Podcast for shownotes

Hey friends! I'm back from my summer hiatus and have some awesome guests lined up for you this fall, starting this week with Stephen Kendrick of the Kendrick Brothers. Alex and Stephen Kendrick have brought us some great movies like Facing the Giants, Fireproof, Courageous and War Room and their newest movie, The Forge, will release in theaters nationwide on August 23 and he's here to tell us about it. I had the privilege of watching a pre-screening of the movie and I must tell you that there are several scenes in this film that brought me to tears. The story involves a single mom, played by the amazing Priscilla Shirer, who is trying to instill character and responsibility into her 19-year-old son without the help of his father. An older gentleman comes along and decides to disciple this young man and by building that relationship shows the power of godly influence in his life. There are several themes in this movie that show the impact of the gospel when we are courageous enough to step out in faith and walk in obedience to God. And the part I love the most is the power of a praying mama! Priscila does an incredible job of tapping into the emotion we feel as moms when our kids aren't making the best choices and how God can answer our prayers beyond what we could even imagine. For show notes go to CarolRoper.org/podcast TheForgeMovie.com

One of the reasons I felt called to start this podcast was because of stories like Donovan and Lavonna Garrett's. If you don't believe God can make a difference in your marriage and family then you need to listen to the testimony of how Donovan's alcohol abuse almost destroyed him, his marriage and his entire family. As I look at the photos of their beautiful family today, I'm in tears, knowing that if Donovan hadn't surrendered his life to Christ, their story would have had a much different outcome. No, they aren't perfect, as none of us are, but they have so much joy radiating from them because of what God has done. If you or someone you love is struggling with alcohol, I promise this episode will encourage and give you hope. Go to carolroper.org/podcast for shownotes Overcoming Alcoholism to Restore a Marriage Parts 1 & 2 with Donovan and Lavonna Garrett - Carol Roper

One year ago I had the pleasure of interviewing Kara Stott, author of one of my favorite books, An Intentional Life, for the podcast. It was great meeting Kara on Zoom and hearing her story from her own voice. But this past spring my friend, Julie Bagwell, and I were able to meet her in person at her Pursuit Retreat outside of Nashville, Tennessee! She has such a heart for Jesus and ministering to women and it was evident as she served us over several days next to the beautiful lake at Wildwood Retreat. She's one of the kindest and most thoughtful people I've ever met and I loved her even more after spending a few days with her. If you missed listening to Kara's story I promise this is one that will make you understand the importance of family and how God calls us to prioritize our loved ones. She shares how she gave up a thriving ministry to have more time with her family and Jesus. Obedience isn't always easy, but God always promises to bless us through it.

Summer Throwback! My guests for the first episode of this podcast were my two very best friends, Julie Bagwell and Frieda Younts. We've been friends for over 30 years now! Over time we've experienced lots of ups and downs but have remained close through it all. How did we do it? By being honest and real with each other, for one thing, but mostly by building our friendship on the foundation of Jesus Christ. Growing up I only had one friend at a time and always felt like I never belonged. In my late 20's I began praying for God to bring some good friends into my life and He was faithful to do just that through Julie and Frieda. Each of us has been married for at least 30 years and have grown children and now grandchildren, so we have lots of experience under our belt—some good and some bad. But we've held onto each other through it all and are grateful God has helped our friendship to remain strong. In this episode we talk about how hurts and jealousy, especially in a group with three friends, can be easy to fall into. But instead of letting them fester we bring it out in the open and talk about these things in the spirit of love. Friendship is work, but it's so worth the reward. As I listened to this episode again, I thought of how much changed since our conversation. It's amazing to think we didn't know the good and the bad that were about to happen in just a few short months. But even through it all, we can still say God is good. Our desire through this conversation is to help other women experience friendship like we have, because good, godly friends can have an amazing impact on your life. But in order to make it work we must be intentional. Listen in as we discuss simple and practical ways we learned to grow and sustain our friendship. Go to CarolRoper.org/podcast to check out the shownotes

I've really struggled to put into words all that I wanted to say to you today because the last few months have been difficult for me as I've been seeking what God wants me to do with the podcast. I've been doing this for 3-1/2 years now and have recently been in a deep season of discouragement. As I prayed and continually asked God what my next steps should be, I only sensed silence from Him. I've gone through seasons of silence before, but this has been especially hard because I wanted to make sure I was being obedient to what God wanted me to do, not just put out a podcast to build my own, or anyone else's, platform. To be honest, I've been so discouraged that I had pretty much decided I was going to shut it all down. And to be completely honest, podcasting can be lonely and discouraging. When I couldn't see a direction to where God was leading, I just wanted to throw in the towel. In this episode I will share what God has been showing me recently, an update of what's going on with my family and my plans for the future of the podcast. Go to CarolRoper.org for shownotes and links to resources mentioned

"Mothers are a sleeping giant and when the giant awakens, take cover--things are going to change! I believe the giant is slowly stirring and beginning to wipe the sleep from its eyes." - excerpt from Your Girl by Vicki Courtney Over 15 years ago this quote stirred my soul to the point where I decided I wanted to be one of those mothers who stood up to make a difference and began a ministry for youth girls titled You-Nique Girls. God lit my soul on fire for those girls and I prayed for them and desired they know God in a real and personal way. It's still one of the reasons I do this podcast. Moms (and dads) can influence kids in such monumental ways, but we can't be afraid to take on the giant of cultural lies that invade almost every aspect of our children's lives. My guest today, Julie Loos, shares why she and Mama Bear Apologetics founder, Hillary Morgan Ferrar, share a passion for teaching moms how to equip their children to learn how to defend their faith. They saw the alarming statistics of the number of kids leaving their beliefs and wanted to take action. As Julie says in this interview, "There's a lot we can do as parents to help our kids be solid in their faith." In this episode Julie shares a wealth of information, starting with a simple definition of apologetics, weaving in her story of mistakes she made as a mom, defining the "chew and spit" method to help your kids discern what's right and wrong and ending with a plethora of resources to equip moms to learn how to teach their children how to stand up for their beliefs, including Julie and Hillary's newest book, Honest Prayers for Mama Bears. She even reads one of the powerful prayers in the book titled, Raising Dragon Slayers in an Era of Dragons that will inspire you to persevere in our post-Christian culture. This interview will give you so many practical tools to lead your kids, from preschool through college, to a stronger faith in our upside-down world. Go to CarolRoper.org/podcast for shownotes and links to resources

You can't go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending. This is a quote from C.S. Lewis my guest, Jennifer Sakata, shares that fits her own life story. Having grown up with an alcoholic mother and stepdad she didn't understand that her family life was dysfunctional. Not until she began to notice that her friends' families functioned much differently than her own. But when she became a teen, she and her little sister were removed from that environment. Unfortunately, the sisters were separated, each going to live with their respective grandparents. Only then did Jennifer begin to understand the difference between a house and a home. Because of her upbringing, the habits of her own mother began to manifest in her when Jennifer had her own children, and she made a decision not to raise her boys the same way she'd been brought up. She also shares how she finally met her biological father when she was in her forties and how God brought a wonderful relationship from that. Jennifer has lived through a lot of difficulty in her life but because she intentionally decided to break the cycle from her own childhood, she transformed her anger into love. And she shares some of the practical ways she was able to do that in this episode. Y'all are truly going to enjoy hearing Jennifer's story. Go to carolroper.org/podcast for shownotes

Welcome to the 100th episode of the Building Strong Homes Podcast! What an amazing ride it has been to get this far, and I want to thank all of my listeners for showing up each episode! So, I thought it would be fun to introduce you to my husband, John, and our children, Elise and Jacob, and have them share some of their stories from growing up on the farm. I ask each of them share their thoughts on what it means to build their faith and what kind of legacy they want to leave. John even shares a story I'd never heard before about being put in a police car and hauled off to be interrogated! This was while we were married, y'all! How did the kids know this story and I didn't?? I know this episode is a little different, but I hope our conversation will encourage you as you journey to build your own strong home and family. And don't forget, every episode is now on YouTube so you can see how we interact as well as listen. There's a link below that will take you to the YouTube channel. And I'd love for you to like and subscribe so you'll be updated with every episode. There are also links below to the two previous episodes Elise was on so you can hear a little more of her story. And if you don't follow me on Facebook or Instagram, I hope you'll head over there and follow Building Strong Homes. I'll be sharing more reels and fun stuff about my family over there. Once again, thanks for being a part of this podcast community and remember to keep building strong!

"Faith is the refusal to panic." This quote by Dennis Rainey had a profound impact on Lori Margo as she walked through her difficult journey with cancer. Because her own mother had been diagnosed with cancer at the same age Lori received her first diagnosis and passed away two short years later, she had every reason to panic. But as she walked her own path, she realized that if you're going to believe the Bible, you've got to believe the whole Bible. After Lori finally beat her cancer, she lost her dad to the same horrible disease, and even though she told others God had been with her through that hard season, she began to question if that were actually true. So, she decided to start keeping track of God's goodness in the midst of pain. When she sat down to write she immediately came up with 30 instances of how God had been with her in the loss of her father. That started her on a quest to look for God in all of the difficult seasons in her life and she began what she now calls tracking God. She not only does it in her own life, but in her children's as well. And now she teaches others how to track God through their own hard stories. Lori is an inspiration of faith and hope and I know her story will point you in the direction of finding God in the hard, too. For shownotes go to CarolRoper.org/podcast

Have you ever wondered if God had something specific for you to do? That maybe you missed your calling, or you don't know what your purpose is? I think all of us at least once in our lives have questioned, "What am I here for?" or "Is there an assignment you have for me God?" Mandy Hood, a self-described introvert, felt God calling her to become involved in helping at a crisis pregnancy center years ago and stepped into a volunteer role. Several years later she felt God leading her to leave her job as an office administrator after 24 years and took a job in that crisis pregnancy center. That career shift led to a one-third cut in her family income. Even though she was terrified, she knew she needed to be obedient. During her time and that position she learned new skills for what God had for her next: create a program to bring women together. Today, The Connection is a thriving community-based ministry designed to connect women with each other and God. They offer fun social activities, Bible studies, small groups and a mentoring program that is conducive to welcome Chrisitan women and women who may not have a relationship with God. This organization exists and impacts the lives of so many today. My prayer is that her story will encourage you to step into your calling too. Links to Resources Find out more about Connecting Women with God Check out Mandy's books, Let's Get Together: The Story of a Unique Women's Ministry and Let's Make Plans: Journal to Discover God's Plan for You

Did you know the average age of a widow is 59? And there are eleven million widows in the United States with 1000 women becoming widowed every day?? This is a sobering topic none of us likes to think about, but the truth is, because it's so prevalent, we need to talk about it. Marilyn Nutter suddenly became a widow twelve years ago after 42 years of marriage and knows first-hand that widowhood is an uncomfortable the topic. But she also knows that there are many women out there, like herself, who are hurting and looking for resources to help. Because of this, she's written a book, Hope for Widows: Reflections on Mourning, Living and Change. She wrote it for two groups of people: widows and those who know and love widows. It's a valuable source of encouragement and comfort as widows adjust to their new normal and reimagine an active life with purpose in their future. She also gives practical tips on how to interact with widows in a way that lifts them up and provides much needed help. And she shares her secret to learning how to do things her husband used to take care of. We also talk a little about how to be better prepared if something does happen to your husband. Marilynn has acquired a lot of hard-earned wisdom over the last twelve years and wants to share that wisdom with you so that your load won't be quite as heavy to carry. Resources Order Marilyn's book, Hope for Widows: Reflections on Mourning, Living and Change Find out more about Marilyn and check out additional resources at Marilynnutter.com Griefshare Watch on YouTube Hope for Widows and the People Who Love Them with Marilyn Nutter Related Episodes Finding Hope After Loss with Mike Nappa Embracing Joy in Life: Lessons from Carol McLeod on Finding Happiness Amidst Challenges  Learning to Trust God in Our Suffering with Kathy Burry What To Do When Your Life Falls Apart with Marilyn Nutter and April White A Widow's Journey Part 1 with Melanie Forbes Cook

Is hospitality something that doesn't come easy for you? Are you always worried about how clean (or messy!) your home is? Or that you can't cook? Or that you just don't know how to entertain? My guest today, Sue Donaldson, is the queen of hospitality and she's here to help. Yes, she grew up with a mother who loved welcoming people into their home, but Sue's grandmother, her mom's mom, never invited people in. In spite of that, she decided she wanted to learn how to be hospitable and did just that.  Now, because of her mother's influence, Sue's gift of hospitality is second nature for her. But she's learned that it's not about a clean house or even entertaining, it's about serving others.  Pinterest and Instagram have skewed our ideas of hospitality, but Sue has so many practical and creative suggestions about how to make it easy for you.  She also talks about how being a mother of young children is like living on a desert island (amen!) and how important it is to have a community of other moms around you and one of the best ways to do that is by inviting those moms in. Yes, welcoming people past the threshold of your front door can be vulnerable, but it can also be very rewarding.  We also talk about mentoring and a secret to make it easier for both the mentor and the mentee. And Sue has some great free resources she'll share at the end of our interview. You'll be excited to start welcoming people into your home after you listen to this episode.

As the mother of a son, I understand the challenges of raising boys to become good and godly men. When my son was young, I was always second guessing myself and wishing I had a blueprint to help me, and my husband know the best way to lead him down the right path towards manhood. This episode is a resource I wish was available then. My guests today, Erin and Jason Davis, parents of four boys themselves, have recently released their book, Lies Boys Believe: And the Epic Quest for Truth. In this episode they share why giving our boys a foundation based on truth will help them navigate our difficult culture, how we should encourage our sons to have hearts that please God, not just behave in a way they won't get caught, as well as developing a no-secrets family. I also asked several moms of boys if they had questions for the Davis's and they had some great ones! Erin and Jason were so gracious to answer as many as they could and so this episode is a little longer than most. But I know you're probably struggling with some of these same questions, so I wanted to make sure we addressed them. They have so many practical ideas on how to connect with boys that I know you're going to come away from this episode better equipped and more confident to be the best boy parent you can be. Check out the show notes at CarolRoper.org/podcast

Is the current status of our world, nation and maybe even your community getting you down? Do some days make you wonder if you'll ever experience joy again because there's so much hard in your life right now? My guest today, Brant Hansen, will help us look at the bright side of things by turning our focus to all of the good that is around us. And y'all, I can't believe this, but I called him by the wrong name a couple of times in this interview and he wouldn't let me edit that out! Brant has a humble and empathetic heart and an amazing sense of humor that allows him to share stories from his own life that encourage and lift people up. One of my favorite quotes from this episode is when Brant says, “Maybe we need to all learn how to be awkward. It's not the worst thing in the world. I could survive that.” He shares many of his awkward moments to prove he knows what he's talking about. So, let's learn to get over ourselves and experience joy in the hard.

Mike Novotny is not one to run from tough topics. As a matter of fact, he's even written a book about it called Taboo: Topics Christians Should be Talking About but Don't. Sounds pretty intriguing, right? In this episode we dive into topics that deal with mental health, suicide, pornography and politics. Mike also shares some of his personal struggles as well. I appreciate the fact that Mike isn't just sharing his opinions about these hot-button issues, but that he goes straight to the Bible to share what God says about them. I hope this episode will encourage you to not shy away from tough topics and stand strong on God's word for answers to tough questions.

Molly Stillman has lived the type of life that when shared, people stop in their tracks and ask, “Wait, what happened?” Molly's mother, Lynda Van Devanter Buckley served as an Army nurse during the Vietnam War and wrote the bestselling memoir, Home Before Morning. When Molly was seventeen, Lynda passed away after an eight-year battle with an autoimmune disorder due to her exposure to Agent Orange. Four years later, Molly turned twenty-one and unexpectedly inherited a quarter of a million dollars from her mother's estranged family's estate. Through “retail therapy” and a long series of grossly irresponsible financial decisions, Molly found herself broke with over $36,000 in credit card debt less than two years later. Shame, guilt, and embarrassment set in. Listen in as Molly shares her journey to faith as she worked her way out of debt and reveals how every messed up, broken story has a purpose. She now helps others through podcasting, speaking and her new book coming out in March, If I Don't Laugh, I'll Cry: How Death, Debt and Comedy Led to a Life of Faith, Farming and Forgetting What I Came into This Room For.

The empty nest years can feel like a season of losing our purpose, especially as a mom. When the kids leave home many of us are plunged into feelings of loss and grief, not knowing how to handle the extra time and conversations with our spouse. Ruthie Gray has been there and feels so passionately about ministering to women in this phase of life that she wrote a book, Empty Nest Awakening: Weaving the Threads of Your Passion into Purpose. As a mother of four adult children, Ruthie has walked her own journey through the empty nest and has learned a lot about how we can grow and be filled with purpose once the kids leave home. She also addresses the pains of being in the sandwich generation as well as ideas on how to connect with your spouse when it's just the two of you again. Ruthie is funny and practical and has a lot of great wisdom to share. You'll walk away from this conversation with a renewed perspective of the empty nest and be excited to forge ahead into the future God has for you. Find shownotes at CarolRoper.org/Podcast

In this episode my guest, Amber Albee Swenson, shares practical tips that are really simple to incorporate into your relationship with your spouse, as well as warning signs that show you might be in dangerous territory with someone outside of your marriage. Amber has lots of great wisdom including this: "There's a woman out there who would be thrilled with your husband. So, stop being critical [of him]. Being critical is not a spiritual gift." That's a good word we need to frequently be reminded of.

One of the struggles that hit every family in some way is when you lose someone you love. Today's guest, Mike Nappa, lost his beloved wife, Amy, to cancer in 2016. In the years since her passing God has helped him to learn why grieving is such an important part of losing a loved one and how He's taught him how to grieve well.  This is one of the most touching and informative interviews I've done.  Mike has such a heart for those who are walking their own grief journey, and he truly wants to help those who are hurting as well as those who are trying to be there for them and understand their pain and what they need. He shares what one friend does for him every year on the anniversary of his wife's death (which, by the way is September 11) and why that has helped him to not only grieve that day well but also to look forward to it. Mike also talks about how his then three-year-old granddaughter struggled with her own grief and how one teacher recognized and helped her deal with her grief in the middle of a meltdown. He also gives wise advice to someone who is in the depth of despair in their grief journey. Before I interviewed Mike, I asked my mom if she had any questions she'd like me to ask him since she's not quite three years out from losing my dad. He was genuinely happy to answer her question. Mike truly is one of the nicest guys I've ever had the pleasure of talking to and I know our conversation will be a blessing to you. For more information and resources go to CarolRoper.org/podcast Mike's book, Reflections for the Grieving Soul: Meditations and Scripture for Finding Hope After Loss

Does this sound familiar? You've been told to simply trust that the school system has your child's mental well-being covered. But what happens when that trust results in your child feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or lost in the education system? The pain of watching your child struggle while being told to just wait it out can be unbearable. It's time to take action and discover effective strategies to support your child's mental health in the school system, so they can thrive academically and emotionally. In this episode my guest, Katie J. Trent, shares why she is a passionate advocate for children's mental health in the school system. With a background in counseling and ministry, Katie brings a wealth of experience and insight to the challenges children face today. Having worked as an elementary school counselor, she witnessed firsthand the impact of the highly politicized agenda on children's well-being. Katie is dedicated to empowering parents with the knowledge and tools to navigate these challenges and create a nurturing environment for their children's mental health. Her new book, "Recipes for a Sweet Child," offers creative and Bible-based activities that foster emotional well-being. With her expertise and genuine care for children, Katie is a trusted resource for parents seeking to support their child's mental health in the school system.

If you're feeling frustrated and discouraged because your efforts to serve others are not producing the desired result, then you are not alone! Perhaps you have been tirelessly volunteering your time, but still witnessing little impact. Maybe you have been pouring your heart into a cause, only to face constant setbacks and obstacles. Whatever the case may be, know that many others have experienced this same pain, and there is hope for a breakthrough in your journey of serving others. Melissa Roberts is an incredible woman who has devoted her life to uplifting and nurturing others. As the founder and CEO of Rahab's Women and Children Home in Griffin, Georgia, Melissa exudes compassion and a deep desire to create a better world. She is a dedicated wife, a loving mother of six children, and a strong advocate for the importance of good family values. Through her determination and sheer will, Melissa has implemented a twelve-month program for homeless mothers, equipping them with essential life skills. Her uncompromised dedication to instilling biblical principles and creating solid foundations for these families is truly inspirational. **Since we recorded this episode Melissa has encountered an issue. They were set up by a nonprofit CEO to lease a house from him and things were going well. Then he passed away and God told Melissa it was time to find another home. Little did she know that only weeks later the new CEO would be asking them to leave so she could live in the home. She believes it is a God mission for his family to come together and help relocate the five families that live in Rahab's. When she learned they had to move, she told God what she wanted, and He's is doing it!  They immediately contacted a realtor friend in the area and two weeks later, a property surfaced that he thought would be perfect for us, and it is. It's almost 5 acres, with two houses on the property that will house their families. But the houses need some work and Melissa is working on getting supplies and things donated and volunteer labor to get it ready. So, they need financial help. Their move in cost is $4400 and, so they won't have to deplete their account, they need to raise that amount plus moving cost and repairs in the home in order to make these homes into what they need for their Rahab families. If you feel led to give, would you please go to RahabsHouse.org to donate. You will be investing in women who are willing to work hard and want to create a better life for themselves and their families.** Every individual, no matter their background or circumstances, deserves a life of abundance. We want to help shift their mindset and help them see themselves how God sees them, so they can create a sustainable lifestyle and bless the next generation. - Melissa Roberts Go to carolroper.org for show notes

In a world where children's literature seemed innocent and free from controversy, Marcia Moston's journey took an unexpected turn. As she embarked on her role as a library board member, little did she know that she would stumble upon a hidden truth. The prevalence of gender identity ideology in those beloved books shook her to the core, shattering her perception of what was safe for children. But it was a chance encounter with a frail individual who had undergone a life-altering transition that deepened her longing for answers. And now, she realizes her quest is far from over. Marcia is a dear friend with a vibrant personality who, beyond her teaching prowess and literary finesse, has delved into a realm not commonly her playing field. Fortified with years of experience as an English educator as well as a storyteller, Marcia has used her convincing wit to voice her concerns about the sweeping wave of gender identity ideologies affecting our youth. She has bravely accepted to navigate this controversial territory with the sole intent to help educate parents wading through the unsettling tide. Her empathetic nature coupled with an educator's understanding makes her a reliable compass on this voyage. Kids want help and hope. We need to be there for them, navigating through the challenges and providing support. - Marcia Moston Go to CarolRoper.org/podcast for show notes and more resources

In a world defined by the pursuit of greatness and recognition, one woman dared to challenge the norms. Kelly Needham's captivating journey unfolds, revealing an unexpected twist she didn't anticipate. As she grapples with her identity and insecurities amidst her husband's soaring success, an internal dialogue sparks, questioning the meaning of it all. She discovers how we as a society have been fooled into chasing meaning and purpose in all the wrong places, identifies the source of our hunger for the extraordinary and shows us the steps we can take today to build a purpose-filled reality without turning our lives upside-down. Kelly Needham, an author and Bible teacher, is an inspiring personality who lives in the bustling city of Dallas, Texas. Kelly, a mother to five wonderful children, uses her experiences to motivate others to find true contentedness beyond societal expectations. Her book, 'Purposefooled', is a testament to her realizations and learnings about how a meaningful life is not defined by external recognition but by the individual's internal sense of fulfillment. Go to CarolRoper.org/podcast for resources and free Puposefooled Going Deeper Guide

In the heartland of Tulsa, Oklahoma, Daniel Grothe grew up enveloped in the loving embrace of a pastor's home. Faith and community were his foundation, guiding him through life's ups and downs. But it was the unexpected twist that awaited him in Colorado Springs that would truly test his understanding of stability. Little did he know, the purchase of a piece of land would not only connect him to his childhood memories on his grandparents' ranch in Idaho, but it would also reveal a deeper purpose - one that would forever alter the course of his life. Daniel's narrative paints a vivid picture of connectedness, place, and stability. Taking cues from his grandparents, who lived in the same small town in Idaho for 86 years, he emphasizes the importance of belonging in a community and sustaining deep roots. He shares how location greatly impacts our sense of self-value and how living in a place for a long period allows us to forge deep relationships and develop a sense of community. This sense of belonging can tremendously enhance our self-value, reinforcing the idea that we are significant and valued members of our community. His perspectives are sure to challenge your thoughts and provide fresh insights. We are living in a human experiment for the first time in human history... living as tourists instead of as members of a place we're passing through. - Daniel Grothe Loneliness is worse for our health than smoking a pack of cigarettes a day. - Daniel Grothe

Brittany Roper is a woman of unyielding resilience and enduring faith who is an example of positivity amidst the many trying circumstances she's experienced. Her life journey, which includes triumph through fertility issues, the complex realities of raising special needs children, and the heartbreaking loss of a child, as well as her own battle with breast cancer, paints a raw and touching picture of both the adversities and joys of life. As a devoted mother, her incredible story is a testament to her unbroken spirit and steadfast faith, finding strength and gratitude amidst the chaos of everyday life.

If you're feeling overwhelmed by your suffering and finding no relief in your current efforts to overcome it, such as seeking professional help or relying solely on your own strength, then you are not alone! In this episode, you will be able to: Discover how leading with integrity trumps emotional reactions when steering the leadership helm. Adopt faith and worship as essential tools for enduring during tough times, inspired by real-life stories. Learn from Joseph and Peter's epic undertakings as chief examples of overcoming life's adversities. Realize the liberating force of the spoken word of God and ponder on its relevance in day-to-day life. Immerse yourself in the joy of classic Christian literature and embrace outdoor activities as meditations on God's creation. My special guest is Carol McLeod Step into the sphere of faith with Carol McLeod, a woman whose sole purpose lies in communicating the timeless truths of Scripture. As a mother, a grandmother, and a woman of faith, Carol has spent years finding strength and peace in the teachings of the Bible. Her drive to kindle a ray of hope in the hearts of the disheartened led her to write inspiring Bible studies. Sharing from her own experiences of pain and loss, Carol offers a powerful testimony that even on life's darkest days, God's love and faithfulness shine through. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Join Carol McLeod's Bible study: Timeless based on the book of First Peter. Visit Carol McLeod's website at Carolmcleodministries.com for more information on her books, podcasts, TV show, and blog. Email Carol at Carol@Carolmcleodministries.com to join the private prayer group Warrior Moms for mothers with prodigal children or those who have been cut off by their grown children. Purchase Carol McLeod's book, Meanwhile, which focuses on the life of Joseph and offers insights on living well in the midst of devastation. Explore the concept of finding purpose in pain and how God can use evil for good by reading Genesis 50:20 and reflecting on Joseph's story. Consider attending Carol Roper's retreat at The Cove, Operation Restoration, which draws inspiration from the restoration of Joseph and his family. Reflect on the hope and strength found in the Bible and seek comfort in knowing that God is with you in your deepest moments of pain. Pray for your children, especially if they have strayed from their faith, using fighting scriptures such as John's promise that God hears

If you or someone you know and love has a special needs child or adult in their life then you are going to love hearing Lynn Blackburn's story about her sweet daughter, Emma. Emma was diagnosed with Rubinstein-Taybi Syndrome when she was a baby and Lynn says that having a child with a disability rocked her world, but God was both patient and faithful as she and her husband, Brian, wrestled with their new reality. Being Emma's mom has changed her in ways she never could have imagined. On this episode Lynn shares the joys and challenges of raising a child with special needs into adulthood. Emma is now 20 years old, and Lynn tells what the next chapter of life will look like for her and their family. She also shares practical takeaways and some guilt-free advice for taking care of special needs children to adulthood and beyond. Lynn is the author of ten Christian romantic suspense books, homeschools her boys and loves sharing stories of her family life to encourage other parents navigating their own family challenges.

Today's guest is the author of one of my most favorite books, An Intentional Life: A Life-Giving Invitation to Uncover Your Passions and Unlock Your Purpose. I was so excited when Kara Stott quickly agreed to be on the podcast, and we became fast friends. She's passionate about connecting women and helping them grow in their relationship with the Lord, to understand their calling and to step out into the things God has asked them to do. But after working so hard building up her Pursuit Ministry, at what looked like the pinnacle of her success, God called her to lay it all down. Through that act of obedience, she began to understand what the really important things in life are. This book talks about her journey to live an intentional life that honors God, your family, your church, community and yourself.  One of my favorite observations she talks about in this episode is when she says, "If Jesus spent 30 years in family and three years in ministry... we have this all backward." That was an eye-opening statement for me. Kara also shares her heart for the family table, her husband's struggle with PTSD and one of the fun things she and her husband do to keep their marriage fresh and focused on each other. We cover so much good stuff in this episode I know you'll walk away with lots of new ways to live an intentional life.