Don't Mom Alone Podcast

Knox and I recently had the incredible opportunity to go on a Compassion International vision trip to El Salvador. Today, I'm joined by my friend Nicki Koziarz to help recap this life-changing experience. Nicki is an author, Bible teacher, and podcaster—and also a mom of six, including three boys adopted from Haiti. She brings a powerful perspective on the global impact Compassion is making and the heartbreaking reality that, in many cases, poverty is the only reason a mother has to give up her child. We dive into how Compassion is partnering with local churches to go into the hardest places—providing food, medical care, and the hope of Christ to transform lives and futures. Nicki also shares about their amazing Survival Program, which walks alongside mothers from pregnancy through a child's first year, ensuring families have the support they need to stay together when possible.  I'm so grateful for the chance to witness firsthand what God is doing through Compassion in El Salvador—and I can't wait to share more with you in this episode. Connect with Nicki Koziarz:  Website:  Nicki Koziarz – Author | Speaker | Bible Teacher Facebook: Nicki Koziarz Instagram:  nickikoziarz Links Mentioned:   Last time Nicki was on the show (Ep 121) *Join Heather and Help End Child Poverty* Compassion Survival - Compassion International  Related Episodes: Secure Borders and the Compassionate Christian :: Bri Stensrud [Ep 455] Exploring Global Cultures at Home :: Dorina Lazo Gilmore-Young [Ep 327] Compassion Changes Everything :: Jonathan Almonte [Ep 264] Featured Sponsors:  Outschool-Get $30 off your families first month of Outschool when you use our link: https://outschool.com/DMA and use code DMA at checkout. Function–In the spirit of Long Live and taking control of your health, get a $100 credit towards your annual membership at: www.functionhealth.com/DMA This $100 credit is only for the first thousand listeners Thrive Causemetics–Try your new trusty favorites with an exclusive set for our listeners. New customers can get the Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara and a mini-sized Brilliant Eye Brightener at a special set price with free shipping at ThriveCausemetics.com/DMA. Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Kids all read at different ages, stages, and times, but how can we, as parents, ensure they are getting all the tools and skills they need to become great readers? Today, Maya Smart joins me to talk about her new book Reading for Our Lives. She delves into the science of how kids become not just readers, but also comprehend and think critically. Here is some of what we cover: Why you are your child's chief vocabulary builder TALK stands for: Take turns, Ask questions, Label and point, Keep the conversation going Why literacy still matters—even in an AI world Literacy is relational, not just instructional Early vocabulary and sound awareness are critical foundations Connect with Maya Smart:  Website:  Maya Smart - Helping Parents Raise Readers | Become a Reader Facebook: Maya Smart Instagram:  Maya Smart - Parent Educator and Literacy Advocate (@mayasmarty) Links Mentioned:   Reading for Our Lives: By Maya Smart Related Episodes: How to Stay Calm with School Stress :: Kirk Martin {Ep 88} “What is Typical When Learning to Talk?” :: Stephanie Cohen [Ep 486] Supporting Students with Dyslexia :: Kerri Irvin [Ep 317] Featured Sponsors:  Active Skin Repair: Visit ActiveSkinRepair.com to learn more about Active Skin Repair and to get 20% off your order, use code:DMA.  Remi: No waiting rooms. No overpriced bills. Just a better way to protect your teeth while you sleep. Try Remi risk-free at shopremi.com/DMA and use CODE DMA to get up to 50% off your nightguard at checkout. Honeylove: Treat yourself to the most comfortable shapewear on earth and save 20% Off sitewide at honeylove.com/DMA. After you purchase, they'll ask you where you heard about them. PLEASE support our show and tell them we sent you. Experience the new standard in shapewear with Honeylove. Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

In this episode, I sit down with Meta's Global Director of Public Policy, who also happens to be a mom of two teenagers, to discuss the realities of raising kids in a digital-first world. There is a lot that goes into ensuring our teens are safe online, and Tara explains how Instagram is becoming a leader in this arena. Whether you're worried about screen time, inappropriate content, or online bullying, this conversation is packed with insight and practical help.  Here are some topics we cover: How Meta uses cutting-edge technology for age verification  The three biggest concerns parents have about social media- who can contact their teen on Instagram, whether the content their teen sees is age-appropriate, and how much time their teen is spending on social media Encouraging open conversations when your teen sees (or does) something online they shouldn't Connect with Tara Hopkins:   Instagram: Tara Hopkins Links Mentioned:    Meta Family Center Related Episodes: Creating a Family Tech Plan :: Andrea Davis [Ep 470] Cultivating a Healthy Relationship with Tech :: Joey Odom [Ep 425] Braving the Tech Landscape Through Connection :: Chris McKenna [Ep 424] Creating Digital Safe Spaces :: Chris McKenna [Ep 360] Featured Sponsors:  Function: I highly recommend Function. Learn more and join using my link. The first 1000 get a $100 credit toward their membership. Visit www.functionhealth.com/DMA to own your health. Active Skin Repair: Visit ActiveSkinRepair.com to learn more about Active Skin Repair and to get 20% off your order, use code:DMA. Thrive Market: Skip the junk without overspending. Head over to ThriveMarket.com/DMA to get 30% off your first order and a FREE $60 gift.  Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Today Katie Kimball is here to show us how to help our kids gain life skills that last and contribute to the family. Katie founded a program called Life Skills Now which covers topics from oil changes, to cooking, to entrepreneurship. She shares that competence equals confidence and with the rise of anxiety and depression, we want to give our kids all of the confidence and skills to succeed in this world. Summer is a perfect time to begin! Here are some topics we cover:  Why parenting can't be put on autopilot- we need to shift and change constantly  A list of 100 practical, emotional, and intellectual skills your kids can learn Breaking chores into doable chunks instead of “just go clean the bathroom” How to create a "Summer Skills List" with your kids that fosters ownership and choice How to teach them skills that are hands-on, minds-on, hearts-on  How critical thinking and open-ended questions shape kids' future decision-making Connect with Katie Kimball:  Website:  kidscookrealfood.com/dontmomalone  Facebook: Kids Cook Real Food Instagram:  Katie Kimball | TEDx speaker (@katiekimballkidscook) Links Mentioned:   Sign up for the #LifeSkillsNow Camp! (FREE for the week of June 9th to 13th). Online Cooking Class for Kids - Kids Cook Real Food Stress Mastery Challenge for Busy Moms Kid-Friendly Kitchen Tools and Knives - Kids Cook Real Food Related Episodes: Raising Critical Thinkers :: Julie Bogart [Ep 474] The Lazy Genius Kitchen :: Kendra Adachi [Ep 365] Raising Kids Who Can Stand Alone :: Cynthia Yanof – Summer of Mentorship – Wk 2 [Ep 415] Featured Sponsors:  HIYA health: We've worked out a special deal with Hiya for their best selling children's vitamin. Receive 50% off your first order. To claim this deal you must go to hiyahealth.com/DMA. This deal is not available on their regular website. Get your kids the full-body nourishment they need to grow into healthy adults Thrive Causemetics: Try your new trusty favorites with an exclusive set for our listeners. New customers can get the Liquid Lash extensions mascara and a mini-sized Brilliant Eye Brightener at a special set price with free shipping at thrivecausemetics.com/DMA.  Outschool: Get $30 off your families first month of Outschool when you use our link: https://outschool.com/DMA and use code DMA at checkout. Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Today Eryn Lynum joins me to share about the beautiful connection between nature and rest. Sabbath has become such a hot topic right now but Eryn had to learn from age 14 how to rest like her life depended on it when she was diagnosed with Addison's disease. She is now a homeschooling mom of four, a master naturalist, author, and business owner. Her family is committed to their family values and weekly sabbath amid a very full life. She reminds us of some deep ancient truths that God created us to fully live and gives us tools to find new rhythms. We explore: How Jesus taught through nature The meaning of “Shabbat” — to stop and to delight How to build in Selah pauses (even if you only have 5 minutes!) God meant for the sabbath to be a celebration, not a stuffy rule following day  Rest is the perfection of vital activity- what is vital in this season for your family  Connect with Eryn Lynum:  Website:  Eryn Lynum Author Facebook: Eryn Lynum Author and Speaker Instagram:  Eryn Lynum | Master Naturalist and Author (@erynlynumauthor) Links Mentioned:   The Nature of Rest: By Eryn Lynum Nat Theo Podcast | Eryn Lynum Rooted in Wonder: By Eryn Lynum Tired of Being Tired: By Jess Connolly Related Episodes: Sidetracked with Jess Connolly :: Cynthia and Heather [Ep 484] Which Type of Rest Do You Need? :: Saundra Dalton-Smith [Ep 209] Thinking Differently about Sabbath :: Shelly Miller [Ep 181] Featured Sponsors:  Gabb–Protecting your kids has never been easier. For the best deals, sign up to Gabb today–no contract required- at Gabb.com/dma. Terms and conditions apply. Green Chef–Make this season your most delicious yet with Green Chef. Head to greenchef.com/50ALONE and use the code 50ALONE to get 50% off your first month, then 20% off for two months with free shipping.  Function Health– I highly recommend Function. Learn more and join using my link. The first 1000 get a $100 credit toward their membership. Visit www.functionhealth.com/DMA to own your health. Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Today we are live and in person in my office with Lee Cordon and Barrett Ball! My real-life friends have created a comprehensive guide for senior year and beyond. We cover the logistical, emotional, and spiritual challenges that every family walks through—from managing the college application process to preparing for big transitions at home. This conversation is packed with practical tips, encouragement, and insights every high school parent needs to hear. Here are some of the many topics covered in today's episode: Building a realistic college list and setting financial expectations early Finding safe support systems that don't fuel anxiety for students or parents  Summer prep checklist: housing deposits, senior photos, Greek life, dorm lists What to get started on in Junior year to make Senior year more enjoyable and less stressful Practical gift ideas and etiquette around graduation announcements  How to wait well with our kids and stay calm and collected to set the tone for your home Connect with Lee Cordon and Barrett Ball:  Website:  Do Say Give Facebook: Do Say Give Instagram:  DoSayGive (@dosaygive) Links Mentioned:   A Mom's Companion Guide to Senior Year Membership | DoSayGive Code for 20% off - HEATHER Apply to college with Common App  Electric Kettle 10 Conversations Families Should Have Before Senior Year Under $30 High School Graduation Gifts Under $40 High School Graduation Gifts High School Graduation Etiquette 101 Related Episodes: Demystifying Financial Aid :: Kristi Steele [Ep 440] Long Game Parenting :: Melanie Shankle and Sophie Hudson [Ep 337] How to Stay Calm with School Stress :: Kirk Martin {Ep 88} Featured Sponsors:  Honeylove–Treat yourself to the most comfortable and innovative bras on earth and save 20% Off sitewide at honeylove.com/DMA Storyworth–Give the “dads” in your life a unique, heartfelt gift you'll all cherish for years–storyworth! Right now, save $10 during their Father's Day sale when you go to Storyworth.com/dma.  Active Skin Repair–Visit ActiveSkinRepair.com to learn more about Active Skin Repair and to get 20% off your order, use code:DMA.  Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Today our favorite counselors, David Thomas and Sissy Goff, are back to talk about their new project- children's books! So much has happened over the last few years and they are beginning to see the onset of anxiety drop to age 6 from 8 years old previously. They created these books to give kids the words and emotional tools to do hard things and decrease anxiety, including a golden retriever feelings chart. As usual, they pack so much advice into every moment, here are some things we cover: Escape and Avoidance vs. Support and Challenge in parenting  Connect over correction- we lose connections when we try to control the environment Kids are becoming less resilient-  they learn they are capable by experience How to help an introverted child with friendships How to be a good loser- turn it into something constructive How to understand your strong-willed child Why teen boys are not taking risks  Connect with David Thomas and Sissy Goff:  Website:  Raising Boys and Girls Facebook: Raising Boys and Girls Instagram:  Raising Boys and Girls (@raisingboysandgirls) Links Mentioned:   Owen Learns He Has What It Takes: By David Thomas Lucy Learns to Be Brave: By Sissy Goff Braver, Stronger, Smarter: By Sissy Goff Strong and Smart: By David Thomas Quiet Power: By Susan Cain Related Episodes: Helping Our Kids Foster Friendships :: David Thomas and Sissy Goff [Ep 338] Getting Brave About Anxiety :: Sissy Goff [Ep 311] The Worry-Free Parent :: Sissy Goff [Ep 421] Raising Worry-Free Girls :: Sissy Goff [Bonus] Helping Socially Anxious Boys :: David Thomas [Ep 451] Raising Emotionally Strong Boys :: David Thomas [Ep 368] A Lil Help with Boys and Screens :: David Thomas [Bonus] Understanding Boys Better :: David Thomas [Ep 315] Featured Sponsors:  Thrive Market: Skip the junk without overspending. Head over to thrivemarket.com/DMA to get 30% off your first order and a FREE $60 gift.  Function Health:  I highly recommend Function. Learn more and join using my link. The first 1000 get a $100 credit toward their membership. Visit www.functionhealth.com/DMA to own your health. Thrive Causemetics: Try your new trusty favorites with an exclusive set for our listeners. New customers can get the Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara and a mini-sized Brilliant Eye Brightener at a special set price with free shipping available at thrivecausemetics.com/DMA. Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Today Emmy-winning actor Patricia Heaton joins us for a candid conversation on motherhood, career, and raising four boys. We talk about the pressure parents feel to over-schedule kids, the beauty of simplicity (just give them a cardboard box!), and how God ordered her journey through motherhood and acting.  She and her husband, David Hunt, are in the business of producing movies and directed Unexpected, a film about the emotional ups and downs of infertility. Patricia believes that the best way into tough subjects is through comedy and this movie does just that. Stick around till the end where she shares her advice for helping four boys flourish -including her list of things to do as a family. Connect with Patricia Heaton:  Website:  Home - Patricia Heaton Facebook: Patricia Heaton Instagram:  Patricia Heaton (@patriciaheaton) Links Mentioned:   Unexpected–Stream on Amazon Prime Everybody Loves Raymond (TV Series 1996–2005)  The Middle (TV Series 2009–2018) Warhammer Ordinary People (1980) On the Waterfront (1954) My Left Foot (1989)  Amazing Grace (2006) Mastermedia International – Serving the media industry as a trusted voice of faith.  Related Episodes: Summer Movie Edition (Inside Out, Tomorrowland) :: Family Movie Moms {Ep 79} Annie, Into the Woods, and Night at the Museum 3 :: Family Movie Moms {Ep 53} Moms and the Best Christmas Pageant Ever :: Dallas and Amanda Jenkins [Ep 501] Featured Sponsors:  Remi: No waiting rooms. No overpriced bills. Just a better way to protect your teeth while you sleep. ○ Try Remi risk-free at shopremi.com/DMA and use CODE DMA to get up to 50% off your nightguard at checkout. Pair Eyewear: See the world with fresh eyes. Go to paireyewear.com and use the code DONTMOM for 15% off your first pair. Support the show by mentioning Don't Mom Alone sent you in the post-checkout survey! Hiya Health: We've worked out a special deal with Hiya for their best selling children's vitamin. Receive 50% off your first order. To claim this deal you must go to hiyahealth.com/DMA. This deal is not available on their regular website. Go to H-I-Y-A-H-E-A-L-T-H dot com slash D-M-A and get your kids the full-body nourishment they need to grow into healthy adults. Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Do you often feel like something is holding you back? You can't quite get to where you want to go professionally, relationally, or in personal habits and goals?  Today Mary Marantz is here to tell us about the mental shifts that change everything. Mary's story is riveting from growing up in a single-wide trailer in the mountains full of dirt and memories to Yale law school, she has stories to tell! Through her many experiences, she has learned how our self-limiting thoughts can hold us back and how to overcome them. Not through the typical “get it boss girl” mentality but practical steps that lead us to a life we want to live and enjoy, and how to lead our kids well in the area of achievement.  Here are some of our topics: Why fear is a boring liar — and how to manage it The "fear of success" and why it keeps us playing small How childhood environments shape adult confidence: the power of speaking life over yourself and your kids Feeling like everyone has a manual on how to do life and we have missed it How to handle imposter syndrome and look for the “evidence to the contrary” of the lies in our head  Connect with Mary Marantz:  Website:  Mary Marantz - Home Facebook: The Official Mary Marantz Insiders Community! Instagram:  Mary Bess Marantz (@marymarantz) Links Mentioned:   Underestimated: By Mary Mrantz Slow Growth Equals Strong Roots: By Mary Marantz Dirt: Growing: By Mary Marantz The Agile Mind: By Wilma Koutstaal Quiz Underestimated Related Episodes: Discovering the Gift of You When You Feel Lost in Motherhood :: Chrystal Evans Hurst [Ep 507] When You Need a Personal Revival :: Cleere Cherry Reaves [Ep 504] Choosing Connection Over Critique :: Rachel Macy Stafford [Ep 280] Featured Sponsors:  Branch Basics : Make this year the year you say goodbye to toxic products! Right now, our listeners get 15% off the Premium Starter Kit by using code [DMA] at BranchBasics.com. Make 2025 your cleanest, healthiest year yet with Branch Basics! Function Health: Function currently has a waitlist, but they are offering my audience the chance to skip it! Head to functionhealth.com/DMA or enter code DMA when signing up to skip the waitlist! Thrive Causemetics: Try your new trusty favorites with an exclusive set for our listeners. New customers can get the Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara and a mini-sized Brilliant Eye Brightener at a special set price with free shipping available at thrivecausemetics.com/DMA . Or save more with 20% off your first order.  Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Get ready to laugh! Today Melissa Radke joins me for a hilarious and heartfelt conversation. Her new book Chicken-Fried Women will make you giggle, cry, and think about the women and friendships in your life. We cover many hilarious topics including spray tans, garage sale bras, swim gym, southern church in the 80's, and laundry on the couch. At the heart of the book is how to navigate adult friendships and here is more of what we talked about: What it means to find your people—your chicken-fried women- battered and bruised but still tender on the inside Healing a mother-daughter relationship with kindness and boundaries How to divorce a girlfriend (and maybe get her back) Stick around to the end where Melissa shares the best advice on what it feels like to build your own table (even when it's hard or uncomfortable)  Connect with Melissa Radke:  Website:  HOME | MELISSA RADKE Facebook: Melissa Radke | Facebook Instagram:  Melissa Radke - Lifestyle, Parenting, Relationships (@msmelissaradke) Links Mentioned:   The Radkes (TV Series 2019) - IMDb Chicken-Fried Women: By Melissa Radke CynthiaHeather (@thesidetrackedshow)  Related Episodes: Your Funny Mom Stories [Ep 302] Don't Dad Alone :: Dustin Nickerson [Ep 472] Sidetracked by Naming Body Parts, Steaks for Lunch, and Summer Dilemmas (when you're not in Italy) :: Cynthia and Heather [Ep 476] Featured Sponsors:  Gabb phones and watches: Protecting your kids has never been easier. For the best deals, sign up to Gabb today – no contract required – at GABB.com/dma.  Storyworth: Give all the “moms” in your life a unique, heartfelt gift you'll all cherish for years–storyworth! Right now save $10 on your first purchase when you go to storyworth.com/dma. Function Health: Function currently has a waitlist, but they are offering my audience the chance to skip it! Head to functionhealth.com/DMA or enter code DMA when signing up to skip the waitlist! Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Today Dr. Kelly Jameson joins me to help us understand the many dynamics of teen friendships. Although this episode mainly applies to girl moms there is advice for the boy mom in this episode as well! Kelly is a trained systems therapist who practices narrative therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. Through her many years of listening to families and teens, she has learned how to navigate the difficult years of teen and tween friendships and how to help parents coach their kids. Here is some of what we cover: The rise of “friend hoarding” and large group dynamics in 2025 What qualifies as “mean girl” behavior—and why it's all about power dynamics Coaching sons to stay out of the drama—and why that matters How moms are becoming more enmeshed in their kid's friendships and the damage that causes The 3 types of friendships every kid should understand Connect with Dr. Kelly Jameson:  Website:  Kelly Jameson - Therapy. Speaking. Consulting. Facebook: Kelly Jameson, PhD | Facebook Instagram:  Kelly Jameson, PhD (@drkellyjameson) Links Mentioned:   Queen Bees and Wannabes: by Rosalind Wiseman  Related Episodes: Back-to-School and Tech Toolkit  :: Dr. Kelly Jameson [Ep 422] Helping Our Kids Foster Friendships :: David Thomas and Sissy Goff [Ep 338] Important Topics to Cover with Tweens and Teens about Manners, Technology and Friendship :: Lee Cordon [Ep 408] Featured Sponsors:  Thrive Market: Ready to make the switch? Go to ThriveMarket.com/dma for thirty percent off your first order, plus a FREE sixty dollar gift!  The Chosen: Last Supper–The people welcome Jesus as king and expect a revolution. Threatened, the leaders will go to any length to ensure this Passover meal is Jesus' last. You can get your tickets now at TheChosenLastSupper.com Thrive Causemetics: Try your new trusty favorites with an exclusive set for our listeners. New customers can get the Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara and a mini-sized Brilliant Eye Brightener at a special set price with free shipping. Or save more with 20% off your first order at thrivecausemetics.com/DMA.  Honeylove: Treat yourself to the most comfortable shapewear on earth and save 20% Off sitewide at honeylove.com/DMA  Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Grief is a journey that no one wants to walk, yet so many of us will experience deep loss in our lifetime. In this episode, Colleen and Erin have an open and honest conversation about Erin's journey through unimaginable loss—losing her husband in a plane crash, navigating her children's grief, the heartbreak of her mother's suicide, and later, the devastating loss of her son in a car accident. Through her story, Erin shares what it looks like to carry grief in our bodies, the crisis of faith that can come with loss, and how she found her way through the darkness. From those tragedies was born Jessica's house, a place for families to walk through grief and be supported. And now a book When Grief Comes Home that shares the tools she has learned through so many trials.  Here are some topics we cover: The impact of trauma and grief on the body and nervous system The importance of modeling healthy grief and emotional expression for children How to come alongside grieving families in tangible, practical ways The unique challenges couples face when grieving a child and how to let someone grieve in their own way Brightsiding- what it is and how to speak to someone in a dark season  Connect with Erin and Colleen:  Website:  Jessica's House Facebook: Jessica's House Instagram:  Jessica's House (@jessicas_house) Links Mentioned:   NACG When Grief Comes Home: By Erin Leigh Nelson and Colleen Montague Related Episodes: When Moms Walk through Grief :: Stacey Thacker {Ep 76} The Ministry of Presence in a Broken World :: Tess Clarke [Ep. 252] Processing Grief, Infertility, and Loss in Community :: Julie Fowler [Ep 502] Featured Sponsors:  The Chosen Last Supper: You can preorder your tickets for the 3-part theatrical release at TheChosenLastSupper.com. Hiya Health: We've worked out a special deal with Hiya for their best selling children's vitamin. Receive 50% off your first order. To claim this deal you must go to hiyahealth.com/DMA. This deal is not available on their regular website. Get your kids the full-body nourishment they need to grow into healthy adults. Purity Woods: Honestly, I have never seen a skincare product of this quality at this reasonable of a price point. And thankfully, the good people at Purity Woods have a special coupon code specifically for my listeners, so you can try it for yourself for 27% off today. Just go to puritywoods.com/DMA or enter DMA at checkout. Pair Eyewear: See the world with fresh eyes. Go to paireyewear.com and use code DONTMOM for 15% off your first pair. Mention the show in your post-checkout survey. Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Do you often desire to disciple your neighbors, friends, or acquaintances but don't know how?  Today Courtney Garrett joins me to talk about her amazing tools to help Christians invite people into going deeper with Jesus. She is an accidental homeschool mom with years of ministry experience who saw a need for discipleship tools. Often people have grown up in church and pieced Bible stories together but they may have gaps in their view of God and His character. Courtney has written 101 Christianity -a study to help direct conversation and lead people to follow Jesus. Here are some topics we cover… The difference between being a believer and a committed follower of Jesus Stories of high school and college students using 101 Christianity to lead well How to ask people into a discipleship study in a gracious way  How knowing the character of God can help in hard times  Ideas for discipleship with your family Connect with Courtney Garrett:  Website:  101 Christianity Instagram:  Courtney Garrett (@courtney_garrett_) Links Mentioned:   101 Christianity Podcast - Apple Podcasts A Parent's Guide to 101: By Courtney Garrett 101: Discovering the Character of God: By Courtney Garrett  Related Episodes: Modeling Faith: Family Spiritual Habits that Stick :: Chris Pappalardo and Clayton Greene [Ep 512] Discipleship 101 with Cathy Price {Ep. 9} You Deserve a Mentor :: Susie Davis [Ep 262] Featured Sponsors:  Cure Hydration: Hydration goes beyond just drinking water—it's about replenishing the electrolytes we lose through sweat, sleep, alcohol, and daily activities. Water alone isn't enough to do the job! That's why you need to try Cure: the electrolyte drink mix that tastes as amazing as it makes you feel. For Don't Mom Alone listeners, Cure is offering 20% off your first order! Stay hydrated and feel your best by visiting curehydration.com/DMA and using promo code [DMA] at checkout.  Branch Basics: Make this year the year you say goodbye to toxic products! Right now, our listeners get 15% off the Premium Starter Kit by using code [DMA] at BranchBasics.com. Make 2025 your cleanest, healthiest year yet with Branch Basics! Thrive Causemetics: Try your new trusty favorites with an exclusive set for our listeners. New customers can get the Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara and a mini-sized Brilliant Eye Brightener at a special set price with free shipping available at thrivecausemetics.com/DMA or get 20% off your first order.  The Chosen-Last Supper: The people welcome Jesus as king and expect a revolution. Threatened, the leaders will go to any length to ensure this Passover meal is Jesus' last. You can get your tickets now at TheChosenLastSupper.com.  Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Do you have a child with autism or neurodivergent tendencies? Do you have a friend with a child that needs support but you're not sure how to show up?  Today Carrie, Kate, and Adrian are here to share their deeply personal stories about their kids and how autism has shaped their families. The amazing thing is each of their experiences is so different- and each of them has approached this diagnosis uniquely. They co-wrote a book called Autism Out Loud that covers a huge variety of challenges. We barely scratched the surface but here are some things we covered… The hidden, unexpected grief of special needs parenting How raising a child with autism magnifies stress in marriages Siblings and how autism affects their lives- the joys and sadness that come with a neurodivergent sibling and how to keep that communication open What parents of autistic children really need from friends and family It takes risk, invitation, and vulnerability to find your people and a community that can rally around and support you  Connect with Carrie, Kate, and Adrian:  Website:  Tales of an Educated Debutante - Adrian Harrold Wood, PhD Website: Finding Cooper's Voice | Welcome to the Secret World of Autism Website: Carrie Cariello Instagram:  Adrian Harrold Wood, PhD (@talesofaneducateddebutante) Instagram: Kate (@findingcoopersvoice) Facebook: Carrie Cariello Links Mentioned:   Autism Out Loud: By Carrie Carieel, Kate Swenson, and Adrian Wood Related Episodes: Parenting Neurodivergent Children–Summer Edition :: Carrie Cassell [Ep 413] Parenting as a Highly Sensitive Person :: Mary Van Geffen [Ep 438] When Your Child is on the Autism Spectrum (Part One) :: Terri Conlin [Ep 182] When Your Child is on the Autism Spectrum (Part Two) :: Terri Conlin [Ep 182] Featured Sponsors:  GoPure Beauty: With over 1 MIllion jars sold, this beauty secret is no longer a secret. For a limited time, our listeners get 25% off goPure with code [DMA] at checkout. Just head to gopurebeauty.com/DMA, use code [DMA], and you're all set Purity Woods: Honestly, I have never seen a skincare product of this quality at this reasonable of a price point. And thankfully, the good people at Purity Woods have a special coupon code specifically for my listeners, so you can try it for yourself for 27% off today. Just go to puritywoods.com/DMA or enter DMA at checkout. The Chosen: Last Supper : So text your favorite person, grab your favorite box of movie theater candy, and go see The Chosen: Last Supper in theaters. You can get your tickets now at TheChosenLastSupper.com. Green Chef: Thrive all year with clean, easy meals from Green Chef. Go to GreenChef.com/alonefree and use code alonefree to get started with FREE Salads for two months plus 50% off your first box.” Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Is it possible to have a well-rested baby without sacrificing attachment? Are you an exhausted mom who struggles with the nighttime routine?  Today Eve Squires, a sleep consultant with over fifteen years of experience, shares her journey and approach to improving infant sleep without resorting to harsh methods. Sleep is one of the most debated parenting topics, and in the past, I have avoided this topic because it is often confusing with conflicting advice. Eve was exactly the right person to do a deep dive on how to help children sleep through the night, without losing that special bond.  In this episode we cover: How to improve sleep without the "cry it out" method The hunger vs. habit debate—how to know if your baby truly needs to eat at night Nap windows and how to structure baby and toddler awake time for better naps Replacing sleep incentives with healthier soothing techniques Why some babies sleep well while others don't (and potential neurological factors) Connect with Eve Squires:  Website: Calm and Bright Sleep Support Instagram:  CALM and BRIGHT SLEEP SUPPORT (@calmandbrightsleepsupport) Links Mentioned:   Infant Sleep Plans | Free Self-Assessment | Calm and Bright The Rested Baby Plan - Calm and Bright Sleep Support Related Episodes: Shepherding Healthy Sleep Habits :: Jenn and Robin of Sleepy Cues [Ep 230] That's Me. . . sleep deprived and needing Jesus :: Jennie and Sally {Ep 106} Ages and Stages Series—Infants/Toddlers :: Rachel Norman [Ep 377] Featured Sponsors:  Thrive Causemetics: Celebrate the women in your life with Thrive Causemetics. Luxury beauty that gives back. o Right now, you can get an exclusive 20% off your first order at thrivecausemetics.com/DMA Honeylove: Treat yourself to the most comfortable shapewear on earth and save 20% Off sitewide at honeylove.com/DMA Thrive Market: Ready to make the switch? Go to ThriveMarket.com/dma for 30% off your first order, plus a FREE sixty dollar gift!  Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Do you feel like you're reacting instead of responding, constantly putting out fires, and struggling to manage your emotions—especially anger?  Today Elizabeth Andreyevskiy joins me to share her journey from explosive to calm in motherhood. Maybe you've tried counseling, read the books, and learned the tools, but implementing them in real life still feels impossible. This podcast is packed with practical tools to help us manage the chaos of our homes. God wants us to be whole and to care for our minds, bodies, and spirits so that we can care for our families daily.  In this episode we cover: How unmet expectations, physical clutter, and negative mindsets fuel frustration The power of meeting your own basic needs (eating, water, and sleeping matter!) Practical ways to create space for self-care, reflection, and increased emotional capacity Creative ways to get some alone time and reset What to do when you do have an explosion of anger and how to bring reconciliation Connect with Elizabeth Andreyevskiy:  Website:  Anger Coach for Christian moms Instagram:  Elizabeth (@emotionally_healthy_legacy) Links Mentioned:   Anger Management Coach for Christian moms Emotionally Healthy Legacy Podcast END MOM SHAME TRAINING  Related Episodes: How Do I Regulate My Own Emotions? :: Charissa Fry [Ep 482] Summer of Mentorship Changing the Atmosphere of Your Home with Positive Parenting :: Ralphie Jacobs [Ep 456] Focus on Growth vs. Guilt :: Lisa Bevere [Ep 291] What Triggers Your Angry Reaction? :: Amber Lia {Ep 108} Featured Sponsors:  BetterHelp–This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Build your support system, with Betterhelp Visit BetterHelp.com/DMA to get 10% off your first month.  Gabb Mobile —Protecting your kids has never been easier. For the best deals, sign up to Gabb today – no contract required – at GABB.com/dma.  GiveHugz–Whether you're treating yourself or looking for a thoughtful gift for someone special, these heatable, coolable plushies are a hug you can hold onto. Check out GiveHugz.co and use the code DMA for 20% off your first order.  Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Do you want to lead your home well spiritually but are not sure how? Do you need more creative and fun ideas on how to point your kids to Jesus?  Today, Chris Pappalardo and Clayton Greene join me to talk about spiritual rhythms with our kids. They share plenty of ideas on creating a space for spiritual growth that doesn't need to be a checklist-driven, box-checking exercise. Their new book discusses establishing morning and evening rhythms that align with how God wired us to connect spiritually and practically with Him.  We talk about modeling the gospel in a way that is authentic and free from unnecessary baggage for our kids to carry into the future. I get personal by sharing how my dad modeled this in my life—and that's really what these habits create: our kids modeling the habits and behaviors we practice that point to Jesus. We cover- 6 Key Shifts for Building Lasting Spiritual Habits Real-Life Examples: like how to practically walk out a spiritual habit with our kids Navigating Different Seasons: Dealing with a spouse or teens who are not on board And we each reflect on how we learned spiritual formation from our parents Connect with Chris and Clayton:  Website:  GoodKind - From the Makers of Advent Blocks Instagram:  GoodKind (@goodkind.co) Links Mentioned:   Christmas | GoodKind Building Spiritual Habits in the Home: by Chris Pappalardo and Clayton Greene Habits of the Household: by Justin Whitmeal Earley The Common Rule: by Justin Whitmel Earley GratiKube from GoodKind Atomic Habits: by James Clear Practicing the Way: by John Mark Comer Related Episodes: Perspective from Pastor's Kid and Single Parent :: Barnabas Piper [Ep 163] Stewarding Sacred and Spiritual Disciplines at Home :: Jennifer Pepito [Ep 464] Family Transformation Starts with Personal Revival :: KJ Perdomo [Ep 227] Featured Sponsors:  The Chosen–You can get your tickets now at TheChosenLastSupper.com. preorder your tickets for the 3-part theatrical release. Text your favorite person, grab your favorite box of movie theater candy, and go see The Chosen: Last Supper in theaters.  Hiya Health– We've worked out a special deal with Hiya for their best selling children's vitamin. Receive 50% off your first order. To claim this deal you must go to hiyahealth.com/DMA. get your kids the full-body nourishment they need to grow into healthy adults. Purity Woods– Honestly, I have never seen a skincare product of this quality at this reasonable of a price point. And thankfully, the good people at Purity Woods have a special coupon code specifically for my listeners, so you can try it for yourself for 27% off today. Just go to puritywoods.com/DMA or enter DMA at checkout. Pair Eyewear–See the world with fresh eyes. Go to paireyewear.com and use code DONTMOM for 15% off your first pair. And support the show by mentioning Don't Mom Alone sent you in the post-checkout survey.  Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Have you ever been to your doctor or OBGYN and felt that your symptoms were dismissed? Do you know how to identify the main issues of perimenopause and menopause? In this follow up episode with Dr. Kamilia Smith, we continue our deep dive into perimenopause, exploring how it impacts women's emotions, physical changes, and overall well-being. She clearly breaks down some of the hormonal fluctuations women go through and what some potential treatments are for each of those symptoms in a very nuanced field. Perimenopause can bring emotional upheaval and weight gain, exacerbated by hormonal changes that are often ignored. The stress of the "sandwich generation" — caring for our aging parents while raising children — adds to the emotional load.  We cover so many helpful topics- Eggs and AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone): these levels help indicate how your ovaries are functioning How the term bioidentical hormones is often used as a marketing tool Hormonal changes, along with sleep disruptions, decreased mobility, and shifts in eating habits, all contribute to weight gain during perimenopause Mental health can take a hit during this stage, with symptoms like mood swings, insomnia, attention deficit, and night sweats. Learning how to manage these mental health changes is critical to our health Connect with Dr. Kamilia Smith:  Website:  Kamilia Smith Voted Best Dallas Gynecologist | Charleston House Facebook: Charleston House Gynecology Instagram:  Charleston House - DALLAS WOMENS HEALTH (@charlestonhousegyn) Links Mentioned:   Function Health • 100 Healthy Years The SHIFT: Perimenopause Unscripted (A North Texas Women's Midlife Movement) BALANCE: Perimenopause Documentary / Docuseries THE (M) FACTOR – Shredding the Silence on Menopause Related Episodes: Is This Normal? A Women's Health Conversation  :: Dr. Kamilia Smith [Ep 447] Overcoming Barriers to Sexual Intimacy :: Nancy Houston [Ep 206] Your Body is GOOD :: Jess Connolly [Ep 329] Featured Sponsors:  GiveHugz–Check out GiveHugz.co and use the code DMA for 20% off your first order. Trust me, you'll want one for you and one to share.  Green Chef–Thrive all year with clean, easy meals from Green Chef. Go to Greenchef.com/alonefree and use code alonefree to get started with FREE salads for two months plus 50% off your first box.  Thrive Causemetics–Celebrate the women in your life with Thrive Causemetics. Luxury beauty that gives back. o Right now, you can get an exclusive 20% off your first order at thrivecausemetics.com/DMA Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

I don't often do a solo podcast but God has been working on my heart when it comes to parenting teens and expectations and I felt prompted to sit down and share what I am learning with you all.   So often as parents, we live in a worst-case scenario mindset, when it feels like the dreams and expectations for a child's future are not aligning with the present. We obsess over baby monitors, teen friendships, and grades/sports but this comes from a place of worry, or even fear-based control.  God wants freedom and hope in our parenting! I realized I have a choice: to believe in an imagined bad scenario or to flip a switch and choose hope and expect in God for unimaginable good things to come. Both choices involve belief, imagination and control. I'm choosing to double down turn my belief toward hope, knowing that even when things don't go as planned, God's story is far greater. In this episode, I will share the steps God gave me to practically practice choosing hope over worry. How to walk with the Spirit and produce fruit instead of formula-based parenting rooted in power and control. Reminding my own heart that God is good and has a good story for our kids- let's lean into the HUGE expectation that God is the God of HOPE and let our prayers align with that truth.  Connect with Me:  Website:  Heather MacFadyen | Right Where You Belong Facebook: Don't Mom Alone Instagram:  Heather MacFadyen (@dontmomalone) Links Mentioned:   A Prayer for Challenging Times - Northwest Bible Church–Neil Tomba Right Where You Belong: By Heather MacFadyen Don't Mom Alone: By Heather MacFadyen Man's Search for Meaning: By Viktor Frankl  Related Episodes: Talking, Teens, and Twenty-four Years :: Bruce + Heather [Ep 399] Freeing Your Adolescents to Step Into Adulthood – Ages and Stages – Teens :: Dr. Ken Wilgus [Ep 382] How the Twelve Steps Offer a Surprising Path of Transformation :: Ian Cron [Ep 506] Featured Sponsors:  HoneyLove: Treat yourself to the most comfortable bra on earth and save 20% Off sitewide at honeylove.com/dma . After you purchase, they'll ask you where you heard about them. PLEASE support our show and tell them we sent you. Treat yourself to Honeylove, because you deserve it. Cure Hydration: Hydration goes beyond just drinking water—it's about replenishing the electrolytes we lose through sweat, sleep, alcohol, and daily activities. Water alone isn't enough to do the job! That's why you need to try Cure: the electrolyte drink mix that tastes as amazing as it makes you feel. For Don't Mom Alone listeners, Cure is offering 20% off your first order! Stay hydrated and feel your best by visiting curehydration.com/DMA and using promo code [DMA] at checkout.  BetterHelp: Discover your relationship green flags, with Betterhelp. Visit BetterHelp.com/DMA to get 10% off your first month. Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Do you feel that it is hard to connect with your aging parents? Are your kids and grandparents not communicating well through the generational gap?  In this episode, Isabel Tom, author of The Value of Wrinkles shares insights into her background, her work with the elderly, and her experience growing up in a multigenerational household. She gives a unique perspective of how much joy and life we can bring to the generation before us but it takes a lot of intentionality. This conversation covers practical tips for deepening these family ties and the mutual blessings they can bring. We cover a wide range of topics- Simple ways to involve children in caring for their grandparents or older relatives How to foster meaningful conversations across generations How small acts of kindness can make a big difference in an elder's life An Investigator Kit Isabela created to help families connect  How to talk to your kids about elder issues- dementia or physical constraints Connect with Isabel Tom:  Website:  The Value of Wrinkles by Isabel Tom Facebook: The Value of Wrinkles Instagram:  The Value of Wrinkles®️ (@isabelctom) Links Mentioned:   The Value of Wrinkles: Isabel Tom Grandkid Investigator Family Kit - NOW AVAILABLE! Weird But True! Gross: by National Geographic Kids Related Episodes: Generational Healing: Becoming the Mom You Needed :: Melanie Shankle [Ep 508] Gathering a Mentor Circle :: Ben Bevis [Ep 446] Connecting with Your Kids in Any Circumstance :: Jim and Lynne Jackson {Ep 98} Featured Sponsors:  Purity Woods: I have never seen a skincare product of this quality at this reasonable of a price point. And thankfully, the good people at Purity Woods have a special coupon code specifically for my listeners, so you can try it for yourself for 27% off today. Just go to puritywoods.com/DMA or enter DMA at checkout. Thrive Market: Ready for a junk-free start to 2025? Head to ThriveMarket.com/dma and get 30% off your first order, plus a FREE $60 gift. Thrive Causemetics: Thrive Causemetics is luxury beauty that gives back. o Right now, you can get an exclusive 20% off your first order at thrivecausemetics.com/DMA Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Have you struggled to break free from generational trauma or sin? Do you find it challenging to help your kids navigate tough situations at school and in sports? Today, author Melanie Shankle joins us to share insights from her new book, Here Be Dragons. Her story is one of both deep trauma and undeniable evidence of God's provision—placing the right people in her life at just the right time. It wasn't until college that Melanie realized her mother-daughter relationship was far from what her friends experienced. That realization set her on a long journey of untangling her past and healing from the wounds of her upbringing. In this conversation, we cover so many important topics, including: The meaning behind Here Be Dragons Mean girls, motherhood, and generational trauma How to become spiritually and emotionally healthy to break toxic cycles What it looks like to set boundaries or cut off a parent as an adult How to recognize when a closed door in your child's life is actually God's protection Join us for an honest, insightful discussion on healing, parenting, and trusting God through life's toughest moments. Connect with Melanie Shankle:  Website:  Big Mama – the big mama blog Podcast: The Big Boo Cast Instagram: 

Do you often feel like you give everything to your family but don't know what you enjoy? Have you lost your spark for life that you felt in your youth?  Today, Chrystal Evans Hurst is here to share her journey and story from a single mom to a life filled with the passions and purposes that God has placed inside of her.  So often as women we feel the pull of family, career, and household duties and forget what makes us who we are. Here are some topics we cover.  The mom who has lost her purpose or lost herself in motherhood How to not feel stuck, confused, and unfulfilled How to pay attention to your passions and giftings Recognizing your unique talents Creating the community you crave Connect with Chrystal Evans Hurst:  Website:  Chrystal Evans Hurst Facebook: Chrystal Evans Hurst Instagram:  Chrystal Evans Hurst (@chrystalhurst) Podcast: The Sister Circle Podcast Links Mentioned:   She's Still There: By Chrystal Evans Hurst 100 Days to Discovering the Gift of You: By Chrystal Evans Hurst Find Your People: By Jennie Allen Join Chrystal's Inner Circle Related Episodes: Summer of Mentorship 2018 [Week Two] :: Chrystal Evans Hurst Rescuing the Girl in You :: Chrystal Evans Hurst [Ep 172] The Goldmine of a Mother's Hindsight :: Chrystal Evans Hurst {Ep 71} Victory in Ministry and Motherhood :: Priscilla Shirer [Ep 229] Featured Sponsors:  Thrive Causemetics: luxury beauty that gives back. Right now, you can get an exclusive 20% off your first order at thrivecausemetics.com/DMA Hugz: Whether you're treating yourself or looking for a thoughtful gift for someone special, these heatable, coolable plushies are a hug you can hold onto. Check out GiveHugz.co and use code DMA for 20% off your first order.  BetterHelp: This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Write your story, with Betterhelp. Visit BetterHelp.com/DMA to get 10% off your first month. Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Did you know that 12-step programs are for anyone? Do you feel like your life has spiritual direction or are you just floating through surviving?  Today I am excited to have Ian Cron who is an author, speaker, trained psychotherapist, songwriter, and Episcopal priest here. Ian shares his own journey into addiction and sobriety and how that process prompted him to write his newest book The Fix to help people see our deep need for Jesus in our journey through life. Here are just a few of the topics we cover… Understanding the 12 steps of recovery from addiction Addiction comes in many forms—alcohol, phone, success, approval,etc We are all looking for a fix to make life more tolerable Enneagram types and their common addictions Transformation vs. Reformation Letting go of resentment and forgiving the people in your life  Connect with Ian Cron:  Website:  The Official Home of Ian Morgan Cron Facebook: Ian Morgan Cron Instagram:  Ian Morgan Cron (@ianmorgancron) Links Mentioned:   The Fix by Ian Cron The Fix Workbook by Ian Cron The Road Back to You by Ian Cron Chasing Francis by Ian Cron Jesus, My Father, the CIA and Me by Ian Cron Addiction and Grace by Gerald May Al-Anon/Alateens Family Groups (find one near you)  Inner Healing Prayer :: Jennifer Barnett [Ep 323] Related Episodes: Enneagram and Stress :: Ian Cron Recap [Bonus Episode] Hope for the Hopeless Marriage :: Kathy Bush [Ep 453] Recovery for Life :: Lynn Hoffman [Ep 129] Featured Sponsors:  Apostrophe-We have a special deal for our audience: Get your first visit for only five dollars at Apostrophe.com/DMA when you use our code: DMA. That's a savings of fifteen dollars! This code is only available to our listeners. Branch Basics–Get 15% off Branch Basics with the code DMA at https://branchbasics.com/DMA #branchbasicspod Choose Branch Basics because cleanliness matters. Honeylove–Treat yourself to the best bras and shapewear on the market. Get an additional 20% off by going to honeylove.com/DMA! #honeylovepod Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Do you feel like it takes too much time and energy to host? Does having people in your home stress you out or seem out of reach? Today Logan Wolfram joins me- she is an author and speaker that knows how to host well. We met long-long ago at a blogger's conference before the podcasting world was even a thing. I have been drawn to her knack for pulling people into her home and sat down to glean her wisdom in this area. Here are the topics we covered… Stocking the pantry for hosting Batch cooking tips and tricks Signature dishes and family favorites How to handle having a “smaller” home and hosting Figuring out what your kids and their friends are into and leaning into those places Connect with Logan Wolfram:  Website:  Logan Wolfram - Live Curious Instagram:  Logan Lane Wolfram (@loganlwolfram) Links Mentioned:   Interview for Declare Conference– How to Not Miss Out [Ep 17] Logan's recipes Roux instructions and diagram Jackbox.TV Related Episodes: Work of Worth :: Kristi Griem {Ep 39} The Turquoise Table :: Kristin Schell {Ep 37} Summer of Mentorship 2019 Week Four :: Helen Smallbone Featured Sponsors:  Betterhelp-Write your story, with Betterhelp. Visit BetterHelp.com/DMA to get 10% off your first month. Rosetta Stone-Start the New Year off with a resolution you CAN reach! Today Don't Mom Alone listeners can take advantage of this Rosetta Stone's LIFETIME Membership for 50% off! Visit https://www.rosettastone.com/dma. That's 50% off unlimited access to 25 language courses for the rest of your life.  Apostrophe-Whether you're dealing with acne, signs of aging, or dark spots, Apostrophe helps you get access to the right treatments for your skin. We have a special deal for our audience: Get your first visit for only five dollars at Apostrophe.com/DMA when you use our code: DMA. That's a savings of fifteen dollars! This code is only available to our listeners. Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

As we enter a new year do you feel stuck or like last year did not go like you intended it to? Are you dealing with disappointments and finding it difficult to see God in your situation?  Today Cleere Cherry Reaves, author and podcaster, joins me to talk about how God's word is the most powerful tool in shifting our focus and seeing the Lord in our everyday circumstances. In her new book Revive she writes about how Jesus is with us through the storms and trials of life, He does not simply pluck us out of every situation but we learn how to see Him in the hard times. Here are some topics we cover… Cleere's son has a powerful testimony in the making as a non-verbal kid. She shares how she uses the word of God to reframe that situation.  How in seasons of brokenness and fragility we see the strength of God.  Trusting God's Plan and Recalibrating Expectations. How our habits create a “diet” of what we are consuming and how to change those to be more focused on the word of God.  How to take time to listen to the voice of God.  Connect with Cleere Cherry Reaves:  Website:  Cleerely Stated - Personal and Purposeful Products Facebook: Cleerely Stated Instagram:  Cleere Cherry Reaves | Speaker, Author + Podcaster Links Mentioned:   Candle Warmer Lamp Living Fearless: by Jamie Winship Revive: by Cleere Cherry Reaves Be Still: 90 Devotions for the Hopeful Heart: by Cleere Cherry Reaves Related Episodes: Processing Grief, Infertility, and Loss in Community :: Julie Fowler [Ep 502] Identifying Your God-Given Space (part 1) :: Cleere Cherry Reaves [Ep 403] Exchange False Beliefs with True Identity :: Jamie Winship [Ep 433] Featured Sponsors:  Pair Eyewear– Show off new sides of yourself this year. Go to paireyewear.com and use code DONTMOM for 15% off your first pair. And support the show by mentioning that Don't Mom Alone sent you in your post-checkout survey! Thrive Market–Ready for a junk-free start to 2025? Head to ThriveMarket.com/dma and get 30% off your first order, plus a FREE $60 gift Hiya Health–We've worked out a special deal with Hiya for their best selling children's vitamin. Receive 50% off your first order. To claim this deal you must go to hiyahealth.com/DMA. This deal is not available on their regular website Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Do you feel like your mind is full of tasks making it hard to focus and be present with your family? Do you struggle to articulate what you need, feel, or want from your spouse?  Today, Dr. Morgan Cutlip is here to help us navigate the topic of mental load specifically as moms. Morgan is a psychologist and highly sought after relationship expert. Her book Love Your Kids Without Losing Yourself helps moms advocate for their needs in a loving way. We cover a large range of issues facing parents today including…  The invisible running to-do list we keep in our minds. How to identify your needs and communicate them. How to get clear about what you feel and need so you do not confuse your spouse.  Identifying the two different types of guilt and how to respond.  The three domains of mental load- cognitive, physical, and emotional. Navigating the holiday season with the added tasks and pressure to make it magical.  Connect with Dr. Morgan Cutlip:  Website:  Dr. Morgan Cutlip Facebook: Dr. Morgan Cutlip Instagram:  Dr. Morgan Cutlip (@drmorgancutlip) Links Mentioned:   Love Your Kids Without Losing Yourself by Dr. Morgan Cutlip A Better Share : How Couples Tackle the Mental Load  (pre-order)  How We Feel App  Related Episodes: Organize Your Mental Load  :: Laurel Denise [Ep 444] “How do I connect better with my kids?” [Ep 475] :: Summer of Mentorship Week 1 Body Awareness in Parenting :: Mary Van Geffen [Ep 333] Featured Sponsors:  Rosetta Stone - Start the New Year off with a resolution you CAN reach! Today Don't Mom Alone listeners can take advantage of this New Year's special of Rosetta Stone's LIFETIME Membership! Visit www.rosettastone.com/dma. That's unlimited access to 25 language courses for the rest of your life.  Thrive Market - Want to shop at a grocery store that actually cares for your health? Go to ThriveMarket.com/DMA for 30% off your first order, plus a FREE $60 gift.  Greenlight -A debit card and money app for parents to raise financially smart kids and families to navigate life, together. Sign up for Greenlight today at Greenlight.com/dma Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Have you or a friend ever walked through a season of infertility and grief? Do you often wonder what to say when a friend is walking through loss of any kind?  Today my friend Julie Fowler is here to talk about her heartbreaking (but hopeful) story of motherhood and how God used her story to help people navigate loss. Julie has faced miscarriage, adoptions that fell through at the last minute, and baby twins she only held for four short hours. She truly has walked this long road and knows all of the feelings of grief and uncertainty around waiting for a baby. This valley produced a beautiful study of walking through infertility in community and connecting with God in the deepest, darkest places. We cover so much in our conversation including… How to talk to a friend in a season of infertility and loss- what not to say.  How husbands and wives can support each other instead of turning on one another.  Sharing your feelings with the Lord and then speaking truth over yourself. Wrestling with deep spiritual questions when your prayers are not being answered.   Making a support group uplifting instead of only heavy while still leaving room to process.  Connect with Julie Fowler:  Website:  Julie Fowler Ministries Facebook: Juliefowlerministries | Facebook Instagram:  Julie Fowler Ministries (@juliefowlerministries) Links Mentioned:   Infertility Bible Studies and Resources — Julie Fowler Ministries Treasures in the Waiting: by Julie Fowler Navigating Infertility and Loss with Strength and Hope: by Julie Fowler When Empty Arms Become a Heavy Burden: by Sandra Glahn Related Episodes: Nobody's Mother :: Dr. Sandra Glahn [Ep 443] Hope During Infertility and Infant Loss :: Shawna Beucler [Ep 203] Every Bitter Thing is Sweet :: Sara Hagerty [Ep 143] Featured Sponsors:  Greenlight–Sign up for Greenlight today at Greenlight.com/dma. Great debit card and money app to raise financially smart kids and for families to navigate life, together. Betterhelp Find comfort this December, with BetterHelp. Visit BetterHelp.com/DMA today to get 10% off your first month. Beam-If you want to try Beam's best-selling Dream Powder, get up to 40% off for a limited time when you go to shopbeam.com/DMA and use code DMA at checkout. Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Today my conversation with Dallas and Amanda Jenkins is a powerful reminder that the Christmas story still needs to be told thousands of years later. Dallas is the acclaimed director, writer, and producer of The Chosen, and now the heartfelt movie The Best Christmas Pageant Ever.  The movie is based on a book read for years in the Jenkins' house (and many households worldwide). Twenty years ago Amanda brought the book home and asked Dallas to read it to the kids. By the end they were both in tears and could not finish the story without taking turns reading. That started a 20-year journey of Dallas praying to make this movie and the Lord answered through an amazing story in His own time.  Moms play a vital role in this film from a mom telling her son to let Dallas have the rights to the movie, to Amanda helping with the casting, to Grace (the mom in the film) who uses her God-given space to change the lives around her. As we enter the Christmas season let us remember Jesus came for the outsider and not cling so tightly to our traditions that we do not see those who need to hear the true Christmas story.  Connect with Dallas and Amanda:  Website:   Facebook: Dallas Jenkins Instagram:  Dallas Jenkins (@dallas.jenkins) Links Mentioned:   The Best Christmas Pageant Ever | Now Playing In Theaters Molly Wright: How Every Child Can Thrive by Five | TED Related Episodes: Seek Him First :: Lillian Richey [Ep 494] Advent Untangled :: Mindy Rives [Ep 385] Celebrating Advent :: Tsh Oxenreider [Ep 305] Featured Sponsors:  Honeylove-Treat yourself to the best bras and shapewear on the market. Shop Honeylove's Holiday sale and save an additional 20% Off sitewide at honeylove.com/DMA. Thrive Causemetics–Spice up your holiday season with Thrive Causemetics. Luxury Beauty that gives back. Get an exclusive 20% off your first order at thrivecausemetics.com/DMA.  Vegamour–This holiday season, give the gift of great hair with Vegamour. There's something for everyone, including you! Visit Vegamour.com/DMA code DMA to shop.  Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

I can't believe it but today we are celebrating 500 episodes of Don't Mom Alone! I am bringing back my very first guest and mentor Leslie to “recap” the last eleven years. Leslie had been encouraging me from before I started this podcast and her fingerprints are all over my motherhood. We get an update on her life and she shares how to navigate the empty nest phase. Leslie reminds us of Psalms 16:6-8 (which I also wrote about in my book), “The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; surely I have a delightful inheritance. I will praise the LORD, who counsels me; even at night my heart instructs me. I keep my eyes always on the LORD. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken.” God is faithful in ALL seasons from newborn to empty nest.  Also, some of my listeners call in to share what Don't Mom Alone has meant to them. Here are a few of the highlights… How healing prayer ministry has been life-changing.  Be in community and reach out for help.  Become the inviter instead of waiting for others to invite you in.  Receive and give grace to others through the challenges of motherhood.  Connect with Leslie Johnson:  Website:  Sursee Gal Instagram:  Leslie Johnson

Today we continue last week's episode in Part 2 with my friend Charissa Lopez. If you missed part one you can listen here to catch up Click Here for Part 1.  Charissa Lopez is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas specializing in play therapy, EMDR, emotionally focused family therapy, and trauma-informed care. She is full of wisdom and the science to explain why we respond and parent in specific ways based on childhood patterns. We continue the conversation today by covering these topics…  Understanding Secure Attachment.  Exploring Preoccupied Attachment in Parenting  Disorganized Attachment - the most rare of all three tendencies.  Neurodiversity and Attachment Patterns and how to help our neurodivergent kids feel connected.  Interventions for Attachment Patterns - how to heal and parent from a place of secure attachment.  Healing Through Community- God created community for restoration and healing.  Connect with Charissa Lopez:  Website:  Charissa Lopez | Licensed Professional Counselor Links Mentioned:   Welcome Don't Mom Alone Friends! - Charissa Lopez Counseling Secure Relating: by Sue Marriott and Ann Kelley  Related Episodes: Building Healthy Relationships by Exploring Adult Attachment Patterns (Part 1) :: Charissa Lopez [Ep 498] Connecting Through Play :: Charissa Fry [Ep 319] Ages and Stages Series–The Tween Years :: Charissa Lopez [Ep 380] “How Do I Regulate My Own Emotions?” :: Charissa Fry [Ep 482] Summer of Mentorship Featured Sponsors:  Skylight Frame: And now, as a special, limited-time offer for our listeners, get twenty dollars off your purchase of a Skylight Frame when you go to SkylightFrame.com/ALONE.  Greenlight: This episode is sponsored by Greenlight. A debit card and money app made for families. Sign up for Greenlight today at Greenlight.com/DMA IXL Learning: Make an impact on your child's learning, get IXL now. And Don't mom alone listeners can get an exclusive 20% off IXL membership when they sign up today at ixl.com/DMA.  Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Do you ever wonder why you respond the way you do to your kids? Do you feel like there are things to process from childhood but don't have the words to explain those feelings?  Today Charissa Lopez, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas joins me. She specializes in play therapy, EMDR, emotionally focused family therapy, and trauma-informed care. She is full of wisdom and the science to explain why we respond and parent in specific ways based on childhood patterns.  Join us as we talk about…  Secure attachment in the early years (ages 0-3) and how meeting our little ones needs just 30% of the time allows them to feel secure and attuned.  Loving parental behaviors – beyond the basic needs by showing our kids delight, affection, and supporting their inner and outer exploration.  How to repair relationships and remain a safe place for our kids. Dismissive attachment pattern explained.  HOPE- a way to learn more helpful patterns and allow God to heal past hurts.  Connect with Charissa Lopez:  Website:  Charissa Lopez | Licensed Professional Counselor Links Mentioned:   The Window of Tolerance :: Charissa Fry [Ep 260] Welcome Don't Mom Alone Friends! - Charissa Lopez Counseling–helpful pdfs on loving parental behaviors and attachment styles.  Related Episodes: Connecting Through Play :: Charissa Fry [Ep 319] Ages and Stages Series–The Tween Years :: Charissa Lopez [Ep 380] “How Do I Regulate My Own Emotions?” :: Charissa Fry [Ep 482] Summer of Mentorship Featured Sponsors:  Thrive Causemetics:  Spice up your fall look with Thrive causemetics. Luxury beauty that gives back. Get an exclusive 20% off your first order at thrivecausemetics.com/DMA Skylight Frames: As a special, limited-time offer for our listeners, get twenty dollars off your purchase of a Skylight Frame when you go to SkylightFrame.com/ALONE.  Betterhelp: Let the gratitude flow, with Betterhelp. ● Visit BetterHelp.com/dma today to get 10% off your first month. Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Do you struggle with discontentment and comparison in motherhood and beyond? Do you constantly second guess the best way to raise your kids in regards to food, education, health, and even naptime? Today, Laura Wifler, from Risen Motherhood is here to talk about her new book written with her sister-in-law Emily Jensen. We start by breaking down the framework they introduce in the Gospel Mom and how we are often looking for a formula to parent our kids but God has given us a framework in the metanarrative of the Bible.  Next, we talk about the challenges of trying to live in a Christian mom community- we know God calls us to be with others but what do we do when friendship is hard or not life-giving? As moms, we feel like there is a right and wrong way to do every single little thing in motherhood- feeding, naptime, schooling, health and those often all lead to comparison. Laura gives us some truth and ideas regarding comparison, how to be content, and accept your actual life. God has so many lessons for us moms if we lean in and apply the gospel lens it helps give life and joy even in hardship.  Connect with Laura Wifler:  Website:  Risen Motherhood: Helping Moms Connect Their Faith To Motherhood Facebook: Risen Motherhood Instagram:  Risen Motherhood®️ (@risenmotherhood) Links Mentioned:   Risen Motherhood: by Emily Jensen and Laura Wifler Gospel Mom: by Emily Jensen and Laura Wifler, Laura Ep. 93 || How Should We Educate Our Children? The Case for Freedom, Part 1 Ep. 94 || Freedom in Education Choices: An Interview with Melissa Kruger on Private Schooling, Part 2 Ep. 95 || Irene Sun on Homeschool: Freedom in Education Choices, Part 3 Ep. 96 || Freedom in Education Choices: An Interview with Jen Wilkin on Public Schooling, Part 4 A Long Obedience in the Same Direction: by Eugene H., Peterson Related Episodes: Cultivating Intimacy with God in Motherhood :: Jeannie Cunnion [Ep 490] Owning Your Motherhood :: Erin Moon and Courtney Cleveland [Ep 325] Motherhood, Career, and Identity :: Kat Armstrong [Ep 171] Featured Sponsors:  HoneyLove: Treat yourself to the best bras and shapewear on the market and save up to 50% Off sitewide at honeylove.com/DMA this month only. Inventory is limited and the sale ends soon so don't miss their best deals of the year. After you purchase, they'll ask you where you heard about them. PLEASE support our show and tell them we sent you. Thrive Market: Want to shop at a grocery store that actually cares for your health? Go to ThriveMarket.com/DMA for 30% off your first order, plus a FREE $60 gift.  StoryWorth:  Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Ever wonder how your mom friends with all boys or all girls handle parenting? Do you often wonder how in the world a “boy mom” or a “girl mom” views the opposite?  Today my good friend Courtney DeFeo is here to have an in-depth conversation about her experiences as a “girl mom” and asks me tons of great questions about what life with four boys is like (spoiler alert- active and crazy). Courtney is an author, podcaster, and creative mom of two girls. We bring the conversations we have had many times over the lunch table to the podcast today. Often our worlds feel opposite, her girls used to sit and play with playdough for thirty minutes, and my boys sit for three minutes. Her girls love clothes, nails, and coloring while my boys were in a bouncy house, eating my decor, and moving their bodies constantly.  We end by starting to break down the teen years and how the emotions show up differently for each gender. By discussing some of the gender stereotypes that come up we hope this conversation helps you support your mom friends better. And don't forget to go over to Courtney's podcast to finish the conversation later this week.  Connect with Courtney DeFeo:  Website:  Home - Courtney DeFeo Facebook: Courtney DeFeo | Facebook Instagram:  Courtney DeFeo (@courtney_defeo) Podcast: Pardon the Mess - Courtney DeFeo Links Mentioned:   Foundations: by Ruth Chou Simons The Worry-Free Parent: by Sissy Goff What in the World?!: by Leanne Morgan The Tech-Wise Family: by Andy Crouch Whoobli Ninja Inflatable Kids Punching Bag Trampoline with handle Skylight Digital Picture Frame ZELUS Balance Ball Trainer with Resistance Bands Water Blaster 2pcs Water Gun Fight Shooting Water Guns for Kids Roller Skates for Girls Boys Ages 4-12 KidKraft Vintage Wooden Play Kitchen LEGO Creator 3 in 1 Mighty Dinosaur Toy Related Episodes: Shrinking or Swelling to Fill Your Space :: Courtney DeFeo [Ep 406] RWYB wk 5 Uninvited :: Lysa TerKeurst, Kay Wyma and Courtney DeFeo {Ep 131} Art of Nurturing Boys :: David Thomas [Ep 119]   Raising Worry-Free Girls :: Sissy Goff [Bonus] Featured Sponsors:  Betterhelp: This episode is sponsored by Betterhelp. Let the gratitude flow, with Betterhelp. Visit BetterHelp.com/dma today to get 10% off your first month. Vegamour: This holiday season, give the gift of great hair with Vegamour. There's something for everyone, including you! Visit Vegamour.com/DMA code DMA to shop.  Greenlight: Greenlight is a debit card and money app made for families. Sign up for Greenlight today at Greenlight.com/dma.  Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Do you often feel like what is the point of engaging politically or voting? Are you worried about the direction our nation is headed and what is next? Today Sharon McMahon is here to teach us about how our government functions and encourages us that individuals make a difference. She began as a government, history, and law teacher and then took her passion for educating to Instagram. Her platform grew rapidly as she has a way of helping all of us understand the process and history of the United States. Her new book The Small and the Mighty reminds us that each person has a part to play in our sphere of influence and shows us how the United States was founded on the backs of small but mighty people.  Sharon encourages with this truth that “we must not grow weary in doing good”. Our ancestors who have suffered much continued to fight for justice and invest in the communities around them and we have so much to learn from their stories.  Connect with Sharon McMahon:  Website:  Sharon McMahon | America's Government Teacher Facebook: Sharon McMahon | Facebook Instagram:  SHARON McMAHON (@sharonsaysso) Links Mentioned:   The Preamble | Sharon McMahon | Substack Vote - Register and get information on Voting | Sharon McMahon The Small and the Mighty: by Sharon McMahon Right Where You Belong: by Heather MacFadyen Related Episodes: Factual News, Flexible Thinking and Family Moral Imperatives :: Sharon McMahon [Ep 332] Racial Healing Starts with You :: Latasha Morrison [Ep 261] Featured Sponsors:  Thrive Causemetics: Spice up your fall look with Thrive Causemetics. Luxury beauty that gives back. Right now, you can get an exclusive 20% off your first order at thrivecausemetics.com/DMA.  Branch Basics: You no longer have to wear a hazmat suit while you're cleaning up. For a limited time only, head to BranchBasics.com/DMA and use Code [DMA] for 15% off your entire order. Choose Branch Basics because cleanliness matters. Greenlight: Sign up for Greenlight today at Greenlight.com/dma.  Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Do you ever struggle to keep Christ at the center of Christmas? Do you feel many Christmas traditions take a ton of time and energy or are just busy work but don't point to Jesus?  Today Lillian Richey, my personal friend, is here to share her new project called Finding Jesus which helps families make Christmas meaningful and simple. Last year the Lord dropped into her heart the idea of a Jesus doll that tells the whole story of Christmas through scripture and helps kids see Jesus. Through the last few months, God has used this project to bring the gospel around the world, including China, and answered prayers. In less than a year this beautiful product has come to life.  Finding Jesus points our kids to Christ and a connection to Him that goes deep into hearts and minds. This doll, puzzle, story, and song weaves together the Biblical truth with some fun. Lillian's story shows us that when we listen to the voice of God His ideas are gospel minded and He has the resources to help us accomplish creative ideas.  Connect with Lillian Richey:  Website:  Finding Jesus (seekhimfirst.com) Facebook: Finding Jesus | Dallas TX | Facebook Instagram:  Finding Jesus (@findingjesusdoll) Links Mentioned:   Children's Jesse Tree Advent Cards  Related Episodes: Advent Untangled :: Mindy Rives [Ep 385] Celebrating Advent :: Tsh Oxenreider [Ep 305] Christmas Traditions with Little Ones :: Jacki Rucksdashel [Ep 142] Featured Sponsors:  Wildgrain: Are you ready to bring all your favorite carbs right to your doorstep? Be sure to check out Wildgrain so you can begin building your own box of artisanal breads, pastas, and pastries. For a limited time, Wildgrain is offering our listeners $30 off the first box - PLUS free Croissants in every box - when you go to Wildgrain.com/DMA to start your subscription.   BetterHelp: Take off the mask, with BetterHelp.  Visit BetterHelp.com/dma today to get 10% off your first month. IXL Learning: Make an impact on your child's learning, get IXL now. And Don't Mom Alone listeners can get an exclusive 20% off IXL membership when they sign up today at ixl.com/DMA. Get the most effective learning program out there at the best price.  Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Do you feel like your teens have hidden struggles that you can't talk to anyone about? How do you honor your kids while still finding safe people to process parenting with? How do you advise your kids on their friendships and relationships?  Today, Amy Betters-Midtvedt is here to help us navigate the deep waters of parenting teens. Amy is a teacher with a master's degree in leadership and is currently a literacy coach. She has five kids in all stages of life from college to kids still at home, some of her kids have had teen struggles that Amy has had to learn how to navigate. She shares her ideas in her new book, You'll Make It.  We cover how to handle changes in our teen's friend groups, what to do if your teen's friends are a bad influence, and having the humility as a parent to say “I messed up”. Amy shares some very personal stories about her teens and anxiety (with their permission) and how their family faced that challenge head-on to overcome and get back to the things they love to do. Parenting teens can be hard but there is so much joy in watching them become who God created them to be, Amy will teach us how to partner with the Lord as we navigate these formative years.  Connect with Amy Betters-Midtvedt:  Website:  Amy Betters-Midtvedt (amybettersmidtvedt.com) Instagram:  Amy Betters-Midtvedt (@amy.betters.midtvedt) Links Mentioned:   You'll Make It (and They Will Too): by Amy Betters-Midtvedt Chore Wheel- Spinning Wheel for Prizes with Stand Related Episodes: Freeing Your Adolescents to Step Into Adulthood – Ages and Stages – Teens :: Dr. Ken Wilgus [Ep 382] Helping Socially Anxious Boys :: David Thomas [Ep 451] Choosing Connection Over Critique :: Rachel Macy Stafford [Ep 280] Featured Sponsors:  Thrive Market - Want to shop at a grocery store that actually cares for your health? Go to ThriveMarket.com/DMA for 30% off your first order, plus a FREE $60 gift!  Greenlight - Sign up for Greenlight today at Greenlight.com/dma to try Greenlight today.  Honeylove -Honeylove is not just supporting women, it's empowering women. Treat yourself to the best bras on the market and save 20% Off at honeylove.com/DMA. Use our exclusive link to get 20% off to find your perfect fit. After you purchase they ask you where you heard about them.  Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

As a mom do you feel there is not enough time in the day? Are you constantly overwhelmed with your to-do list and mental load? Are you snapping at your kids because they cannot keep up with the pace?  Today Kendra Adachi; the Lazy Genius, author, podcaster, and most of all mom, is here to help us focus on the most important tasks. Kendra and I are opposites, she has read all the time management books whereas I have read zero. Only 7% of books in this arena are written by women so her newest book, The PLAN, was much needed in this space. Most productivity books are written with the future in mind and while it's good to think and plan for the future Kendra tells us that most moms are trying to run their household well every day in the small task. She helps us PLAN- prepare, live, adjust, and notice what is going on around us in our homes.  This episode reminds us that being kind to our kids is more important than being on task, we are not robots, and helps us look at time differently which allows us to show up with compassion for others. There is so much Biblical truth when we structure our time well and keep the most important things at the center of our days.  Connect with Kendra Adachi:  Website:  The Lazy Genius (thelazygeniuscollective.com) Facebook: The Lazy Genius Collective Instagram:  Kendra Adachi (@thelazygenius) Links Mentioned:   “Make it Happen” Notepad Heather mentioned Do Less: by Kate Northrup The PLAN: by Kendra J. Adachi Related Episodes: The Lazy Genius Kitchen :: Kendra Adachi [Ep 365] Choose What Matters to YOU :: Kendra Adachi [Ep 293] Organize Your Mental Load  :: Laurel Denise [Ep 444] Featured Sponsors:  Vegamour: Take on the most advanced approach to hair wellness with Vegamour's new GRO+ advanced system. Learn more that Vegamour.com/DMA use the code DMA to save 20% off your first order.  Thrive Causemetics: Spice up your fall look with Thrive Causemetics. Luxury beauty that gives back. Right now, you can get an exclusive 20% off your first order at thrivecausemetics.com/DMA.  Betterhelp: This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp.  Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Do you feel like a team with your spouse in parenting or do you often turn on each other? Do you have different ideas about what is right for your kids? Have the teen years brought more conflict than unity?  Today Dr. Kim Kimberling, professional counselor and founder of Awesome Marriage, is here to share his years of wisdom on how to keep the marriage strong while parenting. Dr. Kim has been married to his wife for 53 years and the tips that flow from those years of experience are priceless.  He shares how to build in some one-on-one time, stay on the same page in the teen years, and how praying together allows the Holy Spirit to breathe creativity into your parenting. Dr. Kim also comforts those whose spouse may not currently be walking with the Lord and how to navigate that hard season. He reminds us that you can't put your marriage on the back burner for years and expect it to be the same when your kids are gone and gives us tools to make sure we are making our partner a priority. Be sure to check out his website that is full of resources.  Connect with Dr. Kim Kimberling:  Website:  Awesome Marriage — Marriage, Relationships, and Premarital Counseling Facebook: Awesome Marriage Instagram:  Marriage and Relationship Experts (@awesome_marriage) Links Mentioned:   Attached: The New Science of Adult Attachment and How It Can Help You Find--and Keep--Love [BOOK on attachment] Podcast — Awesome Marriage 7 Secrets to an Awesome Marriage: by Dr. Kim Kimberling PhD Related Episodes: Building Strong Marriages :: Kimberly Beam Holmes [Ep 374] Nurturing Your Marriage :: Brent and Janis Sharpe [Ep 299] Habits of a Healthy Marriage :: Paul David Tripp [Ep 234] Featured Sponsors:  IXL Learning: Make an impact on your child's learning, get IXL now. And Don't Mom Alone listeners can get an exclusive 20% off IXL membership when they sign up today at IXL.com/DMA. Visit IXL.com/DMA to get the most effective learning program out there at the best price.  Wildgrain: Are you ready to bring all your favorite carbs right to your doorstep? Be sure to check out Wildgrain so you can begin building your own box of artisanal breads, pastas, and pastries. For a limited time, Wildgrain is offering our listeners $30 off the first box - PLUS free Croissants in every box - when you go to Wildgrain.com/DMA to start your subscription or you can use promo code DMA at checkout. Rhone: Upgrade your closet with Rhone and use DMA to save 20% at https://www.rhone.com/DMA Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Does the word holiness feel stuffy and old-fashioned? Do you feel you have a personal and intimate relationship with the Lord? Does your Christian life look more like a performance than a practice?  Today Jeannie Cunnion joins me to discuss her new book Closer to God. She is a best-selling author, bible teacher, and speaker who shares how the Holy Spirit can transform our family and motherhood. Her new book covers how to practically have an intimate relationship with the Lord in the middle of chaos and noise.  As mom's we often long for a deep meaningful relationship with Jesus but don't know how to get there when kids are up early and there seems to be no space. Jeannie talks about cultivating a habit of conversing with the Lord in the mundane moments of our days and how Holy intimacy produces a Holy identity.  If you feel far from God today we are reminded of Isaiah 30:15, “In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength”, we cannot perform our way to God. He is waiting in the quiet intimacy.  Connect with Jeannie Cunnion:  Website:  Jeannie Cunnion Instagram:  Jeannie Cunnion (@jeanniecunnion) Links Mentioned:   Closer to God: by Jeannie Cunnion (pre-order now) The Practice of the Presence of God: by Brother Lawrence Don't Miss Out: by Jeannie Cunnion Never Alone: by Jeannie Cunnion Related Episodes: Parenting in the Power of the Holy Spirit :: Jeannie Cunnion [Ep 347] Set Free From Shame :: Jeannie Cunnion [Ep 190] Anchoring Our Kids' Lovability in Christ :: Jeannie Cunnion {Ep 91} How to {really} Parent with Grace :: Jeannie Cunnion {Ep 55} Healthy Habit Building :: Kat Lee [Ep 300] The Mom Game Changer :: Kat Lee {Encore Episode} Featured Sponsors:  Greenlight: This episode is sponsored by Greenlight. Sign up for Greenlight today and get your first month free when you go to Greenlight.com/dma. Hiya Health: We've worked out a special deal with Hiya for their best selling children's vitamin. Receive 50% off your first order. To claim this deal you must go to hiyahealth.com/DMA. This deal is not available on their regular website and get your kids the full-body nourishment they need to grow into healthy adults. Thrive Market: Save time and money and shop Thrive Market today. Go to Thrivemarket.com/DMA for 30% off your first order, plus a FREE $60 gift.  Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

How do you know when it is the right time to leave a season? Do you know how to sit in silence with people? Would you consider yourself a good listener?  Today Emily P. Freeman joins us to discuss her new book, How to Walk Into a Room. She is a New York Times bestselling author of six books with a masters degree in Spiritual Formation and Leadership from Friends University. She has a true passion for teaching us how to listen well and hold grief and silence with those who need it most. Emily states that silence can teach us a lot about ourselves- it can uncover fears we need to deal with or be aware of. We have another cliffhanger today so stick around to find out where the rest of the episode is airing.  Connect with Emily Freeman:  Website:  Emily P. Freeman (emilypfreeman.com) Facebook: Emily P. Freeman | Facebook Instagram:  Emily P. Freeman | Spiritual Director (@emilypfreeman) Links Mentioned:   Feastables MrBeast Original Chocolate Bars How to Walk into a Room: by Emily P. Freeman The Next Right Thing: by Emily P. Freeman Related Episodes: How to Quit Hustle and Embrace Small-Moment Living :: Emily Freeman {Ep 83} House Rules and Learning to Love your Home :: Myquillyn Smith [Ep 462] Walking Through Seasons of Unbelonging :: Shauna Niequist [Ep 362] Featured Sponsors:  Honeylove: Honeylove is not just supporting women, it's empowering women. Treat yourself to the best bras on the market and save 20% Off at honeylove.com/DMA. After you purchase they ask you where you heard about them. PLEASE support our show and tell them we sent you. Elevate your comfort, elevate your style, with bras that empower your lifestyle of flexibility. Betterhelp: This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Rediscover your curiosity, with BetterHelp.  Visit BetterHelp.com/DMA today to get 10% off your first month. HelloFresh:For FREE breakfast for life go to HelloFresh.com/DMA. One free breakfast item per box while subscription is active.  Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

What would it look like to have Jesus-centered peaceful parenting? Is your parenting style just a list of do's and don't or getting to the heart of your child? After correction do you feel more or less connected with your kids? Today, Dr. David and Amanda Erickson, join me to discuss their new book The Flourishing Family. They founded Flourishing Homes and Families to equip and empower Christian parents to lead their families with grace and gentleness through parenting principles that are rooted in the teaching of Jesus.  We cover so many topics from hitting toddlers to snarky teenagers and how to approach them with grace while still teaching them to respect the people around them. They encourage us to repair and prepare instead of scare through creative ideas that include purchasing a punching bag and redirecting behavior when needed. David reminds us that as parents we are helping our children see that they are image bearers of God and to embrace who He created them to be.  Connect with David and Amanda:  Website:  Flourishing Homes and  Families Facebook: Flourishing Homes and Families Instagram:  Dr. David and Amanda Erickson (@flourishinghomesandfamilies) Links Mentioned:   The Flourishing Family: by Dr. David and Amanda Erickson Connected Families | Parent with confidence; lead with grace Related Episodes: Gentle Christ-Centered Parenting :: David and Amanda Erickson [Ep 363] Parenting Sensitive and Intense Kids :: Lynne Jackson and Lydia Rex [Ep 395] Connecting Through Play :: Charissa Fry [Ep 319] Featured Sponsors:  Thrive Causemetics: Refresh your everyday look with Thrive Causemetics. Beauty that gives back. Get an exclusive 20% off your first order at thrivecausemetics.com/DMA.  Greenlight: Sign up for Greenlight today and get your first month free when you go to Greenlight.com/dma.  Lands End: Seize the summer in Land's End. Head to landsend.com and use code DONTMOMALONE to get 30% off your summer purchase.  Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Today Cynthia and I are talking about all things college drop off and how Cynthia missed saying goodbye to her daughter and I share how dropping Quade off in Tennessee went. We talk about back-to-school haircuts and terrible yearbook photos and rehash how we both ended up at the same event but had very different experiences. We end the episode with a cliffhanger story about Bucees and a HUGE exciting surprise you don't want to miss.  Connect with Cynthia Yanoff:  Website:   https://cynthiayanof.com/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cynthia.yanof Instagram:  @cynthiayanof  Links Mentioned:   The Candace Cameron Bure Podcast One Thousand Gifts 10th Anniversary Edition: by Ann Voskamp IF:Gathering (ifgathering.com) New Morning Mercies: by Paul David Tripp  Life360 | Location Sharing App OUR NEW SHOW LINK! {click to hear the rest of the episode} Related Episodes: The Good God Wants for Our Families :: Paul David Tripp [Ep 285] Signpost Parenting :: Ann Voskamp [Ep 394] Sidetracked by Throat Gurgles, Unlikely Friendships and Trash Can Valentines :: special guest Rachel Green  [Ep 454] Featured Sponsors:  Vegamour: Take on the most Advanced approach to hair wellness with Vegamour's new GRO+ Advanced System. Learn more at Vegamour.com/DMA use the code DMA to save 20% on your first order.  BetterHelp: This episode was sponsored by BetterHelp. Rediscover your curiosity, with BetterHelp. Visit BetterHelp.com/DMA today to get 10% off your first month. Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Do you worry about whether your child is on track with verbal milestones? Does the stress of what is typical in eating, talking, and verbal cues feel confusing? Do you know speech pathologists can help with food intake or nutrient deficiency?  Today I am embracing my past life as a speech-language pathologist as I chat with Stephanie Cohen. Stephanie is a mother, speech-language pathologist, author, speaker, and lactation counselor in private practice who has worked with children and families for over 22 years. She is here to put our mom hearts at rest on what is typical and when to seek intervention.  Her job is to support parents and help them understand their children and regulate their own emotions so they can be present and supportive. We break down making sure your child is getting enough food, baby talk, sign language for kids, and non-verbal communication. The goal is to help our kids feel successful, connected, and understood and Stephanie uses her knowledge to help us get closer to our kids.  Connect with Stephanie Cohen:  Website:  Learn To Talk With Me! with Stephanie Cohen, M.A., CCC-SLP, CLC You Tube: Learn To Talk With Me - YouTube Instagram:  Stephanie Cohen, M.A., CCC-SLP, CLC (@learntotalkwithme) Links Mentioned:   My First Learn-to-Talk Book: by Stephanie Cohen M.A. I Can Say Dada!: by Stephanie Cohen M.A. I Can Say Mama!: by Stephanie Cohen M.A. My First Learn-to-Talk Book: Things That Go: by Stephanie Cohen M.A. I Can Say Moo!: by Stephanie Cohen M.A.  Harlan Cohen (@harlancohen) Related Episodes: Feeding Your Kids Without Mom Guilt :: Kacie Barnes [Ep 450] Fed is Best || New Baby Series Pt 1 :: Demetria Martin and Dr. Odom [Ep 342] Fed is Best || New Baby Series Pt 2 :: Dr. Bridget Young [Bonus] “How Do I Regulate My Own Emotions?” :: Charissa Fry [Ep 482] Summer of Mentorship Ages and Stages Series—Infants/Toddlers :: Rachel Norman [Ep 377] Featured Sponsors:  Honeylove:Honeylove is not just supporting women, it's empowering women. Treat yourself to the best bras on the market and save 20% off at honeylove.com/DMA. Use our exclusive link to get 20% off to find your perfect fit. After you purchase they ask you where you heard about them. PLEASE support our show and tell them we sent you. Elevate your comfort, elevate your style, with bras that empower your lifestyle of flexibility. Hiya: We've worked out a special deal with Hiya for their best selling children's vitamin. Receive 50% off your first order. To claim this deal you must go to hiyahealth.com/DMA. This deal is not available on their regular website. Get your kids the full-body nourishment they need to grow into healthy adults. Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Today my friend, Robin Pou, joins us to talk about his powerful testimony of a near-death experience in Africa while on a mission trip and share about his new book, a parable, that was 14 years in the making. Robin is an executive coach, author, and founder of a leadership development firm. He is in the business of training Christians to lead in the marketplace or wherever God has placed them.  Through Robin's harrowing experience the Lord shifted his life to focusing on how to bring God into the marketplace for those not called to full-time vocational ministry. Robin has so many tips for working and stay-at-home moms on how to be missional in all that we do and how to make our intentions point to the Lord. We are reminded of the Hebrew word “shama,” which means to hear and then obey the voice of the Lord. Robin's story is gripping but most of all reminds us we are born for a purpose whether we are leading a company or doing the dishes, there is a mission for our lives.  Connect with Robin Pou:  Website:  Empowering Leaders for Success | Explore The Confident Leader Here  are ways you can help support The Reluctant Disciple project… Buy a book or two and share with friends Write a review on Amazon Post on social media, email, or text Connect our team with podcasts and influencers Download discussion questions for your community group or book club Links Mentioned:   Empowering Leadership Services | The Confident Leader Kisses from Katie: by Katie Davis Majors The Reluctant Disciple: By Robin Pou Leadership Training & Employee Development Platform - The Optimism Company Halftime - Get Clear. Get Free. Get Going Crown Financial Ministries Related Episodes: Identifying Your God-Given Space (Part 2) :: Sally Clarkson [Ep 404] How to Own Your Life :: Sally Clarkson {Ep 54} Stewarding Sacred and Spiritual Disciplines at Home :: Jennifer Pepito [Ep 464] Featured Sponsors:  Lands End: Seize the summer in Lands' End. Head to landsend.com  and use code (DONTMOMALONE) to get 30% off your summer purchase. Greenlight: Sign up for Greenlight today and get your first month free when you go to Greenligh.com/dma.  BetterHelp: This show is sponsored by Betterhelp. Never skip therapy day, with BetterHelp. Visit BetterHelp.com/dma today to get 10% off your first month. Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Are you tired physically, spiritually, or emotionally as a mom trying to do it all? Does the thought of resting make you stressed because you can't see how? Do you know what kind of rest fills your soul?   Today Jess Connolly joins us to talk about her new book and all the research behind the how, where, and why of rest. Jess's life is full with being an author, Bible teacher, podcaster, and coach so she knows the challenges of finding pockets of rest in a full schedule. I love how we discuss that there is no one-size-fits-all formula for resting and we are all made differently by our creator with unique ways to recharge. (Don't forget to take the quiz below to identify what kind of rest you need in this season) Jess reminds us that Jesus had true rest for us even in busy seasons that will lead us to be more awake, alive, and present in our families, ministries, and careers.  We end the podcast by getting sidetracked and talk about everything from theology books to ice machines- join us for tons of truth and fun.  Connect with Jess Connolly:  Website:  Jess Connolly Facebook: Jess Connolly Instagram:  Jess Connolly | Author + Bible Teacher (@jessaconnolly) Links Mentioned:   Quiz — Jess Connolly Tired of Being Tired: By Jess Connolly Breaking Free from Body Shame: By Jess Connolly You Are the Girl for the Job: By Jess Connolly Dance, Stand, Run: By Jess Connolly From Pentecost to Patmos: by Craig Blomberg Nobody's Mother: By Sandra Glahn Paul Behaving Badly: by E. Randolph Richards Nugget Countertop Ice Maker with Soft Chewable Pellet Ice Sun Visor Hats for Women Wide Brim Straw Roll-Up Related Episodes: Your Body is GOOD :: Jess Connolly [Ep 329] Worth Repeating // Jess Connolly A Naptime Diary :: Jessi Connolly {Ep 68} Featured Sponsors:  Rhone The Course to Court Collection can get you through any workday and straight into whatever comes next. Head to rhone.com/DMA  and use promo code DMA to save 20% off your entire order.  Honeylove Honeylove is not just supporting women, it's empowering women. Treat yourself to the best bras on the market and save 20% Off at honeylove.com/DMA . Elevate your comfort, elevate your style, with bras that empower your lifestyle of flexibility Thrive Causemetics Refresh your everyday look with Thrive Causemetics. Beauty that gives back. Thrivecausemetics.com/DMA for 10% off your first order.  Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Do you try to coach or control your kids in friendships? Whether sending them off to Kindergarten or College there are so many opportunities along the way to help them be good friends and pick good friends.  Today we are revisiting an amazing conversation with Sissy Goff and David Thomas discussing how to help our kids foster friendships.  As licensed counselors, working at DayStar Counseling Center in Nashville, they provide support, encouragement, and compassion to children, adolescents, and families in need through counseling. This episode has advice at every turn for every age and stage. David talks about dropping his son off at college and how to be a coach - not a fixer. We discuss shifting from focusing on how to get friends to how to be a good friend. Sissy breaks down the girl issues that arise with anxiety, feelings of isolation or being left out, and moms who sometimes care more than their daughters about certain social situations. This is a perfect episode heading into back-to-school season as we prepare to navigate relationships alongside our kids.  Connect with David Thomas and Sissy Goff:  Website:  Raising Boys and Girls Facebook: Raising Boys and Girls Instagram:  Sissy Goff (@sissygoff) and Raising Boys and Girls (@raisingboysandgirls) Podcast: Podcast | Raising Boys and Girls Summer of Mentorship Discussion Questions: What stood out to you in the week's episode? What is one step you can take to become a coach instead of a fixer?  Could you sit down this week and have your child make a list of what characteristics a good friend has? Ask them how they are doing on that scale and if they are looking for people with those same qualities. Can you name one issue one of your kids is having in this area and what ideas this episode brought up for you to try?  Are you praying for your kids' friendships and connections? If not, stop and pray now for one another that the Lord would provide lifelong Godly friends this year for each of your children.  Links Mentioned:   Common Sense Media: Age-Based Media Reviews for Families Are My Kids on Track?: by Sissy Goff, Melissa Trevathan, and David Thomas  The Invisible String by Patrice Karst Related Episodes: Helping Socially Anxious Boys :: David Thomas [Ep 451] Understanding Boys Better :: David Thomas [Ep 315] Raising Worry-Free Girls :: Sissy Goff [Bonus] Emotional Milestones :: Sissy Goff and David Thomas [Ep 160] Featured Sponsors:  Greenlight: Sign up for Greenlight today and get your first month free when you go to Greenlight.com/dma . Thrive Market: Save time and money and shop Thrive Market today. Go to ThriveMarket.com/DMA for 30% off your first order, plus a FREE $60 gift.  Vegamour:  Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

As parents, we are keenly aware of the peaks and valleys of our kids' emotions. Anger, sadness, excitement, and all the other feelings can make us feel like our child is on a roller coaster we're just trying to slow down.  It's true that we all feel highs and lows throughout our day, but we rarely talk about what it feel like when we're “in the zone” and feeling calm and ready to go. My guest today is sharing about the window of tolerance and how to regulate ourselves and our kids to help stay in that window.  “If I am dysregulated, I cannot regulate my child. So if I'm in fight or flight and I'm yelling. There's no amount of yelling that brings my child back into the window. And sometimes parents think the yelling is working, but what you're doing isn't getting your child in the window. They're going into collapse and into a place of fear.” Charissa Lopez is a Licensed Professional Counselor and believer. Her passion is to come alongside those who are hurting and struggling to help them find truth, hope, healing, connection, and growth. She shares some eye-opening information and statistics to get us on the path to helping our kids build resilience and stay in that window of tolerance.  Charissa shares from a faith-perspective that we as believers are not alone. She reminds us that we can lean on God to regulate our emotions as we love on our kids and go through the hardships of life.  “God himself through Jesus is the ultimate attachment figure. He is always reaching for us. He never fails to respond to our needs. He always loves us. He's never judging us and never shaming us. So to know that when we need to be co-regulated, that when I am feeling like I'm going to leave the window, I can remember the truth of who God is and I can reach out to him in prayer.” What we chat about: The window of tolerance when our brains functioning well and effectively process input to make rational decisions calmly without feeling either overwhelmed or withdrawn When we're out of the window of tolerance, our thinking brain is not in control and we don't register consequences  Many of us don't live in the window of tolerance, but we're too busy and stressed to stop and assess how we're feeling at any given moment Hyper-arousal, otherwise known as the fight/flight response, is often characterized by hypervigilance, feelings of anxiety and/or panic, and racing thoughts. Hypo-arousal, or a freeze response, may cause feelings of emotional numbness, emptiness, or paralysis. Learning how to stay in your window of tolerance builds resilience, both for us and our kids When our kids live outside the window, they become “masters of survival” and often turn to negative coping strategies What co-regulating our kids' emotions looks like Philippians 2:13 “For it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.”  We can lean on God to bring us to that window of tolerance and into the fruits of the spirit Connect with Charissa:  Website:  charissalopez.com Facebook: facebook.com/CharissaLopezCounseling  Links Mentioned:   Regulation Pack for DMA Listeners [WEBSITE]  Rosie's Brain [BOOK] Related Episodes:   Connecting Through Play Episode with Charissa  Ages and Stages–Tween Edition –differentiation episode with Charissa  Helping Your Child with Sensory Processing Issues :: Lynne Jackson [Ep 258]  Summer of Mentorship Discussion Questions: Have you heard of the window of tolerance before? If you look back at today, can you identify times when you were in the window and when you were in hyper-arousal/hypo-arousal? What about when your kids were in hyper-arousal/hypo-arousal? Are there some simple indicators that tip you off to your child's de-regulation? How could knowing that your child's thinking brain and understanding of consequences are not functioning in de-regulation change how you parent them when they have big emotional responses? Do you need to take more time to regulate yourself when you are upset before disciplining your kids? Make a list of strategies you can use to get back to the window of tolerance before trying to help your kids regulate.  God is the ultimate attachment figure and he can help us regulate through prayer, corporate worship and community. How have you seen God help you regulate in the difficult moments in life? Share some wins! Featured Sponsors:  Green Chef–Go to GreenChef.com/dmaclass for 50% off your first box + 50 FREE Credits with ClassPass! That's code dmaclass at Greenchef.com/dmaclass. Gabb Phone and Watch-Gabb is offering HUGE discounts on phones and watches to new customers. There's no contract required! Just go to GABB.com/dma to get started. BetterHelp - This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Never skip therapy day, with BetterHelp.  Visit BetterHelp.com/dma today to get 10% off your first month.

Out of the gate today we are into all the TMI topics like how to wear your gown at the Doctor's office, mammograms, and what stage of menopause we are in. (Did you know there are five?) Cynthia's family keeps it real as usual by washing their healthy vitamins full of fruits and veggies down with Diet Dr. Pepper.  Next up we discuss the Olympics, from what our favorite sports are to handball and break dancing, which we are pretty sure are made-up sports. I rehash my prolific synchronized swimming career and share how I impressed (read tortured) my boys on vacation by showing off my skills. Both of us are fresh off of summer family trips where I bribed my boys to play family games, and Cynthia got recognized in a hotel lobby while sternly talking to her family about taking a good picture.  Cynthia is reading Bird by Bird by Anne Lamont and gives some ideas on how to slow down and take note of the little things in life so we can remember them later. I share how the pressure to list all the needed family improvements can get overwhelming so I am choosing to list what is going well this season. Come laugh with us and be reminded that no matter how messy summer is making memories and taking time with family is invaluable.  Connect with Cynthia Yanof:  Website:  https://cynthiayanof.com/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cynthia.yanof Instagram:  @cynthiayanof  Podcast: MESSmerized  Links Mentioned:   Hiya kids vitamins (see link and discount below) Ilona Maher (@ilonamaher) Crazy Rich Asians | Prime Video Bird by Bird: By Anne Lamott NYT Games: Word Games and Sudoku Cynthia's apple watch band The Bear (TV Series 2022– ) - IMDb Satin Heatless Curling Set  Bruce's flat iron from when he chemically straightened his hair Related Episodes: The Goal Isn't Happy Children :: Cynthia Yanof – Summer of Mentorship – Wk 6 [Ep 419] A Mash-Up of Summer Support [Ep 411] Breaking Up with Perfect :: Summer of Mentorship Week 4 Featured Sponsors:  Hiya–We've worked out a special deal with Hiya for their best selling children's vitamin. Receive 50% off your first order. To claim this deal you must go to hiyahealth.com/DMA . This deal is not available on their regular website Skylight Calendar-As a special, limited-time offer for our listeners, get $40 off your purchase of a Skylight Calendar when you go to skylightcal.com/ALONE . Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Do you feel like all the parenting books and formulas do not apply to your child? Is there embarrassment over public behavior that causes conflict? Are you longing for a deep connection with your kids that lasts into adulthood? Today we revisit my conversation with Amy and Jeffrey Olrick. Jeffrey is a clinical psychologist who specializes in working with children and families and uses his knowledge in the science of healthy human development mixed with faith to help us in our family relationships.  They go through the six needs of every child and share a compass to help you find your way when it gets challenging. Jeffrey compares our walk through life to a long and challenging trek with our kids where we can get off course but can use these tools to get back on track and build deeper relationships with our kids. He came to the Lord through Matthew 11:28-30 which says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light”.  We can take this to heart in parenting and in life that God wants us to be in right relationship with our kids and He has strengthened us with the Holy Spirit to do that job well.  Connect with Amy and Jeffrey Olrick:  Website:  Growing Connected Facebook: Growing Connected Instagram:  Growing Connected (@growingconnected) Links Mentioned:   Growing Connected Podcast - Growing Connected The 6 Needs of Every Child: Amy and Jeffrey Olrick Which Need Do You Respond to the Most? - Growing Connected (Quiz)   Related Episodes: The “Don't Miss” List :: Celebrating 10 Years of Don't Mom Alone [Ep 434] Grace Based Discipline for Kids with Unique Needs :: Karis Murray [Ep 237] Understand Your Developing Teen :: Dr. Nell Bush [Ep 351] Featured Sponsors:  Thrive Causemetics: Refresh your everyday look with Thrive Causemetics. Beauty that gives back. Right now get 10% off your first order at thrivecausemetics.com/DMA. Duncan and Stone Paper Company: Right now, we have a special offer for listeners: Get 20% off your first order with promo code DMA20. And did we mention that they offer free shipping on any order over $49? You know we're a sucker for free shipping. Head to www.duncanandstone.com  to start your memory making journey today! Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

I love Kirk's realistic approach to parenting. He understands what your home dynamics are like. And gives practical tips. After listening to today's episode you will have at least three different “tricks” to apply. Most of all, I'm thankful for the new perspective he has given me. Kirk helped me recognize how emotionally invested I was in my boys' behavior and freed me from the need to regulate their behavior for them. The last couple days I've enjoyed the boys more. I'm also less tense and frustrated when we are out in public. In fact, I may need to go back and listen to this episode more than once, so it sticks! This episode originally aired in May of 2015 Kirk came back on the show multiple times. Check out additional episodes here. What we chat about: Kirk's realization that he needed to focus on his own behavior and stop trying to fix his son's strong-willed behavior. The switch he made from training 1500 kids in his home to training parents to calm themselves. The one thing you can do today to de-escalate a tense situation in your home. How to calmly handle your child's meltdown I can only control one person in life, and that's me. How motion changes emotion–helping little ones calm down b/c they don't know how to “think” their way out. What to do in the middle of Target aisle 3 when your child freaks out Handling a tantruming child when his siblings are fighting and another needs help with homework and dinner is cooking (Heather's daily 5 pm reality). If you don't care enough about yourself, to take care of yourself physically, emotionally, spiritually. . .why would anyone else care? How sometimes parents want good behavior so badly, they are too invested in it and give children too much control. How to be an impartial giver of wisdom. Write down your emotional triggers & do the opposite of what you normally do. Connect with Kirk: Site :: Twitter :: Facebook :: Podcast Links Mentioned: CDs/DVDs 888-506-1871–Toll Free Number for Frustrated Parents Summer of Mentorship Discussion Questions:  Discuss Kirk's realization that he needed to focus on his own behavior and stop trying to fix his son's strong-willed behavior. If you struggle to stay calm when your kids are out of control, what are some of your triggers?  Which of Kirk's ideas to de-escalate a situation is most realistic for you? Thinking about how motion changes emotion. How did you react to Kirk's idea of being an “impartial giver of wisdom” instead of being so invested in how your kids behave?  Spend some time working through a part of your day that is most challenging or a situation with a particular child and brainstorm ways you could respond differently. Share with others in the group and get their ideas if you are willing.  Featured Sponsors:  Thrive Market: Save time and money and shop Thrive Market today. Go to ThriveMarket.com/DMA for 30% off your first order, plus a FREE $60 gift!  Better Help: This episode is sponsored by Better Help.  Stop comparing and start focusing, with BetterHelp. Visit BetterHelp.com/dma today to get 10% off your first month. Greenlight: This episode is sponsored by Greenlight. Sign up for Greenlight today and get your first month free when you go to Greenlight.com/dma. 

On September 20, 2021, Makayla Noble, a world-champion cheerleader, suffered an injury that resulted in a severe spinal cord injury. Both Cynthia and I were part of her extended community and were getting updates on her healing journey and how to pray for her.  Today we have the honor of interviewing her to see how God has used her life to glorify Him even when things don't go as planned.  From the moment of her accident, Makayla felt the overwhelming peace of God, that He was going to take care of her and had a plan. She has mourned her physical body and what she thought the future would look like but remains in the truth that “God is not done with me yet”.  Come along with us as we hear Makayla's story.  Connect with Makayla Noble:  Website:  Makayla Noble | Mak's Warriors Youtube: Makayla Noble - YouTube Instagram:  Makayla Noble (@makaylamnoble) Links Mentioned:   Joni and Friends | Sharing Hope Through Hardship ATF Official Home Page | AdaptiveTrainingFoundation.org The Chosen TV Series Related Episodes: How to Never Miss Out :: Vaneetha Risner [Ep 402] RWYB Series wk 1 Praising Through the Pain of Physical Limitations :: Karen Harmon [Ep 231] Finding Your Voice :: Sandi Patty [Ep 224] Featured Sponsors:  Duncan and Stone–-Get 20% off your first order with promo code DMA20. And did we mention that they offer free shipping on any order over $49? You know we're a sucker for free shipping. -Head to www.duncanandstone.com  to start your memory making journey today! Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors.