Hey, Sister!

In this short concluding episode of Season 2, Courtney and Carley share information for a giveaway and explain their decision to temporarily step back from podcasting (without a planned date for returning). Thank you for listening this season! We love you sisters.    Visit www.heysisterpodcast.org/giveaway for giveaway information or check out our stores on Instagram this week.    Check out the guest we are sad we needed to cancel our interview with, Michael Anderson from the podcast, Everyday Impact.   

Teaching children to accept “no” answers and follow instructions are critical skills. When family members learn these skills and incorporate them into their daily lives, behaviors can be corrected and the parent-child relationship is more connected. Janice Mireles and Rachael Moss, parenting experts and Teaching Self-Government mentors, join Courtney and Carley for the second part in a discussion about the 4 basic skills every child and parent needs. For the first two skills, check out Season 2 Episode 8.  This episode is part of the Connections within Motherhood series, airing May 2023.   Call to Action:  “Using these fundamental skills can create so much success in so many  areas, but even if you teach these skills daily, you won't be able to see the connection that you want, you won't live your family mission or reach your vision if your tone isn't right. So my call to action is to notice your tone!   Take a deep breath before you speak. Look into your children's eyes when you speak, and feel love and trust toward them. Believe the best of them. I know this can be hard when we have such deep neural pathways and lifelong habits of lecturing or snapping and griping, yelling, whatever it may be. So at first, just notice and practice and see what a difference that alone makes.” - Janice Mireles       Show Timeline:   0:00 Guests and topic introduction   2:30 Accepting no answers: includes criticism (positive and negative) and not getting what you prefer   5:30 Using disagree appropriately skill within the “accepting a no answer” skill   12:45 Pre-teaching plug, rewarding vs. bribing, communicating with pre-teens and teenagers   16:00 Dropping the subject with your mouth and your mind   18:15 Following instructions: be clear, break down tasks, make sure task is accomplishable for the child, children blooming under praise afterwards   21:00 Check back: the last step in following instructions   24:00 When instructions are consequences, they do NOT need to be negative. Making cookies with mama, serving siblings at lunch.       27:00 Using TSG instead of custom-crafting punishments based on children's natures (Courtney's a-ha moment transitioning from a different parenting model)   28:30 Call to action, concluding thoughts, outtakes       Resources:   Connect with Janice and Rachael  https://www.instagram.com/bossymossy/ https://www.instagram.com/encouragedmama/   Connect with Hey, Sister! https://www.instagram.com/theheysisterpodcast/   Learn more about Teaching Self-Government https://teachingselfgovernment.com   Parenting: A house United (book referenced) https://teachingselfgovernment.com/store/parenting-a-house-united/   Check out past episodes of Hey, Sister! (including Part 1 of this 2-part segment) https://heysisterpodcast.org/home-2/episodes/  

Best friend parenting experts Janice Mireles and Rachael Moss join Courtney and Carley to discuss 2 of the 4 basic skills within Teaching Self-Government: Accepting consequences and disagreeing appropriately. Janice and Rachael give an overview of all 4 basic skills, then share specific examples and benefits of accepting consequences and what it means and looks like to disagree appropriately. This episode is part of the Connections within Motherhood series, airing May 2023.   Call to Action:  “Take the opportunity each time you're interacting with your child and look them in the eyes.” -Rachael Moss   Show Timeline:   0:00 Guests and topic introduction   4:15 Overview of 4 basic skills, steps to achieving them and books about each skill. Explanation of cue cards for adult use. 4 basic skills: following instructions, accepting no answers and criticism, accepting consequences, and disagreeing appropriately   9:30 Accepting consequences/corrections: correcting behavior, connecting to heart. Examples: siblings bickering earn extra chore   19:45 Disagreeing appropriately: example unloading dishwasher, counter suggestions   24:00 Carley's personal coaching through real-life scenario with rolling pin: no answers and disagreeing appropriately deep-dive   26:45 Pre-teaching and practicing; lowering anxiety through consistency on parent's part   34:00 Connect with Rachael and Janice, call to action, concluding thoughts, outtakes     Resources: Learn more about Teaching Self-Government Parenting: A House United (book) Children's books Cue Cards Hey, Sister! Past Episodes   Connect:  Rachael's Instagram Janice's Instagram Hey, Sister! Instagram    

The importance and benefits of pre-teaching ourselves and our children is discussed with parenting expert Paije Baumert, a mentor from Teaching Self-Government. Paije gives a brief overview of 4 basic skills every child and adult need to understand and shares the skill she utilizes most in her daily life as a mother of an 18-month old (giving no-answers). This episode is part of the Connections within Motherhood series, airing May 2023. Call to Action: "Choose this week not to take your toddler's behaviors personally! And do a self pre-teach every day before you interact with any of your children. There, I guess I gave you two, but they go hand in hand." - Paije Baumert   Resources:  Learn more about Teaching Self Government: https://teachingselfgovernment.com/ Listen to Paije & Nicholeen on the TSG podcast: https://teachingselfgovernment.com/podcasts/ Connect with Hey, Sister! Podcast: https://heysisterpodcast.org/   Show Timeline:  0:00 Guest and topic introduction   3:15 How teaching self-government (TSG) has helped Paije in her relationships   6:00 The four basic skills: following instructions, accepting no for an answer (and criticism), accepting consequences and disagreeing appropriately   8:30 No-answers are a crucial skill for toddlers, teaching breathing to calm down before receiving a no-answer, getting out of emotional back brain into logical front brain    12:15 Using cue phrases to calm a child, “we don't talk like that”, pre-teaching, emotional manipulation not a healthy response,    20:00 Pre-teaching explanation: telling someone what needs to happen before it happens, examples of skills to pre-teach   27:00 Skill permanence in toddlers, similar to object permanence in babies   31:30 Pre-teaching brings anxiety levels way down, role-playing is form of pre-teaching, TSG courses and mentoring calls     36:45 Call to action, concluding thoughts, outtakes

Family vision, family mission, proactive parenting, the roles of mother and father—it's all covered in this compelling conversation with Nicholeen Peck, parenting expert and founder of the proven parenting system Teaching Self-Government. Nicholeen is one of the world's leading voices in protecting and supporting the family, and her love for motherhood shines through in all she says and does. This episode airs as part of the month theme of "Motherhood", dedicated to strengthening connections within motherhood.     Call to action:  Find calmness in your parenting! “Calmness is the basis for good communication and understanding in relationships. Without calmness, we fall into power struggles and traps that make us frustrated with ourselves and each other.” (Teaching Self-Government website) Find calmness with the free calm parent toolkit offered on Nicholeen's website.    Download the Calm Parenting Toolkit    Resources: https://teachingselfgovernment.com   Parenting: A House United Get Nicholeen's popular parenting book!   TSG Instagram     Hey, Sister! Instagram       Timeline:  0:00 Guest and topic introduction   6:15 Self-government definition and overview of Parenting: A House United. Shooting analogy—Aligning the aught (who you ought to be) and front-site (personal wants). Course correcting daily.   9:15 Overview of four basic skills within Teaching Self-Government   12:30 Family vision and mission explanation    14:00 Roles of mother and father. Discussion on vision. Vision is the WHY.   17:45 Discussion on family mission. Mission is the HOW. Missions can be for various areas of life: personal, parent, family, work. Missions provide the feeling of living your ultimate purpose.   23:15 Reactive and proactive parenting   25:15 The 8 personal missions   31:45 Creating a family mission statement. Peck family mission statement.   37:30 World's view of motherhood   41:45 Calm Parenting toolkit: call to action, closing remarks, outtakes (Courtney's star-struck comments)

Author, speaker and podcaster Rebecca George joins Courtney and Carley to discuss using talents to fulfill personal callings through connection to God, others and self.    Call to Action: Practice obedience in our callings. “The outcome is His, the obedience is yours!” (Not sure what your calling is? Try creating a venn diagram to figure it out—discussed in this episode and in Rebecca's book.)     Referenced Resources:    “Do the Thing” (Rebecca's new book!) https://www.amazon.com/Do-Thing-Gospel-Centered-Gumption-Go-Getter/dp/0830784357   Connect with Rebecca:  https://www.radicalradiance.live https://www.instagram.com/rebeccageorgeauthor/   Connect with Hey, Sister! heysisterpodcast.org https://www.instagram.com/theheysisterpodcast/ https://www.facebook.com/heysisterpodcast   Referenced Prior Episodes:  Episode about the effect music has on us (Sound of Music // Maren Paris Cline) https://heysisterpodcast.org/43-sound-of-music-maren-paris-cline/     Show Timeline:    0:00 Show topic and guest introduction   3:15 Finding important connections—community within your work. Connections aren't something else to do on your journey, it's part of the journey!   8:15 Overcoming feelings of comparison and envy   12:15 Finding callings this side of Heaven; “what matters” Venn diagram discussion (What matters to God, others and me?)   21:00 Rebecca's book info and concluding thoughts

Certified trauma support specialist, resiliency professional and life coach Tamara Lichfield joins Courtney and Carley to talk about establishing connections from a place of confidence. Tamara discusses post-traumatic growth, stepping outside of comfort zones, exercising integrity, and avoiding making assumptions. This episode is the third episode in a 3-part series about preparing to make lasting connections. Be sure to listen to Part 1 (“Emotional Self Check”) and Part 2 (“Sympathy, Empathy and Boundaries”) for the full message from Tamara.     Resources: Connect with Tamara Email: Becomingshatterproof@gmail.com http://www.becomingshatterproof.us https://www.facebook.com/becomingshatterproof/   Connect with Courtney and Carley    heysisterpodcast.org https://www.instagram.com/theheysisterpodcast/ https://www.facebook.com/heysisterpodca   Book referenced The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom (a Toltec Wisdom Book) by Don Miguel Ruiz     Show Timeline:  0:00 Guest and topic introduction (recap of parts 1 and 2)   4:40 What is your story? Healing wounded parts of your story. Post-traumatic growth. “Four agreements” overview.    7:00 Agreement One: Be impeccable with your word. Agreement Two: Don't take anything personally. Intent vs. impact. Positive self-talk vs. negative self-talk.     12:15 Agreement Three: Don't make assumptions. Cognitive fusion. Asking curiosity questions. Relational trauma: assumptive reality is shattered.    19:00 Agreement Four: Always do your best whatever you're pursuing. Stepping outside your comfort zone.    21:45 Concluding thoughts

Life Coach Tamara Lichfield joins Courtney and Carley to teach the difference between sympathy and empathy, the symptoms of codependency and the format for setting boundaries. This episode is Part 2 of 3 within thse Connection Prep mini-series, airing April 2023.    Referenced Quotes: “I think so often, what people misunderstand about boundaries is that the point of setting them is not to change other peoples behavior or convince them to value different things – it's to advocate for yourself, regardless of how they respond.” Daniell Koepke   "Agency is our superpower!" Tamara Lichfield   Referenced Resources: The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman Connect with Tamara  • http://www.becomingshatterproof.us • https://www.facebook.com/becomingshatterproof/   Connect with Courtney and Carley • https://heysisterpodcast.org • https://www.instagram.com/theheysisterpodcast/ • https://www.facebook.com/heysisterpodcast   Show Timeline:    0:00 Guest and topic introduction; recap of Part 1   3:45 Sympathy vs. empathy   15:00 Codependency, areas and symptoms of codependency: 1) self-sacrifice, 2) tendency to focus on others' needs, 3) a need for control, 4) difficulty recognizing and expressing emotion   22:00 Avoiding enmeshment and codependency by cultivating self-esteem and quality self-care   27:30 Boundaries: step 1—Define values (examples of values: family, success, faith and spirituality, honesty, affection, friendship, compassion, finances, appreciation, integrity)   33:00 Boundaries: step 2—Questions to consider when setting boundaries: 1) Do I have control to create the outcome I want? 2) Do I have control to create the outcome I want with some help? 3) Do I need to make a request to create the outcome I want? 4) Do I have zero control over the outcome?   38:15 Format for setting boundaries and examples: “If X occurs, then I will do Y”   43:00 Concluding thoughts and outtakes  

Life coach Tamara Lichfield shares with sisters Courtney and Carley the basics of healthy connection—communication styles to avoid and listening strategies to incorporate. This episode is part 1 in a 3-part series with Tamara about preparing oneself to make healthy connections.    Resources Connect with Tamara  http://www.becomingshatterproof.us https://www.facebook.com/becomingshatterproof/ Connect with Courtney and Carley heysisterpodcast.org https://www.instagram.com/theheysisterpodcast/ https://www.facebook.com/heysisterpodcast   Timeline 0:00 Introduction of guest expert and topic   4:00 Emotional check-in: self-regulation, expressing emotions including anger   12:00 Creating healthy connections—communications to avoid: criticism, defensiveness, contempt and stonewalling (plus antedates for each)   23:00 Parts of the brain: 1) Amygdala = primitive brain = survival brain = reptilian brain. 2) Prefrontal cortex = executive brain = logical brain.    24:45 Healthy connection practices: listen more than you talk, make eye contact, watch for non-verbal cues, listen without judgment, be reflective, ask curiosity questions, keep body posture open, lean in, be comfortable with a little bit of silence, give undivided attention, be genuine with compliments and specific with praise    28:00 Tangent about Win a Date with Tad Hamilton and the seven smiles   30:45 Final healthy connection practice (vulnerability), concluding thoughts, outtakes

New season, new focus, same sisterly spirit and banter! Join sisters Carley and Courtney for the first episode of Season 2 as they describe the over-arching theme for this season (connection), their recent life happenings and a recap of their most impactful lessons during Season 1.    Resources heysisterpodcast.org https://www.instagram.com/theheysisterpodcast/ https://www.facebook.com/heysisterpodcast https://www.basinclimbing.com — Carley's new rock gym, coming soon to Waco, TX!   Referenced Episodes Ep 14 Social Light with Hanalei Gene Ep 30 Meme Girls with Rachel Homolak Ep 42 Rub Some Dirt In It with Kathleen Mooney  Ep 43 Sound of Music Maren Paris Cline Ep 47 History is Her Story, too with Alli Roper Ep 54 Safety First with Robyn Warner     Show Timeline 0:00 Welcome! Emphasis on connection for Season 2. Discussion about in-person and virtual connections. Upcoming monthly themes. Grand Canyon hiking!   9:00 Courtney's life recap: chickens and homeschool. Favorite benefits of podcasting: sisterly connections, creativity outlet, personal growth. Impactful episodes: Ep 14 Social Light with Hanalei Gene, Ep 43 Sound of Music Maren Paris Cline and Ep 54 Safety First with Robyn Warner   15:45 Carley's life recap: rock gym, home renovations (“sausage making process”) and getting a dog. Reflections on Season 1: loved the variety of topics and guest experts! Impactful episodes: Ep 47 History is Her Story, too! with Alli Roper, Ep 42 Rub Some Dirt In It with Kathleen Mooney (“chickens” tangent), Ep 30 Meme Girls with Rachel Homolak.   24:00 Most meaningful feedback: pause the episode to talk to a friend/sister. Concluding thoughts. Next week's episode: preparing to make connections in your life.

Join Courtney and Carley for the one year anniversary episode of Hey, Sister! A personal feel good life-sitcom moment from this year is shared and the new “salt of the earth” mini series is introduced.  This episode is part of the feel good fall series, packed with interviews and sisterly advice to increase feelings of peace and confidence going into the holiday season and beyond. This is also the concluding episode of Season 1 for Hey, Sister! Season 2 will launch Spring of 2023.    Join Courtney and Carley for their one year anniversary episode! A personal feel good life-sitcom moment from this year is shared and the new “salt of the earth” mini series is introduced.  This episode is part of the feel good fall series, packed with interviews and sisterly advice to increase feelings of peace and confidence going into the holiday season and beyond. This is also the concluding episode of Season 1 for Hey, Sister! Season 2 will launch in spring of 2023.    Call to Action Please give Hey, Sister! Podcast a 1-year birthday present!  Review us: 5 stars on Apple Podcasts (Please! Add a comment with what you like about our episodes. Feedback is so helpful and valued!) Share us: share your favorite episode with your friends and family (share a favorite episode directly from your streaming platform, or you can send them to Hey, Sister! Episodes Website for a list of all of our episodes with show descriptions) Follow us: connect with us on Instagram or Facebook! Be on the lookout for our upcoming Salt of the Earth series   Connect with Hey, Sister! Website heysisterpodcast.org Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theheysisterpodcast/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/heysisterpodcast   Timeline   0:00 Show introduction, taking a break before we begin Season 2 in the spring (find us on Instagram)   4:30 Mini-series introduction, salt of the earth description   7:00 Story about Tonya B.   14:00 Moral of the story: greet others with love, good shepherd analogy, coming back to the fold   18:00 Concluding thoughts: varieties of salt, varieties of women, behind the scenes story on Instagram 

Overcoming perfectionism, tapping into creativity, and recognizing the beauties of failure are discussed in today's episode about finding comfort in a chaotic world. Susan Chapman joins co-hosts Courtney and Carley to share her “joy in becoming” mindset and the various benefits of this mental shift as a recent widow and mother of six children. This episode is part of the feel good fall series, packed with interviews and sisterly advice to increase feelings of peace and confidence going into the holiday season and beyond.      Call to Action “Find beauty in something you ordinarily wouldn't find beauty in! It could be a child you're struggling with, a task that seems daunting, a relationship that isn't what you want it to be, something you're learning how to do. Take the moment to be like, “Okay, what is the beauty in this?” It can be 30 seconds, but every day this week—every single day—take 30 seconds to find joy in something you wouldn't typically find joy in.” -Susan Chapman from Joy in Becoming     Referenced Prior Episode Aubrey Grossen on Hey, Sister! Podcast "30 seconds of sunset" Episode 51 Mental Health Day     Connect with Susan Joy in Becoming Instagram Joy in Becoming Podcast COMING SOON!   Connect with Hey, Sister! Hey, Sister! Podcast Website Hey, Sister! Instagram       Show Timeline 0:00 Topic and guest introduction   7:15 Finding joy intentionally; life is hard, “you're going to find what you're looking for”   12:30 Everyone has hard and everyone has beautiful   14:00 Susan's formula for joy: letting go of perfection, creating, turning to Savior   19:00 Finding joy in parenting toddlers and teens   24:15 Short and long term benefits of the “joy in becoming” mindset: laughter, ability to see failure as a beautiful thing and that life is hard for everyone   27:45 Call to action, concluding thoughts, outtakes

Wardrobe stylist Delee Cox joins Courtney and Carley to discuss slow fashion and finding the perfect balance between intentional and functional clothing items. This episode is part of the feel good fall series, packed with interviews and sisterly advice to increase feelings of peace and confidence going into the holiday season and beyond.    Call to Action Recreate something from your wardrobe, especially using an item that you haven't worn in awhile   Resources Listen to the prior episodes in the Feel Good Fall series  Episode 50 Family Photos, Shoot! // Chelsea Barton Episode 51 Mental Health Day // Aubrey Grossen Episode 52 Cozy Homes // Carly Thornock 53 My Funny Friend and Me // Mallory Everton and Whitney Call 54 Safety First // Robyn Warner 55 Grounded Hostessing // Sarah Clark    Connect with Delee Cox thestylistnextdoor.net @thestylistnextdoor_ut   Connect with Hey, Sister! Hey, Sister! Podcast Website @TheHeySisterPodcast         Timeline   0:00 Introduction of guest and topic   6:15 Repeating outfits, sharing clothes as sisters   8:00 Slow fashion definition: a mindset shift   10:15 Fashion as wellness tool (about confidence, not vanity); balance between functional and intentional wardrobes   12:00 Managing our wardrobes; defining your personal style, clothes that work for you in your closet; chests of drawers   17:00 Starting point in evaluating closet: 1) What's the vibe or energy of this outfit? 2) Would I want to hang out with this woman? 3) Does this outfit need altering to fit better?   19:00 Wearing items 30x per clothing item, second hand shopping   22:45 Call to action, concluding thoughts, outtakes

The joys of connection and the responsibilities of hostessing are discussed in today's episode with guest expert Sarah Clark from The Dainty Pear. Sarah and co-hosts Carley and Courtney swap hostessing stories jam-packed with learning experiences as Sarah shares her advice for creating connection-rich dining experiences. This episode is part of the feel good fall series, packed with interviews and sisterly advice to increase feelings of peace and confidence going into the holiday season and beyond.    Call to Action Sit down as a family for one meal—ideally Sunday dinner—this week. If you regularly have a Sunday dinner, consider inviting another family to join you.    Resources Grounded Feel Good, Real Food (Cook Book by Sarah Clark)  Present Over Perfect (book Sarah referenced)     Connect with Sarah  The Dainty Pear Website The Dainty Pear Instagram @thedaintypear @thedaintypearco   Connect with Hey, Sister! Hey, Sister! Podcast Website Hey, Sister! Instagram     Timeline   0:00 Introduction of guest expert and topic   5:00 Connection: food brings people together, feeling “grounded” when hosting a postpartum/new baby welcoming event (Sarah's chicken salad story)   13:00 Extending yourself grace and delegating (Courtney's burned rolls story)   16:15 Moderation and balance, seasons of eating out, boxed Mac n Cheese   18:00 Host and guest relations (Carley's “don't help me right now” story), Sarah's advice “Practice the thank you instead of the stop”   23:00 Division of kitchen responsibilities: what's the goal? If desired outcome is relaxed state of guests with no work, then prepare beforehand. Consider: small tasks for guests, food/drink assignments   28:00 Be an honest host!   32:00 Call to action, concluding thoughts and outtakes

Safety guru and full-time mom boss Robyn Warner joins Courtney and Carley for an empowering discussion about personal safety. As a survivor of a brutal sexual assault herself and an active advocate for women, Robyn thoroughly understands the mental battle between intuition and logic and offers guidance and helpful tips for trusting and preparing oneself for potentially dangerous situations. This episode is part of the feel good fall series, packed with interviews and sisterly advice to increase feelings of peace and confidence going into the holiday season and beyond.    Call to Action Buy pepper spray! Keep it in an accessible place, like a wrist lanyard or key chain.   Referenced Resources  Miss Congeniality Self Defense Clip Who is Chesley Sullenberger? Sully's Website Robyn's Safety Course (listen at minute marker 37:45 for unique Hey, Sister! discount code)     Connect with Robyn Robyn's Instagram @aflyonmywall safebyrobyn.com/SAFECourse (discount code for course at 37:45)   Connect with Hey, Sister! Hey, Sister! Instagram @theheysisterpodcast heysisterpodcast.org   Timeline   0:00 Introduction of topic and guest expert   6:00 Confidence comes from empowerment and education; “pop quiz” about Chesley Sullenberger   9:45 Courtney's motherhood experience about suppressing intuition and not being prepared   13:45 Robyn's counsel: intuition vs. logic, decide to always trust intuition, have a plan in place (pepper spray? Emergency button? Yell for help)   17:30 Educating kids curbs anxiety   19:30 Carley's personal story about not being prepared/knowledgable of safety precautions in a foreign country   21:00 Robyn's counsel: you are not the exception to the rule, “upshifting” awareness   24:00 Self defense practices: stand tall, eye contact, vocalize “stop following me!”   27:00 Advice for moms to coach kids on personal safety: teach about Tricky People (not the term “stranger danger”), practice yelling “Help! This is not my Dad!” every 3 months   32:45 Dismissing stories; Ignorance is not bliss, preparedness translates into empowerment   34:00 Call to action   35:15 Concluding thoughts, outtakes  

The importance of prioritizing time with friends is discussed with comedy professionals Whitney Call and Mallory Everton. As members of the comedy sketch group JK! Studios and best friends, these two ladies are experts on the topic of embracing humor within friendships. This episode is part of the feel good fall series, packed with interviews and sisterly advice to increase feelings of peace and confidence going into the holiday season and beyond.    Call to Action Whitney invites the Hey, Sister! Podcast community to engage in traditions, listen and validate the experiences of existing friends. Mallory encourages sisters looking for new friends to select 3 intriguing acquiantances and send each person a kind text message to spark a conversation and start a friendship.    Resources Clip of International Relations (Studio C) JK! Studios Youtube Channel   Connect with Whitney @WhitneyCall on Instagram Whitney_Call on https://twitter.com   Connect with Mallory @reMallory on Instagram @re_Mallory on TikTok   Carley's Book Recommendation Share Your Stuff. I'll Go First. By Laura Tremaine     Connect with Hey, Sister! @TheHeySisterPodcast on Instagram heysisterpodcast.org   Timeline:    0:00 Introduction of topic and guests   7:45 The importance of laughter in life and friendships   13:15 Prioritizing time with friends    24:00 Overcoming self-consciousness about acting silly around new friends; vulnerability   33:00 Call to action, concluding thoughts, outtakes

House love coach Carly Thornock joins cohost sisters Courtney and Carley for an episode about intentionally bringing joy and fun into your life and home this fall. This episode is part of the feel good fall series, packed with interviews and sisterly advice to increase feelings of peace and confidence going into the holiday season and beyond.    Call to Action In the next 24 hours, create 2 columns on a piece of paper. In the first column, write down words/adjectives that represent what feels fun to your soul this holiday season (is it beautiful bows, tasty treats, festive music?). In a second column, write a list of all the rules, traditions and expectations associated with this time of year (delivering neighbor presents, attending parties, etc.). Cross out the second column elements that don't match up with the adjectives of the first column and soak in the joy and deliciousness of your personalized holiday plans. “If you go through and in your body, it's like, ‘I hate that! I should do that.' If your brain ever says, ‘I should do that'--cross it off. I want you to be liberal in your crossing off. And then the ones that are left, I want you to circle and put little hearts around them and I want you to just soak it in with the deliciousness that it is to you of, ‘I just love sitting under my Christmas tree and listening to instrumental music while I look at the snow. That is what I'm doing and I'm doing it three times and that's the only thing. We're giving up all the parties. We're not doing any candy canes.' Whatever it is to you. Cross off the things that feel at all not fun. And highlight the ones that do and commit to those.” -Carly Thornock Resources Quiet Your Mind (referenced body scan episode) Intentional House by Month (Carly's book!) Connect with Carly Instagram @CarlyThornock carlythornock.com   Connect with Hey, Sister! Instagram @TheHeySisterPodcast heysisterpodcast.org   Show Timeline 0:00 Guest and topic introduction   4:30 Home is the ultimate inside joke    6:15 Feel Good Fall meaning as a house love coach: the invitation to match nature. 3 steps to recognize what feel goods to you: 1) Breathe and sit still, 2) Use senses to connect, 3) Fun or it doesn't happen   11:00 Intentionality of what makes a “good home”; hitting metaphorical nails on the head. Energy in homes    13:45 “Shoulds” and further elaboration on the nails on the board analogy    15:00 Breathing/syncing heart and mind; nutcrackers story    18:00 Assets of home    20:45 “Fun or it doesn't happen” coaching: fun is what feels good to body, fun can look like structure, relationships, connection, beauty   23:45 Getting into your body. Anxious should-ing vs. truly happy with structure. Failed body scans and letting husbands bake the cookies. Gatekeeping   28:45 Call to action   31:30 Children's experience at home is colored by what is delightful/delicious to mom   33:30 Contact information, final thoughts, outtakes

Mental health advocate and founder of the women's movement ANYA (A New You Again) joins cohost sisters Courtney and Carley for a motivational episode all about the importance of mental wellness. Aubrey shares a memorable acronym (MOMMY) to aid in remembering simple steps women can take to incorporate mental health exercises in practical ways. This episode is part of the feel good fall series, packed with interviews and sisterly advice to increase feelings of peace and confidence going into the holiday season and beyond.    Call to action: Apply Aubrey's MOMMY acronym tips  (Meet with God, Opportunity for Growth, Movement, Moment of Stillness, Yourself) and establish bonds of friendship with women in your local area. “Create that community within yourself and within the area where you live. Find people that will help you!” -Aubrey Grossen   Resources Michael McIntyre Sketch (jump to 5:20 to hear the  “good sleep” joke)   Try Light Keepers Membership (One Month Free to ANYA)       Connect with Aubrey Instagram @AubreyGrossen aubreygrossen.com   Connect with Hey, Sister! Instagram @TheHeySisterPodcast heysisterpodcast.org   Show Timeline 0:00 Show and guest expert introduction   4:45 Feel Good Fall's meaning to Aubrey, MOMMY Acronym (Meet with God, Opportunity for Growth, Movement, Moment of Stillness, Yourself)   7:45 Further discussion about Y-Yourself and M-Moment of Stillness (showers, bathroom breaks, eating, sleeping—simple basics are often self-care), Needs vs. Wants, comedy sketch reference   13:45 The importance of time outside, pausing for sunsets and sunrises, 30 seconds or 7 breaths to reset body/mind   19:45 Posture, styles of M-Movement (dancing, walking, gym)   23:00 Early mornings paced at right time/season of life    25:45 Call to action, ANYA membership info, concluding thoughts, outtakes  

Fall is here and for many moms that means it's time to schedule the annual family photo shoot. (Oh, shoot!) Chelsea Barton, photographer, shares her go-to tips and tricks for making a family photo session as successful as possible. Join sisters Courtney and Carley and guest expert Chelsea for this relatable conversation about the highs and lows of family photos and a reminder to let kids be kids during your next family photo session. This episode is part of the feel good fall series, packed with interviews and sisterly advice to increase feelings of peace and confidence going into the holiday season.    Call to Action Get in the picture with your kids this week, Mom!   Referenced Episodes https://heysisterpodcast.org/48-the-write-stuff-rachel-nielson/   Connect with Chelsea https://www.instagram.com/chelsea.filmphoto/   Connect with Hey, Sister! https://www.instagram.com/theheysisterpodcast/ https://heysisterpodcast.org   Show Timeline 0:00 Show and guest expert introduction   5:15 Why to take family photos even though it's a stressful experience   7:45 Perception of perfection (styled shoots)   10:15 Tips and Tricks for making photo shoots more comfortable: #1 Let the kid keep the toy, #2 Hype the kids up about it (search YouTube videos for “what is a family photo shoot”), #3 Let the kids pick their clothes, #4 Remember, kids will be kids   14:45 Great pictures don't have to be posed (upside down with scars), finding a balance   18:00 Tips continued: #5 Play over discipline during a photo shoot (distraction technique), planned shots first, then play/candid   21:00 Tip #6 Bring marshmallows or Smarties, #7 Think about the timing (naps and food), #8 There is "beauty in chaos", #9 Bring a favorite activity (game, football, icecream)   23:00 Fail stories are memorable (Chili's), Seasons of life    27:00 Success story of mom being prepared, Murphy's Law   29:45 Seeing family photos throughout your home: documented “golden hours”   32:00 Get in the picture as moms “we're never going to get yesterday back”   33:30 Call to action, concluding thoughts, outtakes

The science, art, and heart of sewing are discussed in today's episode as quilting expert Melanie Collette joins “Hey, Sister!” hosts Courtney and Carley. Melanie shares simple beginner sewing project ideas and the essential tools every home should have. Don't miss this encouraging Home Economics class; the conclusion of the “Hey, Sister!” Back to School series, airing August-September 2022.    Call to Action:   Buy the recommended basic tools: fabric scissors, thread (Gutermann brand, white, black and navy), measuring tape/seam gauge, pins with pearl heads, and embroidery scissors.   “My call to action is to encourage the sisterhood to get those supplies—those basic sewing supplies—and have them in their home. That way, when the urge hits; when that button needs sewed back on; you are ready! And it's the preparedness part of it where, ‘I can do it because I have the tools to do it already in this drawer waiting for me!' So my call to action is prepare yourself! Get those tools that you need in your home.” Melanie Collette, Hello Melly Designs   Resources:  Wider benefits of learning across the course of life College of London study     Check out these other episodes in the Back to School Series Episode 42 Rub Some Dirt in it! // Kathleen Mooney (Science) Episode 43 Sound of Music // Maren Paris Cline (Music) Episode 44 Mind over Money // Mikayla Ockey (Math) Episode 45 Let's get Physical! // Mary Eagan (PE) Episode 46 She Knows the Drill // Adriana López (Shop) Episode 47 History is Her Story, Too! // Alli Roper (History) Episode 48 The Write Stuff // Rachel Nielson (Writing)   Connect with Melanie https://www.instagram.com/hellomellydesigns/ https://www.hellomellydesigns.com (check out her FREEBIES!)   Connect with Hey, Sister! https://www.instagram.com/theheysisterpodcast/ https://heysisterpodcast.org   Show Timeline 0:00 Episode and guest introduction   4:15 Melanie's home economics beginnings, Courtney's “straight stitch” talk, Carley's high school apron project   7:00 “You are totally capable of doing it!” attitude about sewing, comfortable starting point (napkins)   9:45 Fabric options; the right textile for the right project, “Hand” of fabric   13:30 Favorite projects (snowball quilts), must-have tools (see call to action)   16:45 Sewing machine chat   19:15 Home Economics skills: artistic with scientifcally proven benefits (see Resources above)   23:30 “If they don't sell it, I can make it!”, confidence dressing daughters   24:30 Quilting tells a story, quilting is for everyone (ages, genders)      29:15 Call to action, contact information, concluding thoughts, outtakes

Rachel Nielson, host of 3 in 30 Takeaways for Moms, shares writing strategies with sisters Courtney and Carley in this episode all about the importance using writing as a tool to process emotions, remember fleeting, happy moments and convey messages in an impactful way. Leading with a hook, including sensory details, the “show me don't tell me” philosophy, journaling with pen and paper versus digitally and so much more are covered in today's episode. Join the sisterhood for this motivational writing class; part of the Hey, Sister! Back to School series, airing August-September 2022.    Call to Action “My call to action for you is to write down a fleck of gold from every day this week. If it's on a sheet of typing paper or a spiral notebook, it doesn't matter. Start looking for those flecks of gold and write one down each day and see how it changes the way that you think about your motherhood.”-Rachel Nielson   Resources:  Visit 3in30podcast.com/flecksofgold to get your own Flecks of Gold journal. (Listen at 30:30 mark to hear the custom discount code for the Hey, Sister! Community)   For prior episodes in the Back to School Series, check out the following links to Hey, Sister! Episodes (and be sure to come back for Home Economics next week in Episode 49) Episode 42 Rub Some Dirt in it! // Kathleen Mooney (Science)  Episode 43 Sound of Music // Maren Paris Cline (Music) Episode 44 Mind over Money // Mikayla Ockey (Math) Episode 45 Let's get Physical! // Mary Eagan (PE) Episode 46 She Knows the Drill // Adriana López (Shop) Episode 47 History is Her Story, Too! // Alli Roper (History   For more journaling tips from Rachel Nielson listen to 3 in 30 Takeaways for Mom episode 002 3 in 30 Takeaways for Moms Ep 002 Easy Ways to Capture Memories of Motherhood // Laura Webb https://3in30podcast.com/journaling/   Connect with Rachel Instagram https://www.instagram.com/3in30podcast/ 3in30podcast.com     Connect with Hey, Sister! https://www.instagram.com/theheysisterpodcast/ https://heysisterpodcast.org   Show Timeline   0:00 Introduction of guest and topic   4:15 Rachel's experiences as an English student   7:15 Writing advice: show me don't tell me, focus on stories, using creative hooks   9:45 Flecks of Gold journal inspiration: specific moments, time-hop element, including sensory details   12:45 Swapping journaling moments: Harry Potter, the tuba and adorable niece chatter “will you be my best friend forever?”   16:45 Journaling for self vs. posterity   18:45 Daily recording (journaling) vs. annual accounts (annual birthday letter to family members, Christmas cards)   21:15 Handwriting vs. typing (slowing down your brain vs. keeping up with your brain)   22:00 Courtney's oversharing tendencies: journaling on Facebook pros (keeping extended family updated all at once) and cons (online safety)   25:45 Not one right way to journal! (Personal process and/or private sharing are both okay and serve different purposes) Burning journals? Benefits of keeping records of difficult seasons    28:15 “The happiest people are those who realize they are!”   29:45 Connecting with Rachel, Call to action, concluding thoughts, outtakes

Alli Roper, host of Wiser World Podcast, joins sisters Courtney and Carley for an uplifting conversation about the importance of learning world history. The freeing nature of curiosity and the benefits of thinking critically are discussed as Alli shares 3 engaging stories about “hidden” historical figures in past and modern times. Tune in for this enlightening world history class; part of the Hey, Sister! Back to School series, airing August-September 2022.      Call to Action “Practice intellectual humility. Ask a lot of questions. I think it can be a benefit for our own personal lives, as well as influencing our community at large.” -Alli Roper  Start by asking questions about and researching one culture or location you've always been intrigued by. Not sure where to start? Visit Alli's Wiser World podcast for recent episodes about the past 100 years in various countries.  Episodes available on all streaming networks or at  https://wiserworldpodcast.com   Referenced Resources Hey, Sister! Math Class  Thai Soccer Team Rescue story resources Book “All 13” Documentary National Geographic “The Rescue” (available on Disney+) Movie “Thirteen Lives” (available on Amazon Prime)   Connect with Alli https://www.instagram.com/wiserworldpodcast/ https://wiserworldpodcast.com   Connect with Hey, Sister! https://www.instagram.com/theheysisterpodcast/ https://heysisterpodcast.org     Show Timeline 0:00 Introduction of guest and topic 5:45 Childhood experience with learning history 7:30 The positives of learning history as an adult: no timelines, no test, freeing to be curious, gain perspective 12:45 Remembering “hidden” people in history 16:15 History lesson #1 Constantine's mother Helena (300 AD) 19:45 History lesson #2 Thai soccer team rescue (2018-recent history), discussion on the influence and natural instinct of women  28:15 History lesson #3: Kasturba Gandhi (early 1900s), non-violence movement based on her nature 33:15 Don't be afraid of complexity and nuance, think critically 37:00 Call to action, concluding thoughts, social media information, outtakes

DIY sensation Adriana López joins sisters Courtney and Carley to discuss woodworking, the value of using power tools and the joy in discovering the potential of a scrap piece of wood. Tune in for this motivational “atta-girl” Shop Class; part of the Hey, Sister! Back to School series, airing August-September 2022.    Call to Action: “I challenge all our sisters for this week to go find your drill! Learn how to do one thing with it, whether it's screwing—putting a screw into something—or drilling a hole in the wall to hang something. Learn how to use that drill because it will change your life! You will not have to rely on anyone to hang a picture for you.”  -Adriana López   Resources: Links to previously covered Back-to-School topics/episodes Science (gardening) Music  Math (budgeting) PE (fitness)   Links to Adriana's Videos and Recommended Products Drill resource video Using tape to hang objects video Adriana's recommended starter drill (includes battery and bits)    Connect with Adriana https://www.instagram.com/texasdiymama/ https://www.pinterest.com/texasdiymama/   Connect with Hey, Sister! Podcast https://heysisterpodcast.org https://www.instagram.com/theheysisterpodcast/ https://www.facebook.com/heysisterpodcast   Show Timeline: 0:00 introduction of guest expert and topic 6:15 Childhood exposure to woodworking and construction “if you have the right tool you can pretty much do anything!”   9:15 Crucial shop lessons for women today: “a drill is your best friend!”, attachments for everything    12:30 Adriana's motto: “Beautiful takes time”, Jesus was a carpenter, Courtney's struggle with other mottos “Any job worth doing is worth doing right” vs. “Done is better than perfect”, Carley's thoughts that beautiful means adding value, God's timing   17:00 Lessons from making a stool: 1) Don't DIY when you're exhausted 2) always make pocket holes first 3) Learn to laugh at your mistakes. There is nothing in DIY that can't be fixed   19:30 Call to action   22:00 Favorite projects, final words of inspiration, concluding thoughts, outtakes   

Ready, Set, Go! Personal and Group Fitness Trainer Mary Eagan of Akin Fitness in Western Oklahoma joins Courtney and Carley for this inspirational episode about the importance of movement in our daily lives. Mary reminds the sisterhood to try new exercises and be aware of food intake. Tune in for this fast and fun PE class; part of the Hey, Sister! Back to School series, airing August-September 2022.  Call to Action Be honest with yourself regarding your health status. Journal your food intake for 2-4 weeks. Assess your steps and activity level. (This is a crucial first step to recognize trending food/energy habits in order to make realistic health goals and adjustments)   Show Timeline 0:00 Introduction of monthly theme, topic and guest expert 3:45 Similarities and differences between childhood PE vs health as an adult; movement is not optional 5:45 Oxygen mask analogy; fitness helps us think more clearly + have energy/strength 6:15 Exercise time amounts; fear of losing energy as an excuse to not exercise (not true!) 10:00 Mary's health and fitness mottos: “it's okay to be uncomfortable”, “live with passion”, “I'm so grateful I never quit” 11:45 Mary's ongoing research about neurology + fitness; skipping and reading correlation 14:00 Mary's most intense physical undertaking—“Dominate the 48” (David Goggins) 16:30 Call to action, trending habits discussion, concluding thoughts, outtakes   Referenced Episodes Hey, Sister! Science Class: Ep 42 Rub Some Dirt In It // Kathleen Mooney Hey, Sister! Music Class: Ep 43 Sound of Music // Maren Paris Cline Hey, Sister! Math Class: 44 Mind over Money // Mikayla Ockey   Referenced Videos, Links and Resources Mary Removing/Putting on Shoes Challenge Can't Hurt Me: Master Your Mind and Defy the Odds by David Goggins Food Tracking Websites/Apps https://www.myfitnesspal.com https://cronometer.com   Connect with Mary Eagan of Akin Fitness https://akinfitness.com https://www.instagram.com/akin_fitness/   Connect with Hey, Sister! Podcast https://heysisterpodcast.org https://www.instagram.com/theheysisterpodcast/ https://www.facebook.com/heysisterpodcast

Budgeting expert and Centsei Financial co-founder Mikayla Ockey joins Courtney and Carley to discuss the emotional tie between behaviors and budgeting. Budgeting trends and pitfalls are discussed and personal experiences swapped in this episode all about putting data over drama. Tune in for this emotion-based Math class; part of the Hey, Sister! Back to School series, airing August-September 2022.    Call to Action Answer the following 3 questions to increase awareness of personal spending behaviors How did your parents or guardians use money and how did it affect you?  When you left home and you were on your own for the first time, how did you use money? How does money affect you when you're stressed?   Resources  Listen to the Hey, Sister! Back to School Music Class Episode   Listen to the Hey, Sister! Back to School Science Class Episode     Connect with Mikayla/Centsei Financial  https://www.centseifinance.com (free budgeting course + weekly emails with tips)   https://www.instagram.com/centseifinancial/     Connect with Hey, Sister! Podcast https://heysisterpodcast.org   https://www.instagram.com/theheysisterpodcast/   https://www.facebook.com/heysisterpodcast     Show Timeline 0:00 Introduction to Mikayla, founding Centsei Financial, money/marriage problems    7:00 Comparison is the thief of joy, get clear on priorities, getting out of debt, preliminary emergency fund, understand emotional aspects of spending   9:45 The most important lesson: breaking the misconception that only math-lovers can budget, 80/20 rule of budgeting (80% behavior, 20% number crunching)    11:45 3 questions that will bleed into all aspects of financial planning (see call to action); goals tied to emotions   15:00 Budgeting goals (feeling peace and confidence is the goal—not just “having $1000 in the bank”), first budgeting talks in marriage, timing is everything   18:15 Data over drama; avoid blame game   23:00 When one partner spends money outside of planned budget; re-evaluating goals, timeline, his/her fund   27:15 Budgeting roadmaps are personalized for your journey; destinations and timelines are different    28:45 Inflation and avoiding budgeting   31:45 Call to action, concluding thoughts, outtakes 

The lovely and talented world-touring musician Maren Paris Cline joins Courtney and Carley to discuss the value of music in our daily lives. Maren recounts the benefits of having a music-infused childhood and shares her intentional efforts as an adult to utilize music as an inspirational power in her life. Tune in for this epic Music Class; part of the Hey, Sister! Back to School series, airing August-September 2022.    Call to Action:  Allow yourself to intentionally bring in those things that bring you joy--you know what they are (it may not be music and that's okay!) Observe how you use music in your life—past, present and future   Resources:  Harvard Health Blog “Why is Music Good for the Brain?” Three Reds “Danny Boy and Molly” featuring Alex Sharpe Hi Five Live Video featuring Three Reds Hey, Sister! Episode 28 about child birth preferences:    Connect with Maren and Three Reds: @emparis.media on Instagram @three_reds on Instagram   Connect with Hey, Sister! Podcast: heysisterpodcast.org @theheysisterpodcast on Instagram facebook.com/heysisterpodcast   Timeline: 0:00 Introduction of topic and guest expert/Music teacher, childhood exposure to music   7:45 Utilizing music as an adult (study-aid, neurologic research on music, recognizing the impacts of lyrics)   11:15 Prioritizing music, art for art's sake, taking 5-10 minutes to enjoy music   13:30 Benefits of learning a new instrument/practicing music as opposed to listening   17:00 Courtney's stories about practicing piano as an adult and attending a musical performance and the emotions it evoked   19:15 Intentionally making time for music, creating for ourself, not every hobby needs a financial benefit, bask in joy of music   21:30 Children want to play, play with adults, play with an instrument, play with anything out-of-reach/off-limits   23:00 Maren's motto: music is the language that reaches everyone and touches everyone, Japanese mission experience, unite the world through music   24:15 Language/children tangent; “it's easier after the 3rd” philosophy   26:15 Concluding thoughts, call to action, social connection links, outtakes

Behind the scenes outtakes from Episode 42 Rub Some Dirt in it! with Kathleen Mooney We just can't get enough of our science teacher for the Hey, Sister! Back to School series. If you enjoyed the life sciences/gardening lesson from Ep 42, join us for a few more stories from the life of our new favorite science teacher. 

YouTube farm and garden sensation Kathleen Mooney joins the Hey, Sisterhood to share gardening tips and tricks you've never heard before. Kathleen's contagious can-do spirit combined with her southern charm will motivate you to learn more about the world around you and the food you consume.  Tune in for this epic Science Class; part of the Hey, Sister! Back to School series, airing August-September 2022.    Call to Action:  Part 1: Watch 3 of Kathleen's YouTube videos so you can feel more confident in beginning (or continuing) your gardening journey.  Pick any 3 videos here.  Part 2: Visit your local farmer's market Part 3: Try to garden; start small and don't be intimated by the failure stories from friends.   Resources:  Learn more about Kathleen's eclectic hill country getaway, her family owned and operated farm, and farm-to-table organic condiments and spreads at:   EIEIOTX.com EIEIO YouTube Channel Instagram @eieiowimberley Connect with Hey, Sister! Podcast Online: heysisterpodcast.org Instagram @TheHeySisterPodcast facebook.com/heysisterpodcast EIEIO Videos Recommended during episode 42:  Hoe-No-Mo  Plant by the Moon Old Fashioned Bug Control  Composting 101   Timeline: 0:00 Introduction, Kathleen's background 8:45 Kathleen's science/gardening lesson begins (ground preparation—all about the soil) 12:00 Planting by the Moon (starters before a full moon, seeds after the full moon) 14:45 Learning old tricks (old fashioned bug control + bunnies in the greenhouse) 18:15 Composting (bucket outside back door) coffee grinds + eggshells = essentials. No dairy, no meat, no bread. Nothing that would attract ants.  22:45 Courtney's garden fail and $70 cucumbers 24:00 No gloves while gardening 25:30 Eating fresh vegetables, farmer's markets, CSA, God's Pharmacy 32:45 Mayonnaise story 38:30 Health as an octogenarian, medicinal qualities of herbs and weeds, fresh meat 42:45 Call to action, concluding thoughts, outtakes

Embarrassing stories from school days are swapped among sisters Courtney, Carley and Cassidy as the new Back to School series kicks off! Unintentional dirty jokes, failed fence-scaling attempts, snot rocket sneezes and more are shared in this conversational podcast. This is the first episode in the back to school series, airing Aug-Sep 2022.    Call to Action:    Come back and join us for our back to school curriculum with classes as they apply to the life of a busy, modern woman! Classes/episodes will include topics such as: life sciences/gardening, physical education, math/budgeting, music appreciation, history, writing, shop, and more!   Resources: Episode 9: Hot Mess Express  https://heysisterpodcast.org/9-hot-mess-express/ Episode 36: Babysitters Club https://heysisterpodcast.org/36-babysitters-club/ Episode 4: Quiet Your Mind https://heysisterpodcast.org/4-quiet-your-mind-lyndi-laws-cristello/     Connect with Hey, Sister! Podcast Online: https://heysisterpodcast.org   https://www.instagram.com/theheysisterpodcast/   https://www.facebook.com/heysisterpodcast   Timeline:  0:00 Introduction   2:15 Courtney's middle school drama story   5:45 Carley's embarrassing band story   10:15 Cassidy's embarrassing tennis story, snot rocket story   13:45 Cassidy's flying paper story   14:45 Courtney's snowy bus catching story   18:45 Carley's reflections on series of awkward moments (boy's pants, garage sales)   20:15 Courtney's teacher evaluation gone wrong story   24:30 Carley's dance off story   25:45 Cassidy's encouragement to own embarrassing moments   27:30 Concluding thoughts, outtakes

  All things hair are discussed in this open and slightly awkward sisterly chat about hair on the female body. This episode starts with a motivational story about donating hair to a worthy organization, then takes a surprising turn as the sisters swap opinions about the choice to groom or embrace hair growth on the eyebrows, legs, armpits and bikini area. This episode is part of the summer hot topics series, airing June and July 2022.    Call to Action:  Share your approach to managing body hair with Hey, Sister! Send a DM on Instagram here  Watch The Princess Diaries (available on Disney+)   Resources:  Where did Carley donate her hair?  Children With Hair Loss website  Children With Hair Loss instagram    Carley's favorite Albion-dupe swim skirt on Amazon   Connect with Hey, Sister! Podcast Online: Hey, Sister! Website Hey, Sister! Instagram Hey, Sister! Facebook     Show Timeline:  0:00 Introduction 1:30 Carley talks about the hair donation process 5:45 Courtney introduces the IPL as an effort to rid her body of unpleasing hair 8:45 Parable of Naaman and Elisha 11:15 Discussion about cultural hair-free expectations 14:15 Eyebrows, humility vs low self-esteem 16:45 The Princess Diaries and makeover scenes, embrace confidence  18:00 Call to action 18:30 Amazon swimsuit information 19:15 Concluding thoughts, teaser for next week's episode, outtakes

Who'da thunk she'd love that?! Sisters and hosts Courtney and Carley each share 3 things they enjoy, but never imagined they would like. Lipstick, mini-vans and Chic-fil-a are just a few of the surprising discoveries shared in this episode. As part of the summer hot topics series, this episode will have you asking yourself what “who'd thunk?!” products or activities you never knew you'd love!   Call to Action:  In a conversation with someone else, ask what they thought they would not like, and then, as it turns out, “who'da thunk?!”  they love it!   Resources:  Prior Episodes Referred to:  Episode 38: Textiquette Episode 37: Freedom to Comment  Episode 35: Fast Friends    Connect with Hey, Sister! Podcast Online: www.HeySisterPodcast.org Hey, Sister! Instagram Hey, Sister! Facebook Timeline:  0:00 Introduction   3:45 Carley's 3 “who'da thunk?!” loves: Asian/Dim sum/Thai cuisine, Lipstick (*LipSense by SeneGence), Mini-vans   14:30 Courtney's 3 “who'da thunk?!” loves: Chic-fil-a, grocery pickup, living outside of Texas   22:30 Carley's haircutting experience and motivation   26:00 Call to action, closing remarks, outtakes

Texting + Etiquette = Textiquette. Sisters Courtney and Carley swap opinions and share survey responses regarding text messaging dos and don'ts across multiple generations. Read reports and the use of emojis, GIFs and ellipses are discussed as well as timely responses and using phones during social gatherings. This episode is part of the summer hot topics series, airing June and July 2022.    Call to Action: Be cognizant of your phone use in social situations. If you use your phone to text or accept a call, explain the reason why to the person/people you are with.    References:  “The story I'm telling myself”- Brené Brown     Connect with Hey, Sister! Podcast Online: https://heysisterpodcast.org   https://www.instagram.com/theheysisterpodcast/   https://www.facebook.com/heysisterpodcast   Timeline:  0:00 Episode introduction and announcements   3:30 Texting corrections in a thread, styles of text: paragraphs vs. stream of consciousness   5:45 Read reports, timely responses   7:15 Reactions to texts   9:00 iWatches, shorter replies for convenience   12:00 Bait and switch, demanding texts   13:15 Elipses…   19:15 Androids vs iPhones for group messages, reactions, group planning   23:15 Social settings and cell phones   29:00 Call to action, closing thoughts, outtakes 

Courtney and Carley discuss the freedom of speech and the art of commenting in love and disagreement on Facebook. Four tendencies of common social media reactions are explained as well as the human need for expressing opinions.    Call to Action: Comment on a post you disagree with on social media this week; show respect and love while articulating your differing opinion.    References:  The Happiness Lab: Social Media and our Brains with CNN's Chasing Life  The Pour Over News Instagram   Connect with Hey, Sister! Podcast Online: www.HeySisterPodcast.org Hey, Sister! Instagram Hey, Sister! Facebook   Timeline:  0:00 Introduction, 1st Amendment rights (SPAPAR: Speech, Press, Assembly, Petition and Religion)    3:00 Four tendencies of commenting: (1) not commenting/staying silent (2) commenting with adoring affirmations (3) commenting with polarizing disgust (4) commenting with love and disagreement   10:00 Roe v. Wade: be socially aware on social media (let love guide your posts and comments)   11:00 Commenting is emotionally healthy, keeps you from feeling silenced, reference to The Happiness Lab Podcast   15:15 Avoiding echo chambers    17:15 Personal stories: Courtney's example of having a cousin respectfully disagree, Carley's example commenting in loving disagreement on a friend's post   22:45 Taking time to craft the right comment/response   23:45 Call to action, closing thoughts, outtakes 

Courtney and Carley swap opinions on the 5 Ws of babysitting: who makes a great sitter, what's the going rate, where do you find the ideal babysitter, when to connect with a babysitter, and why utilizing a babysitter is essential. Recommendations for how to make a babysitter more comfortable as well as features of babysitters that “wow” parents are also discussed. This is the fourth episode in the summer hot topics series, airing June-July 2022.    Call to Action: Book a babysitter this week! Share what you did with your kid-free time with us on social media. We'd love to hear.   Referenced Episodes:  32 It Takes a Village // Beth Ann Sands 35 Fast Friends   Connect with Hey, Sister!: HeySisterPodcast.org Hey, Sister! Instagram Hey, Sister! Facebook   Resources:  Average pay for babysitters by state (Parents.com) Care.com   Show Timeline:  0:00 Introduction of topic, announcements   4:30 Love of babysitting from youth, why babysitters are important   5:45 Who: the criteria for babysitters   8:15 Where: the search for babysitters, locations to use babysitters   13:15 What: the going rate for a sitter   18:00 When: other occasions to involve/support babysitters    19:45 How: driving a babysitter for pick-up/drop-off, equipping babysitters with essential information (home address, house rules, phone numbers, reminders)   23:45 Wow: impressive traits of babysitters, basic expectations of babysitters, above and beyond care   28:45 Call to action, concluding thoughts, outtakes

Sisters Courtney and Carley explore the hot topic of expanding our social circles in this week's episode all about fostering new friendships. Carley shares her strategies for striking up a conversation with a new acquaintance and Courtney advises on the art of introducing others. Both sisters share examples—good, bad and ugly—from their own personal experiences in this light-hearted episode. This is the 3rd episode in the summer hot topics series, airing summer 2022.    Call to Action: Picture two friends from different social circles who don't know each other. Think about how you would introduce them to each other using a compliment.    Referenced Episodes: (in order of reference)   Episode 33 Fun Mom Summer  Episode 34 Man, I Feel Like a Woman  Episode 14 Social Light with Hanalei Gene   Resources:  Carley's Audible Recommendation: Captivate: The Science of Succeeding with People by Vanessa Van Edwards Courtney's Summer Schedule Recommendation (free download):  The Incremental Mama Best Summer Schedule for Kids Free Printable Connect with Hey, Sister: https://heysisterpodcast.org Hey, Sister! Instagram Hey, Sister! Facebook   Timeline:  0:00 Introduction of episode and recap of previous hot topics 4:00 Craving friendships as moms, personal experiences (high school, college, introversion vs. extroversion tendencies) 6:30 Listen to “Captivate” on Audible, KIAPIA reference (know it all pain in the *behind) 8:00 “Captivate” take-aways mingled with Carley's advice: Look for social sweet spots (standing at the bottom of the slide, pushing kids on swings) Be yourself Ask questions, like: “What are your passion projects?” or “How long have you lived in the area?” Listen to the other person (strive for 50/50 talking/listening) Bridge back: if you leave a conversation (i.e. to tend a child), make mental note of their answers to questions to bridge back into the conversation, referring to something previously said Introduce yourself and ask their name as soon as possible Use their name in the conversation to aid in remembering  Have confidence in yourself (it's okay if you feel awkward—we're all relearning socializing post-pandemic) 14:00 Carley's experiences (good and bad) 19:00 Courtney's advice: the art of introducing friends to each other using compliments, 3 personal poor examples 22:00 Call to action 24:00 Concluding thoughts, outtakes

In honor of Father's Day and as part of the summer hot topics series, sisters Courtney and Carley share their beliefs about the divine nature of men and women. Faith-based values are discussed as well as personal experiences navigating the roles of husband and wife within the family. This is the second episode in the summer hot topics series airing June and July 2022.     Call to action: If you are married, recognize and be grateful for your spouse's unique traits. (If you are not married, reflect on your own unique God-given traits)   Referenced Resources/Quotes:  Episode 33: Fun Mom Summer   The Family A Proclamation to the World   Matt Walsh Documentary “What is a Woman?” “There are two important days in a woman's life: the day she is born and the day she finds out why.” - Terry Tempest Williams     Connect with Hey, Sister: https://heysisterpodcast.org Hey, Sister! Instagram Hey, Sister! Facebook   Show timeline:  0:00 Show introduction   3:15 Men and women are different, knowing we are children of God is a blessing   5:00 Discussion about The Family Proclamation and that gender is eternal   7:30 Loving womanhood and maternal role even when some days are challenging   8:15 Asking “Who is a woman?”, two important days in a woman's life quote   9:45 Teamwork within a husband/wife relationship, soccer analogy   13:45 Call to action, concluding thoughts, outtakes

Courtney and Carley kick-off the summer hot topics series with an episode all about choosing to be a fun mom in the face of play place closures throughout the United States. Speculation about why play places continue to stay closed and simple summer activity ideas are swapped. This is the first episode in the eight-part summer hot topic series, which dives into a variety of subjects the sisters feel passionately about.    Call to Action: Part 1: Give thanks to local businesses in your community who offer play places/children's activities. Part 2: Voice frustrations with businesses and organizations in your community that aren't meeting your family's needs and expectations. Part 3: Host a play date.   Connect with Hey, Sister: Hey, Sister! Website Hey, Sister! Instagram Hey, Sister! Facebook   Show Timeline:  0:00 Show introduction and confusion about play place closures   4:15 Speculation about play place closures: fear of liability, convenience and cost saving   14:00 Reacting to closures: giving thanks and voicing frustrations   16:30 Ideas for activities: LEGO playdates, story time and puzzles, Play-Doh, Diet Coke geyser, frozen tee-shirt race, toy in ice cubes, marbles in kiddie pool, red light green light, paper airplanes   24:30 Benefits of play dates, incorporating various ages, including moms   28:00 Call to action   28:15 Concluding thoughts: Harkins Movie Theatre, Oriental Trading Company, outtakes  

Does it still take a village to raise a child in today's world? Beth Ann Sands, Texas mom and DJ, joins the Hey, Sisterhood for an episode filled with mic drop moments about positively influencing and relating to teenagers in our communities. This is the fifth and final episode in the 5-part series on motherhood, airing May 2022.    Call to Action: Support a teenager by hyping them up and listening to them.   “Go hype up a teenager! Whether that be commenting on somebody's social media that you follow from your church congregation, your community— hype them up there, give them a compliment! When you see them, make them feel seen. If you have teenagers and you don't regularly do family dinner, make a goal to just do one family dinner. Make a goal to just be available to them.   And the biggest call to action is to just listen to your teenagers because there will be other people that will listen to them, but you want it to be you. You want to be that safe space.”  - Beth Ann Sands, Texas Mom and Community DJ     Referenced Links and Episodes:  Beth Ann Instagram  Beth Ann TikTok  Learn more about the BeReal app Ep 28 Scrunchy Mamas  Ep 29 Birth Mothers and Adoption // Steve Sunday  Ep 30 Meme Girls // Rachel Homolak  Ep 31 Mom of All Trades // Tyla Bearss Connect with Hey, Sister: Visit HeySisterPodcast.org Hey, Sister! Instagram Hey, Sister! Facebook   Show Timeline:  0:00 Introduction of topic and guest expert   4:45 Getting to know DJ Beth Ann   10:45 Finding our purpose, families are fundamental unit of society, Beth Ann's village-approach: meet youth where they are    14:30 Be a consistent/stable adult in a youth's life, youth are fighting wars today (within themselves, with the world)   18:30 Staying bubbly and optimistic when youth are challenging (Courtney's husband's memory)   20:45 Shout-out to Beth Ann's *seminary class and their advice to adults within their community: “if we don't respond, please don't take it personal”   23:30 Teenagers and phones: utilizing phones in positive ways for teaching   25:45 Balancing: parenting and serving other youth simultaneously   29:15 Adults need a reserve of confidence, don't expect youth to reciprocate   30:45 Authenticity, managing stress and anxiety    34:00 Listening to teenagers: advice from high school counselor, counting “wins”, no phone time in car, family dinners, competitive conversational games   37:00 Modeling being a good friend, recognizing and following maternal inspiration   39:30 BeReal App as a communication tool for families    40:45 Call to action, Beth Ann's social media   44:00 Concluding thoughts, outtakes, shout-out rap to Beth Ann's 7 a.m. seminary students   *The seminary program of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a four-year religious education program for youth. Learn more at churchofjesuschrist.org

Tyla Bearss of Cake-N-Tyla joins co-hosts Courtney and Carley and shares her experiences, tips and tricks for pursuing personal passions as a mom. Tyla, Courtney and Carley swap stories and personal philosophies about trying to manage motherhood responsibilities while carving out time to practice new skills. This is the fourth episode in the 5-part series on motherhood, airing May 2022.    Call to Action: Put yourself out there and try something you've been interested in!    “We, as moms, get so wrapped up in our kids and what they need. We sometimes forget we have needs as well and we also have talents and hobbies and things that can enrich other people's lives and our kids' lives by them seeing us pursue those things, seeing what brings us joy. They say, “a happy wife, a happy life.” And I feel like when I'm doing things that bring me joy, I'm a better mom at home.   So I just say, put yourself out there. Try something new. Even if you're nervous to do it, it doesn't hurt to try! And if you don't succeed the first time, just keep trying. ‘Cause I promise, practice makes perfect—well, no— practice makes progress is what I'll say, because it's never, always going to be perfect, but practice definitely makes progress.” - Tyla Bearss of Cake-n-Tyla      Referenced Links and Episodes:  Cake-n-Tyla Facebook  Cake-n-Tyla Instagram  Episode 10 Wise Up // Mindy Schoen  Episode 2 Hit It  Connect with Hey, Sister: https://heysisterpodcast.org https://www.instagram.com/theheysisterpodcast/ https://www.facebook.com/heysisterpodcast     Show Timeline:  0:00 Introduction of topic and guest host   5:15 Tyla's cake decorating journey: husband's M&M cake beginnings, encouragement from friends, Stranger Things cake story, husband support in the middle of the night, early successes and difficult lessons   14:30 Personal growth: overcoming feelings of inadequacy, prioritizing time for passion projects   16:30 Involving kids vs. excluding kids from involvement in passion projects   18:45 Lessons children learn watching moms practice new skills: things don't come easy/free, you have to work hard in life   20:00 Balancing act: a continual work in progress, bike analogy   21:30 Balance v. Harmony in life: discussion on “mom guilt”   24:15 Personal lessons learned: You can do hard things, recognizing progress and celebrating the milestones, keeping motivation up by continually learning new techniques   26:15 Social media comparisons: recognizing room for growth and making changes, not getting impatient with yourself along your journey   29:45 Personal passions as a source of income: providing Christmas, finding harmony and recognizing “discord” and how to resolve it     34:00 Intentional with use of time: moms can still make life fun on the go/doing chores/working   36:00 Call to Action: examples of trying new things—musical numbers and running   38:30 Supporting women in your life in their passion projects   40:45 Closing remarks: Tyla's contact information, 3 baking tips, outtakes  

Rachel Homolak, founder and administrator of the popular Bluey Memes Facebook group, joins the Hey, Sisterhood for a witty conversation about the importance of embracing laughter during the “dramedy” of motherhood. The art of the meme, messy cars, and worldwide friendships based on a shared love for a kids' TV show are all discussed in this third episode of the 5-part series on Motherhood, airing May 2022.    Call to Action:  Embrace laughter in your everyday life! Laugh out loud today.   “Make sure that you always include humor in all aspects of your daily life. It's so important! I'm a theater teacher, and in theater we learn there's the drama side and the comedy side with the two-faced masks. That's the symbol with theater and it's correct. You've got to make sure you maintain that balance. Life is always going to have ups and downs and have its challenges. There's always going to be something, but the one thing that you can make sure that you're consistent with is to make sure that you keep that humor in your daily life.   So my call to action is: if you're ever feeling down or inadequate or just not having a good day— Don't forget to laugh! And if something like going to a group with memes helps you and makes you smile and chuckle a little bit, please do that. We're all in this together and it's so important to make sure that you keep that laughter in your everyday life.   So please sisters make sure that you take time to laugh.”   - Rachel Homolak, Founder of Bluey Memes (a private Facebook group)     Referenced Links: Join the Bluey Memes Facebook group   Watch the unique Bluey/Encanto Parody  This musical parody was created using content contributed by various members of Bluey Memes Facebook group. Original “We don't talk about Judo” meme creator: Katey Parson. Video creator: Eileen Nestman. Thank you to all who contributed to this creative song which brings a smile to the face of any Encanto + Bluey fan.   Connect with Hey, Sister! Hey, Sister! Website Hey, Sister! Instagram Hey, Sister! Facebook     Referenced Episodes:  Vacation Ready Series (previous month's theme) Ep 24: Wanderlust // Madeline Becker Hamilton Ep 25: Hostess with the Mostess // Courtney Sandberg   Ep. 26 Vacation, All We Ever Wanted // Brit Snarr Ep. 27 Bippity Boppity Book It! // Alexandria Palmer   Show Timeline:    0:00 Introduction of topic and guest expert, reminder of past month's theme and Courtney's voice disclaimer   3:50 Getting to know Rachel: wife, mother and  theater and music teacher   5:10 Bluey Memes Facebook Group origin story   7:45 The importance of laughter in the world: phycological benefits and the need for laughter as a parent   10:00 Memes: a quick fix to accompany hard information to swallow, an inside joke between friends/strangers across the world   10:45 The art of the meme: crossovers, history of memes, Courtney's home-builder marketing reference, an education in pop-culture   12:30 Laughter deepens relationships: credit to Bluey writers/creators, feeling seen as an individual, feeling unified with other parents all over the world   15:45 Rachel's Bluey Memes group backpack story, Carley's messy mini van story   18:10 Bluey (the show): inspiring kids and adults to be more imaginative, strengthening child-parent bonds   19:00 Bluey Memes domino effect: “We don't talk about Judo” story   23:00 Bluey Memes Group: creative content, courage to post, safe place to “geek out”, rewarding experience to be a part of/founder of the group   26:15 Finding Bluey Memes Facebook group: privacy settings   27:30 Call to Action, concluding thoughts, outtakes

Adoption advocate and expert Steve Sunday joins Courtney and Carley and sheds light on the heroic yet heartbreaking decision a birth mother makes to lovingly place her child for adoption. Steve explains basic adoption terminology and statistics, the role between birth parents and adoptive parents and the tender yet painful process of relinquishing rights. Beautiful and personal experiences about adoption are shared in this episode all about finding peace and ethical practices within the adoption arena. This is the second episode in a 5-part series on Motherhood, airing May 2022.    Call to Action:  Learn about adoption and be a voice for adoption as an option within your sphere of influence. (Example: share this podcast episode by copying and pasting the following link with your thoughts about the episode. https://heysisterpodcast.org/29-birth-mothers-adoption-steve-sunday/) “The biggest challenge that we have is really promoting adoption as an option. It doesn't mean it's the only option, actually, it's the one that's least considered! Learn as much as you can about adoption. There's so much negative about everything out there, including adoption. …It's really important to counter those voices and say, not all experiences are bad. There are a lot of very wonderful experiences when it's done correctly. And so I would challenge your audience to learn as much as they can, and then be a resource to potential people who may be in that situation and need resources, because most do not hear about the option of adoption and we're hoping that they will! And they have the opportunity, the agency, to choose the course that they would choose in their life, but the best thing we can do is give them the option to hear about it.” - Steve Sunday, CEO/President and Founder of Forever Bound Adoption   Referenced Information:  National Council for Adoption (Organization that supports ethical practices for adoption)   Referenced Links: Connect with Steve Sunday, Founder/CEO of Forever Bound Adoption Forever Bound Adoption Website Forever Bound Adoption Facebook Email Steve    Connect with Hey, Sister! Hey, Sister! website Hey, Sister! Instagram Hey, Sister! Facebook   Referenced Episodes:  Episode 28 Scrunchy Mamas (birth story swap)      Show Timeline:  0:00 Introduction of topic, guest expert, and Forever Bound Adoption 6:00 Basics of adoption and terminology: international adoption, foster to adopt and private adoption, closed vs. open adoptions 10:30 Openness is a continuum: building relationships with birth moms, examples of open communication styles, adoptive relationships take work 16:00 Prom dress story: a modern-day open-adoption relationship example 17:45 Birth mothers finding adoption agencies: past vs. present  20:00 Current statistics about unplanned and crisis pregnancies (single parenting and abortion are the most common solutions) 21:15 The importance of word of mouth positivity: sharing messages of hope about adoption 23:00 Adoptions past versus adoption today: offering education for adoptive parents and support for birth parents before and after placement 25:00 Look for agencies that are part of the NCFA 25:30 Distrust: birth parents, agencies and adoptive parents 29:45 Living up to commitments: open adoptions take effort and are best when organic 30:30 Heroic decision of birth mothers and emotions felt during and after placement 34:50 Courtney's adoption experience: “birthing” a baby arms to arms 38:30 Steve's post-script birth parent panel experience  40:00 Call to action, contact information, concluding thoughts, outtakes

Courtney and Carley swap birth stories in an episode devoted to honoring motherhood and various delivery preferences. The term “scrunchy” is explained as it relates to motherhood (silky + crunchy = scrunchy). Perspectives on medicated vs. unmedicated births are shared. Carley offers a pep talk on letting curiosity fuel you and Courtney proposes one critical question to ask yourself before deciding on an unmedicated birth. This is the first episode in the 5-part motherhood series, airing May 2022. Call to action, referenced links/accounts, and show timeline are below.   Episode Sponsor:  3 Stitches Clothing  https://www.facebook.com/3stitchesclothing https://www.instagram.com/3stitchesclothing/   Call to Action:  Participate in the giveaway for scrunchies (hand-made by 3 Stitches Clothing) on Hey, Sister! Instagram. See the daily stories Monday-Friday for details.     Referenced Information:  “We have a secret in our culture and it's not that birth is painful; It's that women are strong.” Laura Stavoe Harm   “After birth, certain biochemical compounds are at work in both mother and child to sustain and accentuate the bond between the two. Hormones, such as oxytocin, surge in mothers after labor and during breast-feeding, promoting social and emotional bonding with the infant.” Birth of a Bond, Scientific American     Referenced Links: www.heysisterpodcast.org Hey, Sister! Instagram Hey, Sister! Facebook   Referenced Episodes:  29 Birth Mothers and Adoption // Steve Sunday (coming soon!)     Show Timeline:  0:00 Introduction of topic: disclaimer—episode contains references to female body parts and bodily functions and fluids   2:00 Defining terms: scrunchy, silky and crunchy, all birth is “natural”   3:20 Courtney's motherhood journey and delivery preference (medicated): infertility story, favorite elements of deliveries, lessons learned from an unmedicated birth   14:00 Carley's motherhood journey and delivery preference (unmedicated): becoming a birth nerd, decisions rooted in confidence, preparations with husband, 3 labor experiences   20:00 Open discussion: who is in the delivery room, trying new things, spousal support, women are strong   23:00 Advocating for yourself: making a birth plan, studying, asking questions, surrounding yourself with a supportive birth team   24:45 Courtney's crucial question to consider: “Would you feel comfortable pooping in front of your birth team?” as a litmus test for unmedicated labor and who to have in the labor and delivery room   26:00 No right or wrong way to deliver: trust in healthcare, personal preferences, “to each their own”, no badge of honor or reward for unmedicated birth   28:50 Concluding thoughts: supportive team, photography, packing, women are amazing, listening sincerely when others share their stories   37:00 Giveaway information, call to action, outtakes  

Guest expert Alexandria Palmer discusses all things Disneyland with the Hey, Sisterhood in this magical episode filled with tips and trips for navigating the happiest place on earth. As two Disneyland novices, Courtney and Carley ask Alexandria questions about everything from the general atmosphere and the Genie+ Service to baby swap, sweet treats and special accommodations for those with disabilities. Tune in and discover the motivation you need to take that magic carpet ride to Disneyland in this fourth and final episode in the 4-part vacation-ready series, airing April 2022. Call to action, referenced links/accounts, and show timeline are below.    Call to Action:  “Book a trip! Start talking to friends, start talking to family members, listen to this podcast and just see  what would feel right for your family. How would doing Disney be the right time and the right experience for your family and how can you go into it with enough information?   I always say preparation is key for Disney.” - Alexandria Palmer   Referenced Links:   Connect with Hey, Sister!: https://www.instagram.com/theheysisterpodcast/ https://www.facebook.com/heysisterpodcast   Referenced Episodes (in order of mention):  24 Wanderlust // Madeline Becker Hamilton 25 Hostess with the Mostess // Courtney Sandberg 26 Vacation, All We Ever Wanted // Brit Snarr 15 Double Double Date Date   Show Timeline:    0:00 Introduction of topic and guest   4:00 The hype around Disneyland: all-in-experience, flavor-scented air, trash can placement, cast members   6:15 Visiting Disneyland: age recommendation, free-under-three, best days of the week and times of year to visit   9:30 Duration of a vacation: benefits of a 3-day pass   13:00 Disney tips: post-pandemic “feels like coming home”, bringing food in the park, arriving early, fireworks, first timers—go with or get tips from an experienced friend, glow sticks on strollers, stroller parking   17:15 Park details: lockers, Disneyland and California Adventure, seating throughout park   19:00 Navigating the park: Genie+ Pass, baby swap, line speed/monitoring efficiency, park hopping   24:45 Special accommodations: Disneyland Disability Access Pass, Alexandria's personal experience, top-notch customer experience   30:00 Disneyland fun: adult trips, sweet treats, picture taking   34:10 Concluding thoughts: slow down, safety protocols   36:00 Call to action, social media information, outtakes

Travel enthusiast Brit Snarr discusses tips and tricks for family vacations in this adventure-happy episode. Brit shares ideas for fun and memorable vacation practices and her favorite family-friendly destinations. Carley, Courtney and Brit discuss real-life aspects of vacationing as a mom: souvenirs for kids, being the “fun mom”, taking photos, and recognizing that traveling may mean sacrificing the new car or dream home for a time. Give a listen and find some inspiration to book your next family vacation in this third episode in the 4-part vacation-ready series, airing April 2022. Call to action, referenced links/accounts, and show timeline are below.    Call to Action:  “Book a family vacation! Maybe it's a staycation. Maybe it's a foreign trip. Maybe it's a family reunion. Maybe it's to visit friends. Plan things on that vacation that get you excited, give you an adrenaline rush, get you out of your comfort zone, maybe make you laugh or make you just feel alive!” - Brit Snarr   Referenced Episodes (in order of mention):  24 Wanderlust // Madeline Becker Hamilton 25 Hostess with the Mostess // Courtney Sandberg 15 Double Double Date Date 17 Family Ties // Courtney Kimball  Coming soon: Episode 27: Bippity Boppity Book It! (An episode all about Disneyland) Referenced Links:  Connect with Hey, Sister! on Instagram or Facebook  Check out Brit's YouTube channel for vacation inspiration!   Show Timeline:    0:00 Introduction of topic and guest   3:10 Brit's background: where her love of travel originated   4:35 Vacations vs. trips: enjoying traveling with kids, family practice of handstands   8:00 Using a vacation as a reward   8:45 Souvenirs: family ornaments, allowances for souvenirs   9:30 Moments kids forget, Moms will remember: Carley's story about On the Border, see world through kid's eyes   10:50 Documentation: scrapbooking, videography, kids love looking through old memories   15:30 Family reunions are vacations, too!   16:00 Family vacation destinations: Disneyworld, cruise ship   16:50 Fun mom comes alive on vacations   18:30 Family vacation destinations: reiteration of reunions, Destin, FL, Branson, MO, AR diamond dig, Thailand, Ecuador, Peru   25:05 Traveling with kids: making accommodations for age    26:45 Upcoming Disneyland episode promotion   27:30 Traveling with kids (cont'd): accomodations for work schedules, finances   30:15 Phone usage on vacations   32:30 Individualized vacations: one-on-ones with kids   34:00 Making sacrifices to travel: not everyone has it all   36:50 Call to action, closing remarks, outtakes

Superhost Courtney Sandberg joins the “Hey, Sisterhood” for a fun conversation all about Airbnbs, covering the topics of: differences between hotels and Airbnbs, lessons learned when first becoming an Airbnb host, the importance of communication between host and guest, tips and tricks for booking a stay, and leaving and receiving reviews. Courtney and Carley and guest host Courtney Sandberg swap stories about their experiences staying in various locations including the Czech Republic, New Mexico and Florida. Give a listen and find some inspiration to book your next stay at an Airbnb in this second episode in the 4-part vacation-ready series, airing April 2022. Call to action, referenced links/accounts, and show timeline are below.    Call to Action:   “I've got a tier of calls to action today, based on your experience with Airbnb. So, if you have never tried an Airbnb, my call to action to you is to download the app and just browse…If you have an Airbnb booked for sometime this summer…my call to action is to leave a review….The last one: if you are interested in becoming an Airbnb host, then just figure out what your next step is to make it happen!” - Courtney Sandberg   Referenced Links:      Check out Courtney Sandberg's Airbnb in Scottsdale, AZ   Check out Carley Ferguson's Airbnb in Waco, TX   Connect with Hey, Sister!: Hey, Sister! Instagram Hey, Sister! Facebook   Referenced Episodes:  Episode 24: Wanderlust with Madeline Becker Hamilton   Episode 19: Purge!   Show Timeline:    0:00 introduction of monthly theme and guest expert   4:15 Courtney Sandberg: difference between hotels and Airbnbs   8:30 Carley: Airbnbs provide immersive experience in new location (Czech Republic experience)   9:30 Courtney Lewis: overcoming hesitation about trying new things    10:15 Courtney Sandberg: lessons learned becoming an Airbnb host, not every Airbnb is for everyone   11:30 Courtney Lewis: NM Airbnb experience   13:10 Reaction to Courtney's story and discussion on communication (how much contact, ideas of questions to ask)   17:00 Communication builds trust: asking questions of hosts, reviews are critical   18:25 Overcoming decision fatigue in hosting or booking an Airbnb: opportunity costs (how saving $50 might lose you $150)   21:15  Airbnb tips and tricks for guests: checking date availability with host even if it shows unavailable for part of guest's trip, asking questions before booking, looking for “diamonds in the rough”, requesting early check-in or late check-out, adding people to reservation, pets/no pets   28:30 Social credibility: guests get reviewed, adding a profile picture   30:45 Extra charges: refundable deposits, cleaning fees   32:00 Voicing complaints and concerns cordially and early-on   34:10 Outback Steakhouse story, don't be “that lady” who tries to get money back at the end of the meal (or the end of an Airbnb stay)   35:30 Create your own outcome philosophy: Courtney Sandberg's FL Airbnb experience   38:40 Call to action   40:30 Concluding thoughts, outtakes  

Unlock your creativity through travel! Madeline Becker Hamilton, Ivy City Co. Chief Marketing Officer, joins Courtney and Carley and inspires the Hey, Sisterhood community to take a trip, learn something new, strengthen relationships, be spontaneous, pack essentials and enjoy all the benefits of adventuring. Madeline is passionate about discovering the world as she is also a Service Expedition Coordinator for Somewhere Devine! Spark the fire within to see the world in this first episode in the 4-part vacation-ready series, airing April 2022. Call to action, referenced links/accounts, and show timeline are below.    Call to action:    “Once a year go somewhere new you've never been before. It doesn't have to be far. It doesn't have to be expensive. Just put yourself in a new environment and it will be amazing! My challenge for you is to make a plan for what that trip is going to be for you this year.” - Madeline Becker Hamilton   Referenced links:  Connect with Madeline! Madeline's Instagram Ivy City Co. Instagram Ivy City Co. Website   Connect with Hey, Sister! Hey, Sister! Facebook Hey, Sister! Instagram   Madeline's Favorite Travel Resources Book rental cars at Turo Book flights with Skyscanner Book flights with Somewhere Devine   Show timeline:    0:00 Introduction of episode and guest   2:45 Why traveling is important: “traveling is the only thing you can buy that makes you richer”   4:10 How traveling inspires us: it takes courage to travel, example of traveling to NY with Ivy City Co.   8:00 Strengthening relationships: breaking through barriers with family, example of mother/daughter trip to Japan   9:50 Including sparks of creativity in travel: don't over-plan, leave room for spontaneity, example of the “deer town” in Japan   12:05 Courtney's example of planning to be spontaneous with her husband    14:45 Packing essentials: fanny pack, lightweight dress, 2 pairs of shoes, wired headphones    18:00 Traveling tips and tricks: where to book flights and rental cars (links above), rolling clothes, flexibility mindset, favorite places to travel (Japan and Charleston, South Carolina)   21:00 Call to Action, contact information, conclusion, outtakes

Sisters Courtney, Carley and Cassidy revisit the topic of a previous episode (6, Happy Pants), and the idea that sometimes no matter how hard we try to put on happy pants and choose joy, life tries to metaphorically pants us! Each sister shares a recent story in which they made conscious efforts to choose joy repeatedly when challenges seemed to dogpile, one right after the other.    This is a seasonal bonus episode uniting the three original Schoen sisters in a conversational format.    Referenced Episodes Episode 6 // Happy Pants with Cassidy Roberts Episode 20 // Super-Organize me with Jen Whetten

Interior decorator and owner of Waco's The Findery, Tiffany Fatheree, sheds light on freshening up spaces. Tiffany invites the Hey, Sisterhood to throw out the design rule book and shares her top pieces advice for keeping homes personalized yet transitional. Realistic budgets, timing, paint colors, peel and stick wallpaper, personal confidence and seeking outside help are all discussed in this motivational interview with one of Waco, Texas' favorite home decorating experts. This is part 4 in a 4 part series on spring cleaning. Weekly call to action, referenced links and show timeline are below.    CALL TO ACTION: When you're feeling brave enough, take a good look at your walls (put on glasses and turn on the lights if you need to!) and go buy some paint. Decorating and freshening up your house doesn't have to be expensive. Start somewhere small, believe in yourself, believe in what you like and make your house a home by making it what you love!     REFERENCED PRIOR EPISODES: Ep. 18 Home Sweet Home // Nancy Schoen Ep. 19 PURGE!     LINKS:  Connect with Tiffany Fatheree Website: https://thefindery.net The Findery Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefinderywaco/ The Findery Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thefinderywaco Boiler Room Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theboilerroomwaco/ Visit the brick and mortar store: 501 S 8th St, Waco, TX 76706   Connect with Hey, Sister! Podcast Website: https://heysisterpodcast.org Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theheysisterpodcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heysisterpodcast   TIMELINE:   0:00 Review of Courtney's feelings about purging (Ep. 19), and introduction of guest expert   4:50 Tiffany discusses doing what you love, putting on glasses and turning on the lights (or not!) to look at your home like a visitor would, picking wall colors for your home, staying cohesive throughout the home, Tiffany's favorite shade of white: Sherwin Williams Alabaster White   7:20 Courtney's experience with fingerprints on flat white paint, Mom's advice to keep paint stored nearby for easy touch-ups (and to keep paint from drying out)   8:47 Tiffany advises keeping a binder with home colors recorded, including sheen (flat, eggshell, satin, semi gloss), bringing color into your home through accents, scents and peel and stick wallpaper   11:50 Carley's love of painting   14:00 When to freshen up spaces (continually), budgeting for projects, breaking projects into chunks, not following trends   18:30 Tiffany talks about self-confidence, God-given talents, trusting yourself, giving yourself time to get curated pieces for your home   21:45 “Home should be a story, not a store” comment, adding texture into your home (shelves, baskets)   23:45 Getting outside help: decorators, interior designers, friends with “an eye”    25:30 Various styles among friends, you don't have to pick just one style (masculine, modern, French, farmhouse), eclectic is more versatile   27:10 Utilizing store employees, feelings of lightness and peace when entering The Findery, focusing on “the feel” of your space and your home   31:15 Feelings of inspiration and confidence from the past, losing confidence, rediscovering self and talents   32:15 Call to action   33:00 Conclusion, contact information, outtakes

Nearly a dozen women within the Hey, Sisterhood community share their favorite cleaning products and practices in this episode all about making cleaning house more fun and functional. “Group Chat” style episodes of Hey, Sister! include information provided by listeners and supporters of the Hey, Sister! Podcast. This is part 3 in a 4-part series on spring cleaning. Weekly call to action, referenced links and show timeline are below.    Call to action: Share your favorite product and/or practice on our ROLL CALL post on social media this week (Look for the post on Tuesday or Wednesday at facebook.com/heysisterpodcast or on Instagram @theheysisterpodcast)      Referenced Episodes Episode 18: Home Sweet Home // Nancy Schoen Episode 20: Super-Organize Me! // Jen Whetten   Referenced Books Atomic Habits by James Clear   Group Chat Participants Products and practices recommended by individual sisters listed in order referenced below.     Jessica The Colony, Texas   Products De-Solv-It Stain Remover Clorox ToiletWand Disposable Toilet Cleaning System   Practices  Make cleaning a part of your routine   (Example cleaning the toilet after you get out of the shower, wiping down sink/counter after you apply your makeup)   Natalie Forney, Texas   Products 20 Mule Team BORAX   Practices Clean as you go (example: dishes after each meal) Declutter Go to bed early Get yourself ready every day     Tayler Corinth, Texas   Products 20 Mule Team BORAX     Devin Betonville, AR   Products  Folex Carpet Spot Remover *Don't use Bona Wood Floor products unless you have Bona sealed floors    Practices Clean after every meal Have kids put their toys away after playing with them Have a set laundry day 2-3x per week     Taylor  Salt Lake City, Utah   Practices Watch one episode of a show before cleaning Listen to music while cleaning  Split up chores with husband   Cassidy  Springville, Utah   Products Mr. Clean Magic Eraser Lysol Disinfectant   Mom   Products General's Tri-Tip Eraser Bar Keeper's Friend   Practices Clean from the top down   Alison Tucson, AZ   Products Bar Keeper's Friend Vinegar Norwex Window Cloth   Practices Use homemade mixture in amber bottle: lemon/orange essential oil, natural dish soap, water Add vinegar to dishwasher if over-sudsy      Brook Tucson, AZ   Products Simple Green All-purpose Cleaner   Jen   Products Pumice stone for hard water in toilets    Practices Add spritz of perfume to alcohol for mask refresher and hand sanitizer Have a retired husband   Hannah Spanish Fork, Utah   Products OxiClean Laundry Stain Remover Spray        Show Timeline   0:00 Introduction   3:15 Jessica's advice   7:00 Natalie's advice   9:30 Tayler's advice   10:15 Devin's advice   14:00 Taylor's advice   15:45 Cassidy's advice   16:30 Nancy's (Mom's) advice   17:50 Alison's advice   19:15 Brook's advice   21:00 Carley's opinion: clean when you're dirty to earn a shower   21:57 Jen's advice   23:00 Hannah's advice   24:00 Concluding thoughts, call to action, Instagram typos, outtakes

Professional organizer Jen Whetten shares the SPACE method with Courtney and Carley (Sort, Purge, Assign, Contain, Educate). Benefits of organizing as well as realistic expectations are discussed along with practical advice for where to begin on your organizing journey. This is part 2 in a 4-part series on spring cleaning. Weekly call to action, referenced media links and show timeline are below.    CALL TO ACTION: Choose a small space like a closet or a pantry and apply the SPACE method to it. Take a before and after photo so you can share your progress with your friends! Feel free to tag Jen and Hey, Sister! on social media so we can share in your success!   LINKS:  Connect with Jen Whetten Website: https://organizingwithjen.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenwhettenorganizing/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/organizingjen   Connect with Hey, Sister! Podcast Website: https://heysisterpodcast.org Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theheysisterpodcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heysisterpodcast   TIMELINE: 0:00 Introduction of topic and guest, Jen Whetten 2:12 The best place to begin organizing: the place that will make the most difference to you (often the pantry or master closet) 4:08 Detail versus large scale projects 6:06 Benefits of organizing: calmness, security, replacing negativity from the world with peace in our homes, establishing patterns for children 8:00 Craft cabinet personal example (Courtney) 10:30 SPACE method overview 11:07 Sorting (Step 1) 12:15 Purging (Step 2) 12:47 Assign (Step 3) 13:55 Contain (Step 4): Pinterest “is it realistic?” perspective  17:30 Educate (Step 5): teaching our families how to maintain organization systems 19:25 Maintenance: adjusting as needed, continually organizing 22:50 Setting children up for success: “To be clear is kind, to be unclear is unkind” 23:25 Call to action 24:00 Conclusion: contact information for Jen, concluding thoughts, outtakes

To trash or to donate? To host a garage sale or to sell on Facebook Marketplace? Those are the questions! Courtney and Carley have a frank discussion about pros, cons, tips and tricks for navigating the world of purging. Various evaluation strategies are considered, including asking questions like: Is this junk? Is this dingy? Does this have character or potential? The status of the excess material can help you determine where it goes next. Courtney shares her recent experience with a garage sale and Carley shares her strategies and the common vocabulary for the world of Facebook Marketplace. This is part 1 in a 4 part series on spring cleaning.    Call to action: Sell something on Facebook Marketplace.   LINKS Clutterbug // Cassandra Aarssen // https://www.instagram.com/clutterbug_me/ Jen Whetten // (Coming soon in Episode 20) // https://www.instagram.com/jenwhettenorganizing/   Hey, Sister! Instagram // https://www.instagram.com/theheysisterpodcast/ Hey, Sister! Facebook // https://www.facebook.com/heysisterpodcast    TIMELINE 0:00 Introduction of topic: purging/editing your home   2:40 Editing process: junk, dingy, character and potential explanation, purging philosophies, overcoming sentimentality by recognizing clutter   8:00 Trash vs. donation items   11:00 Courtney's garage sale experience: garage sale pricing, garage sale promotion, garage sale season, getting a permit   18:40 Carley's lesson on Facebook Marketplace: 5 star rating, how to post, what to post, product description, photography, “is it still available?”, pre-payment using Venmo or Zelle, terminology (NIB New in Box, PPU Porch Pick Up)   27:30 Facebook Marketplace continued: personal experiences, clothing, furniture pieces, negotiations, terminology continued (OBO Or Best Offer, Priced to Sell)   35:00 Call to action: ideas of what to sell   37:10 Final thoughts: safety on Facebook Marketplace (opinion), conclusion   39:55 Outtakes