The Christian Single Moms Podcast

Do you ever feel like you know too much? When you can't unsee the truth, it can be frightening when you hold all the pieces of your past but don't know what to do with them. In this episode, Michelle shares why knowing too much at once can stall your healing, and discusses how one simple practice can lead to the breakthrough you're looking for. Christian Counseling on the go? Click here for 10% off your first month with Faithful Counseling. Download Your Free Guide: Over|Thinking: Get Out of Your Head & On With Your Life Follow Michelle on Instagram @uncommonvalor.co For more help with your faith & emotional wellness journey, visit uncommonvalor.co

Some of us have experienced trauma and don't even know it, while for others of us the word trauma is all too familiar. In this first episode of The Truth & Our Trauma, Michelle explains how a car accident led to an awareness of the spiritual aspects of recovering from trauma and why it matters for all of us, whether we think we've experienced trauma or not. Christian Counseling on the go? Click here for 10% off your first month with Faithful Counseling. Download Your Free Guide: Over|Thinking: Get Out of Your Head & On With Your Life Follow Michelle on Instagram @uncommonvalor.co For more help with your faith & emotional wellness journey, visit uncommonvalor.co

Does your ex keep putting your kids in the middle? As if co-parenting wasn't hard enough, it's even worse when the other parent is badmouthing you or providing your kids with information they shouldn't have. You may want to defend yourself or tell your kids your side of the story, but Michelle discusses why that often is not the best move. Michelle shares what you can do to take your kids out of the middle and deal with someone who is emotionally manipulating your children. What's Your Loneliness Type? Take the Quiz Check out our new Bible study, Made for More: Life Beyond the Wreckage of Hurt, Loss, & Heartbreak.  Sign up for our free private community, The PlusONE Parents Collective Take our Red Flags In Dating Video Class Purchase PlusONE Parents' devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram Discover more at PlusONEParents.org

Is someone in your life spreading lies about you? Whether it's an ex or others around you spreading false information and gossip, it's natural that you'd want to share your side and set the record straight. But what do you do when everything you attempt seems to make the situation worse? What  if they're getting away with saying things that are not true - how can you defend yourself? Michelle shares why our initial reactions to being slandered can actually perpetuate the problem, and how Jesus responded when placed in similar circumstances. She also shares what to do in instances when you still have to interact with someone who is committed to continually verbally attacking you. What's Your Loneliness Type? Take the Quiz Check out our new Bible study, Made for More: Life Beyond the Wreckage of Hurt, Loss, & Heartbreak. Sign up for our free private community, The PlusONE Parents Collective Purchase PlusONE Parents' devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram Discover more at PlusONEParents.org

What are you waiting for? Maybe it's a new home, a godly husband, or healing in a relationship with your child. As single moms we rely on God for a lot, and waiting for Him to move can cause us to wonder if He's doing anything at all. Michelle discusses where God is in seasons of waiting and how you can actually begin see what He still may be up to. She also shares what to do (and not do) when it seems nothing is happening. What's Your Loneliness Type? Take the Quiz Sign up for our free private community, The PlusONE Parents Collective Purchase PlusONE Parents' devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram Discover more at PlusONEParents.org

When your ex gets a new girlfriend, a new house, or a new life, you may be left feeling rejected, jealous, and frustrated- especially if you're the one left picking up all the pieces. He may be presenting a picture that looks like his life is bigger and better without you in it, and he may even be doing this with your kids. But when you know you can't compete (or don't want to) how do you deal with being tossed aside? Michelle discusses the concept of discard, and what it has to do with your child's father moving on so quickly. She also shares how you can be empowered in this kind of situation, without getting caught up in the comparison game. What's Your Loneliness Type? Take the Quiz Sign up for our free private community, The PlusONE Parents Collective Purchase PlusONE Parents' devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram Discover more at PlusONEParents.org

Situationships, ghosting, & catfishing- oh my. If you've had these disappointing dating experiences, you know that sometimes it can feel like there are just no good guys to date out there. Michelle discusses why what you're doing might not be working for you when it comes to dating, and how to align yourself to meet a great, godly match.  What's Your Loneliness Type? Take the Quiz Sign up for our free private community, The PlusONE Parents Collective Purchase PlusONE Parents' devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram Discover more at PlusONEParents.org

Christian women who are being abused stay with their abusers 2.5 years longer than non-Christian women, and one major reason is the distortion of Scripture. Turn the other cheek? Love is patient, love is kind? Michelle talks about commonly misquoted Scriptures that are used to compel abuse victims to stay in abusive relationships and submit to abusive husbands. She discusses why these Scriptures don't mean what people think they do, and one thing you can do today to begin healing from the spiritual abuse and manipulation you've experienced.  What's Your Loneliness Type? Take the Quiz Sign up for our free private community, The PlusONE Parents Collective Purchase PlusONE Parents' devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram Discover more at PlusONEParents.org

Becoming a single mom can cause us to question everything we think we know about God. And when other people don't seem to be okay with us, it can be hard to know if God is. We may feel forgotten about and rejected, and feel like there's nothing more that God can do with our lives. Michelle discusses where God is in the midst of a life story that didn't go as planned, and what He desires us to know when we have less and are treated like less. What's Your Loneliness Type? Take the Quiz Sign up for our free private community, The PlusONE Parents Collective Purchase PlusONE Parents' devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram Discover more at PlusONEParents.org

Raising kids alone forces us to come to terms with the fact that we are one person doing a job that God designed for two. Sometimes it seems like maybe you just don't have what it takes. And despite our best efforts, all the statistics seem to show that the deck is stacked against single moms and their kids- is there anything that can be done? Michelle discusses how raising a boy as a single mom can especially highlight these challenges, but that these frustrations aren't just limited to boy moms. But she also shares how through the very things we are missing, God steps in to supply what we need to meet the unique needs of all of our children. What's Your Loneliness Type? Take the Quiz Sign up for our free private community, The PlusONE Parents Collective Purchase PlusONE Parents' devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram Discover more at PlusONEParents.org

When you already have kids, waiting until you're married (or married again) to have sex can seem pointless. And living together might seem like a good way to make sure your new family will blend well together. With all that is stake, how do we make sure we're doing the right thing? Michelle discusses God's design for sex and how it sets us up to get not only the most out of sex, but the most out of LIFE. She also shares the factors to consider when blending families. and how to deal with sexual desire as a single woman. What's Your Loneliness Type? Take the Quiz Sign up for our free private community, The PlusONE Parents Collective Purchase PlusONE Parents' devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram Discover more at PlusONEParents.org

Being a single mom is overwhelming because, let's face it, you're one person doing the work of two. But if this was just about tasks– like homework, doctor's appointments, court dates, and keeping house– you could probably find a way to deal with the exhaustion. But overwhelm is different. Overwhelm stops us in our tracks; it's when we don't know what we need or how to move forward. It's the feeling you're coming unglued and that everything is falling apart. Michelle describes why the day-to-day makes even the smallest things too much to handle, and what you can do when it all just feels too heavy. What's Your Loneliness Type? Take the Quiz Sign up for our free private community, The PlusONE Parents Collective Purchase PlusONE Parents' devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram Discover more at PlusONEParents.org

Is it abuse? It's not uncommon for abuse survivors to miss the signs of abuse – but why does this happen? Michelle talks about the tricks abusers use to keep victims in a fog of confusion, and shares a tool you can use to figure out if you are or have been in a toxic relationship. She discusses why couples counseling with an abuser is a bad idea and what to do when you're afraid to speak up, expecially when no one around you believes you. What's Your Loneliness Type? Take the Quiz Sign up for our free private community, The PlusONE Parents Collective Purchase PlusONE Parents' devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram Discover more at PlusONEParents.org

One thing all bad relationships have in common: Unhealthy boundaries. So what do you do when what you're doing isn't working? Michelle explains a simple method for setting healthy boundaries (that Jesus taught His disciples) and suggests what you can do when you feel like a relationship isn't healthy for you. She also shares one thing you can do today to start setting better boundaries (no awkward conversations required). What's Your Loneliness Type? Take the Quiz Sign up for our free private community, The PlusONE Parents Collective Purchase PlusONE Parents' devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram Discover more at PlusONEParents.org

Loneliness often feels like it's out of our control because let's face it- it involves relationships with other people. But what if it's not out of your control? And what if there's something you can do about feeling forgotten, rejected, and overlooked? Michelle shares about a Valentine's Day date gone bad, and what it revealed about the connection between loneliness and toxic relationships. She also shares how one shift of thinking can prepare you for a healthy relationship and keep you from settling for someone who's not a good match for you.

Welcome to the Christian Single Moms Podcast! 

How do you love someone who is hurting you? Jesus told us that we would have enemies– people who are actively trying to hurt us– but He also told us to love them. But what if your ex is your enemy? What if you've done all you can, but being nice to them just hasn't worked? Michelle shares why being nice to your enemies doesn't work, and the one thing you should do instead to love your enemies (without being treated like a doormat).

Becoming part of a church community can be difficult and triggering. Church abuse and other negative experiences can leave us feeling like we don't belong. Ericka Andersen discusses the process of healing from traumatic church experiences and how to find a community where you belong. She discusses the importance of both pulling away from a hurtful situation to process pain and later re-engaging in spiritual community, and offers guidance in how to find people you can be safe and vulnerable with. Purchase Ericka's book, Reason to Return Learn more at ErickaAndersen.com What's Your Loneliness Type? Take the Quiz Access PlusONE Parents' Made for More Bible Study Experience Sign up for our free private community, The PlusONE Parents Collective Purchase PlusONE Parents' devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram Discover more at PlusONEParents.org RECOMMENDED EPISODES E140- When Church Isn't Safe: How Abuse Survivors Can Find Safe People with Mary DeMuth E125- Children, Trauma, & Abuse: Helping Your Child Recover When You're Healing Too with Justin Holcomb  

Burnout. We've all felt it. There's so much we have to do (and sometimes with so little) that it sucks the joy right out of life. Jennifer Watson talks with us about the connection between burnout and the expectations placed on us (and the ones we place on ourselves). She discusses how to rediscover joy in taking a step back to reassess what things we are called to and what things need to come off of our plates. She also shares how to say "no" and deal with the disappointment others will inevitably feel when we make our own needs a priority. Learn more about Jennifer at JenniferReneeWatson.com What's Your Loneliness Type? Take the Quiz Access PlusONE Parents' Made for More Bible Study Experience Sign up for our free private community, The PlusONE Parents Collective Purchase PlusONE Parents' devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram Discover more at PlusONEParents.org RECOMMENDED EPISODES E141- Big Emotions, Discipline, & Mom Guilt: How Boundaries With Our Kids Make Us Better Moms with Rachel Norman E145- Good Boundaries: Loving Others Well Without Losing Yourself with Lysa TerKeurst

Victims often have a hard time having their voices heard, especially in a church environment where hurt has happened. Dr. Scot McKnight shares what safe churches look like, and how churches with what he calls a "goodness culture" respond to the wounded and marginalized. He also discusses telltale signs of unsafe churches and leaders, and what to take note of if you are trying to find a new church home for the first time. Scot also offers encouragement for victims of abuse who want to share their stories but aren't sure if it's safe to do so. Purchase Scot's book, A Church Called Tov What's Your Loneliness Type? Take the Quiz Access PlusONE Parents' Made for More Bible Study Experience Sign up for our free private community, The PlusONE Parents Collective Purchase PlusONE Parents' devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram Discover more at PlusONEParents.org RECOMMENDED EPISODES E112- Decoding the Narcissist: Exposing the Faces of Narcissism to find Freedom from Emotional & Spiritual Abuse with Chuck DeGroat E105- Am I Safe? Experiencing Physical, Emotional, and Spiritual Security after Abuse with Sarah McDugal

Mixed emotions, anyone? Hurt and loss make the holidays super complicated, and figuring out how to be grateful in the midst of all of it can feel so overwhelming and unfair. Michelle addresses a listener question asking "How can I be grateful when all I feel is grief?" Record your question for a future POP Questions episode, or submit your question by email What's Your Loneliness Type? Take the Quiz Access PlusONE Parents' Made for More Bible Study Experience Sign up for our free private community, The PlusONE Parents Collective Purchase PlusONE Parents' devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram Discover more at PlusONEParents.org RECOMMENDED RESOURCES When the Holidays Hurt: Grieving Through the Holidays as a Single Parent Blog Post Un-Happy Holidays: What To Do When You Feel More Miserable than Merry Blog Post E104- Thank You, I'm Sorry, Tell Me More: Words that Hurt, Words that Heal with Rod Wilson

Grief is hard to work through when we don't understand it. And it often seems that no matter what we try, both our everyday lives and the holidays are full of triggers that keep bringing our grief to the forefront. Clarissa Moll shares why the traditional thinking of grief as stages or a journey isn't helpful, and instead offers an understanding of grief that helps us extend more compassion and grace to ourselves. She discusses the difference between "moving on" and "moving forward" and provides practical tips for dealing with grief during the holiday season. Learn more at ClarissaMoll.com Purchase Clarissa's book, Beyond the Darkness What's Your Loneliness Type? Take the Quiz Access PlusONE Parents' Made for More Bible Study Experience Sign up for our free private community, The PlusONE Parents Collective Purchase PlusONE Parents' devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram Discover more at PlusONEParents.org RECOMMENDED EPISODES E120- Life Can Be Good Again: Loss & Lack Transformed By the Goodness of God with Lisa Appelo E114- Grieving & Letting Go: The Role of Acknowledging Pain in Embracing Your Future with Dr. John Delony  

Figuring out what our boundaries are can be difficult, and actually setting them can be even harder. Lysa TerKeurst explains boundaries as an essential part of God's design for healthy relationships, and shares a simple method for establishing your own boundaries in any situation. She discusses why a lack of boundaries can cause us to lose ourselves in unhealthy relationships, and how the anxiety we may have around setting boundaries can actually help us move forward with them. Purchase Lysa's book, Good Boundaries & Goodbyes What's Your Loneliness Type? Take the Quiz Access PlusONE Parents' Made for More Bible Study Experience Sign up for our free private community, The PlusONE Parents Collective Purchase PlusONE Parents' devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram Discover more at PlusONEParents.org RECOMMENDED EPISODES E115- Does God Hate Divorce? E72- Setting Boundaries: Improve Your Relationships & Boost Your Emotional Health with Dr. Alison Cook

Confronting brokenness and pain from the past can be emotionally exhausting work. Sometimes it seems that the past is too painful to dig into, or that the pain just won't end. Toni Collier shares her journey through brokenness, and describes how God supplies us with the courage to heal from traumatic experiences (even when we feel like we just can't do it or aren't making any progress). Check out Toni's book, Brave Enough to be Broken Learn more about Broken Crayons Still Color What's Your Loneliness Type? Take the Quiz Access PlusONE Parents' Made for More Bible Study Experience Sign up for our free private community, The PlusONE Parents Collective Purchase PlusONE Parents' devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram Discover more at PlusONEParents.org RECOMMENDED EPISODES E77- Beyond Broken: The Power of God in Your Comeback and How to Live from "More" with Toni Collier E134- Take Back Your Life: The Spiritual Warfare of Single Motherhood with Jennifer Maggio  

Sometimes we may not even know we're doing it, but oversharing is a risky habit that can leave us pretty vulnerable. Michelle and Kelli talk about the roots of oversharing, the connection to rejection and wounding, and how changing this habit can help you find safe people and healthy relationships. Record your question for a future POP Questions episode, or submit your question by email Learn more about Kelli at KelliTrontel.com What's Your Loneliness Type? Take the Quiz Access PlusONE Parents' Made for More Bible Study Experience Sign up for our free private community, The PlusONE Parents Collective Purchase PlusONE Parents' devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram Discover more at PlusONEParents.org  

Have you ever found yourself feeling rejected and disqualified? Like maybe God can't do anything with your life now? Samira Dean shares her testimony, and in the process reveals the connection between identity and purpose. She explains how Satan attacks our identity early on in life, and how feelings of rejection keep us from stepping into the purposes that God has planned for us. Samira shares how God set her free from the bondage of rejection, and how in fulfilling our purposes we ourselves experience fulfillment in Christ. Follow Samira on Instagram or Facebook, and Stay Encouraged What's Your Loneliness Type? Take the Quiz Access PlusONE Parents' Made for More Bible Study Experience Sign up for our free private community, The PlusONE Parents Collective Purchase PlusONE Parents' devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram Discover more at PlusONEParents.org RECOMMENDED EPISODES E134-Take Back Your Life: The Spiritual Warfare of Single Motherhood with Jennifer Maggio E129- He Calls You Beloved: How the Fruit of the Spirit Reveals Who God Is to Us, and Who We Are to Him with Jessica Thompson

Managing our time and emotions is overwhelming for single moms, especially when we're parenting and managing a household on our own. Rachel Norman shares how boundaries can look with our kids, and why we need them to be more responsive to our own needs and our kids' needs. She explains how boundaries can help us take the pressure off of ourselves (hello Mom Guilt!), heal well, and model the behaviors we want our kids to pick up on.  Learn more about Rachel at AMotherFarFromHome.com Purchase Rachel's book, If Mama Ain't Happy What's Your Loneliness Type? Take the Quiz Sign up for our free private community experience, The PlusONE Parents Collective Purchase PlusONE Parents' devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram Discover more at PlusONEParents.org RECOMMENDED EPISODES E128- Emotional Regulation 101: Taking the Guesswork Out of Reading Your Child's Signals & Knowing How to Respond with Cherilyn Orr E72- Setting Boundaries: Improve Your Relationships & Boost Your Emotional Health with Dr. Alison Cook

Abuse survivors often struggle to find the support they need from their church communities, and may also find themselves isolated or further victimized when they try to speak up. Mary DeMuth shares how Scripture reveals the godly reponse to abuse, and explains how misinterpretations of Scripture have led to a lack of appropriate victim care in many churches. She discusses why safe relationships are so crucial to the healing process, and how victims can find a safe congregation when their own no longer feels like home. Sign up for Mary's 21 Day Healing Journey at WeToo.org Check out Mary's books, We Too & Not Marked What's Your Loneliness Type? Take the Quiz Sign up for our free private community experience, The PlusONE Parents Collective Purchase PlusONE Parents' devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram Discover more at PlusONEParents.org RECOMMENDED EPISODES E116- Is Abuse Grounds for Divorce? with Michelle Donnelly E112- Decoding the Narcissist: Exposing the Faces of Narcissism to find Freedom from Emotional & Spiritual Abuse with Chuck DeGroat

Establishing some kind of normalcy after a divorce or significant relationship loss takes a long time, and often longer than we'd like. But how long is too long? Is there a way to speed it up? In this episode, Michelle and special guest Kelli Trontel discuss this listener question. Learn more about Kelli at KelliTrontel.com Record your question for a future POP Questions episode, or submit your question by email What's Your Loneliness Type? Take the Quiz Sign up for our free private community experience, The PlusONE Parents Collective Purchase PlusONE Parents' devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram

Overthinking plagues many of us, and you may even have a child struggling with the same habit. Jon Acuff and his teenage daughters, LE & McRae, share strategies for overcoming overthinking that you can practice along with your kids. They explain why many affirmations and mantras don't work, and discuss ways to get your new "soundtracks" to stick. Learn more at Acuff.me What's Your Loneliness Type? Take the Quiz Sign up for our free private community experience, The PlusONE Parents Collective Purchase PlusONE Parents' devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram Discover more at PlusONEParents.org RECOMMENDED EPISODES E114- Grieving & Letting Go: The Role of Acknowledging Pain in Embracing Your Future with Dr. John Delony E101- Storywork: Finding Freedom from the Pain of Your Past with Karrie Garcia

Our insecurities can be so deeply rooted that we find ourselves wondering if we can ever feel confident in who we are. Amanda Pittman discusses the spiritual roots of insecurity, and shares how toxic relationships can distort our view of God and ourselves. She explains what a confidence centered in Christ looks like, and how to develop a confidence that can't be shaken. Learn more at ConfidentWomanCo.com Purchase Amanda's book, Stand in Confidence What's Your Loneliness Type? Take the Quiz Sign up for our free private community experience, The PlusONE Parents Collective Purchase PlusONE Parents' devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram Discover more at PlusONEParents.org RECOMMENDED EPISODES E126- Face Off With Your Feelings: How Confronting Past Pain Opens the Door to Emotional Safety and Wholeness with Jessica Hottle E111- Believing Who God Says You Are (& How It Changes Everything) with Aubrey Sampson

While on a healing journey, there are times when we feel stuck or like we're not as far along as we should be. Sometimes, we don't even really know where we are going or how to get beyond where we are now. Evan and Jenny Owens clarify common misconceptions about the healing process, and explain how to remove roadblocks so you can discover levels of transformation you may have never imagined were possible. Learn more at RebootRecovery.com Check out Evan and Jenny's Book Healing What's Hidden: Practical Steps to Overcoming Trauma What's Your Loneliness Type? Take the Quiz Sign up for our free private community experience, The PlusONE Parents Collective Purchase PlusONE Parents' devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram Discover more at PlusONEParents.org RECOMMENDED EPISODES E125- Children, Trauma, & Abuse: Helping Your Child Recover When You're Healing Too with Justin Holcomb E90- Try Harder? Try Softer: Harnessing the Gifts of Compassion & Curiosity in Trauma Recovery with Aundi Kolber

This episode is the first of a new monthly feature called "POP Questions" where we answer listener questions right here on the podcast. This month's question focuses on the topic, "What do you do when no one has asked you out?" and features special guest, Kelli Trontel.  Learn more about Kelli at KelliTrontel.com Record your question for a future POP Questions episode, or submit your question by email What's Your Loneliness Type? Take the Quiz Sign up for our free private community experience, The PlusONE Parents Collective Purchase PlusONE Parents' devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram

Jesus died to rescue us from sin for all eternity, but we don't have to wait until Heaven to experience that victory in our lives. Jennifer Maggio from The Life of a Single Mom shares her personal journey as a single mom, and how God has used the darkest parts of her story to bring her spiritual and emotional freedom. She shares how you can begin to engage in spiritual warfare to break generational patterns and sever soul ties, and take back your life and your family. Learn More at TheLifeofaSingle Mom.com What's Your Loneliness Type? Take the Quiz Sign up for our free private community experience, The PlusONE Parents Collective Purchase PlusONE Parents' devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram Discover more at PlusONEParents.org RECOMMENDED EPISODES E120- Life Can Be Good Again: Loss & Lack Transformed By the Goodness of God with Lisa Appelo E118- Distress & Deliverance: Understanding the Heart of God in the Midst of Suffering with Jen Wilkin

When we have lost so much, trusting God can be frightening. We may find ourselves afraid of God and feel that we have to fend for ourselves in life. Joanna Weaver shares how our distrust of God is connected to a spiritual war that has been raging since the beginning, and how the enemy has been using lies and counterfeits to cause us to doubt God's trustworthiness. She discusses how we can let go of the things we are clinging to that give us a temporary sense of relief or control, and how we can begin to discover God's goodness even when things don't look so good. Learn more about Joanna's book, Embracing Trust, at JoannaWeaverBooks.com What's Your Loneliness Type? Take the Quiz Sign up for our free private community experience, The PlusONE Parents Collective Purchase PlusONE Parents' devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram Discover more at PlusONEParents.org RECOMMENDED EPISODES E108- It's Not Supposed to Be This Way: Finding Soul Rest & Redemption in Encountering the Kindness of God with Dr. Dan Allender E82- Learning to Trust After Trauma: God, Yourself, & Others with Kristi Blackburn

Most of us are working our way through healing from some kind of sexual wounding, whether the harm came through abuse, a former partner's infidelity, our own choices, and/or improper teachings about sexuality that left us feeling ashamed. Dean Inserra discusses how teachings related to the purity culture movement distorted our understanding of God's design for sex, and shares how a fresh look at the Scriptures can help us both recover from our past wounds and pursue healthy future relationships. Dean also shares how biblical sexuality can help us approach dating in ways that help us experience emotional safety. Check out Dean's book, Pure What's Your Loneliness Type? Take the Quiz Purchase PlusONE Parents' devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram, and check out the Beloved Collective private Facebook group. Discover more at PlusONEParents.org RECOMMENDED EPISODES E113- Uncomplicating Dating: How Communication Helps You Grow Through the Awkward & Uncomfortable with Eric Demeter E76- Healing Sexual Wounds: Moving Toward Sexual Wholeness & Grappling with Single Sexuality with Dr. Juli Slattery

Depression can be debilitating, especially if left untreated. But how can you know if what you or someone you love is experiencing is in fact depression? Dr. Michelle Bengtson describes the symptoms of depression, as well as the root causes. She details a variety of treatment options, and discusses the link between stress, anxiety, and depression. She also dispells the misconception that depression is an issue of faith, and shares how addressing the spiritual roots of depression can lead to lasting joy and freedom. Learn more at DrMichelleBengtson.com What's Your Loneliness Type? Take the Quiz Purchase PlusONE Parents' devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram, and check out the Beloved Collective private Facebook group. Discover more at PlusONEParents.org RECOMMENDED EPISODES E110- Defying Disappointment: Confronting the Fear of Joy & Daring to Dream Again with Nicole Zasowski E54- The Healing in Feelings: Vulnerability, Connection, & Intimacy with Dr. Chip Dodd

All of us have some kind of wounding when it comes to the ways we were raised. Whether you had overtly neglectful or abusive parents, or parents who had the best of intentions but still passed on unhealthy habits, the wounds we receive impact us and the way we parent our own kids. Christina Fox shares how the way we were parented distorts our image of God, but how correcting that image can help us see more clearly who God truly is as our perfect parent. She also discusses the difference between punishment and discipline, and details how understanding the way God coaches us can help us to set more effective standards with our own kids. Learn more at ChristinaFox.com Purchase PlusONE Parents' devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned What's Your Stress Style? Take the Quiz Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram, and check out the Beloved Collective private Facebook group. Discover more at PlusONEParents.org RECOMMENDED EPISODES E127- Making the Most of Imperfect Habits to Intentionally Connect with Your Kids' Hearts with Justin Whitmel Earley E123- Anger & Acting Out: Parenting Strategies for a Difficult Defiant Child with Kimball Lewis

Often when we are taught about the Fruit of the Spirit, the emphasis is placed us, and how we need to live these things out. But what if we looked at the Fruit of the Spirit as the nature of God Himself? Jessica Thompson shares how examining the Fruit of the Spirit can give us a greater understanding of who God is and how He is moving in our lives. She shares a deeper understanding of God's love and delight in us, and how they can move us through periods of suffering and brokenness and into restoration. Learn more about Jessica's book, How God Loves Us, at JessicaThompson.co Purchase PlusONE Parents' devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned What's Your Stress Style? Take the Quiz Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram, and check out the Beloved Collective private Facebook group. Discover more at PlusONEParents.org RECOMMENDED EPISODES E111- Believing Who God Says You Are (& How It Changes Everything) with Aubrey Sampson E108- It's Not Supposed to Be This Way: Finding Soul Rest & Redemption in Encountering the Kindness of God with Dr. Dan Allender

When our children are struggling with their emotions, their behaviors can be frustrating, heartbreaking, and even frightening. Knowing how to respond effectively in those instances can be tricky. Cherilyn Orr shares the Stoplight approach to assessing your child's brain state during an emotional episode, and also offers specific responses tailored to meet their needs in these difficult times. She also describes how this tool can be helpful for our own well-being, and discusses the importance of our own emotional regulation to the overall health of our households. Learn more at TheStoplightApproach.org Order the book "Signals" on Amazon (email your preorder receipt to focus@tyndale.com for Audiobook offer) Purchase PlusONE Parents' devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned What's Your Stress Style? Take the Quiz Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram, and check out the Beloved Collective private Facebook group. Discover more at PlusONEParents.org RECOMMENDED EPISODES E123- Anger & Acting Out: Parenting Strategies for a Difficult, Defiant Child with Kimball Lewis E88- Anxiety In Our Kids: Identifying Worry & Giving Your Child the Tools to Thrive with Sissy Goff

You can have imperfect parenting habits and still be an intentional mom. Justin Whitmel Earley shares how the moments of our everyday schedule can be beautiful (and messy) opportunities to help our kids grow spiritually. He discusses that habits are things we are already doing, and how tiny adjustments can have a tremendous impact on the ways we connect with our children. Justin also provides suggestions you can easily incorporate into any part of your daily routine, from wake ups and family meals to discipline and devotions.   Learn more at JustinWhitmelEarley.com Purchase PlusONE Parents' devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned What's Your Stress Style? Take the Quiz Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram, and check out the Beloved Collective private Facebook group. Discover more at PlusONEParents.org RECOMMENDED EPISODES E102- Helping Kids Cope with the Grief & Loss of Divorce with Lauren Reitsema E95- Raising Kids Who Bounce Back with Dr. Rhonda Spencer- Hwang

Our feelings can often feel so threatening or overwhelming, but learning to deal with them actually opens the door to so much emotional freedom. Jessica Hottle reveals the function of our feelings, and discusses how they invite us to move towards discovering emotional safety and freedom. She discusses how pain from our past keeps us stuck in the present, but shares how to invite God into your emotional experience to discover lasting healing and transformation. She also discusses the impact this transformation has on all of your relationships, whether in dating, friendships, or in parenting your kids. Learn more and purchase Jessica's book at JessicaHottle.com Purchase PlusONE Parents' devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned What's Your Stress Style? Take the Quiz Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram, and check out the Beloved Collective private Facebook group. Discover more at PlusONEParents.org RECOMMENDED EPISODES E103- The Path Out of Loneliness with Dr. Mark Mayfield E79- Are You Really OK? How Getting Honest with Yourself Unlocks Hope & Wholeness with Debra Fileta

Helping a children recover from the traumatic experiences is difficult, but the situation becomes more complex when you're in the midst of your own healing journey as well. Justin Holcomb discusses the impact trauma has on a child, and how their responses to trauma vary by age. He shares how being aware of the effects of trauma can help us respond to our children's unique needs, and to our own. He also highlights the damage trauma does to us spiritually, but explains how an understanding of God's anger at the evil we've endured can be transformational. Learn more at JustinHolcomb.com Purchase PlusONE Parents' devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned What's Your Stress Style? Take the Quiz Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram, and check out the Beloved Collective private Facebook group. Discover more at PlusONEParents.org RECOMMENDED EPISODES E108- It's Not Supposed to be This Way: Finding Soul Rest & Redemption in Encountering the Kindness of God with Dr. Dan Allender E80- Fight for Joy: Raising Your Kids with a Legacy of Faith with Rhonda Stoppe

How do you know if you're ready to date? What does that mean? And what if everything you've tried to "put yourself out there" just hasn't seemed to work? Stephanie May Wilson shares what it means to be ready to date, and how to take small steps toward situations that feel frightening or uncomfortable. She also discusses how a simple mindset shift can improve your online dating experience and how you can meet people to date in real life. Learn more at StephanieMayWilson.com Purchase PlusONE Parents' devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned What's Your Stress Style? Take the Quiz Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram, and check out the Beloved Collective private Facebook group. Discover more at PlusONEParents.org RECOMMENDED EPISODES E89- Meeting Your Match: How to Know What You're Looking for and Date in Ways to Find It with Dr. Christie Kederian E82- Learning to Trust After Trauma: God, Yourself, & Others with Kristi Blackburn

Sometimes children behave in ways that are out-of-control, and it often can feel like nothing seems to work. Kimball Lewis from Empowering Parents discusses the role of accountability and consequences in discipline, and explains why blaming yourself can actually make the situation worse. He shares why kids lie, manipulate, and explode, and how to coach and reconnect with a child who is exhibiting destructive behaviors. Learn more at EmpoweringParents.com Follow Empowering Parents on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ParentingAdvice Instagram: @empowering_parents Twitter: @Emp_Parents Purchase PlusONE Parents' devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned What's Your Stress Style? Take the Quiz Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram, and check out the Beloved Collective private Facebook group. Discover more at PlusONEParents.org RECOMMENDED EPISODES E88- Anxiety in our Kids: Identifying Worry & Giving Your Child the Tools to Thrive with Sissy Goff E66- Responding to Your Kids' Need for Freedom with Dr. Tim Kimmel

Friendships are a part of God's design for our lives, but finding people to do life with isn't always easy. Bailey Hurley discusses what characteristics to look for in friends who are more like family, and how going into friendships with the right expectations can allow everyone involved the room to grow and change over time. She also talks about out to cultivate friendships when you're short on free time, and how to navigate conflict when it arises. Learn more at BaileyTHurley.com Purchase Bailey's book, Together is a Beautiful Place: Finding, Keeping & Loving Our Friends Purchase PlusONE Parents' new devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned What's Your Stress Style? Take the Quiz Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram, and check out the Beloved Collective private Facebook group. Discover more at PlusONEParents.org RECOMMENDED EPISODES E113- Uncomplicating Dating: How Communication Helps You Grow Through the Awkward & Uncomfortable with Eric Demeter E100- Introverts & Extroverts: How Contrasting Strengths Enrich Our Relationships with Holley Gerth

Sometimes it can be hard to answer your kids' questions about God when you're wrestling with questions of your own. Amy Gannett of Tiny Theologians clarifies what discipleship really is, and how our doubts and questions actually can help us better lead our children towards God. She shares how simple routines can create family rhythms of talking about God, and how to go about addressing your kids' questions when you don't know where to find the answers. Learn more about Tiny Theologians or visit AmyGannett.com Record a Question you'd like answered on The Christian Single Moms Podcast Purchase PlusONE Parents' new devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned What's Your Stress Style? Take the Quiz Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram, and check out the Beloved Collective private Facebook group. Discover more at PlusONEParents.org RECOMMENDED EPISODES E107- This Is Not Working: Taking the Pressure Off Yourself to Give Your Kids What They Really Need with Crystal Paine E64- Get More From Reading Your Bible (Even When You're Short on Time) with Brittany Ann  

After losing so much, you may find yourself wondering, "Can life ever be good again?" Lisa Appelo, widow and single mother of 7, has wrestled with this same question. She shares how getting honest with God can lead to an encounter with His goodness, and how we can learn to trust Him again after devastation hits. She also discusses the stresses related to lack of provision, and how to work through the discomfort of asking for help to receive what God has for us in the people around us. Purchase Lisa's Book, Life Can Be Good Again: Putting Your World Back Together When it All Falls Apart Visit LisaAppelo.com Record a Question you'd like answered on The Christian Single Moms Podcast Purchase PlusONE Parents' new devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned What's Your Stress Style? Take the Quiz Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram, and check out the Beloved Collective private Facebook group. Discover more at PlusONEParents.org RECOMMENDED EPISODES E84- Wrestling with the Word: Finding Faith When Life Falls Apart with Tricia Lott Williford E81- The Agony of Anger: Relinquishing Revenge and Giving the Fight to God with Rosie Rivera

Parenting alone can be exhausting, and because of that fact, we may find ourselves relying on screens more than we'd like to. Arlene Pellicane discusses the addictive aspects of technology usage and how screens can worsen mental health for everyone in the family. She shares the benefits of reducing screen usage in the home, and how we can use both screentime and screen-free time in ways that promote emotional and spiritual well-being. She also provides a wonderful strategy that gives you a daily downtime without worrying about entertaining your kids.  Purchase Arlene's book, Screen Kids: 5 Relational Skills Every Child Needs in Tech Driven World Sign up for Arlene's Screen Kids Masterclass and use code HAPPY for $50 off Record a Question you'd like answered on The Christian Single Moms Podcast Purchase PlusONE Parents' new devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned What's Your Stress Style? Take the Quiz Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram, and check out the Beloved Collective private Facebook group. Discover more at PlusONEParents.org RECOMMENDED EPISODES E95- Raising Kids Who Bounce Back with Dr. Rhonda Spencer-Hwang E23- Stopping Online Dangers, Cyberbullying, & Pornography with Parents Who Fight

When we are in the midst of distressing situations, it can be difficult to understand who God is and what He is doing in our lives. Even when deliverance comes, we may still find ourselves struggling and suffering, but for entirely different reasons. Jen Wilkin helps us to understand the heart of God in our suffering through a deep dive into the book of Exodus. She points out how Israel's deliverance out of Egypt parallels our own deliverance from sin, and how God uses our own trials and wanderings to bring us into greater abundance and freedom. Visit JenWilkin.net Record a Question you'd like answered on The Christian Single Moms Podcast Purchase PlusONE Parents' new devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned What's Your Stress Style? Take the Quiz Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram, and check out the Beloved Collective private Facebook group. Discover more at PlusONEParents.org RECOMMENDED EPISODES E108- It's Not Supposed to Be This Way: Finding Soul Rest & Redemption in Encountering the Kindness of God with Dr. Dan Allender E112- Decoding the Narcissist: Exposing the Faces of Narcissism to Find Freedom from Emotional & Spiritual Abuse

In this minisode, Michelle addresses the topic of forgiveness, and how it relates to anger and healing. She also discusses the issue of reconciliation when trust is broken, and how to actually engage in the process of forgiving someone (especially when you don't feel like it). Record a Question you'd like answered on The Christian Single Moms Podcast Purchase PlusONE Parents' new devotional, Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused & Abandoned What's Your Stress Style? Take the Quiz Join PlusONE Parents on Facebook and Instagram, and check out the Beloved Collective private Facebook group. Discover more at PlusONEParents.org RECOMMENDED EPISODES E27- Forgive for Real with Tim Sanford E28- Forgiveness is Given, Trust is Earned with Tim Sanford