The Open Door Sisterhood Podcast

How do we face grief when it feels overwhelming? How do we keep from being bitter when life turns out differently than we planned for? What do we say to God when we're simply pissed off and don't want to face the day because we did not ask for this kind of day? Our faith does not need to be shallow, offering us only minor comfort for minor problems. Jesus understands pain and grief in ways no other human can. Yet we feel like we shouldn't go to him with our actual heartache. Linda Dillow shares some of her life story with us. She is a woman who knows grief and anger. She also understands that life doesn't always get easier, sometimes it gets harder. And yet she has discovered some heart practices that connect her to God in these most grieved places. If you are looking for more than a superficial faith, you are longing for a theology that withstands the worst life can throw at you and a relationship with Jesus that is authentic, push play. Linda is a comfort and a model of what it is to choose to turn back to God while asking the Holy Spirit to heal. We want this kind of faith for us and for you. FIND MORE ABOUT LINDA DILLOW Linda Dillow's Book- Hope for My Hurting Heart A FEW THINGS MENTIONED Psalms 139 Romans 5 Chokmah- A Hebrew word meaning -Wisdom Philippians 3 Linda's Book Calm My Anxious Heart QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE What would you title the hard story you are living through right now? Linda shared about her journey of forgiveness, who might you need to forgive and what is keeping you from doing that? What is a declaration of hope that you can write over your story today? What would it look like for you to worship in the minor-key right now? LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier and healthier

We did it—500 episodes! Today, we're celebrating this incredible milestone by taking a look back at the conversations that have shaped us, stretched us, and stayed with us. From unforgettable guests who made us laugh, to powerful lessons that changed the way we think and lead—this episode is a tribute to the moments that mattered most. We're sharing the episodes we return to again and again… and the ones you keep talking about too. Whether you've been with us from the beginning or just found us recently, this 500th episode is a celebration of the journey we've taken together. Come celebrate with us! LIST OF FAVORITE EPISODE John Mark Comer - The Secret to Enoying Your Life 5 Episodes That I Think of Often 388 How Boundaries Help Us Get What We Really Want for Christmas with Sasha Shillcut (people are upset when you establish new boundaries bc they benefitted from your lack of boundaries or are resentful they didn't maintain the same boundary) 444 Love, Pray, Listen, Parenting Young Adults with Mary DeMuth (emphasis on maintaining relationship) 266 Our Relationship With Alcohol with Jenn Kautsch (Her own story of determining alcohol was no longer serving her) 376 Midlife Is No Joke: The Big Questions in Midlife (The things that used to work no longer do) 332 This Cultural Moment: Facing Reality with Jen Oshman (On being an informed citizen with boundaries) Krista Inheritance Gone Right with Sean and Jill Maher Helping your young adult kids find their career path with Tyler Lafferty The Soul of Shame with Dr Curt Thompson Midlife is no joke - The big questions in midlife with Kelly Flanagan Resilient Faith with Jerry Sittser 5 Guests I Won't Forget  181 Kay Warren on Depression and Anxiety 377 Midlife Is No Joke: Marriage with Jimmy and Irene Rollins 310 Moving Through Grief and Loss at Christmas with Nancy Hicks David Thomas —> 274 Parenting Teens: Navigating Emotions & 165 Parenting in the New Year 261 Katherin Wolff on Suffering Krista Parenting Young Adult Children with Dr Jim Burns Seven Surprising Ways to Rest with Dr Saundra Dalton Candace Cameron Bure Jackie Green and Lauren McAfee - how to be a person of legacy What Healthy Relationships do and don't have with Gary Thomas 5 Episodes Where I've Implemented Something I Learned 446 Styling Fashion Over 40 with Julie Powell and Krista Olufson 437 Jumpstarting Your Midlife Health with Megan Dahlman 414 Beat the Frumpy - on fashion with Jammie Baker 312 The Healthy Way: Productivity and Habits with Tanya Dalton 430 The Art and Heart of Holiday Gathering with Anna Watson Carl Krista Ep 493 Experience God, Really with John Eldredge - quote + God being “right here” in you + pausing + day, week, month year plan for renewal Lead your mindset with Emily Love The Secret to Success with Jeff Henderson Mental Training for Your Athlete and Yourself with Trisha Kroll Healthy Relationships 101 with John Townsend 5 Episodes That Brought Me Joy (It was all about the guests) 455 & 456 Building a Lasting Legacy with Rick and Diane Thomas 445 Maximizing Your Look with Rebecca Reid, Color Analyst 326 The Brain Game: The Soul of Shame with Dr. Curt Thompson 305 The Family Legacy Series with Eric Peterson 95  Sally Clarkson Krista Cultivating a Marriage that Lasts with Dan Allender The Secret to being instantly understood with John Trent Lisa Bevere - b/c she's awesome Kate Merrick - b/c there's no one like Kate and it's a moving story of faith Edie Littlefield Sundby - Movement heals the body 5 Episodes Others Have Talked About  421 & 422: What I've Noticed About You: Our Keys to Longterm Friendship 373: A Busy Mom's Guide to Photo Organization with Casey Von Stein 469: Who Am I If? 378 Midlife is No Joke: Menopause with Dr. Carol Tanksley 472: Faith-Driven Voters: Questions We Ask as We Cast Our Ballots With Kaitlyn Schess Krista How to feel the feels with Aundi Kobler Fighting for Family with Julie and Chris Bennett DISC your way to better relationships How to incorporate meaningful rituals into milestone birthdays  Innovation and creativity - two secrets to living life well with Ken Wytsma She's Re-launching - most recent episode on going back to work SPOTIFY LINK TO THE PLAYLIST OF EPISODES WE MENTION A FEW THINGS MENTIONED Books Sacred Marriage- Gary Thomas Sacred Parenting- Gary Thomas And She Still Laughs- Kate Merrick The Mission Walker- Edie Littlefield Sundby Doing Life with Your Adult Children: Keep Your Mouth Shut and the Welcome Mat Out - Jim Burns Try softer-Aundi kolber LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier and healthier

We are returning to our conversation with Kristen Douglass and Tammy Strait around re-entering the workforce after a mothering break. Whether you stepped out fulltime, took a part-time role for a number of years, or simply are looking for a pivot in your career as you enter midlife, this conversation will let you know you are not alone. We are reminded that our mothering can have lots of transferrable skills, making us great leaders in the workplace. On the flip side, our work outside the home can offer us opportunity to provide financially for our families and give our kids insights in to what it is to live a multifaceted life. From differentiating between facts and feelings to balancing work and family life, Tammy and Kristen speak directly to the midlife woman making career decisions. You are more than any of your roles. You are complex and your lane is wide for you to walk in step with God's good plans for you. We look forward to hearing where you are as you Relaunch your work life. IT IS YOUR TIME TO RISE! SOME THINGS YOU HEARD ON THE SHOW Book A Non-anxious Presence: How a Changing and Complex World will Create a Remnant of Renewed Christian Leaders by Mark Sayers QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE If you are a mom, what mothering skills have helped you in your work? On the flip side, how has your work life impacted your mothering for good? Consider a pressure you have experienced in the last 20 years. How has that refined you to increase your holiness and make you more impactful at work? LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier and healthier

So many women in midlife are stepping into something new—switching careers, transitioning roles, or heading back to work after time spent raising kids. If that sounds like you, you're going to love this episode on re-launching your next chapter with purpose and courage. In part 1 of this 2-part series, we sit down with Kristen Douglass, MD, and Tammy Strait, JD—two incredible women who share their real-life journeys from professional life to stay-at-home motherhood and back again. Together, we unpack the messy, meaningful middle of returning to work: rebuilding confidence, facing fears with faith, and remembering what we're truly capable of. We talk about the power of persistence, the courage it takes to do something uncomfortable, and the importance of not letting obstacles keep you from what you're meant to do. Kristen shares her story about being the person in Oregon who took the longest break from medical practice—and successfully fought to get re-credentialed. (Spoiler: it wasn't easy, but it's seriously inspiring.) This episode is filled with hard-earned wisdom on overcoming limiting beliefs, recognizing the value of motherhood in the workplace, and learning to lead with open hands. Tammy and Kristen offer encouragement that's both practical and heartfelt—reminding us to separate facts from feelings and to own our worth in a fresh, new season. If you're standing at a crossroads with your work or calling, this episode is for you. SOME THINGS YOU HEARD ON THE SHOW There is nothing that we do that can mess up God's plan over our lives. QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE What is a fear you have about transitioning with work or re-entering the workforce? Kristen and Tammy both re-entering the workforce for different reasons, what is prompting you to make the transition in this season of your life? Name it specifically. What skills have you gained from all of your experiences that will translate no matter what arena you are in? LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier and healthier

Feeling a bit like the world has gone mad? Are you feeling like an outsider? Wondering where or how your understanding of God fits in today's cultural moment? Not sure how to respond in conversations when a certain topic comes up? This episode is for you! No matter the issue of the moment, God invites us to be with people who think and live differently. The question is how do we do it in a way that honors God, others, and ourselves? Patrick Miller joins us to talk about the times we live in and how disorienting it can feel. He also offers practical approaches to conversations and situations that can feel awkward or downright uncomfortable without making them combative. It is a tricky time to disagree. And yet, it is a joy to be with people who don't always see the world as we do. This is the tension Patrick speaks of that makes us joyful outsiders. This is one you may come back to often and will want to share with others. FIND MORE ABOUT PATRICK MILLER Patrick Miller & Keith Simon website - Joyful Outsiders Patrick Miller's & Keith Simon Book- Joyful Outsiders A FEW THINGS MENTIONED Podcast Ten Minute Bible Talks Devotional Bible Study Truth Over Tribe: Christian Takes on Culture, News & Politics Jeremiah 51 Jeremiah 29 Genesis 1 QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE When have you recently felt like an outsider? Patrick said Christians have always been outsiders, how does this truth shift your perspective on what it means to be an outsider? What would it look like the next time you feel like an outsider to invite Jesus to sit next to you and offer wisdom? How are you uniquely positioned to bring joy into the world? LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier and healthier

When we think of addiction, our minds often go to the "big three"—alcohol, drugs, and pornography. But addiction takes many forms. Workaholism, shopping, sugar, people-pleasing, and even exercise can become compulsive and harmful. The hard truth? We live in the most addicted culture in history. In this conversation, Ian Morgan Cron joins us to explore how the 12 steps offer wisdom beyond traditional addiction recovery. We all need them and can apply them in our day-to-day lives. He shares his personal journey and reminds us that addiction isn't a black-and-white issue—we're all somewhere on the continuum, and the principles of recovery can benefit everyone. One of our favorite takeaways from this episode: “We get sick alone. We heal together.” We dive into why community is essential for lasting wellness and why open conversations—especially with teens and young adults—are key to navigating today's world. If you're ready to break free from unhealthy patterns and step into a healthier, more whole version of yourself, this episode is for you. FIND MORE ABOUT IAN MORGAN CRON Ian Morgan Cron- Website and Instagram Ian Morgan Cron Book- The Fix A FEW THINGS MENTIONED Ian's Books: -The Road Back to You -Chasing Francis: A Pilgrim's Tale -The Story of You-Enneagram "The absence of addiction is not sobriety, it is connection"- Johann Hari QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE Ian describes addiction as an internal problem that you are trying to solve through external means what is that behavior for you? Where do you think you fall on addiction continuum? What mood altering behavior is having negative ramifications in your life? What action can you take to learn about the 12steps and how it can help you? LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier and healt

Eric Scofield has an incredible story about his dad building a plane. You need to listen to our conversation to believe it. And from that he learned many of his bigger life lessons around how God made us and for purposes beyond our own imagination. If you are feeling discouraged today, listen to this episode. If you are wondering if God still has good things for you, push play. If you think your best days are behind you, enjoy the conversation. Midlife can make us wonder if we truly are "built to fly" or maybe our flight time is short. Eric reminds us that God can do a good, and even new, thing in us so we can live a full and fruitful life. FIND MORE ABOUT ERIC SCOFIELD Eric Scofield – Website Eric Scofield book- Build To Fly   A FEW THINGS MENTIONED Proverbs 23:3,4 Ephesians 4:27 James 5:26 James 1:15 John 10:10 "The safest road to hell is the gradual one - the gentle slope, soft underfoot, without sudden turnings, without milestones, without signposts so that you do not know where you are going." - C. S. Lewis Live No Lies book by John Mark Comer QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE How can you be a person who is faithful, available and teachable? Who in my life can I invest in who is FAT, (Faithful, Available & Teachable) Consider a recent crash in your life, what does rebuilding the plane look like for you right now? What in your life is behind that glass that you are trying to get, just like the chocolate in the story? What need do you think that will fulfill? How realistic is it that your chocolate (whatever it is), will fulfill that desire for you, or will it turn to dust in your hands? LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you

Have you ever learned something, thought you had it down, and then—boom—you realize you need to learn it all over again in this season of life? Yeah, us too. This week, we're diving into the lessons we're re-learning in midlife and what scripture has to say about them. We talk about how fear sneaks into our decision-making now more than ever, the shift in how our kids watch and learn from us as they grow, and why it's time to embrace strong over skinny. We also unpack the surprising power of journaling for mental clarity, the societal shift from risk-taking to playing it safe, and why we still need to take risks in this stage of life. And of course, we get into friendship—how midlife invites us to reconnect with old and new friends in deep and meaningful ways. If you're finding yourself re-learning some big truths in this season, you are not alone—this episode is for you! A FEW THINGS AND BIBLE VERSES MENTIONED -Matthew 6:34 -Centering Prayer song by Porter's Gate -Interior Freedom Boon by Jacques Philippe -James 4:8 -Romans 12:2 -Psalm 9 -Proverbs 3:5,6 -Isaiah 41:10 -House of David series on Prime Time -Proverbs 31:17 -Deuteronomy 16,17 -Mark 12 -Hebrews 10:24-25 -1 Peter 1:3-6 -Psalm 56:3 -Matthew 19:26 QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE What are you re-learning right now? Are these welcome lessons or are you fighting the circumstances that are leading to them? How can you find God in what you are learning? What do you think He would say to you if you could hear His audible voice today? What limitation can you thank God for today that help you more fully depend on Him? LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier and healthier

We talk a lot about our spiritual life, but how do we move from words to experience? From the head to the heart? To a place of knowledge to deep bone belief? Author and spiritual guide John Eldredge gives us questions to ask and practices to put in place that will help us encounter God's presence in the here and now. An incredible conversation, you WILL NOT want to miss what John says to those of us who have been living out our faith for years. We can still experience Jesus in a fresh way. You may know John from his bestselling book Wild at Heart or you may be familiar with the Pause app intended to help us in our spiritual journey. Whether you're familiar with the Eldredge name or are just being introduced to this seasoned spiritual leader, you will want to press play and listen in on how God is beckoning you back to him and how you can say "yes". FIND MORE ABOUT JOHN ELDREDGE John Eldredge Book- Experience Jesus. Really A FEW THINGS MENTIONED Interior Freedom by Jacque Philippe Union with Christ Book William Augusto -Worship Instrumental Music Pause App John's Books -The Secret Romance -Wild at Heart Bible Verse Ephesians 3 QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE Ask God what issue are we working on right now? What is taking space in your heart that isn't allowing room for God? Take a minute to practice benevolent detachment LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier and health

Today is part 2 of discussing how we can grow and shape our relationships with our adult siblings. Siblings are special because they know us over the entire span of our lives. They also walked in similar shoes as children, having grown up in the same family, and that produces an understanding and knowing that is special. As we get older, life gets busy and we sometimes neglect these anchor relationships. Today we are discussing how we can intentionally grow them, work through conflicts that arise, and step into each other's lives in a meaningful way. We know everyone has a different starting place when it comes to relationships with siblings. If you are someone who would like to work toward greater intimacy and trust with your siblings, regardless of where you are right now, these two episodes will offer both inspiration and practical steps. This week covers ideas for staying current on one another's lives, what investing in our siblings' children looks like, how to show up for one another, and what it means to let each other evolve and change. You will walk away inspired to get closer with your siblings! SOME THINGS YOU HEARD ON THE SHOW -Voxer.APP -Let Them Theory Book by Mel Robbins QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE How can you know our siblings in the present tense? How can you work through conflict with your siblings while it's still small? How can you lean on each other's strength in decision-making whether that's around aging parents or maybe another issue? What is a next step that you can take with your adult sibling? LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier and healthier

Adult siblings often know us in ways others simply can't. The shared history, the developmental years, the shaping of each other in our most formative stages, create dynamics that we aren't able to duplicate. Depending on your relationship with your siblings, you might feel they are your most trusted life companions. We are doing a two-part series with Krista and her brother Mitch and sister Kendra on the value of adult sibling relationships. This week we cover the unique role siblings can play, the importance of showing up in the details and milestones, and the opportunities we have to care for each other well in the midst of midlife stress. We know everyone has a different starting place when it comes to relationships with siblings. If you are someone who would like to work toward greater intimacy and trust with your siblings, regardless of where you are right now, these two episodes will offer both inspiration and practical steps. This week is heavy on the why: Why should we care about the relationships today? Next week will cover some of the unique tensions adult siblings hold. Both are important as we move toward greater support for each other and health. SOME THINGS YOU HEARD ON THE SHOW "Our Parents leave us too early, our spouses and children come along too late, our siblings are the only ones who are with us for the entire ride." Jeffrey Kluger John 1:5 Vika's Spotify- Kendra's Daughter QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE How are your relationships with your siblings? In what way do your siblings know you in a way that nobody else does? How can you show up for your siblings in this season? How can you cultivate relationships with your niece and nephews? LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier and healthier

"Marriage can be heaven, and marriage can be hell." -Dan Allender Anyone who is married knows that marriage can reach the extremes of human experience, and sometimes even in the same day. It's the lab in which we grow personally, and where we grow together. It's also the place where everything can fall apart. Today Dan Allender of The Allender Center joins us to explore the transformative power of marriage, particularly in midlife. He talks about the deep work of understanding one another's stories, the role of trauma in relationships (even if you feel like you don't have any), and the necessity of dealing with emotional triggers. Dan is both funny and deeply inspiring. He is an expert at the top of his field, and also the first one to reveal and share what he is experiencing in his own imperfect marriage. You will gain insight into the complexities of relationships, the importance of change-agents in marriage, the dynamics of conflict resolution, and come to a fresh understanding of how fighting for marriage is deeply spiritual work. SOME THINGS YOU HEARD ON THE SHOW: The Deeply Rooted Marriage: Cultivating Healing, Intimacy, and Delight by Dan Allender and Steve Call Unwanted by Jay Stringer website-Dan Allender Quotes from the episode: 35% of divorces are "gray divorces," meaning they involve couples 50 years of ago and older. Our brains have the power to change, but only by engagement deeply within what we'll call our right hemisphere, our emotional portions. If there is not a fabric of forgiveness, then we are in deep waters without a paddle. Difference is where almost all conflict begins. 70 % of the conflict in marriage does not have a right answer. You grow in trust by the capacity to deal with conflict, not to resolve, but to a deepened understanding. And to a deepened understanding allows us to allow difference to continue to occur.but without either the fear or the judgment that's often there. I hope the sense of having work to do is kind of like, I get to put my foot on the neck of evil here. Hell no, I do not want something that has lingered in my body and my heart and my mind to continue to shape something of how I respond to the future. QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE What part of your story can you re-engage with your spouse in order to work toward greater healing? Hint: think about what triggers you. What part of your spouse's story can you re-engage? If 70% of all arguments don't have a "right answer," how can you adjust how you've been approaching a conflict area with your spouse? The change agents Dan lists in his book are humility, honesty, kindness, curiosity, defiance, and an intention to bless. What one is most needed right now in your marriage? How can you "stand on the neck of evil" and push past a particularly difficult part of your marriage? LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier and healthier

Every year right around Valentine's Day we share some things we are loving that make our lives a little easier or more fun. This is a break from the thoughtful conversations we've been having, it settles in on some pretty practical tips. From books and podcasts to snacks and beauty products, Alex and Krista want to make sure you know what they are loving right now. How about you? What makes your life more entertaining? What makes you smarter? Who are you following? What are you wearing? We want to know all of these midlife hacks because when you find something good, you need to share!! This is one of our most popular episodes every year, tune in and get sharing your things you love. THINGS WE LOVE Foods - Athletic Brewing Company Non-alcoholic beer -Nutrail Nut Granola -Truffle oil -Chobani Low Fat Greek Yogurt -Quinoa Crisps Dark- Chocolate + Cherry -Built Puffs Protein Bars -Stone-Ground Grits Kitchen Gadgets -All Clad Instant Read Digital Thermometer -6-3/4 Coat Cast Iron Round Wide Dutch Oven -Silver Flatware Podcast shows -The Warrior Mama with Bethany Kimsey -Up Until Now with Kristen Hallinan -SmartHer News with Jenna Lee -The Andy Stanley Leadership Podcast -10% Happier with Dan Harris Podcast -Rethinking with Adam Grant How to build a great culture with restaurateur Danny Meyer Books -Lead with Prayer -Celebrating Abundance -The Let Them Theory -Eat Like a Girl -The Anxious Generation -Build the Life You Want Music -Corner Room Band -Porter's Gate Album- Sanctuary Song -When the Day Comes- Nico & Vinz Instagram Follows -Arthur C. Brooks - Adam Grant -Simon Sinek -Dr Mary Claire Haver(OBGYN) -Josh Weather Official -The Leighton Show Fashion & Beauty -Wide Leg Twill (Spanx Pants) -Steve Madden Hayle Ankle Boots -L'Oréal Glotion -Mother Jeans -Blow-Out Curlers -Color Wow Root Cover-up -Women's Cozy Slippers -Essence Volume Lash Boosters -Charlotte Tilbury Red Hollywood Vixen Lipstick -Thorne Supplement -WaterProof Black Fancy Cards LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier and healthier  

Teenagers: it's the best of times and the worst of times. We love them with our whole hearts, and they're also hard. Some are thriving, some aren't. We are quick to point fingers back at ourselves when things go wrong, and we breathe a sigh of relief when it's going right. In this conversation, Alex and Krista discuss parenting teenagers with Melissa Kruger, vice president of discipleship at The Gospel Coalition and author of Parenting with Hope. Melissa speaks about the challenges and joys of raising teens in a complex world. We hit on understanding the spectrum of teen experiences, the role of prayer, and the need for open communication. Melissa discusses the significance of tailoring parenting approaches to individual children and the necessity of maintaining hope amidst challenges. Teens today are facing pressures we simply did not have. Their challenges are different, and it serves us well to try and stand in their shoes. You will walk away encouraged and re-centered from this episode! FIND MORE ABOUT MELISSA KRUGER Melissa Kruger's -Website and Instagram Melissa Kruger's Book- Parenting with Hope SOME THINGS YOU HEARD ON THE SHOW Proverb 12:18 The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing   SOME QUOTES FROM THE SHOW: "I actually think it's sports and activities, it's scholastic achievement, and it's social acceptance. Those are the three, what I call, idols of our age that I think really raise the temperature in parenting teens right now." "When you step back and say, huh, maybe it would really matter that our family had family dinners every night, and we're gonna fight for that. Maybe it would really matter that we have space to actually get a little bored and do a puzzle as a family." "So many teens do not get the amount of sleep they need. That leads to greater rates of depression, which leads to greater problems down the road in other areas. And we're like, but they have to be at all these things (activities) or they won't be well-rounded. Who cares if they're well-rounded?" "In the Barna research, the amount of pressure that kids feel is different than previous generations. And yes, technology is a part of that, but also just the ramp up of all of these things of doing club sports by the time you're seven or eight. All of that plays into this level of pressure and stress." "Those simple acts of being in God's Word, being a mom of prayer, and being in church matter so I can parent well. I call it a three-legged stool." QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE What is your current measure of hope with your teenager? How can you better address what is going on inside of your in order to better parent your teen? What of the three idols she mentioned, sports and activities, academic success, and social acceptance is most out of balance in your home? What can you do to create a more healthy rhythm in this area? How can you build your hope in Christ for you, for your own spiritual strength? LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier and healthier

Have you ever stuffed a feeling? Yeah, it happens for lots of reasons. We are afraid, don't like discomfort, or have been taught that certain feelings are bad. But no amount of pushing down makes the emotion go away. We need to deal with them at some point. Therapist and author Aundi Kobler joins the podcast with why we may be avoiding certain emotions and practical approaches to face them in manageable pieces. There is no need to rush in head first. We can allow our bodies and brains to experience a little at a time. Through this paced approach and safe relationships, we can begin to experience our full range of emotions. We encourage you to listen in as one of the best voices of today gives us her "Try Softer" approach to delving into what is likely scary territory. But remember it is our time to rise and meet the moment. 2025 may just be our year to open ourselves to emotions we have been avoiding. FIND MORE ABOUT AUNDI KOLBER Aundi Kolber's - Website and Instagram Aundi Kolber's books- Take What You Need A FEW THINGS MENTIONED -John 10:10 -Aundi Kolber's books The Try Softer Guided Journey Try Softer Strong Like Water QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE What has kept you from acknowledging emotions you know are there? What would it look like to allow yourself to give those emotions a seat at the table? What is your window of tolerance for those emotions right now? What kind of support do you need to be able to face some of those emotions, and how can you get it? LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediat

What is the one place in your home you avoid? Has it built up clutter? Become the catch all for the things you don't know what to do with? Or is it full of items that have sentimental value that you can't throw out and yet feel stuck? This month we are talking about things we avoid and how we can face them. This week we are covering things we avoid in our home. Items we don't know what to do with that grow into piles, areas, even rooms that have taken on a life of their own. Professional organizer Morgan Tyree speaks from her newest book, Take Back Your Home: How to Organize Every Room For a Stress-Free, Mess-Free, Happy Home. She gives us tools to get behind the of the avoiding, (it's deeper than you might think) and then practical step by steps to overcome them. You won't want to miss this conversation that helps you determine what space you can tackle next as you organize your living and working space in the new year. It's time to take back your home. FIND MORE ABOUT MORGAN TYREE Morgan Tyree- Website and Instagram Morgan Tyree Book- Take Back Your Home   A FEW THINGS MENTIONED Snags mentioned: -Schedules -Purchases -Experiences QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE How are you wired; are you more of a diamond or arrow, maybe more relaxed, a circle or bolt? How does your wiring impact how you manage your space? What areas are you avoiding in your home, what snags are impacting your avoidance? How can you face an area you are avoiding in the next few weeks, what accountability do you need to put in place? LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier and healthier

We've all heard of nightmare stories about inheritance gone wrong. Our mission today is to help you do it right. Inheritance, wealth transfer, wills, estate planning... whatever you call it, no matter the amount, it's important to be intentional around how to best pass on property, money, and items after someone passes away. This is kicking off our series this month "Things We've Been Putting Off." We're going to be talking about some areas we've been ignoring and what we can do to step into those arenas equipped and with courage. This subject of estate planning is one of those subjects that we often avoid, yet it is extremely relevant to us as people in midlife, and it's also relevant as our parents age. Joining us to today are Sean and Jill Maher. Sean is a principal at Valley Forge Financial Group and CEO of Valley Forge Family Office in Pennsylvania. Jill is a licensed psychological counselor. This powerteam wrote the book, The Greatest Gift: Nine Principles to transfer your legacy along with your wealth. In this conversation, we explore the complexities of inheritance, camping on themes you may not associate with estate planning such as family values, traditions, humility, and generosity. We discuss how these elements shape the way wealth is passed down and the emotional implications involved. The Mahers share personal stories and insights on how to navigate difficult conversations about money and inheritance, highlighting the need for open communication and understanding within families. They also address the challenges of fairness versus equality in inheritance and the significance of creating a safe environment for these discussions. This is a practical and helpful conversation you don't want to miss!   SOME THINGS YOU HEARD ON THE SHOW: PART 2 The Greatest Gift Book: to receive a $5 discount, enter code: ourtimetorise Storyworth Purposeful Planning Institute Internal Family Systems Homeboy Ministries Project Healing Waters TV Show: Succession Movie: Knives Out QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE What helps you stand in humility when it comes to money conversations? How can you make sure your children know the fullness of your story, or your parent's story, or the people who came before you? What would growing the muscle of generosity in this season look like? How can you have conversations around assets that can be fair or equal? What spiritual practices can you implement that will protect your flame? How can you go into conversation regulated rather than mirroring the stress or fear of another? LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier and healthie

We've all heard of nightmare stories about inheritance gone wrong. Our mission today is to help you do it right. Inheritance, wealth transfer, wills, estate planning... whatever you call it, no matter the amount, it's important to be intentional around how to best pass on property, money, and items after someone passes away. This subject is relevant to us as people in midlife, and it's also relevant as our parents age. Joining us to today are Sean and Jill Maher. Sean is a principal at Valley Forge Financial Group and CEO of Valley Forge Family Office in Pennsylvania. Jill is a licensed psychological counselor. This powerteam wrote the book, The Greatest Gift: Nine Principles to transfer your legacy along with your wealth. In this conversation, we explore the complexities of inheritance, camping on themes you may not associate with estate planning such as family values, traditions, humility, and generosity. We discuss how these elements shape the way wealth is passed down and the emotional implications involved. The Mahers share personal stories and insights on how to navigate difficult conversations about money and inheritance, highlighting the need for open communication and understanding within families. They also address the challenges of fairness versus equality in inheritance and the significance of creating a safe environment for these discussions. This is a practical and helpful conversation you don't want to miss! SOME THINGS YOU HEARD ON THE SHOW: Purposeful Planning Institute Warren Buffet Talks to His Kids About His Will, You Should Too John Gottman, The Four Horseman The Greatest Gift Book: to receive a $5 discount, enter code: ourtimetorise QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE In what ways have you been avoiding a conversation regarding estate planning or money? In what area can you practice the tool I feel I need? How can you create a common purpose as a family? What is one action step you can take this week regarding this topic? LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier and healthier

In this final episode in our Advent “Make Room” Series, we are focusing on the greatest virtue of all: LOVE. Jamie Finn, author, advocate, and speaker joins us to discuss her ever evolving definition of love. We explore the sacrificial nature of love, the complexity of love, and what it mean to first receive love from God so we are enabled to truly love others, even when it's hard. The conversation culminates in a reminder of the essence of Christmas: God's sacrificial love for humanity. This is a great episode to listen to as you prepare your heart for Christmas week. MERRY CHRISTMAS! A FEW THINGS MENTIONED Jamie's Books Foster the Family Filled- Devotional QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE Who feels inconvenient for you to love this Christmas season, and how can you ask God to join you in loving them? How can you receive love from God this season? How will this better prepare you to love others? Where do you need to embrace humility? LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier

As we consider joy during Advent we ask why don't we experience it more here on earth. Our guest this week, Paul Robie, says Christians should be the most joyful people on the planet. We have the Good News to direct our steps and our spirits. This wrestling with joy is likely why joy is an Advent theme since the beginning of Advent themes. We can collectively consider what it means to hold joy in our lives. We can also encourage each other in the practical ways we can cultivate it. Paul is a lifelong pastor, current church consultant, and mentor to seminary students. Practices of faith and how they form us are what he talks about all day long and we get the benefit of his wisdom in this series. Whether you are wondering why others aren't more joyful, or wanting to experience joy this Advent and in the new year, this episode is for you. A FEW THINGS MENTIONED -One Thousand Gifts- Ann Voskamp -Happiness- Randy Alcorn -Happiness Is a Serious Problem- Dennis Prager -The Road Less Traveled- Scott Peck -Psalms 1 -John 15 QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE How have you separated happiness and holiness? Do you agree that Christians should be the happiest people in the world? Who or what am I allowing to steal my joy? What expectations can you let go of in order to make room to be surprised by joy? LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier and healthier

December is starting to move quickly, who could use some peace right about now? We are in an Advent series and today we are making room for PEACE. Joining us is pastor, seminary professor, and coach Jim Singleton. In this insightful and compelling interview, Jim helps us explore the concept of peace in a chaotic world, focusing on the need for both external and internal peace. We dive into the historical context of peace, the impact of digital distractions, and the importance of spiritual practices. Jim highlights the cost of true peace, the concept of holy indifference, and the deeper meaning of SHALOM as peace amidst conflict. If you want practical steps to access shalom, hear about the role of community in finding peace, and discover the connection between creativity and spiritual well-being, this rich conversation is for you. A FEW THINGS MENTIONED - Joshua 3 -Mark 1 -Philippians 4 -Acts 16 QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE What distraction are keeping you from following the Ark? What high reward are you looking for at a low cost? Does your peace feel more like broth or stew? Whether you are having broth or stew, where is the connection in your daily practices to that, how does the feeling that you are either eating broth or stew how are your daily practices supporting that or not supporting that? How can you use Godly community to encourage and grow the shalom of God in your life? LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier and health

Advent is the season anticipating Christmas. This first week of Advent we kick off a four-week series covering the timeless themes of hope, peace, joy, and love. We start this week with hope. Hope is the anticipation that good can happen. And when we know God is good, we can believe he can make good happen. Hope is also believing Christ will return. This is why we focus in on hope during Advent. Whether you light an Advent candle on a wreath, read a special devotion, or simply consider the miracle that is God coming as a human baby, we hope you will take a moment to consider what it means to anticipate the coming of Christ. Then and again. SOME THINGS YOU HEARD ON THE SHOW Krista's Advent EBOOK you can download and use with your friends or family -Matthew 1:18-21 NIV -Abigail Luxury Travel Advisory -Loving My Actual Christmas QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE How would you like to celebrate Advent this season? What are you hoping for that is out of your control? Are you trusting in God's larger plan? If so, how? And if not, why? What can you do today to articulate your expectations for the next few weeks to yourself, to God and to a friend? How can you right size those expectations? LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happi

Let's get ahead of the holiday season this year rather than feeling stressed all the way through it. We want to enjoy Thanksgiving and Christmas as much as the people around us! In this episode, we share five practical and helpful tips for navigating the Christmas season with joy and intention. We dive into the importance of embracing the true meaning of Christmas while managing the chaos that often accompanies the holidays. Join us as we discuss setting boundaries, effective communication, meal prep strategies, decorating tips, and the significance of maintaining a positive mindset throughout the festive season. Join us holiday magic makers! SOME THINGS YOU HEARD ON THE SHOW Amish Cinnamon Rolls Holiday 3 Ring Binder Definition of Metacognition: awareness and understanding of one's own thought processes. Colossians 3:12-15 QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE Are there boundaries you need to set for this holiday season? Who do you need to communicate with around plans, how can you communicate with them today? What cooking can you do now to save time in the heavy Christmas weeks? Is there a mindset change you need to make about how you're going to think about coming events, how can you decide now to think differently? LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier and healthier

Marriage in midlife is no joke! We have often spent exhausting years caring for kids and have given each other the left over time and attention. We also are being introduced to new stressors and need to figure out how to navigate this together. It's hard. It's also worth the work. We invited Dave and Ann Wilson back to the podcast to talk specifically about cultivating love during this changing and often challenging time. Thank goodness we aren't alone in this journey. Dave and Ann are honest about their challenges, about the changes happening now and offer hope that midlife can be a time of deep love and connection for couples. A refreshing take for those of us that need hope or healing in our marriage. FIND MORE ABOUT DAVE AND ANN WILSON Dave & Ann's– Website and Instagram A FEW THINGS MENTIONED Romans 15:5-6 Episode 180 with Dave and Ann Wilson James Davis Book-Doing Life with Your Adult Children QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE How has marriage in midlife been for you, how are you and your spouse connecting? What topics are difficult for you to navigate? How has parenting adult children surprised you, and how has this phase of parenting impacted your marriage? How can you get to a level five deeper conversation with your spouse? What are a few questions that you can ask? Where would you like to be running hard together, what steps do you need to take? LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier and health

We're headed into the cozy season of the year and there is nothing better than soup on the stove when the weather turns chilly. It's also a time when we get out the soft blankets and curl up on the sofa to take a breath, read a book, or sit by the fire. In today's episode we are talking all about SOUP and SABBATH - nourishing our bodies and our souls with author and speaker Kathi Lipp. We talk about the importance of meal planning (and the best free meal planning tool there is), the significance of the table, Kathi's favorite soup recipes, involving family in the preparation of a meal, and the value of making meals ahead of time so we can rest. Kathi helps us grow in our understanding of sabbath, and the need for self care. You are going to love this well-timed episode! FIND MORE ABOUT KATHI LIPP Kathi Lipp's – Website and Instagram Kathi Lipp's Book- Sabbath Soup A FEW THINGS MENTIONED Gin -Tomato Soup From Overwhelmed to Organized: A Step-by-Step Guide to Clutter-Free Meal Planning Motion App- To stay organized Chatgpt- Meal plan Sam's Club- Order App The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry Accidental Homesteader QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE In what ways can you set yourself up for success in this season? What do you need to launch, leverage and let go off to have that success What can you do to meal plan more efficiently to save some stress in your life? How can you be looking ahead to the holiday season and prepare so that you can rest and enjoy when you are with your people? In what ways do you need to pay attention to your balance of peace and joy? LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happi

Grief is something we don't choose. It arrives and we have to decide how we are going to deal with it. In midlife we can be faced with new types of grief. We want to live with it and move through it with health. The question is how? Our guest, Mattie Jackson understands deep grief. The loss of her husband in an accident less than one year after they were married took her to her deepest pain. She talks us through her own healing and how her friends supported her. The wisdom she shares is valuable for anyone who wants to stand with those they love. If you are experiencing grief, know someone who is, or want to be prepared when the unexpected happens, this conversation is for you. Truly, you don't want to miss Mattie's insights. You will be better for it. FIND MORE ABOUT MATTIE JACKSON Mattie Jackson - Website and Instagram Mattie Jackson's Book- Through the Valley of Grief A FEW THINGS MENTIONED "When grief opens a door it yells out to all the past griefs to come and get through that door with it" Dr Curt Thompson Happiness co-exists with unhappiness. QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE How can you lean into God with your grief, rather than avoiding it? When have you felt grief's door open and all of the past griefs come running? When have you been given an identity that fear said would define you the rest of your life? What is the one most important takeaway for you in the interview today? LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier and healthier

The mother-daughter relationship can be one of the richest and most rewarding bonds we get to experience here on earth. It can also be one of the most complicated, especially in the teen and young adult years. Today we are thrilled to have Sandra Stanley and Allie Stanley Cooney, authors of Meet Me in the Middle, discussing the importance of foundations in the mother-daughter relationship. They emphasize the need to root our identity in faith and how it affects every aspect of life. We also discuss the significance of pursuing and valuing the relationship a mother has with her daughter, even during times of tension and conflict, and what it looks like to become students of our daughters. We also cover forgiveness, and the importance of allowing time for healing, not dictating when forgiveness should occur. This episode is unique because we get to hear from a mother's AND a daughter's perspective. If you are looking to improve your relationship with your daughter, this episode is for you! FIND MORE ABOUT SANDRA STANLEY & ALLIE STANLEY Sandra Stanley's- Website and Instagram Allie Stanley's -  Instagram Sandra & Allie's book- Meet Me in the Middle A FEW THINGS MENTIONED Galatians 6:7-9 3 Superpowers -Forgiveness -Gentleness -Appreciation QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE Was there anything from the interview you really want to adopt or take with you, maybe it was a phrase, a prayer, or a concept? What is one way you can get healthier as a mom? In the interview Sandra & Allie talked about appreciation, forgiveness and gentleness as a superpower, which one do you most need in your relationship with your daughter right now? How can you continue to pursue your daughter in this stage of your relationship? How could you incorporate more fun into your time with your daughter? LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier and healthier

The final episode in our ELECTION READY series, today Krista Gilbert is interviewing Alexandra Kuykendall about how we love our neighbor in the midst of an election season. Seeking out goodness when life is great is easy, but when we have political disagreements or challenges that come our way, this is when it becomes really hard. In today's episode, Alex explores how to maintain a positive outlook, the role of prayer, and the significance of self-awareness and emotional regulation. She also emphasizes the need for intentionality in finding goodness in others and the importance of loving neighbors, regardless of political differences. We can feel so helpless when it comes to election season. This is one thing we can control: focusing on God's goodness and drawing close to others as a result. Listen in and be encouraged! QUESTION TO HELP YOU RISE Who has seen the best in you and made you feel loved, and what did they do to make you feel that way, and how can you mirror those behaviors? What is one thing you can pre-decide about how you want to have election related conversations or just political conversation? How can you pray for the presidential candidates that we have this year and local leaders? Who is one neighbor you can care for this month? In what area do you mostly need a reframe to seek out goodness? A FEW THINGS MENTIONED Episode 299 Original Episode on Seeking Out Goodness Philippians 4:8 James 1:27 Colossians 1:16-17 Fruits of the spirit Love joy peace Patience kindness Goodness Faithfulness Gentleness Self-control LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier and healthier

Continuing our “Election Ready” series, we are talking today about the importance of bridge building and having conversations around faith and politics - especially during an election year. If this idea seems impossible to you, it's even more important to listen in on our discussion. Joining us is Lindsey Medenwaldt. Lindsey is the Director of Operations at Mama Bear Apologetics, holds a masters in apologetics from Denver Seminary, a JD from St. Mary's School of Law, and another master's degree in public administration. Her varied background gives her a unique lens for political conversations. In this episode we talk about why it's important for Christians to articulate their beliefs and engage in conversations with gentleness and respect. We also highlight the importance of keeping the gospel as the anchor, and focusing on Christ amidst political disagreements. Lindsey shares insights on bridge building, including the importance of truth and genuine friendship. But we don't just talk about these ideas, we also offer practical tips for navigating challenging political conversations. In the heat of this election season, you'll be so glad you turned in! FIND MORE ABOUT LINDSEY MEDENWALDT Lindsey Medenwaldt- Website and Instagram Lindsey Medenwaldt- Bridge-Building Apologetics: How to Get Along Even When We Disagree A FEW THINGS MENTIONED -1 Peter 3:15 QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE Is there an area of my life where I want people to think like me, if so why is this so important to me? What is God prompting me to let go? In what relationship can I work on listening for understanding? LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier and healthier

Have you noticed? There is an election coming up. For this reason we are going to be talking about how to get through the election season with intention and grace the next few weeks. We are kicking off this little mini series with the best of the best: Kaitlyn Scheiss. She has her MDiv from Dallas Theological Seminary, is now getting her doctorate from Duke Divinity School and has written two books on how to engage with political life as a Christian. This is not a conversation about who to vote for. This is a conversation about how to approach the election: the questions we can ask to be informed, the questions we can ask that shape the posture of our hearts, and the questions we can ask of each other to learn from one another. Likely you are ready for this election season to be over. Here is a little motivation to stay in the conversations (especially the local ones!) and consider how to love your neighbors and honor God with your vote. FIND MORE ABOUT KAITLYN SCHEISS Kaitlyn Scheiss- Website and Instagram Kaitlyn Books- The Ballot and the Bible & The Liturgy of Politics A FEW THINGS MENTIONED Vote411 League of Women Voters QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE What issues are you caring the most about this election, how can you inform yourself about these issues from multiple sources? How can you look to the expertise of others on issues you don't know much about? How can you be a good winner this election? How about a good loser? What work can you do locally that will contribute to the flourishing of your community? LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier and hea

If you've ever been on the other side of divorce, or if someone close to you is navigating divorce, you know the ‘life quake' that follows. In today's episode, we are diving into enabling behaviors, financial fears, loneliness, and the ripple effect divorce has on relationships. Joining us for this conversation is writer and speaker, Tracie Miles, who founded the Living Unbroken Divorce Recovery Program. Tracie shares her personal journey through divorce and how she overcame shame, shifted her mindset, and embraced support from family and friends. If divorce has become a part of your story, this episode is for you. FIND MORE ABOUT TRACIE MILES Tracie's- Website and Instagram Tracie's Book- God's Got You A FEW THINGS MENTIONED Living Unbroken– Tracie's other book Tracie's Mantras that helped her navigate her situation -You've got this. -The end of your marriage is not the end of you. QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE How has divorce intersected with your life? If you've been through a divorce are there thoughts that are not serving you? How can you reframe those thoughts? If you are walking alongside someone who is experiencing divorce, how can you intentionally reach out to them this week? Is there a mantra you can adopt that would help navigate this situation? LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier and healthier

Jesus is the bread of life. But what about the bread at our table? Is there any connection? Kendall Vanderslice, baker and theologian, sees a direct connection between the making and consuming of bread with the good news that God is present and working. A conversation like no other - Kendall walks us through the value of eating together, the bread making process, and how we can love our neighbors through simple acts like offering some homemade bread. You may be surprised how much this conversation brings you to some deeper spiritual longings and reminds you that the tangible of today can be a great metaphor for the intangible hope of heaven. FIND MORE ABOUT KENDALL VANDERSLICE Kendall's -Website and Instagram Kendall's Book- Bake & Pray A FEW THINGS MENTIONED Alex's book- Loving My Actual Neighbor Types of bread mentioned: Moravian sugar cake Stollen Bread QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE What rhythm of food prep can you incorporate into your routine that will help you slow down? How can prayer be part of this rhythm? How has food helped you feel more connected to others in the past? What cultural bread would you like to learn to make this year? How can you love your neighbors through baking this fall and holiday season? LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier and healthie

We all hit life seasons or situations that strip us of an identity or reality we once had, and we find ourselves asking, “Who am I if ________________?” Fill in the blank. Who am I if I don't look the way I used to? Who am I if my kids are leaving home? Who am I if I have limitations? Who am I if my relationship failed? In this episode we talk about these questions and much more. Leading with scripture, we turn to God to discover what He has to say about each of the “What if” statements.  We also get real about change, transition, and struggle.   If you've ever said, “It's not supposed to be this way,” this episode is for you! SOME THINGS YOU HEARD ON THE SHOW Ecclesiastes 3:1-5 2 Corinthians 4:16 Isaiah 46:4 1 Peter 3:4 Romans 12:1 Philippians 1:20 Psalms 32:8 Isaiah 30:21 Isaiah 43:19 Psalms 28:2 Philippians 4:6-7 Isaiah 40:29-31 Psalms 23:4 Isaiah 46:4 Isaiah 54:5-6 Psalms 34:18 Jeremiah 29:11 John 14:17 -The AndyStanley Leadership Podcast -Hidden Potential Book   QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE Which Who am I question resonated with you, have you been wrestling with it lately? Do you feel untethered or disoriented in any part of you life, how is God meeting you there? What can you reframe today? Is there an arrow God is offering that is pointing you in a given direction? LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier and healthier

Sometimes a story comes to us that we know will offer our podcast listeners an important perspective on the world - that will help us all rise - to meet life's challenges. Ben's story of mental health struggles and sexual abuse is one of those. We invited him on to share so we as parents of young adults can gain insights, empathy, and better understand what it is to live through these specific challenges as a young person today. Ben Locke graduated early from high school to start his college soccer career, but was quickly injured and unable to play. He found himself at the mercy of a school trainer who sexually abused him while he was in a vulnerable position desperate to get back on the field. Ben's story highlights how power differentials can fog decision making and influence behaviors in ways we wouldn't choose. Ben's opportunity to transfer schools was his eventual ticket out. But from there the disbelief, anger, and eventually grief were challenging. Ben's ability to articulate his experience, including his feelings at every step of the process, is helpful for those of us who want to care for victims, prevent abuse, and understand depression. This is an episode worth listening to as you care for young people around you. FIND MORE ABOUT BEN LOCKE Ben Locke's -Website and Instagram Ben Locke's Book- In Our Suffering, Lord Be Near: Prayers of Hope for the Hurting A FEW THINGS MENTIONED -On Fire- Book -Helplessness produces rage -Anger is Sad's bodyguard QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE Think about a part of Ben's story that moved you, consider why that Part of his story resonated so deeply. How can you respond differently to other peoples behavior or anger knowing there may be some deeper issues underneath? How can you invite God to be with you or your child in the suffering in this moment? LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier and healthier

Do you have a college student who could use a care package from home right about now? In this Back to School series we are talking about practical ways to support our teens and young adults, and care packages are a fantastic way to do that. Krisi Monsiviaz is joining us to talk about why college care packages matter, what to put in them, and what the favorite item is every time (according to her kids). Krista Gilbert shares her approach to putting together these boxes of love from home and some of her favorite go-to items. Staying connected to our college students while they are away from home matters. This episode will inspire you to get something in the mail! FIND MORE ABOUT KRISI MONSIVIAZ  Krisi Monsiviaz- Website and Instagram A FEW THINGS MENTIONED -Krista's College Care Package Group Blog Post with pictures and ideas –Silly String –Hand Slap Game -INFO for Families   QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE In thinking about college care packages, what scaffolding can you implement for yourself to make sure they happen this year? Who can you involve in this process with you? Who else can you encourage through a care package this year? Is there another college student who could use some care package love from you? LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier and healthier

We are in a back to school series for moms in midlife. Gone are the days of crayons and kid-sized scissors, and on are the days of cheering for our high schoolers and their friends with creativity and intentionality. There is no better mom to lead us in this conversation than Krisi Monsiviaz. Her creative flare combined with her organized execution gives her ideas that can be scaled up to serve an entire team, plus families, and friends. Perhaps you are planning to be Team Mom and carry an official role in organized support. Or maybe you have a few free hours in your schedule and want to use them with purpose to support your high school student and his teammates or cast mates. Maybe your daughter wants to host a dinner at your house or make gift bags for her squad. The principles laid out in this conversation can be applied and tweaked to meet the needs of the kids right around you. We know the high school years are busy. Let's not let the busy of practices, homework, and jobs get in the way of intentional gathering, gifts, and grub. Teenagers like all three of those. FIND MORE ABOUT KRISI MONSIVIAZ   Krisi Monsiviaz- Website and Instagram A FEW THINGS MENTIONED -Team spirit bags -Team Breakfast -Post game pizza with the team -Create Lyniads -Bring speakers to talk to the teams -Parents pray for the team young adults QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE What team or community group can you bless this year? What was your favorite idea from the episode? What do you need to make your idea for your group or team a reality? LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier and healthier

High school senior year is a special time for teens and for their parents. For many moms, the beginning of senior year means the beginning of the lasts. There is some grief there. How do we balance the end of one phase of a young person's life with the celebration of this transition? Both Krista and Alex just finished a senior year and they invited their friend Courtney DeFeo to talk about her experience facing her first senior year as a mom. This episode touches on topics like college deadlines, getting a job, and navigating parties and substances. From prom to graduation, there are so many special markers of transitioning out of the childhood school years and into adulthood. We cover how each one of us tries to be open with ongoing communication with our children, setting boundaries, and being realistic about the challenges they may face. They also highlight the need to tailor experiences and celebrations to each child's preferences and personality. Courtney DeFeo is the host of the Pardon the Mess podcast and lives in the Dallas area with her husband Ron and their two high school-aged daughters. We know you'll appreciate her honesty and sense of humor as she approaches what can be a scary time for a mom. FIND MORE ABOUT COURTNEY DEFEO Courtney Defeo's - Website and Instagram Podcast: Pardon the Mess A FEW THINGS MENTIONED Pay attention to where the child gravitates Tailor the party to the child QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE What is a conversations or what are some multiple conversations you need to have with your senior? In what way can you offer more independence to your child this year? What needs to go on your calendar now to make sure you make the most of your child's senior year? How can you encourage your senior and call out all of the good things you see in him or her? What skills or experience can you help your child with in order to set him or her up for the next season of their life? LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier and healthier

Do you have a milestone birthday coming up? Or does your child? Milestone birthdays are an opportunity to celebrate and mark significant moments and we want to make the most of them. Sometimes these special occasions spark joy and excitement, other times they signal grief or loss. In this episode we talk about learning to embrace both ends of the spectrum. We also discuss why it's important to pause and make space for celebrating well in the midst of busy and full lives. But you know us, we also go practical. Grab a pen because we offer many ideas you can implement with yourself, your family, or your friends for their special day. From text bombs to concerts to lottery tickets to cooking classes, we will get your creative juices flowing as you come up with your best idea for the celebration. This is part of what a full life is made of... join us! Some Things You Heard On The Show Leavenworth, Washington The Post Hotel Turning 13: A meaningful way to celebrate your child 16 surprises for a sweet sixteen Psalms 139   Questions to Help You Rise 1. What milestone birthday is coming up that you can celebrate well? 2. Are there any grief points that you anticipate as a part of this milestone birthday?   3. What is the opportunity in this milestone birthday? 4. How would you or the birthday person most like to be celebrated?  LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier and healthier

Do you find yourself wishing you had deeper friendships? Or maybe you long for those deeper ties with your own children. In this episode we're talking specifically about relationships in this middle season of life. Our guest, Billie Jauss, podcast host, writer, and wife of a Major League Baseball coach, guides us through four different kinds of relationships. She uses this framework to help us adjust our expectations of those in our circles. We talk about painful experiences, human connection, Uber drivers, teens and young adult children, and how to use positive virtues for growth. If you want to relationship better, this will help. FIND MORE ABOUT BILLIE JAUSS Website: Billie Jauss Instagram: billie_jauss Podcast: Family Room Billie's Book: Baseball Family Some Things You Heard On the Show: John 13:34-35- Love command Four Levels of Relationship Accidental acquaintances Social circle Kindred spirit Forever family The 9 core qualities selflessness compassionate respectful trustworthy generous inclusion support peacemaking encouraging -Mindful Christianity- Instagram account -Read the Bible -Marriage course- Alpha course based of UK Questions to help you rise: What relationship needs to be put in another category than it's currently in? In what places can you be more aware of meeting those accidental acquaintances? What would it look like to be more selfless in your current relationships? How can you show gratitude today for those people in your forever family? LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier and healthier

Alex and Krista bring the Fun & Fire format back for a little summer inspiration. Though summer feels like it is starting to wind down. What?! Already?! They are not ignoring those things they still want to happen. From the whimsical to the practical, hear what summer items are still on their to-do lists! And what's getting them fired up? Prices these days! Are you feeling the pinch of the pocketbook? We feel your pain and we give you some of the ways we're making our dollars stretch right now. From travel savings to back to school shopping, we put some of our tried and true savings ideas to work. What is left on your summer list? And how are YOU making your dollar stretch these days? A FEW THINGS MENTIONED Matthew 6:28-29 Code for ThredUp thrifting: 45% off plus free shipping on your first order: Referral link QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE What is one thing you can put on the summer calendar that you have not yet done this summer? Where has God provided in the past for you? Where do you need for Him to provide right now? How can you walk and trust that He will meet your needs in the future? What are some practical steps you can take right now that will help stretch you dollar? LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier and healthier

If you've ever wondered, 'Help! What is my young adult going to do with the rest of their life?' then you're in the right place. Or maybe you ARE the young adult asking, "How do I figure out what to choose for a career when I can't even decide what to have for breakfast!?" Rest easy, today we are diving into the exciting and sometimes overwhelming journey of helping you or your young adult discover their future path. Our guest is Tyler Lafferty, author and co-founder of Seven2, 14Four and Strategy Labs, as well as an educational non-profit called Slingshot. For more than twenty five years he has been following his passion of helping students dream big and discover new opportunities. The episode explores the journey of career discovery and mentorship, emphasizing the importance of dreaming big, introspection, and taking risks. It addresses the challenges faced by young adults and parents in navigating career paths and provides practical guidance for self-discovery and pursuing passion and purpose. If you are wondering where to go on this career path journey, either as a young adult or the parent of a young adult...this will help you take the first step. You will want to share this episode with the young people in your life! Find out more about Tyler or Slingshot Tyler's website: Slingshot Tyler's book: Be More Like You Book A FEW THINGS MENTIONED -Build a network of people to help you in your career path. -IDEAS Framework is an acronym; I- Introspection- Better understanding who you are as a human. D- Design- Design a plan of the job type, the people, and company that you need to learn more about. E- Exploration- Go & Do( Having the information interviews, Job shadows, & internships) A- Adaptability- Understanding if you are on the right path, can be done through journaling your experience. S- Service- Value of finding your connection to the community Be in the Service of Others(BISTO)   QUESTION TO HELP YOU RISE How could you open up conversation around your child's interest and talents? How can you help your child better understand their personality, and what strengths come with that type? How can you indicate to your child or the young person in your life that it's okay to not have answers, how can we take some pressure off as we have this conversations? LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier and healthier

If you've ever wondered, 'Help! What is my young adult going to do with the rest of their life?' then you're in the right place. Or maybe you ARE the young adult asking, "How do I figure out what to choose for a career when I can't even decide what to have for breakfast!?" Rest easy, today we are diving into the exciting and sometimes overwhelming journey of helping you or your young adult discover their future path. Our guest is Tyler Lafferty, author and co-founder of Seven2, 14Four and Strategy Labs, as well as an educational non-profit called Slingshot. For more than twenty five years he has been following his passion of helping students dream big and discover new opportunities. The episode explores the journey of career discovery and mentorship, emphasizing the importance of dreaming big, introspection, and taking risks. It addresses the challenges faced by young adults and parents in navigating career paths and provides practical guidance for self-discovery and pursuing passion and purpose. If you are wondering where to go on this career path journey, either as a young adult or the parent of a young adult...this will help you take the first step. You will want to share this episode with the young people in your life! Find out more about Tyler or Slingshot Tyler's website: Slingshot Tyler's book: Be More Like You Book A FEW THINGS MENTIONED Build a network of people to help you in your career path. QUESTION TO HELP YOU RISE How can you open up your thinking about your child's career path? Who are some other people in your child's life, who they can have a meaningful conversation with? What assumptions do you hold about your child's career path journey? LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier and healthier

What does the Gospel, the big message of who God is in the world, have to do with the here and now? Everything. Midlife is a time of transition, often unexpected change, and trusting that God is with us every turn and upheaval is a gift that stabilizes us in a season that can feel anything but stable. Courtney Doctor is the perfect person to be with us in this conversation. Through her work as the Director of Women's Initiatives at The Gospel Coalition, Courtney speaks with women of all life stages about how God's big story right sizes our current stress. When we remember who God IS and what he PROMISES, we can feel a little more sure that we will get through the day. No amount of midlife stress will change God's nature or plan for the world. This is an episode about God meeting us where we are right now at this very moment. We hope it meets you in your deepest need - he can and he does. FIND MORE ABOUT COURTNEY Courtney's Website and Instagram Courtneys book- From Garden to Glory   A FEW THINGS MENTIONED Other books mentioned: Prayers in the night by Tish Harrison Warren Growing Together by Melissa Kruger One to One Bible Reading by David Helm Even Better than Eden by Nancy Guthrie Scriptures mentioned: Exodus 34 Matthew 26 Psalms 23 John 17 Genesis 3 QUESTIONS TO MAKE YOU RISE What small part of your life feels mundane that could be a place where you see God today? How does knowing that God is reconciling all things to himself bring you peace? Is God answering a prayer in a way that you are not seeing?

Why does abandonment cut so deep? Our guest, Dieula Previlon, reminds us that we are hardwired for relationships and when that need is threatened, we feel pain. Abandonment can be the threat or the actual experience of being left, excluded, rejected, unseen, or uncared for. We can carry this wound from childhood or we can be experiencing it now in midlife. Whether through a divorce, a friendship loss, or even a child growing up and leaving, abandonment can leave wounds that need tending. Dieula reminds us to stay present for each other. Our emotional availability is the counter to abandonment. She also covers how we can work through our feelings of abandonment from God. As both a trained therapist and ordained pastor - Dieula offers us a wholistic roadmap for healing. FIND OUT MORE ABOUT DIEULA Dieula's website Dieula's Book- Does God see me? A FEW THINGS MENTIONED -Genesis 2:18 -Sweet magnolia- On Netflix QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE Where have you felt the deep cut of Abandonment? How has Abandonment impacted your attachment style? Who can you go to for support as you face your feelings? What would it look like to invite God into your plan? LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier and healthier

Summer is already fun, but here's a few ideas to add to your list! The more intentional we can be about planning ahead, the more likely it will be that room will be made for those moments that make summer special. In this episode we talk about outdoor summer concerts, pool time, picnic chicken, fresh flowers, charcuterie boards, frozen treats, some favorite makeup finds, and more. Join us and let's get in the mood for S-U-M-M-A-H! Takeaways Don't forget about free concerts in the park as a fun and free entertainment option during the summer. Invest in a portable picnic table for convenient outdoor dining experiences. Try making picnic chicken in a sourdough bowl for a delicious and unique meal. Consider buying paper bouquets as a creative and long-lasting alternative to fresh flowers. Experiment with frozen fruit treats like frozen grapes soaked in Prosecco or frozen watermelon and bananas. Explore the Starbucks spicy refreshers for a refreshing and less sweet summer drink. opt for comfortable wedge sandals for a stylish and comfortable summer footwear option. Host summer charcuterie parties with themed boards like breakfast, birthday, chocolate, fruit and cheese, or s'mores. Use lip pencils for a more defined and put-together look during the summer season. A FEW THINGS MENTIONED Wild Card Podcast with Rachael Martin Trader Joe's- Fresh flowers Fresh Cut Paper- Paper flowers J.crew- swim wear Volatile- Wedge Flipflops Rebecca Reid Podcast episode #445 Steve Madden- Parra wedge sandals QUESTION TO HELP YOU RISE 1. What can you schedule or put on your calendar now to make summer more fun? LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier and healthier

Rick and Diane Thomas, also known as Krista's parents, have so much wisdom we couldn't limit our conversation with them to one episode, so we are bringing you part two. You don't want to miss what these two wise people have to say about creating a legacy - something that will last past their time here on earth. They are an inspiration around living with intention as they share how they maintain fun in their daily experiences, continue to model open communication within their family, and how to embrace the season you are still in!! In this episode we cover how to welcome others into a growing family, how we can support our aging parents, and what faithful participation in a church community can look like. These two are a treasure. In fact, Alex decided we should dub them "America's grandparents"! They are kind, funny, generous, and continue to live a life of curiosity, adventure, and investment in people. They are a model for us to rise and meet the moments of today, even if those moments are different than those of yesterday. A FEW THINGS MENTIONED "Legacy is not something we leave for people, but it is something we leave in people". QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE What are you doing to cultivate fun and growth in your life? How can you show practical love and presence to the older people in your life? How could you move more fluidly through this season? How can you better embrace other peoples passions and personalities LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier and healthier

Creating a legacy in this world is something that is hard to measure, but easy to identify.  Legacy is not something we leave for people, it's something we leave IN people.  The impact is profound, and the ripple effect lives far beyond us.  Legacy is something we all want to leave, but how do we do it?  Today on the podcast we are diving into this very topic with two of the most qualified people on the subject:  Rick and Diane Thomas – otherwise known as Krista's parents.  They live out legacy better than anyone else we personally know, and we wanted to share their hard-won wisdom with you.  We talk about the importance of intentional legacies, the impact of strong family values, and the significance of building relationships across generations. Rick and Diane share their experiences of creating a close-knit family, fostering a sense of community, and continuing to grow and explore new adventures in their own lives.  They emphasize the importance of faith, generosity, and being present in the lives of the people closest to them.  You will walk away from this episode inspired to create a legacy that lasts in your own life QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE How does your family story impact your legacy? What are some small actions you are taking to build the legacy of your family? How can you invest in new relationships and maintain long standing ones at this stage of your life? How are you continuing to open your world? LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier and healthier

Conflict...it's something we all come up against and many of us shy away from it as soon as there is any hint of it. We forget that disagreement itself is not bad; as people we are not always going to agree on everything. Then we throw in some misplaced expectations and some big emotions and conflict can suddenly move from a natural part of a relationship to something destructive. We can quickly move into unhealthy patterns and hurtful words, actions, or tones...and this is why we shy away. But our guest Donna Jones, reassures us that conflict doesn't have to be awful. In fact healthy conflict is actually possible! Through listening with intent to understand, deciding what is ours to carry and taking responsibility for that, and recognizing how our personality responds to potential conflict, we can approach conflict with confidence rather than fear. We can talk about the problem at hand rather than each other. We can work toward common ground while believing the best in each other. Conflict is unavoidable. Let's not make it terrible. Let's decide to face disagreement, knowing we can be respectful and kind with intention. FIND OUT ABOUT DONNA JONES Website: Donna Jones Instagram: donnaajones Donna Jones Book: Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life   A FEW THINGS MENTIONED James 1:19 QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE -Do you tend to push into conflict? Or pull away from it? How has your personality impacted how you view conflict? -Who can you listen to this week with the intent of better understanding this person? -Are there things you are carrying that you shouldn't be? -How can you take responsibility for what is yours to own in a conflict? And allow others to carry what is theirs?

Do you have a high school graduate this year? Or does someone you know? In this episode Alex is interviewing Krista, asking questions such as: -How do you celebrate a high school senior well? -How do you help them practically prepare for college? -How do you say goodbye when it's time for them to leave (nooooooo… I'm not ready!)? -And what do you do about this grief over the loss? In this conversation, you will find practical advice and helpful questions to ask. Krista emphasizes the importance of communication, setting expectations, and planning ahead. She also discusses ways to make graduation and the moment of departure feel special and recognized. No matter where you find yourself – fully party planned or not even started, happy or sad, prepared or completely unprepared, this episode is for you! A FEW THINGS MENTIONED HOW WE SAY GOODBYE BEFORE OUR CHILDREN GO TO COLLEGE Takeaways Communicate with your child about their expectations and what success looks like to them Plan and budget for the expenses of launching a child to college Make graduation and the moment of departure feel special and recognized Acknowledge and cope with the emotions and grief that may arise during this transition Find joy in the journey and embrace the new chapter Before College weekend questions What will make this fun for you? What will make this feel special for you? What does support look like to you during this time? QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE What conversation do you need to have with your child now about graduation coming up? What is important to you as you mark this transition? What can you do now to practically prepare for fall? How can you have that significant conversation with your child before he/she leaves?

What if instead of fighting our family, we fought FOR our family? This is the charge Chris and Julie Bennett are putting in front of us. That sounds like something we want to do, but how do we practically implement it? The Bennetts give us practical ways to implement grace, forgiveness, and hope into our relationships with our children, our spouse, and those we bring into our family fold. Family is about belonging - so our aim is to create a place of honesty, safety, and grace. Chris and Julie speak from a lifetime of fighting for their family together. If you are needing both some inspiration and practical help today, this conversation is for you. The world hands us a lot to deal with, especially in midlife. We don't have to fight with those we love, as much as we have to fight for a family culture that demonstrates wild love. FIND OUT MORE ABOUT CHRIS & JULIE BENNETT Chris & Julie's - website Chris Bennett's - Instagram Julie Bennett's - Instagram Chris and Julie's book- Fighting For Family A FEW THINGS MENTIONED The chosen - Tv show 1 peter 1:23- Imperishable seed QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE What would it look like to fight for your family in this season, rather than fight with your family? Think of someone in your life who seems particularly complicated, how can you embrace them in their complexity? Who or what do you need to forgive? What prayer can you craft for your children to pray over them consistently? LET'S CONNECT! Did you like this episode? Let us know and leave a review on itunes or share it with a friend. Or message us on Instagram – we'd love to hear from you! Get the Daily Dozen Checklist -12 habits that will immediately make you happier and healthier

Have you ever asked the question, "Does anyone like me?" Maybe people used to like you, but you are wondering if they do now. Or maybe your son or daughter is asking that question. Few admit they have these thoughts, and even less talk about them out loud. We're changing that! Today on the podcast we are discussing the topic of feeling liked and building friendships. We explore the middle school mentality that often resurfaces in adulthood, the impact of transitions on confidence, and the transfer of insecurities from failed relationships. You will learn how many hours it takes to build a new friendship and what we can do to open ourselves up to new relationships. Midlife can shift our friendships - we're here to help! FIND OUT MORE ABOUT SARAH Website: sarahbragg.com  Instagram: sarahwbragg Sarah's Book- Is Everyone Happier Than Me? KEY TAKEAWAYS: The middle school mentality of questioning whether people like us often resurfaces in adulthood, especially during times of transition.   Being introspective and self-aware can help us recognize and address our insecurities and negative patterns of thinking.   Building friendships takes time, with casual friendships requiring 40-60 hours, and deeper friendships requiring over 200 hours of quality time together.   Being open to new friendships, even on a casual level, can lead to meaningful connections and a sense of belonging.   Noticing the good in ourselves and approaching relationships with curiosity and compassion can enhance our ability to build and maintain friendships. QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RISE Has there been a season or circumstance where you have been more prone to feeling like no one likes you? How could you focus on showing how much you enjoy others around you today, rather than focus on how others feel about you? What are some qualities you have that make you a good friend? How could you convey a posture of openness to others around you today as you are out in the world?