Thriving with 8 Podcast

Staying fit and getting healthy are often listed with our New Years Resolutions. Well, we're almost halfway through the year... how are you doing with your fitness goals?    In this episode, Women's Strength and Wellness Coach, Nichole Minton, shares small and simple things we can do to progress on our fitness journey. It's not about huge undertakings or overnight changes. It's about simple daily habits such as walking, getting more protein, and making time for God that will make a big difference in how we feel. When change moves at a slower pace we are more apt to stick with it and it becomes part of who we are so it's worth the effort to intentionally slow down (I know, easier said than done for moms).    We hope you will listen to Nichole's wisdom as she teaches with her heart and choose one small thing you can change today to start progressing in your fitness journey. Remember, anything you do to improve yourself blesses your family as well!    

Thriving With 8 Podcast made it to episode 100! Thanks for listening- a podcast is no good without listeners!   What if we have it wrong? What if taking 2nd place is just as wonderful as first, but for different reasons. Listen as I share what my little boy taught me about 2nd place and the value of effort, happiness, and progression.    When you fall short, because we all do, don't be afraid to apologize and don't hold on to mom guilt. Choose to celebrate the mom wins, big and small, and to be present in your life. When opportunities pass you by, create new ones. It's not 1st place or nothing, it's progession, not perfection. 

Are you bone tired and soul tired at the same time? Although exhaustion in motherhood is common, we can feel joyful and weary, excited and exhausted, grateful and tired. When we choose to walk everyday with Christ we will find His Rest.    Christ will walk by our side, just like a friend, if we let Him. He will show us what He loves about our day and about us. He will help us see the "manna" in our life. Turning our focus to Him will shift our weariness to energy and confidence.    Ashlee Miller shares insights from her life and her beautiful book, "His Rest", in this inspiring episode of Thriving With 8. It's time to reset and refocus on Christ in your motherhood journey. 

Have you stopped to think about which holiday tradititons matter most to your family? There's so much to do during this season. How much of it can be set aside without anyone caring?    While we can definitely get ideas from other families, it's important not to compare what our families do (or don't do) with others. You don't have to bake cookies with your kids just because your neighbors do or stage Elf on the Shelf if that stresses you out.    In this short episode I ask my boys what holiday traditions are their favorite. I loved hearing what really makes Christmas special in their eyes and hope you will too. Ask you kids their favorites- you may be surprised. 

"Drapers are doers"! That is the motto Melissa Draper has established with her family, both in word and example. As a lover of service, she teaches her kids to say "yes" whenever possible when an opportunity to serve occurs. She is constantly looking for ways that her family can look outside of themselves to help those around them and inspires others through her "Do Something More" podcast.    In this episode, Melissa shares some fantastic ways we can help our families serve this holiday season. We thrive when we serve and it sets a great tradition of spreading joy and light to others. Don't forget- we don't have to come up with a huge service project or raise money for a cause. Service begins in our own homes as parents care for children and siblings help one another.    #thrivingthroughserving

As we approach the holiday season, stress and overwhelm threaten to sneak in. But that doesn't need to be the case! We can have less stress and more meaning during the holidays as we focus on what matters most. As Saren Eyre Loosli says, “Less is more.”   In this episode of Thriving With 8 Podcast, Saren shares some wonderful ideas and experiences regarding how we can enjoy the holidays with our families by maintaining traditions that keep the holidays simple, thoughtful, and fun.    Whether it's reading Christmas books together, opening pajamas on Christmas Eve, or caroling to the neighbors, discover what matters most to your family this holiday season and let go of the rest. Slow, down, protect family time, and enjoy this special time of year.    For more holiday resources visit poweroffamilies.com

Rachel Bonner and her husband wanted to teach kids about different aspects of life that we may never experience, but would be helpful to understand, in order to show increased kindness and love to others. They were inspired to write A Cultivate Series, which consists of 3 wonderful children's books with alternate endings to help kids develop more awareness and compassion for others.    As an inter-racial family, the Bonners have experienced first hand what it feels like not to be understood. As Rachel points out, "we only know what we know". Rachel shares her wisdom on teaching kids how to thrive through kindness including setting the example first as the adult, role playing, and having open and honest conversations with your family.  

Do you ever wonder why you think, feel or respond to the challenges and joys of motherhood the way that you do? Why don't others around you, including your kids, always see things the way you do?    In this conversation with Beth McCord, the Enneagram Coach, we discuss the importance of understanding our personalities and the core motivations within us. When we understand our "why" we are better able to view both ourselves and others with compassion and grace. As we become good, curious students of our children they will feel seen and valued. As you get to know your true internal self and dismiss the "head trash",  you will thrive in the "beautiful messiness" of motherhood. 

  Have you ever considered that moms need an "elevator pitch"? This is an intentional way of introducing ourselves to others. The purpose is not to impress, but to share and connect with someone.    As licensed health educator Stacy Goulding points out, at times it's easy for us to say “nothing” when someone asks “What's new?”. But we need to be confident in sharing what we are doing right now, whether it's potty-training our toddler, reading a good book, or navigating baseball season.   As we use our elevator pitch to connect with other moms we learn to appreciate others. We begin to recognize that although we may do motherhood differently, we have so much to gain as we collaborate and learn from one another.

  Jodi Orgill Brown prayed that her children would learn to serve others, see people at their heart for who they are, and have compassion. But she had no idea how those prayers would be answered.    Jodi and her family have learned on a very personal level what it means to be served, as well as the joy that comes from serving others. What makes the journey worth it is doing it together and knowing you are not alone.    In this part 2 episode with Jodi, she shares beautiful examples of how she has been the recipient of service from family and friends over the years. She also teaches how we can bring light to others by serving in meaningful, heartfelt ways. We can do something to make the sun shine in someone else's life.   

Jodi Orgill Brown was living the perfect "white picket fence life" when the dizziness and headaches first began. Life quickly changed when she was diagnosed with a brain tumor.  Jodi has learned through many hard trials including multiple surgeries, hospital stays, and a variety of health challenges that thriving looks different at different stages in your life. Even if you can't always be the mom you thought you would be, you are enough for your kids. Learning to thrive is a process. But no matter what is happening in your life, the sun still shines! You get to choose everyday if you will see the light.    After listening to this episode, check out Jodi's eye-opening, inspirational book "The Sun Still Shines" to learn more about her incredible journey! And stay tuned for Thriving With 8 Episode 92 for more with Jodi!        

A thriving marriage doesn't just magically happen! Just like motherhood, marriage is an arena for growth. We must be intentional if we want to become the best spouse we can be. It is a process of becoming. Perfection is the lie that can discourage us from trying.    In this conversation with couples coach and podcaster, Julia Woods, she teaches 5 tips to develop and maintain a thriving marriage. You are probably already doing some of them, but there's always room for improvement as you partner together with your spouse. Listen as she explains the importance of growing through tension, negotiating, weekly partnering, playing and chatting with your spouse. Even better, listen together! And then commit to starting small steps to improving your marriage relationship.    IG @heyjuliawoods beautifuloutcome.com

What motivates you to be the best mom possible?   Listen to Regan Barnes, Chairmom of the nonprofit Momivate, to learn more about what it means for moms to RAISE UP society and her vision to empower and support moms.   Being a full-time mom encompasses SO much so give yourself a pat on the back for all you are doing! You're developing relationships, creating a wonderful atmosphere in your home, managing schedules, pursuing personal pursuits… the list could go on and on!!   Also... Momivate is hosting their Enrich Motherhood Convention March 9, 2024. Hope you can come join the connect with others moms and leave feeling nourished and empowered.  Use discount code: THRIVING to save some money :)   

Happy New Year! Do you have a word or phrase for the year? What will you focus on? Are you going to let the year happen to you or are you going to be intentional in your thriving?    The choice is up to you! First of all, give yourself credit for the progress you have made this past year. Second, set yourself up for success, even if your progression comes through baby steps. Thriving has nothing to do with perfection. There is no "perfect mom". Thriving comes by not giving up, being steadfast, and striving for impovement. It's all about progression, not perfection!   motherhoodtheprofession.com/podcast

Motherhood is not a solo job. We need Christ by our side in our motherhood journey. It's our ressponsibility to seek Him. As we courageously lean into this relationship and partnership with God, we will receive spiritual guidance that blesses us and our children.    Listen to Neill Marriott, mother of 11 and spiritual giant, as she shares stories and ideas of how she sought Jesus as she raised her wonderful family.  Neill is also the author of "Seek This Jesus", a book I highly recommend. 

The holiday season is such a joyful time...for most people. But for many the holidays are a time of grief and loss. They can trigger memories of losing a loved one. They can be a hard time for single parents or for those without funds to provide Christmas for their children.  In this short bonus episode, Tiffany Papageorge, our guest from Thriving With 8 episode 86, reminds us to be aware of those around us who are grieving this holiday season. 

When we hear about loss and grief our thoughts tend to think of something big like death. However, there are many other ways that children experience loss including divorce, a friend moving, or losing a championship game. All of these things cause a sense of grief.  Author Tiffany Papageorge was a grieving child. As a Junior High student she wrote a book for a school assignment and it changed not only her life, but many others. "My Yellow Balloon" is a beautiful picture book that helps children navigate love, loss, and letting go. As parents we often want to rush our children through their emotions and quickly soothe them. But Tiffany teaches that it is important to let our children feel their emotions and learn from them, whether the loss is big or small. 

We've all seen them. The "Please Be Patient Student Driver" bumper stickers. When Meghan Mitchell of The Little Lessons Podcast saw this sticker one day, it changed her. She realized that we are all "Student Humans". This has led to greater compassion, grace, and patience with others, especially her own children.    So how do we remember that our children really are students and be patient with them when we feel they are not reaching their potential? How do we transition from "what will people think of my child" to "how can I best support my child?" After all, we're student moms and we're all just trying to do our best!      

Do you ever "pretend" that you are a patient, organized, or fun mom? There are times in our lives when we try characteristics on for size to see how they fit. In this episode of Thriving With 8 Podcast, Life Coach Jody Moore helps us embrace who we are as moms as we strive to become the next version of ourselves. We gain true confidence and authenticity when we embrace both our strengths and our weaknesses.   

After McKenna's 4th child was born she found herself caught in a dark cloud of survival. She wondered if this was just a "new normal". But when the darkness was too much to bear she found herself wondering if her kids would be better off without her.  In this episode of Thriving With 8 Podcast, McKenna Rose Brown shares her healing journey and the importance of noticing small signs of anxiety and depression before the big ones comes. She has come to learn that vulnerability leads to connection and growth and that you don't need to suffer alone. Life can be both beautiful AND have struggles. Life is worth living and your kids DO need you.  mckennarosebrown.com Stiry Story: I am McKenna

Do you ever feel stuck in motherhood- like every day is stuck on "repeat"? No mom guilt necessary. We have all been there! Many times this is caused by a lack of personal progression. Since motherhood is the best job in the world, we need to participate in "professional development" and be intentional about what we are learning and the skills we are gaining.    Listen to this episode to discover what professional development in motherhood looks like and hear about many great options to get back on the path of personal growth. 

As parents, we are in the business of building relationships with our children. We're in it for the long game. What will help us most is approaching parenthood with a stewardship mindset rather than one of ownership. Ganel-Lyn Condie explains the difference beautifully in this episode of Thriving With 8. An ownership mindset can destroy relationships and lead to comparisons and guilt. The stewardship principle, however, allows for growth to happen, strengthens relationships, and builds trust. It allows for simple things such as changing diapers and playing legos to be sacred experiences and reminds us that as we serve our kids we are serving God. 

As humans, we want to keep our struggles to ourselves. But what if we all choose to struggle together instead? After all, being vulnerable with others often leads to connection. Erin Stewart was inspired to write her incredible book ,"The Words We Keep", because of  her own struggles wth mental health, specifically perfectionism anxiety. So how can we help ourselves and our kids overcome the impossible pursuit of perfectionism? Listen as Erin shares some of her own experiences and tips to help, including keeping your eyes on your own paper and not beating ourselves up when we miss things our kids are struggling with on their own.     

Is screen time keeping your kids from being participants in life? Do they suffer from "virtual autism"? In this episode with Nicole Rawson from Screen Time Clinic we discuss how our children's behavior and feelings are being affected by their relationship with screens, particularly gaming. Because children's brains aren't fully developed until age 25 it is hard for them to self-regulate and addictions can start at a young age. As parents, we have the responsibility to be educated so we can recognize risk factors and protect our kids. When we know better we can do better!

I don't know about you, but our family loves playing games together! It is a source of fun and strengthens our relationship as a family, creating memories that will last a lifetime. The Beck family feels the same way! That's what led them to creating Grandpa Beck's Games (some of which games our family has spent MANY hours playing). Grandpa and Grandma Beck share a love of people and game playing. In this episode we discuss the benefits of playing together as a family and the many life lessons that can be learned playing games, including learning to be happy for someone else when they win. 

At Thanksgiving time it is common practice to make lists of the many blessings that we have. This is a wonderful place to start as we teach gratitude to our children. As they grow older however, it is important to help our children develop a positive sense of indebtedness. This understanding helps them not only be thankful for what they have, but also for the giver of the gifts, whether that be parents, others, or God. This episode explores why indebtedness is the new thankfulness and includes tips on how to raise more grateful children who in turn desire to serve others and pay it forward.    Article: Why Indebtedness in the New Thankfulness Article: The Rewards of Indebtedness jenaemnelson@gmail.com

Talking about all of the dangers our kids can encounter online often feels scary and overwhelming. In this episode, Marilyn Evans of Parents Aware reminds parents of the importance of getting off the fence and talking to our kids about the dangers of pornography. These conversations need to be layered and age apporpriate, but we cannot wait. We want to be our kids seach engine when it comes to navigating technology. As we strategize with our kids, they will be better prepared to make good decisions that support our family's values. And even though they may climb over the fence or peek through every now and then, if we have open communication our children will know they can talk to us and we can work through challenges together. 

There's a lot of talk about mothering infants, toddlers, kids, and teens. But what about parenting adult children? It can be challenging making the transition from being mom to a teen to being mom to an adult. Their needs are different and our role as mother changes.  In this episode Bonnie Lyman teaches how we can approach this phase of motherhood with confidence, knowing that we did our best while raising our kids. We can continue to be intentional as we parent our adult children, creating a safe place for them, showing up as love, and showing them respect.    Bonnie Lyman Coaching  

Most children learn to say "please" and "thank you" at a young age. But what does it mean to have good manners as a teenager and why is that important? Having good manners such as pitching in, introducing yourself, and being a good passenger have long-reaching effects. Teens with manners have more confidence and others enjoy being around them. So how can you teach manners to your teens? In this episode, Brooke Romney discusses the wonderful resource she has created, " 52 Modern Manners For Today's Teens", that makes it easy and natural for teens to apply these tips into their lives. 

Planning for your week is much more than to-do lists and putting dates on your calendar. It's about having a vision of the mom you want to become and creating pockets of time to achieve your goals for you, your family, and beyond. If you find yourself feeling bored or discouraged with motherhood or how you spend your time, listen to this episode full of encouragement and realistic tips. As you plan your week with intention and flexibility, you set yourself up to win your week! https://thrivinginmotherhoodpodcast.com/ Soaring Mothers Summit 2022  

In November 2018, Jennie and her family received the devestating news that her husband Brett had been killed in Afghanistan by friendly fire. That was the beginning of her family's change, but not the beginning of their American service and sacrifice.  So what are we doing to teach our kids to remember those who sacrifice their lives and time for our freedom? Listen to Jennie share her ideas, as well as her wisdom & heart about mothering with resilience amid hardship.  The Major Brent Taylor Foundation

As we work towards our goals and dreams in motherhood and life, we need to overcome our biggest obstacle- ourself! We can calm our inner bully by replacing it with an "I Can" attitude. Award-winning author Miriam Laundry shares her experience of developing this attitude and how she is teaching it to her own children and others through her books and example. 

As parents of young children it's hard to imagine the future when your kids will be grown and gone. But as important as parenthood is, someday all your kids will move out (hopefully) and you will be left home with your spouse. Are you making your marriage relationship a priority? Is your marriage being dominated by the kids or are you taking time to create and maintain a thriving marriage? Join my husband and I as we share what has helped us over the past 20+ years to keep focused on progression and moving forward with common goals for our family and marriage. 

How many of you moms have seen little fingers poking under the door while you use the restroom? Or have had a child climb into bed with you in the middle of the night? In this episode we are addressing boundaries, something all parents need! Boundaries can get blurry so it's important to re-define them regularly so that your needs are being met and honored. Just as we parents need to set boundaries for ourselves we need to respect our children's boundaries, especially as they get older. Join guest Deborah Porter, The Ultimate Mom Coach, as she shares her experiences and insight on this important topic. 

It's a new year and the present is NOW! This year my theme is "present"- live in the present, appreciate the present, be a present to others, and remember that God is always present. Life is too precious to be distracted by our phones while our kids are needing our attention now. It's too short to worry about what happened in the past or what the future will bring. We need to look for ways to be a gift to others, especially our family members,  while remembering that God is always with us on our motherhood journey. What's your theme for the year? 

The countdown to Christmas is on! What do you do to focus on Christ during the holiday season? In this episode, Angie from Come Follow Me FHE shares how her family uses Christmas books to bring the Spirit of Christ into their home, strengthen relationships, and have fun as a family. She also shares her top 4 favorite books to help you start this wonderful tradition with your family as well.    Christmas Book Calendar 

Suicide is not a topic parents generally avoid with their kids. It can be scary! But we need to be courageous and talk to our kids about mental health and topics such as self-harm and suicide. In this episode Greg Hudnall, the founder of Hope Squad, provides hope to families as he discusses how kids can support one another, signs of mental health problems to look for in our kids, how to build relationships of trust, and where to find help if our teens are struggling. 

How do we mother with confidence amid constant mom shaming and judgement? As Deborah Porter teaches, we can feel confident in our mothering as we do what is right for our household/family and not worry about everyone else. If we aim for perfection, rather than progression, we set ourselves up for failure. Parenting out of fear is insatiable and never works. We need to focus only on what we can control and be comfortable standing in our own truth. Listen to this episode for more words of wisdom from The Ultimate Mom Coach.  7 Habits of Confident Moms ebook (Free!)

Is finding balance a myth for moms or can it be a reality? Let's face it, moms cannot work harder! However, sometimes we can work smarter. Whether or not you find scheduling and management as fascinating as mom and life coach Ceri Payne does, you are bound to learn something new to save time and mental energy from her empowering tips. The best plans are both intentional and flexible.    24 Simple Ways to Save 24 Hours This Month!

Do you look forward to mornings? They can be rough, especially if you don't have a solid routine. In this episode Chanelle Neilson shares the many benefits of establishing a good morning routine including alone time and building a reservoir that will last through the day. Give it a try and find what works for you so that you look forward to getting up and facing each new day as mom.    Chanelle Neilson Coaching Morning Routine Challenge

When it comes to bullying, we can all be part of the solution! As parents, we have a responsibility to raise upstanders. When bullying happens there are usually bystanders. An upstander is someone who takes a stand to help stop the bullying. This can be done in many ways including calmly confronting the bully or removing the target from the situation. Listen as Amber Robbins shares other ideas, that she and her family have learned first hand, on how to raise upstanders that change the world for good. 

Amber Robbins and her family have experienced bullying first hand. It lasted for years and even led to her family moving. As a result, she is passionate about this topic and on a crusade to educate others. Bullying is more than a fight on the playground. It is unwanted, aggressive, repeated, and includes an imbalance of power. Listen to hear more about how to recognize if your child is a target or the bully and the long term affects of this behavior.    StopBullying.gov    

When it comes to media, you can have too much of a good thing! Andrea Davis of Better Screen Time shares some great tips to establish screen-free rituals, routines, and recharging in your home. This applies not only to our kids, but to us as parents too! Take time to be mindful and intentional in creating a tech-healthy family and make sure your tech habits are replenishing, not depleting, you.  100+Screen-Free Activities for When You Want to Do Nothing

We are the greatest generation of parents raising the greatest generation of kids! But it can be a challenge parenting in this digital age. Jason and Lisa Frost, authors of "The Glass Between Us", offer great insight and advice into the importance of relationship and understanding as we teach our kids to translate offline values into online behavior. When we meet our teens where they are we will better understand the why behind their media choices and be able to safely guide them through the digital world.  Lisa and Jason's mission is that no one be left behind in this digital crisis. Find out more at Wired Human!

What a privilege to visit with parents who are raising children with special needs! Although their lives have taken a turn down an unexpected path, they handle it with love, joy, and acceptance. Their child is a light in their life and gives life new meaning and vision. Listen to incredible stories and experiences as these 3 moms describe what they have learned and their advice to other parents on how to teach kids to interact with those that are outwardly different from them. This episode is also the perfect way to kick-off our #helpkidsthrivefundraiser in behalf of Primary Children's Hospital where all of their children have received superb medical attention.   More info for our: Help Kids THRIVE Fundraiser  

We can learn so much from other moms, our "co-workers" in this motherhood journey. In this episode some special moms in my life share what they have learned and their best mom advice. Some of the great advice includes enjoying each stage of motherhood and don't wish years away, be the mom first and friendship will follow, and love and listen to your children. What advice would you give?   

We can learn so much from other moms, our "co-workers" in this motherhood journey. In this episode some special moms in my life share what they have learned and their best mom advice. A recurring piece of advice was not to compare yourself with other moms. While we can and should learn from the moms around us we don't need to be them! Be yourself and you will be the mom your children need. 

 One of the most important jobs as a mom is to become a master story teller and create a strong family narrative. There is strength in stories! Children who know family stories feel more connected and confident. Photos, especially printed, are a great way to relive past events & prompt story sharing. As Vanessa says, "done is better than perfect and something is better than nothing" so get those photos printed and start chatting.    Chatbooks (Discount Code: THRIVING10) Best Commercial Ever! It will motivate you to get your photos printed. ;)

The word "holy" is defined as, "set apart for a sacred purpose". Doesn't that define motherhood? Friends, you are holy as you are. As Christie Gardiner explains, holiness isn't something outside ourselves, it's something within. We may not have a lot of time to study our scriptures or meditate, but we can look for holy moments with our children as we shift the narrative of the day. Appreciating a sunset together or an intentional conversation that builds our child's confidence can bring divine moments into our daily lives. 

Every mom hits the mommy wall every now and then! Whether it's health issues, depression/anxiety, postpartum, loneliness, or just plain exhaustion, we all reach points in motherhood when it's difficult to face the day.  Noelle Nicolai knows this feeling! Her life turned upside down when she started having health issues out of the blue. Three years have passed now, but the chronic illness still exists. She has had to learn how to be a mom, even on the days when she feels like crap. Join as Noelle shares her wisdom, experiences, and sense of humor to help us moms succeed on those hard mommy days. 

Katie felt helpless as she drove her 2-year old daughter to the ER! How could this have happened and how could she console her crying daughter in the backseat? Katie prayed silently and specifically for the help of angels. She knew unseen help was in the car when her daughter stopped crying and said, "thank you". This was one of many times she and her family felt heavenly help during her daughter's month stay in the burn unit after suffering 3rd degree burns on both feet. Listen as Katie shares her heart about Eliza's accident, countless "coincidences", and how she was able to move past the burden of mom guilt.     katiegarnerart.com