Podcasts about start scared

In this special Father's Day episode, I sit down with my husband, Frank, and our three kids, Malcolm, Addison, and Bruce, for a heartfelt family conversation about fatherhood, memories, life lessons, and legacy.

This week, I'm sharing the story of a beautiful weekend in Wimberley, Texas, where my husband Frank and I had the honor of officiating our friends' wedding. From a last-minute dress rescue and an adorable black lab puppy to handmade necklaces, a rainbow during the reception, and the reminder that true friendship is one of life's greatest gifts, this episode is about partnership, belonging, and the moments we'll carry with us forever.

Last Friday started with happy hour, sushi, and a fun trip to a new hat bar with friends. It ended with me unexpectedly spending the night at my friend's house, staying up until 1:30 a.m. laughing, talking, watching TV, and snuggling with dogs.In this episode, I'm sharing why this spontaneous night reminded me how important friendship, connection, and a little bit of unplanned fun can be in the middle of our busy lives.

I just turned 42 and in today's episode I am looking back on everything life has taught me so far. From motherhood and grief to rediscovering myself outside of the hats I wear, I'm sharing the biggest lessons I've learned, the things I'm still working on, and why I finally believe growth is a journey and not a destination. If you've ever felt like you're still figuring yourself out… this one's for you.

A hard but beautiful conversation with a friend opened my eyes to how much control I was trying to hold onto in motherhood and marriage. In this episode, I share what it looks like to finally step back, let my husband and son build their own relationship, and realize that sometimes love means letting go a little.

Bruce is graduating from 5th grade and I'm feeling alllllll the emotions. In this episode, I'm sharing the bittersweet reality of watching your child grow up, being so proud of who they're becoming while quietly grieving the little version of them that you're slowly saying goodbye to. If you've ever looked at your child and thought, “How did we get here so fast?” this episode is for you.

Last year, I tried The Tox for the first time and now it's become one of my favorite forms of self-care. In this episode, I'm sharing my experience with lymphatic massages and facials, why I keep going back every few weeks, and how taking care of myself physically has also helped me feel more confident and refreshed mentally. If you've ever struggled to prioritize yourself, this one's for you. You can learn more at https://www.thetoxtechnique.com/.

Today's episode hit me in a way I didn't expect. I'm sharing what I took from our pastor's sermon this weekend on Matthew 5:9, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God” and how that actually plays out in real life (and online).

I'm sharing a deeply personal story about what happened to my nana in assisted living and the moment we realized something was very wrong.If you have a loved one in assisted living or memory care, this episode is for you. This is your reminder to ask questions, follow up, and advocate fiercely.

We were never supposed to be a “dog family”, but now I truly can't imagine life without Max.In this episode, I'm sharing how our rescue dog completely changed our home, slowed us down and became one of the biggest blessings in our lives.Sometimes the best things aren't planned, they're the ones that find you when you least expect it.

This weekend in Port O'Connor looked very different for me and it was exactly what I needed. I didn't make a plan, I didn't stress and I didn't try to be productive. I read, took a nap, and just went with the flow. In this episode, I'm sharing what it felt like to slow down without guilt and why doing “less” might actually be what your heart needs most.

This weekend at the Final Four Women's Basketball Tournament, I witnessed a powerful reminder that our kids don't have to be the star to make an impact.After meeting the father of Sarah Graves, a Texas walk on player known for her encouragement and leadership, I share what moms can learn about raising kids who show up, lift others, and lead right where they are.

This week tested me as a mom. During Tech Week for my son's school musical, his ADHD challenges were on full display and so was my heart. I'm sharing what happened, the frustration of seeing him singled out, and the reminder that our kids are more than the behaviors they're still learning to control.

Community is a gift from God… but that doesn't mean it's always easy.In this episode, I'm sharing takeaways from a women's conference session with Christine Hoover about why relationships in Christian community can feel complicated and how God actually uses those moments for growth.THANK YOU TO THIS WEEK'S SPONSOR ~

Friendship felt easy when we were kids. But somewhere along the way, it got complicated. In this episode, I'm sharing some of my biggest takeaways from a women's conference session with Christine Hoover about what the Bible actually says about friendship. If you've ever wondered why friendships feel harder in this season of life, you are not alone.

Sleepovers were a huge part of my childhood but as a parent, I see them differently.In this episode, I share why our family doesn't usually allow sleepovers, what changed my perspective over the years, and the time we recently hosted a big birthday sleepover at our house.From parenting boundaries to creating a safe space where kids feel welcome, this episode is an honest conversation about safety, trust, and raising kids in a different world.I'd love to hear your thoughts on sleepovers! Text me at 855-849-0997 and join the conversation.THANK YOU TO THIS WEEK'S SPONSOR ~

In today's episode of Start Scared, I'm sitting down with Nichole Kirk, the founder of Dear Heart, a faith-driven lifestyle brand that began as a small fundraiser and grew into a global movement.We talk about listening to God's nudges, taking action before you feel ready, and navigating the fear that comes with pursuing your calling. Nichole also shares how she protects family time while running a growing business and why obedience often comes before clarity.WAYS TO CONNECT WITH NICHOLE & DEAR HEART ~

Instagram says 2026 is the new 2016... So, that trend sent me straight into my camera roll. In this episode, I'm walking through my real, and honestly, a lot of forgotten 2016 memories. From postpartum exhaustion, career shifts, family trips, to toddler milestones, mom guilt, and more. These are the memories I didn't realize were shaping me at the time and maybe, this will encourage you to take your own walk down memory lane.

If budgeting, saving, or paying off debt makes you feel awkward, overwhelmed, or just plain bad with money… this episode is for you.In this episode, Brad shares a powerful story about teaching his son to drive, and why that experience perfectly explains what it feels like to start taking control of your finances.Growth doesn't feel good at first. It feels uncomfortable. It feels uncertain. It feels like you're messing up.But that doesn't mean you're failing. It means you're learning.If you've ever blown your budget, overspent, hesitated to look at your debt, or felt anxious about money conversations, you're not broken. You're just new.It's time to move Fear Forward.Support the showThe Totally Awesome Debt Freedom Planner https://www.debtfreedad.com/planner Connect With Brad Website- https://www.debtfreedad.com Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/thedebtfreedad Private Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/debtfreedad Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/debtfreedad/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@debt_free_dad YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@bradnelson-debtfreedad2751/featured Thanks For Listening Like what you hear? Please, subscribe on the platform you listen to most: Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Tune-In, Stitcher, YouTube Music, YouTube We LOVE feedback, and also helps us grow our podcast! Please leave us an honest review in Apple Podcasts, we read every single one. Is there someone that you think would benefit from the Debt Free Dad podcast? Please, share this episode with them on your favorite social network!

In today's episode, I'm sharing a quick weekend trip to DC to visit my college roommate, who I hadn't seen in 16 years. From a stressful airport start to a beautifully simple weekend of conversation, reconnection, and rest, this episode is a reminder that meaningful moments don't have to be big or busy.

For years, every February up until Valentine's Day, I've put heart shaped notes on my family's bedroom doors. They are filled with affirmations, prayers, and reminders of my love for each of them. In this episode, I share how this simple tradition started, how it's evolved through shared custody seasons, college years, and adulthood, and why it's become one of the most meaningful traditions for me.

In today's episode, I'm sitting down with Chelsey Hallblade, a former ER nurse turned nutritionist, entrepreneur, and mom of two. Chelsey shares her journey from hospital burnout to building a thriving online fitness and nutrition business that now serves hundreds of clients.We talk about why prioritizing your health is foundational, how busy moms can realistically lose weight without extremes, and what it really looks like to build a successful brand while raising kids. This conversation is honest, encouraging, and full of perspective for any mom who wants more energy, clarity, and confidence in her life.WAYS TO CONNECT WITH CHELSEY ~

Parenting through hard moments isn't about choosing between accountability and compassion, it's about learning how to hold both at the same time. If you've ever wondered, “Am I being too soft… or too hard?” Then, this episode is for you.

In today's episode of Start Scared, I reflect on a sermon from church over Philippians 1:1-11 and what it means to cultivate joyful fellowship with God and each other in 2026. From grace and peace to prayer and community, this episode invites you to reflect on how connected your faith is and how we are never meant to shine alone.

In 2026, instead of picking a word for the year, I am choosing how I want to be, feel, and act. In this episode, I share my personal declaration and mantra for the year, along with the scriptures that are helping me release urgency, pressure, and control.✨ Call to Action:Create your own declaration, Scripture of the year, or mantra and share it with me. I'd love to hear what God is stirring in you as you step into 2026.THANK YOU TO THIS WEEK'S SPONSOR ~

Today's episode is a replay of our most listened to episode of the year and I just want to say thank you. Thank you for listening to Start Scared, for sharing the show, and for being such an incredible part of this community.Even if you've already listened to this episode, I encourage you to tune in again. You might hear it differently this time or walk away with a new takeaway. I'm so grateful for you, and I'll see you in 2026.WAYS TO CONNECT WITH SHINE ~✨ INSTAGRAM: @shineimageconsulting✨ WEBSITE: www.shineimageconsulting.comTHANK YOU TO THIS WEEK'S SPONSOR ~

This weekend reminded me why parenting, boundaries, and friendship all matter. From a near missed fishing trip lesson to a husband and kid free girls' weekend, this episode is about responsibility, consequences, happiness, and giving yourself permission to live, too. You can be a present mom and a present friend. Both matter. Merry Christmas, Mama!

In this short Christmas season episode, I share the legend behind the candy cane and how it points us back to Jesus. We talk about the difference between temporary holiday happiness and the true joy found only in Christ. With Paul's letter to the Philippians as our guide, we're reminded to stay rooted in joy, contentment, and the real gift of Christmas.

This weekend at Frank's family ranch in San Saba was everything my soul needed—no makeup, no expectations, just real friendship, belly laughs, and slow moments that filled my cup.

In today's episode, I'm walking you through our full five-day Scottsdale and Grand Canyon trip... what we did, what we loved, the things that surprised us, and why this trip ended up being exactly what our family needed.We are typically beach vacation people, but this one slowed us down and reminded me that sometimes the best memories are made when you choose the unfamiliar.Mentioned in this episode:

This weekend in Stephenville turned into a whole word straight from Acts 20:24. Addison's church shared a powerful message on being “the other” in a world of sameness, especially with Thanksgiving and tricky family dynamics coming up. We're talking hope, joy, forgiveness, running your race, staying in your lane, and showing up with grace in places that feel hard.

A sweet recap of my annual girls trip! One of my favorite traditions in all its the simplicity, and the blessing of a friendship where silence feels like home. Spa day, delicious shared meals, football, books, chats by the pool and the reminder that taking time for yourself matters more than you think.

What started as a wall full of hats turned into a reminder that growth doesn't have to be perfect.In this short episode, I share how my impatient self decided to hang my cowboy hats around our mirror (even though I've been banned from hanging things

TW: Deer HuntingIn this episode, I share the real, raw, and emotional story of my very first hunt. From the nerves and tears to the laughs, the wildlife, and the memories made, this trip taught me so much about fear, gratitude, and stepping way outside my comfort zone.

Ever feel that wave of mom guilt when you do something for yourself? SAME. In this episode, I'm sharing about my upcoming 10-day trip to Colorado with my husband... The excitement, the guilt, and the reminder that it's okay to be both. If you've ever struggled with leaving your kids or taking time for yourself, this one's for you.

This week, I'm taking you back to a very special place in my heart, St. Augustine, Florida. My husband Frank, our 10-year-old Bruce, and I spent fall break exploring the city where I went to college. We did all the touristy things, ate amazing food, and visited the places that shaped who I am today. In this heartfelt episode, I'm sharing the full-circle gratitude that came from walking through old memories with new eyes.

This week, I'm diving into Romans 5:1–11 (ESV), a passage that's full of hope, peace, and reminders of how deeply God loves us. During my Bible study, a few words really stood out to me: hope and reconciled. Because of our faith, we have peace with God through Jesus, our relationship with Him is restored, and we're no longer His enemies.My biggest takeaway? Because of Jesus' love and sacrifice, I'm made right with God, I have peace and hope even in hard times, and I can live with joy knowing I've been fully forgiven and restored to Him.Friend, I hope this episode reminds you that even in the trials, even in the waiting, God is working. He's not done with your story, and He's always faithful.

Feeling overwhelmed by all the things on your plate? You're not alone, friend. Today I'm chatting with Andrea Liebross, business and life coach, speaker, and author of She Thinks Big. Andrea helps high-achieving women entrepreneurs stop thinking small and start creating extraordinary results with the right systems and mindset. In this episode, we talk about why it's so important to delegate (instead of trying to do it all), how her Big 3 Method can align your vision with your daily actions, and practical steps to build clarity, confidence, and freedom in your life and business.WAYS TO CONNECT WITH ANDREA ~

This weekend in South Texas, I was struck with a sudden wave of gratitude. For the land. For the sun. For the fresh air and good food. For friends who are more like family. For the kind of community where makeup doesn't matter, kids are loved like your own, and conversations fill your soul.In this episode, I share a story from our time dove hunting at a friend's ranch and how it reminded me that gratitude can shift everything, even in the middle of chaos.

This week's episode is short, sweet, and straight from my heart. I wasn't feeling inspired to record today, and maybe that's exactly why this message matters.In this episode, I share a moment from the other day when someone asked me, “What do you do now that you're not teaching?” and I froze. I explain how that question left me feeling less than, and how it ties into the bigger reminder we all need:

As a Christian, I wrestle with grief, shock, and the fear over how the death of Charlie Kirk could deepen political divisions. But I also hold onto hope: hope that tragedy might awaken compassion, that anger might be transformed, that we might lean into our shared humanity. Together, we'll explore what we can do: turning off the 24-hour news cycle, stepping away from social media for a bit, engaging in conversations with people we disagree with, and remembering that behind every headline, every clip, every voice is a person made in God's image. This is not about blame, or pointing fingers, or even political... It's about healing, unity, and love.THANK YOU TO THIS WEEK'S SPONSOR ~

This week, I'm sharing a powerful experience from visiting our daughter at Tarleton State University and attending Timber Ridge Church with her and her friends. Watching young adults worship Jesus so boldly reminded me of my own college years and how different my story was.The message that morning centered on how Jesus multiplies our gifts, and Romans 12:7-8 deeply connected to my heart and what I'm studying in Bible study right now.I pray this conversation encourages you to lean into the gifts God has placed in you and trust Him to multiply them.

I used to love The Biggest Loser. I thought it was motivational, inspiring, and fascinating. But after watching the Netflix documentary, my perspective completely changed. I realized how extreme the diets and exercise were, and how harmful the messaging about people and weight really was. In this episode, I share my honest thoughts, what I learned, and why it's okay to change your mind about things you once loved. Growth looks different for all of us, and that's a beautiful thing.THANK YOU TO THIS WEEK'S SPONSOR:

Today, I'm sharing something that I'm doing just for me. After years of teaching and now as a mom to a child with ADHD and big emotions, I've always been fascinated by the brain, especially how trauma and ADHD affect kids.Since I'm not working right now, I decided to use this season to grow my knowledge in a way that lights me up.In this quick episode, I talk about why I enrolled in a trauma-informed practice course, how it's helping me understand kids (and myself) in new ways, and why sometimes it's important to learn simply because we want to, not because we have to.If you've been curious about something, maybe this is your permission slip to go learn it, just for you.

In this powerful episode, Dr. Jenifer Price (aka Dr. Jen)—therapist, speaker, and proud boy mom—joins me to talk about the deep connection between a mother's mental health and a child's emotional intelligence. She opens up about how personal loss led to a journey of self-rediscovery and shares practical mental health hacks for busy moms and their kids. If you've ever felt guilty for prioritizing yourself, this conversation is for you.WAYS TO CONNECT WITH DR. JEN ~

Today's episode is a real-time reflection, straight from the yoga mat to the mic. After taking a heated barre and yoga class, I found myself in an emotional moment connecting with younger Chrysty, the version of me who never felt like she had permission to try unless she could be perfect.I share what it looked like to give her (and myself) permission to be a beginner, to fall, to laugh, to try new things without needing to “marry” them. This episode is your reminder that growth happens when we choose courage over perfection.THANK YOU TO THIS WEEK'S SPONSOR ~

If you're a routine loving, checklist-making, control craving mama then this one's for you.

In this short episode, I am sharing a bit about a recent girls' weekend getaway! It was only 30ish hours, but it reminded me how important it is to reconnect with myself, my friends, and the woman I am outside of motherhood. If you've been waiting for the “right time” to plan that getaway or dinner, consider this your nudge: Put it on the calendar, even if it's just for a day, because you matter too, mama.

Today on Start Scared, I'm joined by Kadi Dutton—SAHM of two littles and co-owner of EveryLove, a company helping couples take their sex life from surviving to thriving.We're diving deep into what it's like to feel more “mom” than “woman,” how postpartum changed the way Kadi and her husband approached marriage, and why prioritizing intimacy is a game-changer even when life feels overwhelming.This episode is raw, real, and full of hope. If your marriage feels disconnected—or you just want to feel seen in this season—press play now.WAYS TO CONNECT WITH KADI & EVERYLOVE ~