CHRISTIAN MOTHERHOOD: The REAL Conversation | Honest conversations about faith, family, & marriage, Christian Women Podcast, Christian Wife, Biblical Parenting

As 2025 comes to a close, Elyse and Michelle reflect on the highs, lows, lessons, and unexpected gifts God brought this year. From weddings and anniversaries to mental load, motherhood, and trusting the Lord’s provision, this honest year-end conversation invites Christian mums to pause, reflect, and move into 2026 with gratitude and wisdom. What We Talk About Why 2025 felt both long and fast all at once The unexpected fruit of starting Christian Motherhood: The Real Conversation Weddings, anniversaries, and trusting God with finances Mental load, hormones, and why mums feel so stretched Walking through a child’s diagnosis and carrying it as a mum Family dynamics, estrangement, and God’s grace in reconciliation Letting go of pressure and entering the new year with wisdom, not guilt 3 Key Takeaways God is faithful in provision, even when the numbers don’t make sense and fear feels loud. Mental load is real — naming it helps us create margin and breathe again. Reflection isn’t about regret; it’s about learning wisely so we don’t repeat what God has already taught us. A Gentle Invitation As you finish this year, take a moment to thank God for what He’s done — and to notice the lessons He’s been faithful to teach you. You don’t need perfect resolutions to step into a new year with grace. We Want to Hear From You 💛 This podcast exists for real mums walking real life with God. If there’s a topic you’d love us to cover, a question you want answered, or something God taught you this year — we’d love to hear from you. 👉 Share with us here: https://bit.ly/cmtellus Join the Conversation Subscribe so you don’t miss our first January episode — giving you permission to rest, reset, and release the pressure. Connect with us and tell us what God taught you in 2025. Elyse – @wholesomemumma Michelle – @itsmemichellecastro Email – christianmotherhood@gmail.com

Surviving Christmas Without Losing Your Joy (or Your Marriage) If Christmas feels more like pressure than peace, this episode is for you. In this honest Christmas Eve conversation, Elyse (Australia) and Michelle (USA) talk about expectations, stress, family dynamics, and how Christian mums can survive the holidays without losing their joy—or snapping at the people they love most. Drawing from Colossians 3:17, they gently reframe Christmas as an opportunity to live, serve, and love as representatives of Jesus, not performers of perfection. In this episode, we talk about: Why Christmas Day itself isn’t stressful—but expectations are The pressure cooker of family dynamics, travel, and mental load Doing everything “as a representative of the Lord” (Colossians 3:17) Letting go of Pinterest pressure and unrealistic standards How simplifying traditions protects your joy and your marriage Practical ways to care for yourself during the holidays 3 key takeaways Christmas isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence. Expectations create stress; grace creates peace. Your attitude matters as much as your actions. Even small moments reflect who (and what) we’re living for. Simplifying isn’t failure—it’s wisdom. Especially for mums carrying the mental load. We want to hear from you (completely anonymous) Have a question, story, or topic you want us to cover—but want to stay anonymous? We’ve created a 100% anonymous Google Form where you can share freely: 👉 bit.ly/cmtellus Join the conversation Subscribe so you never miss an episode of Unfiltered stories. Unapologetic faith. Real motherhood. If this episode encouraged you, share it with a mum who needs permission to breathe this Christmas. Contact Elyse – @wholesomemumma Michelle – @itsmemichellecastro Email – christianmotherhood@gmail.com

If Christmas traditions are starting to feel like a second job, this episode is your permission slip to simplify. Elyse (Australia) and Michelle (USA) talk about what they keep, what they skip (yes, Elf on the Shelf), and how to build meaningful memories without the Pinterest pressure. In this episode, we talk about: The traditions we actually enjoy vs. the ones that quietly drain us Elf on the Shelf (why it’s a hard pass for many moms) Aussie Christmas culture: beach mornings, seafood, carols in the park Staying home Christmas morning: slow, cosy, and kid-friendly “Something you want, something you need, something to read” gift idea Why simple can be more spiritual (and more joyful) 3 key takeaways If it’s making you stressed and snappy, it’s not serving your family. Simple can still be special. Traditions should make memories—not add mental load. You don’t need to keep up with imaginary Pinterest mums. Ask “why are we doing this?” Is it drawing you closer to Jesus and each other—or just pressure? 💥 We want to hear from you (completely anonymous) Have a story, question, or topic you want us to talk about—but don’t want your name attached? We’ve created a 100% anonymous Google form just for that. 👉🏻 bit.ly/cmtellus Join the conversation Subscribe so you never miss an episode of Unfiltered stories. Unapologetic faith. Real motherhood. Come tell us: what tradition are you keeping… and what are you joyfully ditching this year? Contact Elyse – @wholesomemumma Michelle – @itsmemichellecastro Email – christianmotherhood@gmail.com

Is Santa okay for Christian families? And why does Christmas make mums feel like they have to be magical, matchy, and endlessly cheerful? Elyse and Michelle get honest about Santa stories, Pinterest pressure, over-gifting, and the myth of the “perfect Christian Christmas mom.” They talk pajamas, presents, Hobby Lobby hauls, and then gently pull it all back to Luke, the incarnation, and simple ways to invite Jesus into the chaos instead of trying to perform your way to a picture-perfect December. Key Takeaways Santa isn’t the savior—Jesus is. You can handle Santa differently in each family, but the non-negotiable is that Christmas is about Christ, not a man in a red suit or a pile of presents. The “perfect Christmas mom” does not exist. Social media, magazines, and movies sell a styled, staged version of Christmas that doesn’t include toddlers, tight budgets, or perimenopausal mood swings—so stop holding yourself to that standard. Simplifying is deeply spiritual, not lazy. Fewer gifts, experience-based presents, realistic traditions, and less “stuff” can ease the mental load and make more room for Scripture, prayer, and actually enjoying your family. Join the Conversation Subscribe to the podcast for more unfiltered chats about faith, family, and navigating big expectations in ordinary, imperfect homes. Share this episode with a mum who feels behind on shopping, decorating, or “doing Christmas right” and remind her that Jesus, not her performance, holds this season together. Connect with Us Elyse – @wholesomemumma Michelle – @itsmemichellecastro Email – christianmotherhood@gmail.com Unfiltered stories. Unapologetic faith. Real motherhood.

Hormones flaring, Christmas coming, and everyone’s one comment away from tears? Elyse and Michelle get honest about PMS, perimenopause, stress, sleep, and why the holiday season can tip even the most “chill” mum over the edge. From farmer’s market cry sessions to the mental load nobody sees, they unpack what’s hormones, what’s attitude, and what’s actually an invitation from God to slow down and pay attention. Key Takeaways Hormones matter—but they’re not the whole story. PMS and perimenopause are real, but so is the fruit of the Spirit. The tension between the two? That’s where growth happens. Stress hides in plain sight. Christmas planning, finances, family tension, toxic products, relational strain, and the constant “mum mental load” all spike cortisol and impact sleep, mood, and hormone balance. You’re not imagining it—and you’re not alone. Bloodwork, naturopathic support, removing synthetic fragrance, better sleep, real nutrition, and talking to a safe friend can all bring clarity and peace in hormone-heavy seasons. Join the Conversation Subscribe for more unfiltered stories and faith-filled encouragement in every messy season of motherhood. Share this episode with a mum friend who’s wondering why she’s suddenly crying, snapping, or not sleeping—especially heading into the holidays. Connect with Us Elyse – @wholesomemumma Michelle – @itsmemichellecastro Email – christianmotherhood@gmail.com Unfiltered stories. Unapologetic faith. Real motherhood.

What if gratitude isn’t fluffy Pinterest quotes but actual warfare against overwhelm, bitterness, and resentment in your home? In this episode, Elyse and Michelle talk about choosing gratitude in the real chaos of marriage, motherhood, laundry piles, and holiday pressure. From Thanksgiving reflections to PTSD recovery, negative-thinking ruts, and husbands who “miss” the sink, they unpack how simple gratitude habits can rewire your brain, soften your heart, and shift the atmosphere in your home—without pretending everything is fine when it’s not. Key Takeaways Gratitude is not toxic positivity; it’s a biblical, practical weapon against bitterness, anxiety, and constant negativity. Simple practices (like three things you’re thankful for about your husband or kids) can reframe your day and your marriage. How shifting from “have to” to “get to” in chores and motherhood changes your posture toward your home and your people. Join the Conversation Love this episode? Follow the show and leave a quick review—your words help more mums find unfiltered stories, unapologetic faith, and real motherhood. Share your own “gratitude in the chaos” moment—tag us in your stories or send us an email so we can cheer you on. Connect with Us Elyse – @wholesomemumma Michelle – @itsmemichellecastro Email – christianmotherhood@gmail.com

From postpartum to perimenopause, what do you do when your body feels foreign, squishy and nothing like it “used to be”? In this honest conversation, Elyse and Michelle talk mumbods, hormones, comparison, bounce-back culture, and how to see your changing body through a biblical lens instead of shame. They unpack the pressure to “bounce back,” the mental health side of body obsession, and why stewarding your health as a Christian mum is about serving your family and honoring God—not chasing a certain jean size. Key Takeaways Why “bouncing back” after babies is a toxic and unrealistic expectation for most Christian mums. How a biblical view of health and beauty (hello 3 John 1:2) helps you care for your body without obsessing over it. Practical encouragement: from movement and hormones to finding clothes that actually fit your current body, not the one you had at 18. Join the Conversation If this episode encouraged you, follow the show, leave a quick review, and share it with a friend who’s struggling with her changing body. Tell us your mumbod story or what hit home for you—DM us on Instagram or send an email. We love hearing from you. Connect with Us Elyse – @wholesomemumma Michelle – @itsmemichellecastro Email – christianmotherhood@gmail.com

Two imperfect people, one sacred covenant: Elyse and Michelle get real about what they’d tell their younger wife selves—expectations, prayer, intimacy, and communication. From peacekeeping vs. peacemaking to timing hard talks, counseling, and making marriage a yearly “work-on-it” priority, this is tender, practical, and unfiltered. Key Takeaways Your spouse can’t complete you—only Jesus can; unrealistic expectations sabotage connection. Pray (together if possible), communicate honestly, and pick wise timing—think side-by-side walks. Intimacy gets better with safety, questions, and practice; invite trusted older women into the convo. Join the Conversation Subscribe and share a 5-star review so more mums and wives find honest, faith-filled encouragement. Tell us: What do you wish you’d known as a new wife? Connect Elyse – @wholesomemumma Michelle – @itsmemichellecastro Email – christianmotherhood@gmail.com    

Ever wish you could go back and encourage your younger mom self? In this episode, Elyse and Michelle open up about guilt, grace, and the impossible standards we set for ourselves as mothers. From toddler chaos to quiet-time guilt, they share what they’ve learned about letting go, finding identity in Christ, and trusting God to gently lead you—right where you are. Unfiltered stories. Unapologetic faith. Real motherhood. 💡 Key Takeaways Let go of “supermom” expectations—examine whether choices elevate you or honor God. Your greatest ministry happens at home; motherhood is holy and refining (Isaiah 40:11). Surround yourself with wise counsel, pick your battles, and remember: grace over guilt. 💬 Join the Conversation Love what you’re hearing? Subscribe, rate, and share with a friend. Tell us what topics you’d love next—DM us or email below. Connect Elyse – @wholesomemumma Michelle – @itsmemichellecastro Email – christianmotherhood@gmail.com 🔍 SEO Keywords Christian motherhood podcast, mom guilt Christian, biblical motherhood, identity in Christ for moms, grace over guilt, motherhood encouragement, faith-based parenting, Christian mom advice, letting go of perfection, motherhood sanctification

Is Halloween harmless fun or a doorway to darkness? Elyse (AUS) and Michelle (USA) share candid childhood stories, current convictions, and practical ways to guard little hearts while keeping family peace—without shaming other parents. Unfiltered stories. Unapologetic faith. Real motherhood. 3 Key Takeaways Discernment over default: Take Halloween (and media choices) to the Lord; let the Holy Spirit shape your family’s convictions—and feel free to change as He leads. Guard little eyes: Be mindful of what enters your home and kids’ imaginations; use post-movie chats to process themes and choices together. Offer bright alternatives: Consider church “light nights,” Reformation Day fun, dress-up without the dark, or a family night out to sidestep scary content. Join the Conversation If this stirred something in you, bring it to prayer—and tell us what you’re deciding for your family this year. Subscribe and share this episode with a friend who’s wrestling with Halloween, too. Connect with Us Elyse – @wholesomemumma Michelle – @itsmemichellecastro Email – christianmotherhood@gmail.com   Christian parents and Halloween, should Christians celebrate Halloween, faith-based parenting Halloween, guarding kids’ hearts, spiritual warfare and family, Halloween alternatives church, Reformation Day for families, Christian motherhood podcast

Pregnancy loss isn’t a sidebar—it’s part of many mothers’ stories. Michelle shares seven pregnancies, three live births, and the stillbirth of her son, Jackson, while Elyse opens up about endo, fertility grief, and near-loss—offering honest, faith-filled ways to grieve, talk about it, and love families walking through it. Key Takeaways Permission to lament: why grief after miscarriage, stillbirth, and infertility is real—and how Scripture steadies us without platitudes. How to help: what to say (and not say), practical support that truly serves, and the quiet power of presence and prayer. Community matters: how the Church, friends, and husbands can show up with meals, messages, and long-haul care. Join the Conversation Subscribe for unfiltered stories, unapologetic faith, and real motherhood every week. Connect with us and share your story—we’re listening and praying. JACKSON CHRISTOPHER BLOG LISTEN TO THE WHOLE STORY Link to  Contact Elyse – @wholesomemumma Michelle – @itsmemichellecastro Email – christianmotherhood@gmail.com SEO Keywords pregnancy loss; miscarriage; stillbirth; Christian motherhood; grief and faith; infant loss awareness; support after miscarriage; lament

Elyse (AUS) and Michelle (USA) pull back the curtain on the invisible mental load moms carry—endless schedules, meal plans, school forms, and everyone’s emotions—while confessing the funny, messy bits (hello, mystery music tab). Together they offer practical ways to declutter your home and calendar, train kids, ask your husband for help, and surrender the extras God never asked you to carry. Key Takeaways (3): Declutter on purpose: stuff and schedule—fewer bins and fewer commitments calm your mind. Delegate + train: age-appropriate chores and clear instructions reduce rework and resentment. Decide your “yes”: every yes is a no to something else—ask, “Did God actually ask me to carry this?” Join the Conversation: • Subscribe for unfiltered stories, unapologetic faith, and real motherhood every week. • DM us your favorite mental-load hacks or the chore your kids finally mastered! Connect: Elyse – @wholesomemumma Michelle – @itsmemichellecastro Email – christianmotherhood@gmail.com SEO Keywords (5–8): Christian motherhood podcast, mental load of moms, mom burnout and decision fatigue, Christian parenting tips, decluttering for moms, sharing household chores, emotional labor motherhood, boundaries and saying no  

Soft cookies, hard seasons: from choc-chip banter to the heart of mom guilt—comparison, joy, and conviction—in real time with Elyse (AUS) and Michelle (USA). We unpack how to take thoughts captive, spot the difference between condemnation and conviction, and find joy that outlasts the chaos. Scripture touched gently: 2 Corinthians 10:5; Deuteronomy 6:6–7; Philippians 4:8; James 1:2—simple, doable ways to apply them in everyday motherhood. 3 Key Takeaways Name it to tame it: Is this mom guilt or the Holy Spirit’s conviction? Condemnation isolates; conviction invites change (2 Cor. 10:5). Truth > comparison: Replace the scroll’s lies with what is true, lovely, and praiseworthy (Phil. 4:8). Home is your first mission field: Simple rhythms—bedtime prayers, meal-time thanks, talk as you go—live out Deut. 6:6–7 and nurture joy in trials (James 1:2). Join the Conversation Subscribe so you never miss the unfiltered, cross-generational real talk. Connect with us and share your story—what mom guilt are you laying down this week? Contact Elyse – @wholesomemumma Michelle – @itsmemichellecastro Email – christianmotherhood@gmail.com

Feeling more like house managers than husband and wife? Elyse (AUS) and Michelle (USA) get real about marriage after kids—date nights, scheduling sex, and why most “intimacy issues” are often communication issues. With humour, honesty, and hope, they share practical rhythms and a gospel-centred vision for oneness. 3 Key Takeaways Communication first: many intimacy roadblocks are actually unspoken expectations and unclear communication. Intimacy is multi-layered: emotional vulnerability, prayer, laughter, and physical connection all help “reset” oneness. Intentionality beats spontaneity: scheduling connection (and kid-swaps or a simple movie night) keeps you lovers, not roommates. Join the conversation Subscribe & review to help other mums find the show. DM us your date-night ideas or questions about talking intimacy with your husband. Contact Elyse – @wholesomemumma Michelle – @itsmemichellecastro Email – christianmotherhood@gmail.com   Safety note: If you’re in danger or struggling with mental health, seek professional help or contact local emergency services.

Elyse (Aus) and Michelle (US) process the shock of Charlie Kirk’s September 10 assassination at Utah Valley University and ask, “How do we raise kids to be unashamed of the gospel— JOIN THE CONVO: Subscribe so you never miss new episodes of Christian Motherhood: The Real Conversation. Share this episode with a mum who needs courage today. Leave a 5-star review—it helps more women find unfiltered stories and unapologetic faith. Contact: Elyse – @wholesomemumma Michelle – @itsmemichellecastro Email – christianmotherhood@gmail.com

It finally happened — Elyse (Australia, 30s) and Michelle (USA, 50s) hit record after years of friendship and months of dreaming. In this first episode, they share their stories, why they’re done with polished perfection, and why Christian mums need raw, faith-filled conversations. 3 Key Takeaways Motherhood is messy and isolating at times — but you’re never the only one feeling what you’re feeling. Trusting God doesn’t mean you hide your struggles; it means you pour out your heart and keep trusting Him (Psalm 62:8). Generational friendship brings hope and perspective — whether you’re raising littles or letting go of adult kids. Scripture: Psalm 62:8 — “Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts before him. God is our refuge.” You don’t have to hide the struggle to have faith. You can trust Him and still pour out your heart. CTA: Subscribe so you don’t miss new episodes each week. Share this with a friend who needs a laugh and some honest mum-talk today. ✨ Unfiltered stories. Unapologetic faith. Real motherhood. ✨ Connect with us: 📧 Email: christianmotherhood@gmail.com 📸 Elyse on Instagram: @wholesomemumma 🇺🇸 Michelle on Instagram: @itsmemichellecastro

Motherhood is messy. Faith wobbles. Marriage takes work. And if you’ve ever felt like you’re the only Christian mom who doesn’t have it all together—you’re not alone. Welcome to Christian Motherhood: The Real Conversation—the podcast for moms who love Jesus but are done with the “perfect Christian mom” highlight reel. Hosted by Elyse Rooney (Australia, mum of three) and Michelle Castro (USA, mama of three daughters), we bring two seasons of motherhood, two continents, and one bold mission: to say the quiet parts out loud about family, faith, and womanhood. Each week, we talk about the real stuff: mom guilt, intimacy in marriage, hormones, tantrums (ours and theirs), grief, friendship, burnout, and finding Jesus in the middle of the dishes. With unfiltered stories, unapologetic faith, and real encouragement, we’re here to help you laugh, cry, and remember that God is right in the middle of your motherhood. If you’re looking for a Christian motherhood podcast that’s biblically grounded, hope-filled, and hilariously honest—you’ve found your people. Subscribe now and join the conversation. 3 Key Takeaways: Why this podcast exists: ditching the “perfect Christian mom” narrative. What to expect each week: honest, hope-filled, hilariously raw conversations. An invitation to join a community where faith meets the messy middle of motherhood. CTA: 👉🏻 Hit subscribe so you don’t miss an episode. 👉🏻 Share this trailer with a mama friend—because we all need encouragement (and a little laughter) along the way. Connect with us: Instagram: Elyse – @wholesomemumma | Michelle – @itsmemichellecastro Email: christianmotherhood@gmail.com

All good things must come to an end… so that something even better can begin. Today’s episode is bittersweet as we close the chapter on Consider Jesus. But don’t worry—this isn’t goodbye. It’s a shift, a bold step forward, and I can’t wait for you to come with me.  God has been stirring something new in my heart, and it’s time to step into it. In this episode, I’m sharing why Consider Jesus is ending, what’s coming next, and why this new podcast is going to challenge and encourage you in ways we’ve never gone before. Plus—the trailer for my new podcast, RIP IT OFF, is already live! Are you ready for what’s next? Hit play and let’s talk about it. In This Episode, I Share: Why Consider Jesus is ending (and why it’s the right time). How God has been leading me to take this next bold step. A sneak peek at my brand-new podcast, RIP IT OFF—and why it’s exactly what we need right now. Where you can listen to the RIP IT OFF trailer (hint: go now!). Links & Resources: 🎧 Listen to the RIP IT OFF Trailer: LISTEN HERE 📲 Subscribe & Follow RIP IT OFF on APPLE / SPOTIFY 💬 Let’s Connect! Follow me on @itsmemichellecastro / @ripitoffpodcast Thank You for Being Here! Consider Jesus has been such a beautiful journey, and I am so grateful for each and every one of you. Thank you for listening, for sharing, for showing up. Now, let’s take this next step together. It’s time to RIP. IT. OFF. 💥 IF YOU HAVE LOVED THIS PODCAST...WOULD YOU CONSIDER HEADING OVER TO THE RIP IT OFF PODCAST AND LEAVING A REVIEW?