Don't Mom Alone Podcast

When life doesn’t go as planned, it can be hard to see where God is working. In this powerful conversation, Sandra Peoples, author, special needs mom, and ministry leader,  opens up about her journey from growing up with a sister with Down syndrome to parenting a son with autism. Sandra shares how her family’s story revealed a gap in the church for families impacted by disability, and how God called her to help fill it. From starting a special needs ministry to creating sensory rooms and buddy systems, Sandra offers practical and spiritual wisdom for pastors, volunteers, and parents alike. Here is some of what we cover:  Disability families are often unreached — the church has an incredible opportunity to serve and love them. Support for the whole family — offer counseling, respite nights, and peer connection for parents and siblings. The church should be a whole picture of the body of Christ including those with disabilities who often enter into worship in the most beautiful ways.  What questions to ask your friends who are hesitant to come to church with their special needs child.  Hope for the mom that feels unseen or hopeless. Psalm 126:5- Those who sow in tears shall reap with shouts of joy! Connect with Sandra Peoples Website: Sandra Peoples: Equipping Churches and Encouraging Families Instagram: Sandra Peoples (@sandrapeoples) Facebook: Sandra Peoples Links Mentioned:   Accessible Church: By Sandra Peoples Held: Learning to Live in God's Grip: By Sandra Peoples Unexpected Blessings: By Sandra Peoples 99 Balloons Related Episodes: Adopting Special Needs :: Alice and Candace [Ep 213] Mothering Autism: Navigating Grief, Marriage, and Community :: Carrie Cariello, Kate Swenson, and Adrian Wood [Ep 515] Parenting Neurodivergent Children–Summer Edition :: Carrie Cassell [Ep 413] Featured Sponsors:  Thrive Causemetics: Complete your fall look. Go to thrivecausemetics.com/DMA for an exclusive 20% off your first order.  StoryWorth Memoirs: Give your loved ones a unique keepsake you’ll all cherish for years–Storyworth Memoirs! Right now, save $10 or more during their Holiday sale when you go to storyworth.com/dma !

In this episode, New York Times bestselling author Katherine Schwarzenegger Pratt joins us to talk about parenting, faith, and finding courage, especially in the spotlight. Katherine opens up about her new children’s book, Kat and Brandy, an inspiring story about overcoming fear, bravery, and the bond between animals and humans. She shares how growing up in a politically influential family shaped her values, why protecting her kids’ privacy matters deeply to her, and how faith and humor help her stay grounded in motherhood. From her childhood journals to her love of animals Katherine reveals the experiences that built her courage, and how she hopes to pass those lessons on. Here is some of what we cover: Balancing Fame and Family: How Katherine and Chris Pratt navigate parenting in the public eye while prioritizing a grounded, private childhood for their kids. Why boredom, journaling, and quiet moments sparked her lifelong passion for storytelling and creativity. Motherhood with Humor and Grace: Katherine’s honest reflections on mom life, finding laughter in chaos, and building a community that uplifts and supports. Encouragement for Overwhelmed Moms: find humor in things, get outside, and give yourself grace. Connect with Katherine Schwarzenegger Pratt:  Website: Katherine Schwarzenegger Pratt Instagram: Katherine Schwarzenegger (@katherineschwarzenegger) Facebook: Katherine Schwarzenegger Links Mentioned:   Kat and Brandy: By Katherine Schwarzenegger Pratt Jingle All the Way Christmas Movie Black Beauty: By Anna Sewell BDA Baby® Podcast Related Episodes: Honoring Moms, the Unsung Heroes :: Rebecca St. James [Ep 466] Raising Rock Stars on a Firm Foundation :: Helen Smallbone [Ep 166] From Blockbusters to Blanket Forts: Patricia Heaton on Parenting, Faith, and Comedy [Ep 521] Featured Sponsors:  Hiya Health: Receive 50% off your first order. To claim this deal you must go to hiyahealth.com/DMA. This deal is not available on their regular website. Get your kids the full-body nourishment they need to grow into healthy adults. Bubs Natural: Live Better Longer with BUBS Naturals. For A limited time get 20% Off your entire order with code [DMA] at Bubsnaturals.com PolicyGenius: Head to policygenius.com to compare life insurance quotes and get the coverage you need. Because being financially protected? That’s the ultimate self-care. 

What does it really mean to parent with grace? Does choosing grace-based or gentle parenting mean we throw out discipline or become permissive? In today’s episode, Cody Kimmel and I, explore the deep spiritual truths behind parenting the way God parents us, full of grace, full of truth, and full of delight. Parenting is not about perfection. It’s about partnering with God in the work He’s doing in our kids' lives. When we align ourselves with His heart—gracious, truthful, joyful—we parent from a place of rest, not reaction. Here is some of what we cover: How to respond to a talking-back teen with both love and limits How our own sanctification plays a role in how we approach our kids and discipline  The role of trust and play in your relationship with your kids Grace doesn't mean permissiveness, it means parenting the way God parents us How modern parenting gets it wrong by saying parenting is death to joy and freedom but there is incredible beauty and delight in motherhood  Connect with Cody Kimmel:  Website: Home - Gracebased Facebook: Gracebased Instagram: Gracebased (@gracebasedfamilies) Links Mentioned:   Grace-Based Parenting: By Tim Kimmel Blueprint Pathway - Gracebased Gracebased Home Journal - Gracebased Podcasts lightcatchers - Gracebased Related Episodes: Grace Based Discipline for Kids with Unique Needs :: Karis Murray [Ep 237] Grace-Based Discipline :: Karis Kimmel Murray [Ep 150] “What Does My Child Need?” :: Amy and Jeffrey Olrick [Ep 480] Featured Sponsors:  Little Spoon: Simplify your kids' mealtimes. Go to: littlespoon.com/DMA and enter our code DMA at checkout to get 50% OFF your first Little Spoon order.  Voetberg Music Academy: This month, use my code: DONTMOMALONE to get 20% off each month you’re subscribed. Get 20% off the proprietary Voetberg Method Experience. Lightcatchers Podcast: Lightcatchers, a new podcast of original stories for children. Created by an organization with over 40 years of helping moms and dads experience God’s vision for parenting, Lightcatchers is loved by children and parents alike. It’s perfect for parents looking for stories that explore topics like emotional intelligence, mental health, and hope. Listen now to Lightcatchers wherever you get your podcasts. And learn more at bealightcatcher.com

In today’s episode, we’re joined by Kathleen from The Pour Over, a news outlet known for delivering the world’s biggest headlines with clarity and Christian perspective. We unpack the emotional weight of our 24/7 news cycle, especially in a world where social media pulls on your emotions and algorithms scream, “Why aren’t you talking about this?”.  Moms are expected to stay informed, care deeply, and somehow shield their kids from the fear and confusion that often comes with breaking news. Here are some of the topics we cover:  How to talk to your kids about heavy headlines without additional fear Discernment in the age of social media and video “evidence” Monitoring your time consuming the news — and its effect on your mood Staying informed while still showing the fruits of the Spirit Connect with Kathleen Wadkins:  Website: Your politically neutral, Christian news source. - The Pour Over Instagram:  The Pour Over | News & Perspective (@thepourovernews) Links Mentioned:   Decaf - The Pour Over Subscribe for FREE to The Pour Over The Pour Over - Podcast - Apple Podcasts Related Episodes: Factual News, Flexible Thinking and Family Moral Imperatives :: Sharon McMahon [Ep 332] Do Not Grow Weary :: Sharon McMahon [Ep 495] Raising Critical Thinkers :: Julie Bogart [Ep 474] Featured Sponsors:  Branch Basics: Ready to kick off your back-to-school reset? Shop the Premium Starter Kit and save 15% off with code [DMA] at BranchBasics.com. Start fresh this season, with products that are safe, simple, and actually work. Honeylove: Treat yourself to the most comfortable shapewear on earth and save 20% Off sitewide at honeylove.com/[DMA]. Experience the new standard in shapewear with Honeylove.

In this episode I chat with the lovely Erica Gwynn, author, podcaster, and mom about her new book That’s Just Not True. She shares how easily we start believing lies about our worth, purpose, and identity. From the pressure to “have it all together” to the quiet voice that whispers “you’re missing out” or “you’re not enough,” the conversation dives deep into how these thoughts take root — and how God’s truth brings freedom. Through honest stories and truth, Erica reminds us that you are not enough — but Jesus is enough. God hasn’t asked us to do everything; He’s gifted us to play our part in the body of Christ. Here is some of what we cover: Turning ordinary (or in between) moments into “breath prayers”  Recognizing lies like: I’m missing out, I missed my shot, and I can manifest my dream life We talk about how mom’s can make their kids their whole life and identity How to shift worldly affirmations to Godly affirmations How social media has become a place of “curated messy” and fake authenticity Connect with Erica Gwynn:  Website:  Popular Philadelphia Lifestyle Blog | Coming Up Roses Facebook: Coming Up Roses Instagram:  Erica Ligenza Gwynn // PHILLY (@ericaligenza) Links Mentioned:   That's Just Not True: By Erica Ligenza Gwynn You Are Special; by Max Lucado Must Be Nice Hat from Sidetracked Podcast Thrive Podcast | Coming up Roses Related Episodes: If You’re Tired of Feeling Like You Don’t Measure Up… :: Hosanna Wong [Ep 538] The Shift: Overcoming Self-Sabotage, Imposter Syndrome, and Critical Inner Monologues :: Mary Marantz [Ep 520] Unpacking Moms’ Mental Load :: Dr. Morgan Cutlip [Ep 503] Featured Sponsors:  Green Chef–Make this fall your healthiest yet with Green Chef. Head to Greenchef.com/50ALONE and use code 50ALONE to get 50% off your first month then 20% off for two months with free shipping.  Thrive Causemetics–Complete your fall look. Go to thrivecausemetics.com/DMA for an exclusive offer of 20% off your first order.  Voetburg Music Academy–The Voetberg Family loves playing music together, and they want to help you bring the gift of music into your home in an affordable, efficient, and family-centered way. This month, use my code: DONTMOMALONE to get 20% off each month you’re subscribed. Find links to this week’s sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Is it too late to rebuild your relationship with your adult child? What if there’s grief, resentment, or even silence between you? In this episode, Kathy Cunningham, a Christian counselor, ordained minister, coach, and inner healing ministry leader shares her deeply personal journey of healing, transformation, and restored connection with her adult children. Kathy went through a journey with both of her kids and started to see more and more parent child estrangement in her counseling practice. This led her to start a ministry that helps parents grow and be a cheerleader instead of controlling their adult kids. Here is some of what we cover:  Why your own healing journey is key to restoring connection Setting healthy boundaries in your home while honoring your child’s independence What to do when your child has cut off contact Radical acceptance: creating space for disagreement without division Moms whose identity has been wrapped up in parenting find themselves feeling lost and unsure of who they are once their kids leave home- what to do next Connect with Kathy Cunningham:  Website:  Grace For The Journey Facebook: A Seed of Hope Instagram:  Katherine L Cunningham (@kathycunningham717) Links Mentioned:   Doing Life with Your Adult Children: By Jim Burns Parents of Addicted Loved Ones | Support Group for Parents, Spouses, Family of Addicted Loved One FREE resources for parents to reconnect with adult children  Grace Restored Membership Related Episodes: “How do I connect better with my kids?” [Ep 475] Building Healthy Relationships by Exploring Adult Attachment Patterns (Part 1) :: Charissa Lopez [Ep 498] Building Healthy Relationships by Exploring Adult Attachment Patterns (Part 2) :: Charissa Lopez [Ep 499] Featured Sponsors:  GoPure Beauty–For a limited time, our listeners get 25% off goPure with code DMA at checkout. Just head to gopure.com, use code DMA, and you’re all set. And after you buy, do us a favor—when they ask where you heard about goPure, tell them it was from our show! Policygenius: Head to policygenius.com to compare life insurance quotes and get the coverage you need. Because being financially protected? That’s the ultimate self-care. Hiya Health: The same multivitamin that more than a million parents trust is now available with an enchanting Disney Princess welcome kit, with a new Princess unboxing experience including Princess bottle and stickers. And we've worked out a special deal with Hiya for their best selling children's vitamin. Receive 50% off your first order. To claim this deal you must go to hiyahealth.com/DMA. This deal is not available on their regular website. get your kids the full-body nourishment they need to grow into healthy adults. Find links to this week’s sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

What happens when love meets fear head-on in the midst of an unplanned pregnancy? Today, Amy Ford, from the ministry "Embrace Grace" is here to share her own personal testimony and how God is moving through local churches to love on women. Amy’s own story of an unexpected pregnancy that ends in total redemption is amazing. From that she started Embrace Grace, an organization that provides baby showers, support before and after birth, and a community that goes beyond. Here is some of what we cover:  What “Love Boxes” are and why 30,000+ were given out last year The powerful symbolism of Hagar, the first single mom in the Bible, who encountered the God who sees A support group for fathers called Embrace Legacy and the vital role they play The vision of being in 23,400 churches by 2050  How your church can become a place of welcome and grace for single moms and dads Connect with Amy Ford:  Website:  Unplanned Pregnancy Support Groups | Embrace Grace Facebook: Embrace Grace | Hurst TX  Instagram:  Embrace Grace (@embracegraceinc) Links Mentioned:   Write a Brave Girl Letter | Encourage a Single and Pregnant Mom Love in a Box – Embrace Grace Shop Help Her Be Brave Podcast Hannah Kirkman’s IG story of healing from her abortion journey Forgiven and Set Free by Linda Cochrane Forgiven and Set Free Bible Study by Linda Cochrane Surrendering the Secret Bible Study by Pat Layton  Related Episodes: I Am Restored :: Stacy Reaves {Ep 93}  How to Stop Shame Spirals :: Dr. Curt Thompson [Summer of Mentorship Wk 6] Set Free From Shame :: Jeannie Cunnion [Ep 190] Featured Sponsors:  Voetberg Music Academy: If you are ready to get started with either Piano, Guitar, Fiddle, or Ukulele lessons at Voetberg Music Academy then use my code DONTMOMALONE at checkout and get 20% off each month you’re enrolled. Weekly lessons, LIVE coaching calls, monthly performance opportunities, 24/7 messaging with your instructor, access to the VMA community, badges mailed to your home and so much more is included with your membership that is less than one in person lesson.  Thrive Causemetics: Complete your fall look. Go to thrivecausemetics.com/DMA for an exclusive 20% off your first order.  Branch Basics: Head to BranchBasics.com to shop their Ultimate Starter Kit and save 15% off with code [DMA] at BranchBasics.com. That’s 15% off your new Branch Basics Ultimate Starter Kit at BranchBasics.com with promo code [DMA]. Make the change today—because a healthier home starts with what you clean it with. Find links to this week’s sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Have you ever felt like your teenager is pulling away, and no matter how much you talk, nothing seems to get through? In this episode, we’re joined by Mark Gregston, a ministry leader who has spent over 50 years walking with teenagers through crises, often welcoming them into his home. His insights challenge a lot of the assumptions we make about parenting teens. Mark reminds us that relationships are the most important thing and shares ways to make that connection, and how to transition from parenting littles to older kids. Here is some of what we cover:  What to do when mom shame pops up  How to know when your teen is just being a teen... and when it's a red flag What to do when your teen surprises you with behavior you didn’t see coming How to give them more responsibility and be less controlling Creating a home where relationships flourish is possible—even when things feel hopeless Connect with Mark Gregston:  Website:  Parenting Today's Teens with Mark Gregston Website: Heartlight Ministries Facebook: Parenting Today's Teens with Mark Gregston Instagram:  PTT with Mark Gregston (@parentingtodaysteens) Links Mentioned:   Family Crisis Coaching Program - Parenting Today's Teens Heartlight Ministries Parenting Today's Teens Podcast with Mark Gregston eBooks - Parenting Today's Teens Related Episodes: Help for the Unspoken Challenges of Parenting Teens :: Amy Betters-Midtvedt [Ep 493] Three Faith Pillars for Parenting Teens :: Melissa Kruger [Ep 457] Important Topics to Cover with Tweens and Teens about Manners, Technology and Friendship :: Lee Cordon [Ep 408] Featured Sponsors:  GoPure: Right now, goPure has a crazy deal. For a limited time, you can get 57% off the Tighten & Lift Neck Cream and Sculpt & Tone Arm Cream Bundle. You can also get 25% off all other products by using code DMA at goPure.com Honeylove: Treat yourself to the most comfortable shapewear on earth and save 20% Off sitewide at honeylove.com/DMA.  Thrive Market: Go to thrivemarket.com/DMA to get 30% off your first order and a FREE $60 gift.  Find links to this week’s sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Is your child really doomed if they don’t start soccer by age 2? Do you feel the constant pressure to sign your kids up for the “right” teams and keep pace with the families around you? In this episode, longtime youth sports leaders Ed and Brian pull back the curtain on the fear-driven culture so many parents get caught in. They challenge the myth of early specialization and share a hope-filled vision of what true success looks like for our kids—on and off the field. You’ll hear practical wisdom on how to stay connected with your child while letting them own their sports journey. Here’s what we cover: The silent killer: what’s said in the car ride home What the fruits of the Spirit look like on the sidelines Creating spiritual rhythms around practice and game day The myth of “early start or fall behind” Plus, a little Napoleon Dynamite and Uncle Rico fun! Connect with Ed and Brian:  Website:  Away Game Instagram:  Ed Uszynski Instagram: Brian Smith Links Mentioned:   Away Game: By Brian Smith and Ed Uszynski  Related Episodes: Choosing Connection Over Critique :: Rachel Macy Stafford [Ep 280] How to be Calm and Kind Under Pressure :: Candace Cameron Bure [Ep 223] Parenting in the Power of the Holy Spirit :: Jeannie Cunnion [Ep 347] Featured Sponsors:  Green Chef: Make this fall your healthiest yet with Green Chef. Head to Greenchef.com/50ALONE and use code 50ALONE to get 50% off your first month then 20% off for two months with free shipping.  Thrive Causemetics: Maximize your look with minimal effort. Go to thrivecausemetics.com/DMA for an exclusive offer of 20% off your first order.  Untriggered by Amber Lia: Untriggered: 60 Days of Transformation for Moms Who Struggle with Anger available at MoodyPublishers.com or wherever you get good books. Find links to this week’s sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Do you feel embarrassment or shame around talking to your kids about sex? Do you wish someone else could come talk to them for you?  Well today Kristin Miele is here to share her curriculum called Sex Ed Reclaimed. Kristin very reluctantly dove into this topic, she kept trying to run from it but God kept putting her in spaces to teach the truth of how our bodies are made. Here is some of what we cover: Teaching about boundaries, safety, and abuse prevention The "STOP" acronym for responding to porn exposure The difference between recognizing our feelings and declaring that they are truth Talking to your kids about abortion, same-sex attraction, and gender questions The harm of 90s purity culture—and a healthier, more grace-filled way forward Connect with Kristen Miele:  Website:  Christian Online Sex Ed Courses | Sex Ed Reclaimed Instagram:  Finally, Sex Ed You Can Trust Just For Kids! (@sexedreclaimed) Links Mentioned:   Good Pictures Bad Pictures: By Kristen Jenson Sex Ed Reclaimed Curriculum –use code DONTMOMALONE for 15 percent off.   Related Episodes: Porn-Proofing Our Kids :: Kristen Jenson [Ep 256] Birds and Birds? Oh Help Me Please :: Mary Flo Ridley [Ep 25] Let’s Talk about Sex :: Mary Flo Ridley and Megan Michelson [Ep 328] Overcoming Barriers to Sexual Intimacy :: Nancy Houston [Ep 206] Featured Sponsors:  Outschool: Get your family’s first month for only $1 when you use our link: https://outschool.com/DMA and use code DMA at checkout. You’re Still a Good Mom by Hallie Dye available at MoodyPublisher.com or wherever you buy good books. Read a free sample chapter here.  Voetberg Music Academy: Use my code: DONTMOMALONE to get 20% off each month you’re subscribed and encounter the proprietary Voetberg Method experience at Voetbergmusicacademy.com Find links to this week’s sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Who does God say you are? And how do you step into your true identity when the world (and even yourself) have told you otherwise? If you (or your kids) feel unseen, unworthy, or unwanted, this episode is for you. In this powerful conversation, Hosanna Wong shares her journey of growing up on the streets of San Francisco with a father who battled addiction, only to see God transform his life and spark an outdoor church that reached the hurting. Her story goes on to share how she went through some hard years that were full of disappointment and lies from the enemy. She continued to press into the word and God reminded her who she is in Christ, through that season her spoken word ministry was born. Here is some of what we talked about:  How God uses ordinary moments and people, like a mother opening her door to a vacuum salesman and sharing faith, to change generations The struggle of feeling like you don’t measure up to “good Christian molds” and learning freedom in Christ Why God delights in your unique personality, schedule, and situation, He made you that way on purpose Hosanna reminds us that we have freedom in how we connect with our creator and God wants to meet us where we are  Connect with Hosanna Wong:  Website:  HOSANNA Facebook: Hosanna Wong Instagram:  Hosanna Wong (@hosanna.wong) Links Mentioned:   SPOKEN WORD: I Have A New Name What God Says About You: By Hosanna Wong You Are More than You've Been Told: By Hosanna Wong  Related Episodes: Exchange False Beliefs with True Identity :: Jamie Winship [Ep 433] When You Need a Personal Revival :: Cleere Cherry Reaves [Ep 504] Fighting Toxic Thoughts :: Jennie Allen [Ep 272] Featured Sponsors:  Thrive Causemetics: Maximize your look with minimal effort. Go to ThriveCausemetics.com/DMA for an exclusive offer of 20% off your first order.  Hiya Health: The same multivitamin that more than a million parents trust is now available with an enchanting Disney Princess welcome kit, with a new Princess unboxing experience including Princess bottle and stickers. And we've worked out a special deal with Hiya for their best selling children's vitamin. Receive 50% off your first order. To claim this deal you must go to hiyahealth.com/DMA.  Outschool: Get your family’s first month for only $1 when you use our link: https://outschool.com/DMA and use code DMA at checkout. Find links to this week’s sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Do you ever feel like clutter is taking over your home? In this episode, Tara Bremmer, professional organizer is here to dive into the heart of decluttering. We will talk about where to start if your home feels out of control, and how to tackle overwhelming projects in small, manageable steps instead of turning your whole house upside down. You’ll also hear tips for pantry organization, dealing with “rage areas,” and how to maintain chaos resilience by scheduling time to keep things in order. We also cover:  Practical tips for decluttering books, laundry, and pantries The emotional side of clutter and why we hold on to things in stressful times Decluttering with kids: teaching them to let go, manage clothes, and organize their space Tips for closet organization: including deciding what sizes of clothes to hang onto Connect with Tara Bremmer:  Website:  House Peace Instagram:  Therapy for your house. (@house.peace) Related Episodes: Declutter Like a Mother :: Allie Casazza [Ep268] From Chaos to Calm: Practical Tools to Manage Anger and Overwhelm in Motherhood  :: Elizabeth Andreyevskiy [Ep 513] Choose What Matters to YOU :: Kendra Adachi [Ep 293] House Rules and Learning to Love your Home :: Myquillyn Smith [Ep 462] Featured Sponsors:  Voetberg Music Academy: Use my code: DONTMOMALONE to get 20% off each month you’re subscribed and encounter the proprietary Voetberg Method experience at Voetbergmusicacademy.com  Go Pure: Get 25% Off @goPure with code [DMA] at gopure.com #goPurepod Active Skin Repair: Visit ActiveSkinRepair.com to learn more about Active Skin Repair and to get 20% off your order, use code:DMA.  Find links to this week’s sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Our kids begin to feel and respond to shame as early as 15 to 18 months of age. Those early moments can begin a lifelong struggle with feeling unworthy, inadequate and unlovable. Shame also disintegrates us (separating our thinking brain from our feeling brain) and isolates us from others.  My guest is Dr. Curt Thompson, a psychiatrist and expert on the effects of shame and how to find freedom from the lifelong negative messages that come after us and our family. “One of the things that we notice about shame is that because we are immobilized and we are hiding, shame does not actually ever allow us to move toward God. This is why we have to have someone come and find us. This is why when our children are experiencing shame, we have to go and find them. This is why it's important for us as parents to have others who are coming to find us.” YES! Moms don’t let moms sit in shame. We can choose to seek out others when they are stuck in the shame cycle. Who are your 2 or 3 moms that will help you tell your story more truly?  Dr. Thompson walks us through some practical ways to build in memories and physical reminders to work against shame in the future for both ourselves and others. And throughout our conversation he points back to how God doesn’t leave us to deal with shame alone. “The beautiful thing is Jesus isn’t worried about our kids. He's not worried about your mothering. He's delighted. He knows how hard this work is and he knows that we will do it imperfectly. Even when we have our worst moments in which we foist to shame upon our kids or when our kids experience shame against everything that we're doing to try to combat it, God is saying: ‘I'm not worried. I never run out of options.’” Summer of Mentorship Discussion questions PDF  Connect with Dr. Thompson:  Website:  https://curtthompsonmd.com  Facebook: https://curtthompsonmd.com/  Instagram: @curt_thompson_md  Links Mentioned:   BOOK: The Soul of Shame  BOOK: Anatomy of the Soul BOOK: The Soul of Desire: Discovering the Neuroscience of Longing, Beauty, and Community BOOK: The Deepest Place: Suffering and the Formation of Hope  Featured Sponsors:  Honeylove–Treat yourself to the most comfortable and innovative bras on earth and save 20% Off sitewide at honeylove.com/DMA  Outschool–Get your family’s first month for only $1 when you use our link: https://outschool.com/DMA and use code DMA at checkout. Thrive Causemetics–Maximize your look with minimal effort. Go to thrivecausemetics.com/DMA for an exclusive offer of 20% off your first order.  Group Discussion Questions: Have you studied shame before? Were you familiar with what it does to our bodies? What was the last thing you felt shame about? How did it isolate you or disrupt a creative process? Talk through how a friend or spouse could help you walk out of a shame cycle (whether minor or major). Who are 2 or 3 women that could help you feel loved or speak truth back to you that “Jesus isn’t surprised”?  Discuss meeting your children in their shame and how we can rely on God in those moments. 

Have you read the whole Bible? That was the question my guest Tara-Leigh Cobble struggled to answer while talking to a pastor friend. As she thought back through her life growing up in a Christian home, being involved in church and now working in full-time ministry, she couldn’t say for sure that she’d really read ALL of the Bible.  So she started a chronological reading plan to read it all, even the genealogies. But as she read, Tara had to wrestle with stories she’d never heard from the pulpit.   “I was questioning the Bible because I was reading the Bible and I was questioning not is this true, but is he good? Yeah. Do I like him? My mentor said the places where you have difficulty with God lean in because the good stuff is on the other side of this. The good stuff is on the other side of this struggle.” After completing her own journey of reading the full Bible and seeing scripture and God in a new way, Tara-Leigh created The Bible Recap podcast and book to help others encounter God through his Word. And she’s here to give us a pep talk for reading the full Bible too.  “You behold the living God in scripture, and all of a sudden, instead of feeling burdened by your to-do list, you're going to be buoyed and carried along by the love of the God of the universe and by the person of who he is. And that's what I want you to take away from scripture every day, a vision of the God who loves you and who has already accomplished all that he requires of you.” Summer of Mentorship Discussion questions PDF  Connect with Tara-Leigh:  Website:  www.taraleighcobble.com  The Bible Recap: www.thebiblerecap.com  Instagram: @taraleighcobble  Links Mentioned:   The Bible Recap: A One-Year Guide to Reading and Understanding the Entire Bible Listen to the Bible on YouVersion Featured Sponsors:  Thrive Market: Go to ThriveMarket.com/DMA and start saving today. Sale ends 8/31. Active Skin Repair: Visit ActiveSkinRepair.com to learn more about Active Skin Repair and to get 20% off your order, use code:DMA.  GoPure: With over 1 MIllion jars sold, this beauty secret is no longer a secret. Get 25% Off @goPure with code [DMA] at https://www.gopurebeauty.com/DMA #goPurepod

There is often a disconnect from what we read in scripture and how we experience life. God says, “I have not given you a spirit of fear,” but we keenly feel fear and anxiety. We know that God has saved our souls through Christ's death and resurrection, but we still feel like past wounds/choices/lies come between us and hearing His voice.  One powerful way to work towards freedom in these areas is through a biblically-based program of inner healing prayer. My guest Jennifer Barnett of Freedom Prayer joins me to talk about inner healing prayer or freedom prayer, a powerful process that helps restore individuals to a more fruitful and fulfilling walk with God. “Inner healing prayer is its own sort of type of prayer. If you're not familiar with it, we would say it's some really intentional time devoted to allowing God to remove anything that would hinder someone from a full abiding relationship with him. That could look like sin, wounding, ungodly beliefs, or lies that we believe about ourselves, God or other people.” My experience with inner healing prayer has been so powerful and I believe it can be for you too. For more information on Freedom Prayer visit their website at https://freedomprayer.org.  Summer of Mentorship 2025 Discussion questions PDF  Connect with Freedom Prayer:  Website:  freedomprayer.org  Facebook: facebook.com/freedomresources  Group Discussion Questions: Is there something in your life you need freedom from to connect more with God? Can you find an inner healing prayer ministry near you to pray? How has prayer impacted your walk with Christ? Is it something you do regularly? Is there someone else you need to share inner healing prayer with? Other Episodes on the topic:  True Intimacy with God :: Mo Isom Aiken [Ep 318] Soul Freedom :: Francie Winslow (Encore) For Freedom Be Set Free with Francie Winslow {Ep. 4} Featured Sponsors:  Hiya Health: We've worked out a special deal with Hiya for their best selling children's vitamin. Receive 50% off your first order. To claim this deal you must go to hiyahealth.com/DMA. This deal is not available on their regular website. Get your kids the full-body nourishment they need to grow into healthy adults. Outschool: If you want to try Outschool, you can get your family’s first month for only $1 a limited time when you use my link: Outschool.com/DMA  Outschool has been a game changer for our family. This new membership exclusive discount is only available when you go through our link and use code DMA!  Thrive Causemetics: Maximize your look with minimal effort. Go to thrivecausemetics.com/DMA for an exclusive offer of 20% off your first order. 

A few years ago, my friend Kelsey Philips hit a crisis in her life. She felt physically unwell, depressed and desperate for healing. She connected with a missionary couple from her church who prayed with her and over her for two hours. It was in that prayer time that Kelsey recognized God’s voice for the first time. “He had been speaking to me for a long time. I just didn't know it was him. When you have an encounter like that, he speaks to these places that are so deep. He is healing wounds that are so far back and he is breaking you free of chains that are so heavy and hard and real. You don't ever want to go back to a place where you don't have that.” I believe we can hear God’s voice and that he is still speaking today. As Kelsey reminds us, there’s no better time than now to practice listening to the Lord.  “It does require solitude and quiet and that is not our nature. But here we are in a season where we are in worldwide rest. We are forced into this place of quiet. We've all had to come off of the hamster wheel and this has been an incredible time to allow space to listen to him about what he's doing on so many levels.” *this episode originally aired in March of 2020 Summer of Mentorship Discussion questions PDF  Links Mentioned:   Novo Missions [WEBSITE] Listening Prayer [ARTICLE]  Where to Start in Listening Prayer–Friendship Questions [PDF] Hello Mornings [WEBSITE] Additional Resources: Hearing God:  Developing a Conversational Relationship with God by Dallas Willard The Joy of Listening to God:  Hearing the Many Ways God Speaks to Us by Joyce Huggett Whispers:  How to Hear the Voice of God  by Mark Batterson  Group Discussion Questions: Take a few moments to check in with your group. How is everyone feeling? Give space for members to share how they are dealing with the uncertainty and stress. Practice listening to one another without judgement or advice.  What has been your experience with “listening to the Lord”? Is that a familiar or unfamiliar concept?  Have you ever had a moment like Kelsey’s when you recognized God’s voice for the first time? Share!  How could asking God for a vision for your kids change your perspective on parenting them? What is one step you can take to make space to hear God this week? Brainstorm with one another.  Is there someone you can encourage by sharing this episode with them? Take a moment to share it right now! Featured Sponsors:  Active Skin Repair–Visit ActiveSkinRepair.com to learn more about Active Skin Repair and to get 20% off your order, use code:DMA.  Green Chef–Make this summer your healthiest yet with Green Chef. Head to Greenchef.com/50ALONE and use code 50ALONE to get 50% off your first month and then 20% off for two months with free shipping.  Honeylove -Treat yourself to the most comfortable and innovative bras on earth and save 20% Off sitewide at honeylove.com/DMA

We know that God’s word is living and active. Today’s guest Jodie Berndt takes us through using Bible verses as prayers that can powerfully influence your children’s lives.  There is so much encouragement in this episode for standing on the truth of God’s word and relying on scripture to help shape your children, teens and adult children. Of course, we as moms can’t help but be changed when we hide his word in our hearts and pray them over our family.  What we chat about: Using God’s word for prayers is powerful. There isn’t a need we’ll face in parenting that God hasn’t provided for in his word. Specific scriptures to pray for your child’s salvation Asking God what we can nurture and pray for in each child’s unique giftings God will accomplish the changes in your child’s character. Our job is to partner with him. Praying against fear and for protection  Asking God to shape your children into good friends Processing popular media with your kids and discussing how it aligns or doesn’t align with a Godly world view The power of having others pray for your kids in community When prayers aren’t answered the way we want, God is still writing their stories. Free resources available at https://jodieberndt.com/resources  Summer of Mentorship Discussion questions PDF  Scriptures Mentioned: Ephesians 4:29 - Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. John 15:7 - If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. Psalm 121:7-8 - The Lord will keep you from all harm—he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore. Acts 26:18 -  Open their eyes and turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, so that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me. 2 Corinthians 5:17 -  Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come:[a] The old has gone, the new is here! Colossians 3:12 - Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Philippians 2:13 - for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose. Psalm 91:11 - For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; Proverbs 17:17 - Shape my child into a friend who loves at all times Proverbs 27:17 - As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another. Proverbs 16:28 - A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends. Links Mentioned:  https://jodieberndt.com/ Mom Life Unscripted YouTube Channel Jeannie Cunnion’s “Mom Set Free” Book Praying the Scriptures for Your Adult Children: By Jodie Berndt Praying the Scriptures for Your Children: By  Jodie Berndt Praying the Scriptures for Your Life: By Jodie Berndt  Featured Sponsors:  Thrive Market: Stock up smart this summer with Thrive Market. Go to ThriveMarket.com/DMA to get 30% off your first order, plus a FREE sixty dollar gift just for signing up.  Thrive Causemetics: Try your new trusty favorites with an exclusive set for our listeners. New customers can get the Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara and a mini-sized Brilliant Eye Brightener at a special set price with free shipping available at thrivecausemetics.com/DMA.  Outschool: If you want to try Outschool, you can get your family’s first month for only $1 a limited time when you use my link: Outschool.com/DMA! Outschool has been a game changer for our family. This new membership exclusive discount is only available when you go through our link and use code DMA!  Discussion Questions:  Do you have scriptures you pray for your children? Were there scriptures Jodi shared you wanted to start using? What is a need you have right now in parenting that you need a verse to pray for?  How can you incorporate praying for your children into your daily rhythm?  Pick one of the verses/prayers Jodie shared and write it down on a Post-it or notecard. Put it somewhere you will see it and pray. Share a need for one of your children with the group. Pray for each other and ask God to breathe new hope and faith into your parenting.

If God is holy, then He can’t sin. If God can’t sin, then He can’t sin against you. If He can’t sin against you, shouldn’t that make Him the most trustworthy being there is? I’m thrilled to have Jackie Hill Perry back on the podcast to share about her much anticipated book, “Holier Than Thou”. She walks us through Scripture, shaking the dust off of “holy” as we’ve come to know it and revealing it for what it really is: good news. As it turns out, God being “holier than thou” is actually the best news in the world, and it’s the key to trusting Him. “Holiness is really abstract, but what does it have to do with me? The truth is it has everything to do with the way we live because the way we engage with the world around us is symptomatic of what we believe is true about God.” We also chat about how Jackie doesn’t “mom alone,” about her growing family and the holy calling of motherhood. This is a powerful episode!  Summer of Mentorship Discussion Question PDF Connect with Jackie:  Website: https://jackiehillperry.com  Facebook: facebook.com/jackiehillperrypage  Instagram: @jackiehillperry  Links Mentioned:   BOOK Holier Than Thou: How God’s Holiness Helps Us Trust Him [Ep 214] Gay Girl, Good God :: Jackie Hill Perry   Featured Sponsors:  Branch Basics: Get 15% off Branch Basics with the code [DMA] at https://branchbasics.com/DMA #branchbasicspod Honeylove: Treat yourself to the most comfortable and innovative bras on earth and save 20% Off sitewide at honeylove.com/DMA.  Voetberg Music Academy: Use my code: DONTMOMALONE to get 20% off each month you’re subscribed and encounter the proprietary Voetberg Method experience at Voetbergmusicacademy.com  Group Discussion Questions: How would you describe God’s holiness?  Does understanding his holiness help you trust him more? Discuss: “We cannot allow our experiences to define God’s nature.” Heather talks about how the first 5 years really matter and that the act of mothering is holy. Does that resonate with you? How does that change how you look at parenting in the little years?

Do you long to go deeper in your faith and help your children fall in love with Scripture — not just the stories, but the whole story?  Today Zach Windahl shares what led him to dedicate years to studying scripture. He emphasizes the importance of simplifying the Bible for others, particularly for those who feel overwhelmed or confused. After moving to Australia and enrolling in a transformative Bible study program, everything changed. He discovered how the entire Bible connects — from Genesis to Revelation — and how understanding Scripture through a Hebrew lens opens up a whole new depth of meaning. The Bible isn’t random. Every story, every verse, every command points to Jesus. Here is some of what we cover:  Why modeling your faith matters more than preaching to your kids The difference between a Greek vs. Hebrew mindset when reading Scripture What to do when Christian culture and actual Jesus living don’t align Connect with Zach Windahl:  Website:  Zach Windahl Facebook: Zach Windahl | Facebook Instagram:  Zach Windahl (@zachwindahl) Links Mentioned:   The Bible, Simplified: By Zach Windahl The Bible Study: By Zach Windahl See the Good: By Zach Windahl Practicing the Way: By John Mark Comer Revolutionary Parenting: By George Barna Zach Windahl – The Brand Sunday Related Episodes: Consistency in Bible Study :: Katie Orr [Ep 352] Every Mom a Theologian :: Phylicia Masonheimer [Ep 389] Why Read the Entire Bible :: Tara Leigh Cobble [Ep 312] Featured Sponsors:  Thrive Causemetics: Try your new trusty favorites with an exclusive set for our listeners. New customers can get the Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara and a mini-sized Brillian Eye Brightener at a special set price with free shipping available at thrivecausemetics.com/DMA or save 20% off your first order.  Outschool: Get $30 off your families first month of Outschool when you use our link: https://outschool.com/DMA and use code DMA at checkout Hiya: We've worked out a special deal with Hiya for their best selling children's vitamin. Receive 50% off your first order. To claim this deal you must go to hiyahealth.com/DMA. This deal is not available on their regular website.  Find links to this week’s sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Many of you have been on this journey with me since the potty-training days, and now you’re facing the incredible milestone of sending your kids off to college. In this episode, my friend Shellee Howard joins us to discuss the complexities of the college application process, the importance of early preparation, and strategies for securing scholarships and financial aid.  Shellee shares her journey into becoming a college strategist and offers insights on how parents can support their children in navigating their educational paths. Here is some of what we cover:  What to do if your teen doesn’t know what they want to be yet How to help your child discover their core values and articulate their “why” for college How to negotiate the cost of college like a pro (yes, it’s possible!) Pursue meaningful extracurriculars (music, leadership, service projects, and more) Which college stats matter most—and how to see through the sales pitch on college tours Connect with Shellee Howard:  Website:  College Counseling Services | Graduate Debt-Free with Expert Guidance Facebook: Shellee Howard Instagram: College Ready Plan Links Mentioned:   College Ready Questionnaire (Shellee) Personal Values Assessment | Discover Your Values Podcast — College Ready | College Admissions Consulting The College Admissions PLAN Simplified: Shellee Howard How to Send Your Student to College Without Losing Your Mind or Your Money Shellee Howard Related Episodes: Navigating Senior Year: College Prep, Family Talks, and Faithful Waiting :: Lee Cordon and Barrett Ball [Ep 523] Demystifying Financial Aid :: Kristi Steele [Ep 440] Long Game Parenting :: Melanie Shankle and Sophie Hudson [Ep 337] Featured Sponsors:  Building Spiritual Habits in the Home–Authors Clayton Green and Chris Pappalardo will help you turn your good intentions into spiritual intentionality through 6 small and practical steps. Build a home marked by the love for Jesus in everyday practices. Order “Building Spiritual Habits in the Home” from Moody Publishers or wherever you get good books. Green Chef–Make this summer your healthiest yet with Green Chef. Head to Greenchef.com/50ALONE and use the code 50ALONE to get fifty percent off your first month, then twenty percent off for two months with free shipping.  Active Skin Repair–Visit ActiveSkinRepair.com to learn more about Active Skin Repair and to get 20% off your order, use code:DMA. Find links to this week’s sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors.