The Motherhood Experience

In this lively, laughter-filled episode of The Motherhood Experience, host Val Kleppen sits down with Colleen Souza, author of the newly released book Living by the Mantras. Colleen shares her passion for creating special memories, embracing spontaneous fun, and building a home that feels safe, not only for your kids but for their friends, too.Together, Val and Colleen dive into the beauty of living with intention and joy, guided by faith, family values, and the “mantras” that shape our days. From practical ways to strengthen your family’s foundation to simple ideas for adding fun and connection into everyday moments, this conversation will leave you smiling, inspired, and ready to live by your own life-giving mantras.Want to be a guest on The Motherhood Experience? Send Val Kleppen a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1758742098661627c9cc46f40Resources:Visit Colleen’s website: ⁠⁠livingbythemantras.com⁠⁠Follow The Motherhood Experience for more faith-filled, real-life conversations about motherhoodIn This Episode You'll Hear:What inspired Colleen’s new book Living by the MantrasHow to create meaningful, spontaneous fun as a familyWays to become a safe home for your kids and their friendsHow your core beliefs and values can strengthen your familyEncouragement for moms to lead with faith, presence, and joy

In honor of Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, TME host Val sits down with her good friend and fellow loss mom Sara Schultz, a mother of four living children and one precious daughter in heaven, Ruby, who was diagnosed with Trisomy 18.Sara shares her family’s story with raw honesty and grace, from learning Ruby’s diagnosis to the heartbreak of her preterm delivery and passing. Together, we explore what it means to hold both joy and sorrow in motherhood, how grief reshapes a mother’s heart, and why connection with other loss moms can bring profound comfort and healing.This episode offers a safe, tender space for any mom navigating pregnancy loss, infant loss, or life after loss. Sara reminds us that even in grief, there is beauty, community, and grace.🎧 You’ll hear about:Navigating a Trisomy 18 diagnosis and preparing for lossThe tension of joy and grief coexisting in motherhoodThe power of shared stories and community in healingHow to support a friend walking through pregnancy or infant lossFinding purpose and peace after unimaginable heartache💗 Whether you’re a grieving mom yourself or someone who wants to understand and support those who are, this episode is a heartfelt reminder: you are not alone.🔗 Resources:Sara's email address: sarakschultz@gmail.comLearn more about Trisomy 18 at trisomy18.orgFind community and support through Share Pregnancy & Infant Loss SupportWant to be a guest on The Motherhood Experience? Send Val Kleppen a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1758742098661627c9cc46f40

Sue Becker (Bread Beckers) is a woman who has changed the lives of thousands of people, myself included.When I heard her share about the history of white flour, the diseases that followed suit, and her inspiring journey of fresh-milled grains, I changed my own tune about what I was feeding my family and my commitment to eating foods the way God designed them to be made.Sue is a mom to 9, grandmother to 19, great grandmother to 1, business owner, teacher, and an advocate for healthy eating the way God intended. You will be encouraged, inspired, and you may even want to road trip to Georgia after this episode!More from Sue:Website: https://www.breadbeckers.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BreadBeckersPodcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/5IfHB2yQzvYDU8q3PqcNYp?si=4da65f72fca84ea3Social: https://www.instagram.com/breadbeckers/

In this episode of The Motherhood Experience, I sit down with Nikki McPhetridge, first-time author and mom to Maya, to talk about the inspiration behind her new children’s book, Maya’s Birthday Wish. Nikki shares the story of her faith journey, the struggles she faced during pregnancy, and how those challenges deepened her perspective on motherhood.We also dive into conversations about materialism in today’s culture, the importance of intentional parenting, and the legacies we hope to leave for our children. Nikki’s gentle wisdom and personal experiences remind us that motherhood is about more than the day-to-day; it’s about shaping hearts, nurturing faith, and creating lasting stories for future generations.If you’ve ever wrestled with questions of faith, or wondered how to raise children with grounded values in a fast-paced world, this episode will encourage and inspire you.Resources & Links Mentioned in This Episode:Learn more about Nikki and her book: mayastoryland.comMaya’s Birthday Wish Available now wherever books are soldConnect with Nikki on social media: @mayastoryland

When Elena got married, she said she felt like that was the instant her husband transformed into a different person. She hadn't known or realized he struggled with addiction, and her marriage became nightmarish quickly. And Elena didn't tell anyone until she absolutely had to.Hear how she is now a single mother to her two daughters and what she is learning along the way.elenahuggins.com

I combined episodes 6 and 7 into one file for your listening/viewing pleasure! Not only was this a fantastic story of faith, but I needed to pull one from the archives this week as I've been under the weather. This was such a rich conversation with Jacque, and I know it will bless you this week!

This is me, Val Kleppen, sitting across from you for a conversation I probably should have started before today. If you're wondering how we (the world) got to this place of chaos, or if you're wondering how to navigate as a mother through it, I touch on those things.You're invited to sit with me in the thoughts of it all.

In this inspiring episode, we welcome Lori Atwood, founder of Fearless Finance, mother, and financial educator, who shares how motherhood and business intertwined to shape her life’s work. After having her daughter later in life, Lori knew she wanted to be the primary caregiver while still pursuing meaningful work. Out of that desire, Fearless Finance was born.Lori now equips families with the financial tools and confidence they need to make empowered choices. She talks about:How becoming a mom influenced her career path and entrepreneurial journeyThe ways business ownership has shaped her motherhood experienceWhy financial literacy is essential for every familyThe most expensive trait a person can carryWhether you’re a parent navigating money decisions or simply looking for a fresh perspective on financial empowerment, Lori’s story will leave you both inspired and equipped.✨ Connect with Lori Atwood:Website: Fearless FinanceInstagram: @fearlessfinance

One of the sessions from the 2025 VCBC Ladies Retreat, presented by Val Kleppen.

Is it really possible for teens to attend their dream school without piling on student debt? In this inspiring episode of The Motherhood Experience, Val welcomes Shellee Howard, visionary mom, college admissions expert, and founder of College Ready.Shellee shares her own motherhood journey and how her strength as a planner helped both of her children get into Ivy League schools debt free. For the past 18 years, she has guided thousands of families through the often-overwhelming college admissions process, helping students identify the right schools, earn scholarships, and graduate with financial freedom.What you’ll discover in this episode:How to create a personalized college plan that matches your teen’s interests and goalsProven strategies for earning scholarships and avoiding student loan debtWhy starting early gives families a major advantage in college admissionsEncouragement for moms who want to support their children’s big dreams without financial stressWhether you’re raising little ones or walking through the college process right now, this conversation will give you hope, practical tools, and a vision for making the college dream come true (and possibly even debt free)!👉 Connect with Shellee Howard:Website: collegereadyplan.com(collegereadyplan.com/info for Shellee's consult offer!)Instagram: @collegereadyplanLinkedIn: Shellee Howard

In this episode, we welcome Melissa Knific: recipe developer, food editor, and passionate advocate for family dinners. She talks about the joy and impact of sharing meals together. Melissa shares how regular family mealtime has strengthened connection in her home, encouraged her kids to try new foods, and created lasting traditions.From creative recipe development to time-saving kitchen hacks, Melissa offers practical strategies for busy moms who want to put delicious, nourishing meals on the table without the overwhelm. She opens up about her process for crafting recipes that work for real families, why she believes food is a bridge for deeper conversations, and how even small changes can make a big difference at dinner time.You’ll also get a peek into her upcoming National Geographic National Parks Cookbook (publishing February 3, 2026, now available for preorder!) and her work with Challenge Butter. Whether you need weeknight dinner inspiration, smart shortcuts, or encouragement to gather around the table, this conversation will inspire you to make mealtime matter.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The benefits of regular family dinners beyond just the foodHow mealtime encourages kids to eat better and try new flavorsMelissa’s favorite kitchen hacks for busy weeknightsTime-saving tips for moms who want homemade meals without the stressHow to involve your kids in cooking and meal prepA behind-the-scenes look at creating the National Parks CookbookLinks & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:Melissa’s Website: www.melissaknific.comInstagram: @melissaknificNational Geographic National Parks Cookbook – Preorder here (publishes Feb. 3, 2026)Challenge Butter: www.challengebutter.com

Be sure to visit Deb's WebsiteIn this episode, author and speaker Deb Burma joins us to talk about the intentional role of motherhood in shaping the next generation. With wisdom drawn from Scripture and real-life experience, Deb discusses how moms can raise children to become Christ-centered, independent adults. She explores how daily habits, discipline, and discipleship form a foundation of faith and identity in the home, and she encourages mothers to take seriously the lifelong influence they carry.Whether you’re in the early years of parenting or guiding teens toward adulthood, this conversation will inspire you to walk your own path of purpose with renewed clarity, hope, and joy.Key Topics in This Episode:How to parent with the long view in mindTeaching responsibility and independence from a biblical worldviewLetting go as your children grow up — and trusting God in the processDeb's personal stories and lessons learned as a mother and mentorEncouragement for moms who feel weary, overwhelmed, or unsureAbout Deb Burma:Deb Burma is a sought-after speaker, Bible study author, and women’s ministry leader known for her down-to-earth storytelling and Gospel-centered encouragement. She has written several books and studies, including Be Still & Know, Joy: A Study of Philippians, and Stepping Out: To a Life on the Edge. Deb lives with her husband and children in Nebraska and speaks nationally to women of all ages.

In this inspiring conversation, Madison Wetherill of CookAtHomeMom.com joins Val to talk about so much more than recipes. As a homeschooling mom of three boys, a recipe creator, and a business owner, Madison shares how cooking became a pathway to connection, confidence, and purpose.She opens up about her unexpected start in entrepreneurship, how her family’s health journey transformed their habits, and the values behind her popular blog, Cook at Home Mom. From meal prep strategies to family rhythms, Madison brings wisdom that resonates far beyond the kitchen.Whether you're a busy mom, a reluctant meal planner, or someone longing for more intentional family moments, this episode will encourage you to feed your people well, body and soul.Topics covered in this episode include:Madison’s personal journey from mac-and-cheese college cooking to wholesome recipe developmentThe story behind CookAtHomeMom.com and why it exists for busy familiesSimple strategies for meal planning when life feels chaoticThe value of building mealtime routines and family connectionEncouraging kids to help in the kitchen and eat well without pressureHow food choices can shape health, habits, and even household peaceHomeschooling, entrepreneurship, and navigating seasons of motherhood📌 Resources Mentioned:Free 5-Day Meal Plan: ⁠cookathomemom.com/show⁠Follow Madison on Instagram: ⁠@cookathomemom⁠Cook at Home Mom Website: ⁠www.cookathomemom.com⁠

In this heartfelt episode of The Motherhood Experience, Val welcomes grief mentor and coach Teresa Davis, a mother whose life was forever changed when her adult son, a pilot, died tragically in a plane crash. Teresa opens up about her personal journey through deep grief, the impact of loss on her identity as a mother, and how she found renewed purpose in mentoring others through their own experiences of traumatic or significant loss.Together, Val and Teresa explore the complexities of parenting through grief, the isolation many grieving mothers face, and the surprising ways healing can unfold when we choose to walk alongside others in their pain. Teresa shares how her faith, community, and calling to serve others helped her begin to “grieve forward” not by moving on, but by moving with intention and purpose.Whether you’re navigating grief yourself, supporting someone who is, or simply want to understand the transformative power of empathy and shared experience, this conversation offers honesty, hope, and encouragement.In this episode, you'll hear:Teresa’s story of loss and how it reshaped her motherhood journeyThe importance of honoring grief without feeling rushed to "move on"How mentoring others became a source of healing and clarityPractical advice for supporting someone who is grievingFind more about Teresa here:Her website & Free Grief Survival MapThe Grief Mentor PodcastThe August course waitlist1:1 with TeresaTeresa's InstagramGrief Mentor on Facebook

What if motherhood turns out nothing like you expected, but everything you need? In this episode of The Motherhood Experience, host Val welcomes Linsey Knerl: homeschooling mom of six, freelance writer, and author of Homeschool Hacks, for an honest and insightful conversation about embracing the unexpected.Linsey shares how her entrance into motherhood looked nothing like she envisioned, why she chose to homeschool from the very beginning, and how she managed to build a freelance writing career without a formal support system nearby. From adapting to life as a working homeschooling mom to using her competitive drive as a secret strength, Linsey opens up about what it really means to “make it work” when the plan shifts.This episode is a must-listen for any mom navigating a path that feels unfamiliar or unplanned, but is full of purpose.

Welcome to the 100th episode of The Motherhood Experience! 🎉 In this special milestone episode, host Val pulls back the curtain on how the podcast began, how it got its name, and the heart behind every story shared. You'll hear from past guests who reflect on how the podcast has impacted them, and get a sneak peek at exciting updates to the show’s look and feel.From late-night recording sessions to vulnerable conversations that sparked real connection, this episode is a celebration of community, growth, and the beautiful chaos of motherhood. Whether you’ve been here since episode one or just found your way to our corner of the internet (WELCOME!), this one’s for you.In This Episode, We Talk About:How The Motherhood Experience got its startThe story behind the podcast nameReflections from past guests and their favorite momentsMilestones and behind-the-scenes memoriesFresh updates to the podcast branding and vibeVal’s heartfelt gratitude to listeners and supportersJoin the Celebration:✨ Listen, subscribe, and share your favorite memory or moment from the show using the hashtag #TheMotherhoodExperience100📣 Want to be part of a future episode? Drop us a note at info@themotherhoodexperience.comStay Connected:Follow Val on InstagramVisit the podcast site for past episodes & updates

In this episode of The Motherhood Experience, we're joined by "Belle" (@bellesdirtydishes): homeschooling mom of three, self-proclaimed scrunchy mama, and real-talk advocate for moms everywhere. From her beginnings in the online world sharing budget-friendly recipes to now offering glimpses into her day-to-day mom life, Belle has cultivated a space rooted in authenticity and encouragement.We dive into how she balances motherhood and content creation, why she chooses to go against the grain with homeschooling and holistic parenting, and how social media has both empowered and challenged her. With refreshing honesty and practical wisdom, Belle reminds us that there’s no one-size-fits-all in motherhood. And that’s exactly the point.Whether you’re deep in diapers or navigating tween drama, this episode is for the moms who are doing things differently and want to feel seen.In This Episode, We Talk About:How Belle got started sharing on social mediaWhy she chose homeschooling and what it really looks likeHer practices as a scrunchy momHow routines and home life content resonates with other momsThe iced vs. hot coffee debateSocial media’s influence on motherhood expectationsConnect with Belle:Follow Belle on Instagram

Making friends as a mom can be unexpectedly hard—and sometimes, it feels downright desperate. In this honest and heartfelt episode, we’re joined by Kristen Strong, author of Desperate Woman Seeks Friends: Real Talk About Connection, Rejection, and Trying Again for the Friendships You Need.Kristen opens up about the real struggles of loneliness in motherhood, the fear of rejection, and the courage it takes to keep showing up for community. As a military spouse and mom, she’s had to start over more times than she can count—and she’s learned what it really takes to build meaningful friendships in every season of life.We talk about:💬 Why friendship often feels more complicated in motherhood🧭 How to navigate awkward beginnings and social anxiety as a mom💔 Healing from rejection and finding hope to try again🛑 Healthy boundaries in friendships (and letting go of guilt)✝️ How faith anchors your identity when connection feels out of reachWhether you’re in a season of deep connection or feeling painfully alone, Kristen’s words will remind you that you’re not crazy—you’re human. And more importantly, you’re not alone.Kristen's Website Buy The BookFollow Kristen on Instagram

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Kalee Isbell, founder of Isbell Family Films, as she shares how she helps moms turn forgotten phone footage into beautiful, music-backed video keepsakes. A former elementary school teacher and mom of two (soon to be three!), Kalee built a thriving business that blends storytelling, memory preservation, and motherhood. We chat about: 📱 How Kalee turns everyday digital clutter into treasured family videos 👩‍🏫 Her transition from teaching to full-time entrepreneurship 💼 Growing her business from a solo effort to an eight-person team 🧒 Balancing motherhood with business (and a third pregnancy!) 🎵 The emotional power of setting family footage to music Whether your camera roll is overflowing or you’re dreaming of starting your own creative business, this episode will leave you feeling motivated and maybe even a little misty-eyed. Follow Kalee on Instagram or visit her website

Episode 5 and the finale of the Revisiting Parenting Perspectives series!I cover everything from poetry to the FBI, grief, and humor. My favorite episode in this series! Visit themotherhoodexperience.com for more.