Building Strong Homes podcast: Recent Episodes
Carol Roper
I believe wives and mothers have the power to change the world. But we must start right where we are, in our own homes. Building godly homes isn't a challenge for the faint-hearted, but it is a holy calling that we must pursue in order to make a real difference in our culture. Join me each week as I interview guests who've successfully navigated challenges in marriage and parenting and want to encourage you to do the same. Don't give up. Instead, allow these stories to inspire and equip you with the tools to keep building. As Proverbs 14:1 says, "A wise woman builds her house, But the foolish tears it down with her own hands." (NASB) Let's cheer each other on as we learn to be like the wise woman.
Liz Cobo says that nothing has deepened her faith and changed her walk with Jesus like studying the Bible. Studying God's Word literally changed her life. Things that were once important priorities aren't anymore. Things that were once afterthoughts are now at the top of her list. Scripture is God's self-revelation and is available to anyone willing to take the time and make the effort to read and study. Liz understands that now. God promises in his Word that he will give us greater understanding of His Word when we read it. Liz always believed in God, but didn't always know Jesus and lived a lot of her life not knowing what the Bible says and doesn't say. Maybe you've experienced (or are experiencing) the same thing? We know what it means to be an unbeliever or to be unchurched. But what about believers who don't know God's word? She describes them as soldiers who take no weapons or no armor into war.
Liz wants women to become educated believers and shares practical ways to learn. Her passion is to help them understand, study and apply the word of God in their daily lives. And to share God's truth with grace to unbelievers and the unBibled.
We talk about all of this and more in this episode.
Find Liz at LizCobo.com and take her Bible Study Quiz, find her podcast UnBibled, and check out her new Bible Basics Course
Sign up for The Flourished Retreat on Kiawah Island, October 15-18
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Watch on YouTube How to Defend Your Faith without Losing Your Cool with Liz Cobo
In this episode of Carol sits down with Christy Braddock to share a powerful redemption story that proves no mistake is too big for God's grace. At just 15 years old, Christy discovered she was pregnant and spent years carrying the weight of shame, believing she had permanently disqualified herself from a blessed life and a strong family. But God had a completely different plan for her future.
If you've ever struggled with shame from your past, wondered whether God can redeem your story, or are parenting a child who feels broken by their choices, Christy's testimony will speak directly to your heart. Her journey from fear and regret to freedom and restoration is a reminder that God is a master at rebuilding what feels ruined.
You'll hear:
- Christy's story of teen pregnancy
- Her decision to have 3 subsequent abortions and why
- How God began rewriting her story after the shame that followed
- The turning point that changed everything
- Encouragement for parents walking with hurting teens
- Hope for anyone who feels "too far gone"
This is a real, raw God story — the kind that reminds us that redemption is always possible.
Find Christy on Instagram at The Shine Collective with Christy B and find her podcast at The Shine Podcast with Christy B.
Watch Christy's story on YouTube Breaking Free from Shame: Pregnant at 15, Redeemed by Faith with Christy Braddock
🌿 If you're craving clarity, healing, or a fresh sense of purpose, join us at the Flourish Retreat on Kiawah Island, October 15–18. You'll experience powerful teaching, intentional community, and space to rediscover the story God is writing in your life. Learn more: www.carolroper.org/flourish
Mary Marantz knows how fear can hold us back. Even though she was able to leave the musty single-wide trailer of her childhood in West Virginia and make her way to Yale Law School, she always carried the fear that she would be found out. Even though she had worked hard and earned every grade and scholarship she received she thought others saw her as an imposter. So, she strove to be the best at everything she did, and she was.
But the life of perfection has a way of draining the joy out of you. Mary finally realized that fear was holding her hostage to a life that didn't provide freedom and that he is a boring liar. In this episode she shares part of her fascinating story of growing up in rural West Virginia, which is the topic of her first book, Dirt, with a dad who was a proud eighth generation logger, a mom who cleaned houses and her amazing grandma Goldie.
In her newest book, Underestimated, she shares how she overcame perfectionism, procrastination, people-pleasing and more. She understands the drive to prove others wrong and show everyone just how far you've come, while also doubting yourself at every turn. Mary has learned that we all must own the muddy parts of our stories so we can move forward in the purpose God has for us. Because, as Mary says, God does His best work in the muddy, messy, and broken if we'll only learn to dig in.
Watch on YouTube The Power of an Underdog Story: Mary Marantz on Faith, Grit, and Becoming Who You're Called to Be with Mary Marantz
Find our more about The Flourish Retreat or Contact Carol with any questions
If you've ever wondered whether your story really matters — or questioned how your past, your personality, and your experiences fit into God's calling for your life — this episode is for you.
I'm sharing the behind‑the‑scenes story of how I stepped into women's ministry, the unexpected ways God used my past to shape my purpose, and why I believe so deeply in helping women discover their own calling.
Many Christian women love God, love their families, and genuinely want to be obedient… but still feel unsure, unqualified, or unclear about what God is asking them to do next. If that's you, you're not alone — and your story is far more important than you think.
In this episode, I'm also inviting you to the Flourish Retreat, a four‑day, set‑apart space designed to help you uncover your gifts, understand your wiring, connect your past to your purpose, and step confidently into the calling God has for you. If you've been craving clarity, direction, or community, Flourish may be the turning point you've been praying for.
Your story matters. Your calling matters. And God is already weaving it together. Let's talk about how.
Find our more about The Flourish Retreat
Contact Carol with any questions
Listen to my episode with Julie Bagwell Unsure What's Next? Start Here: Bonus Episode with Julie Bagwell
Watch on YouTube Why Your Story Matters — And Why the Flourish Retreat Could Be Your Turning Point with Carol Roper Bonus Episode
If you've been feeling stuck, restless, or unsure what God is asking of you in this season, the Flourish Retreat might be the turning point you've been praying for. This 3‑day Christian women's retreat on Kiawah Island is designed to help you find clarity, purpose, and direction through powerful teaching, personalized coaching, and deeply meaningful community.
In this episode, Julie Bagwell shares what she'll be teaching at the retreat — including discovering your God‑given wiring, understanding your strengths through a full DISC assessment, and learning how to step confidently into your next chapter. She also reveals the exclusive early‑bird bonuses available only through August 10, including additional coaching support, bonus sessions, and special pricing.
If you're craving spiritual clarity, longing for direction, or ready to reconnect with the woman God created you to be, this conversation will make you curious about everything Flourish offers — and why so many women are already saying "yes" to this life‑changing weekend.
Watch on YouTube Unsure What's Next? Start Here: Bonus Episode with Julie Bagwell
What if one weekend could breathe life back into the parts of you that feel worn thin? This October, I'm hosting The Flourish Retreat in beautiful Charleston, South Carolina — and I want you to come with me. If you're a wife or mom who's been pouring out for everyone else, this is your invitation to step away, exhale, and let God pour back into you. Find out more at the link. The next two women to sign up for the retreat can use the code FIRST100 to receive an additional $100 off of registration, on top of the $200 early bird savings available through July 10.
If you have any questions about the retreat reach out to me here
Take the quiz, "What Type of Home Are You Building?", because so many women feel the tension in their home but can't quite name what's causing it. This quiz does that for you. It pinpoints the patterns shaping your home and gives you a clear next step toward the kind of home you want to build. If you've been feeling stuck, this will help you get unstuck.
Please be aware that this content is not suitable for young children.
George Carneal grew up in the '70s, raised by a Southern Baptist minister in the ultra-conservative Bible Belt where his world revolved around the church, country fried chicken and trying to fit in with other boys. As disco music pulsated through the speakers in his bedroom, he plotted his escape from the misery and boredom of Southern suburbia before landing in Los Angeles; a city of glitz and hedonism. Much like Alice as she traveled through the looking glass, this is George's journey through a queer culture fantasyland filled with drag queens, drugs and dangerous situations before discovering healing, joy and peace in Christ.
In this episode, George, author of the book From Queer to Christ, shares his painful journey through a secular world at odds with homosexuality, in addition to a religious world that is hostile to homosexuals. He is hopeful that sharing his story through the eyes and mind of a confused child dealing with a same-sex attraction will give some insight into the pain and difficulty of navigating those two worlds. After 25 years of living as a gay man God brought him out of that lifestyle and into His glorious truth. His story will help parents of children of all ages understand how best to influence them for God, as well as teens and adults who are struggling with the LGBTQ agenda in their own lives.
George says that he wrote the book for three reasons:
- To give Christians insight into what it's like for someone dealing with same-sex attraction and their struggle with faith
- To give hope to parents who have children in the LGBTQ lifestyle
- To give LGBTQ individuals who are struggling with this lifestyle to understand that there's a different narrative and that they are being lied to and expose those lies and find peace and give them hope
George has been out of that lifestyle for almost 17 years now and has a passion to help others learn the truth. Through his testimony he wants others to know that deliverance from bondage is possible and there is hope in Christ.
Resources
Scripture references:
My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. – John 10:27
For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. – 2 Timothy 1:7
George's book, From Queer to Christ and website GeorgeCarneal.com
Have questions? Email George at GeorgeCarneal@ProtonMail.com
Watch on YouTube From Queer to Christ with George Carneal
Sign up for The Flourish Retreat. The next three ladies to sign up get an additional $100 savings with the code FIRST100 on top of the $200 early bird discount through July 10.
Some stories don't just inspire you — they reroute your whole calling.
This summer, I'm bringing back one of the episodes that changed everything for me. If you listened to Fear Is a Liar back in June, you remember the couple whose testimony stopped me from shutting this podcast down altogether. When I was ready to pack up the mic and call it quits, their story reminded me why Building Strong Homes exists in the first place — so real people can share real God stories that strengthen all of us.
Today we're revisiting Glen and Kelly Daigle's journey — a story that proves God can take the darkest diagnoses, the deepest depressions, and the most tangled pasts and build something stronger, steadier, and more joy‑filled than we ever imagined.
You wouldn't think a breast cancer diagnosis would lead a couple into a marriage that was more joyful than they could have ever imagined, but that's what happened with Glen and Kelly Daigle. They had both been married before they met and were ready for a fresh start, having each gone through difficulties with drugs and alcohol. Glen had recently finished a self-admitted time in rehab for alcohol addiction and Kelly was looking for a man who'd been married, didn't have children and loved the Lord. Since Glen met all three requirements they dated and eventually married. But everything wasn't all rainbows and hearts. Glen spiraled into such a deep depression Kelly says many days she prayed she wouldn't come home to find that her husband had committed suicide. After Glen found help from counseling their lives were okay, but still not great. Neither of them had a strong relationship with God, they just did the bare minimum. Until Kelly's breast cancer diagnosis. Something changed in both of them as they realized the only thing they had to hold on to was Jesus, and they weren't letting Him go.
There are so many ways that God showed up in each of their journeys that there's no denying the Hound of Heaven was pursuing them from the very beginning. If you feel like you've messed up so badly that there's no promise of hope in your life anymore, this episode is for you.
Song that made such an impact on Glen: At This Point in My Life by Tracy Chapman
Episode mention in this podcast Fear is a Liar
Watch on YouTube No One is Too Far Gone for God to Use with Glen and Kelly Daigle
Take the quiz, "What Type of Home Are You Building?", because so many women feel the tension in their home but can't quite name what's causing it. This quiz does that for you. It pinpoints the patterns shaping your home and gives you a clear next step toward the kind of home you want to build. If you've been feeling stuck, this will help you get unstuck.
What if one weekend could breathe life back into the parts of you that feel worn thin? This October, I'm hosting The Flourish Retreat in beautiful Charleston, South Carolina — and I want you to come with me. If you're a wife or mom who's been pouring out for everyone else, this is your invitation to step away, exhale, and let God pour back into you. Find out more at the link.
Today we're kicking off our Summer Throwback Series — a little every‑other‑week tradition where I'm pulling some of the most loved episodes from the archives, dusting them off and letting them bring encouragement to you again.
And I knew exactly which one needed to go first.
My conversation with Sophie Hudson, based on her book Giddy Up, Eunice, is one of those episodes that feels like a deep breath and a belly laugh all at once.
If you've read any of her books, you already know Sophie has this uncanny way of reminding us that women need each other — not in a Pinterest‑perfect, "let's all match our coffee mugs" kind of way, but in the real, everyday, "I see you, I'm with you, and you don't have to walk this alone" kind of way.
This conversation is one of my all‑time favorites because it's honest, it's hilarious, and it's full of the kind of wisdom that stays with you. And honestly? It's the perfect way to start a summer where so many of us are craving connection, encouragement, and a reminder that God weaves women together on purpose.
So, grab your iced tea, settle in, and let's revisit this gem with Sophie Hudson — and her beautiful reminder that we need the Marys, the Elizabeths, and the Eunices in our lives more than ever.
Watch on YouTube Giddy Up, Eunice: Because Women Need Each Other with Sophie Hudson
Sign up for The Flourish Retreat waitlist to find out when doors open, early-bird pricing and special bonuses
In this deeply personal episode, I share the story of how my writing journey began—during a season when the empty nest was approaching, purpose felt uncertain, and God whispered a new calling into my heart.
Fourteen years ago, I took a trembling step of faith and attended my first writers conference alone. What followed was a rollercoaster of fear, embarrassment, and a moment so humiliating I nearly packed my bags and drove home. But God intervened through two women—Celeste and LaTan—who showed up at the exact moments I needed courage, belonging, and a reminder that I wasn't alone.
That one decision not to quit changed the trajectory of my life.
In this episode, I share:
• how God used a friend's unexpected encouragement to confirm my calling
• the embarrassing moment that almost ended my writing journey
• the divine appointments that kept me from giving up
• the surprising ways God has opened doors over the years
• why stepping out of what's familiar is essential to stepping into your calling
• how obedience—even when you're scared—leads to blessing, purpose, and impact
From winning writing awards to being published in Guideposts and Chicken Soup for the Soul, to flying alone to retreats and building a thriving podcast ministry, I reflect on all I would have missed if I had let fear win.
This episode is for the woman who feels a dream stirring but isn't sure she's capable… the woman in a transition season wondering what's next… the woman who needs a reminder that God meets us in the places that stretch us.
If God is nudging you toward something new, this story will remind you: Your calling won't grow where fear keeps you standing still. Say yes—and watch what God does.
Watch on YouTube Is Comfort Killing Your Calling? One Brave Step Could Open the Door to Your Dream with Carol Roper
If you're standing on the edge of a new season and longing for clarity, courage, and connection, join The Flourish Retreat waitlist. Your next step might begin here.
If you're walking a difficult journey through what may feel like insurmountable debt right now and see no way out, my guest today will give you hope. Tiffany Miliander was a single mom who was left with $64,000 in debt when she divorced. But she was determined not to let that debt linger and paid all of it off in four short years.
Debt can feel like a mountain you never asked to climb, but Tiffany stood exactly where you might be standing—and refused to stay there. She didn't wait for perfect circumstances. She didn't wait to feel ready. She took one creative step, then another, and those steps added up to freedom.
And that same freedom is possible for you.
If you're tired of feeling weighed down by bills, shame, or the fear that things will never change, let this episode be your turning point. Tiffany explains how you don't have to overhaul your whole life overnight. Just choose one small, doable action this week. One shift. One idea. One brave yes.
Because financial freedom isn't just about money—it's about peace, confidence, and the kind of stability that blesses your whole home.
To learn more about Tiffany go to Blessed Beyond the Stress
Watch on YouTube: How a Single Mom Paid Off $64,000: Creative Debt Hacks from a Financial Coach with Tiffany Miliander Ep. 166
Have you ever looked back and realized comfort kept you from saying yes to something that mattered? In this episode, I'm sharing how a moment from Taylor Sheridan's new series The Madison stopped me in my tracks and reminded me what it really means to love well — especially in marriage.
This isn't a review of the show, and I'm not endorsing all its content. But there's a powerful theme woven through the story that every Christian wife needs to hear. Spoiler alert: I'll be talking about the premise of the series, so listen with that in mind.
If fear, comfort, or "maybe later" has ever held you back from stepping into something meaningful with your husband or family, this episode will encourage you to choose courage, connection, and love that lasts.
In this episode:
• Why comfort can quietly steal your yes
• How regret grows when we avoid what stretches us
• What The Madison reminded me about loving well
• A personal story about saying yes when it mattered
• How to choose courage in your marriage today
If this encourages you, share it with a friend who needs the reminder too.
If you'd like to see some fun photos watch on YouTube A Wake Up Call for Wives: Don't Let Fear Steal Your Yes with Carol Roper Ep. 165
Lysa TerKuerst's book Capture His Heart: Becoming the Godly Wife Your Husband Desires
When you're facing a diagnosis, a fear, or a season of waiting, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the unknown. In today's episode, Tommy Jennings shares a powerful testimony of courage, peace, and unshakable faith as he battles Hodgkin's Lymphoma — a fight he's been in for six years.
Tommy's story is raw, honest, and deeply hope‑filled. After exhausting every treatment option, he now lives in the tension of uncertainty — yet his confidence in Jesus has only grown stronger. His words, "Either way it goes, I win," will challenge and inspire you to trust God in your own battles.
In this conversation, we talk about:
- What faith looks like when the prognosis isn't what you hoped for
- How to cling to God when you're waiting for answers
- Finding peace in the middle of fear, suffering, and the unknown
- The hope of Jesus when life doesn't make sense
- Why Tommy refuses to feel sorry for himself — and how his perspective can reshape your own
Whether you're walking through illness, fear, or a difficult season, this episode will remind you that God is near, God is faithful, and God is still writing your story.
Watch on YouTube: Finding Hope in the Unknown: Tommy Jennings' Fight with Cancer Ep. 164
Contact Carol at CarolRoper.org/contact
Have you ever doubted your faith? Wondered if God isn't real? I dealt with this issue a couple of decades ago and wondered how I could go on doing "all the things" while struggling with doubt. Today I want to share a fascinating story about how an elephant can be similar to testing our faith.
To see photos of the bridge, watch on YouTube I Almost Walked Away
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Between school messaging, social media trends, and cultural pressure, it can feel like the world is speaking louder to our kids than we are. But you have more influence than you think — and today's conversation will help you use it wisely.
If you're a Christian parent feeling overwhelmed by the rise in gender confusion, you're not alone. Everywhere you turn—schools, social media, even kids' friend groups—messages about gender identity and transgender ideology are shaping how teens think about themselves. But what if you could understand what's really happening and learn how to confidently guide your children with a biblical worldview?
In today's eye-opening conversation, I sit down with Dr. Jeff Myers, president of Summit Ministries and co-author of Raising Gender-Confident Kids, to unpack the cultural forces influencing our sons and daughters. With clarity and compassion, Dr. Myers explains how gender ideology took root, why it's accelerating so quickly, and what parents can do to protect their children while raising gender‑confident kids who embrace their God-given design.
What you'll learn:
- How gender confusion went mainstream — and why
- What's really being taught in your child's school (even in conservative states)
- Why 1 in 1,000 kids has true gender dysphoria — and what's driving the rest
- Practical steps to raise kids who are confident in how God made them
Raising Gender-Confident Kids
Protecting Parental Rights: Combating Gender Ideology & Child Sexualization with Erin Lee Watch on YouTube A Blueprint for Raising Gender-Confident Kids: What Parents Need to Know with Dr. Jeff Myers
Sign up for my monthly newsletter The Keeping Room: Faith, Favorites and a Little Southern Soul
Whether you call it a veranda, piazza, stoop or porch, these appendages to our homes can have a positive impact on our family and community. It doesn't have to be fancy or huge to be a welcoming respite away from the chores, homework and television. Make it as comfortable as you can and invite the kids and hubby outside for a change of scenery and a bit of togetherness. And include the neighbors of you're feeling up to having company. Let's bring back the front porch.
This is the tenth and final episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series. If you've missed any of the previous episodes, I hope you'll take the time to go back and listen, starting in your podcast app with How to Build a Godly Home: Choosing the Right Location. But the very first episode, Open Your Blueprint, can only be found on my website at CarolRoper.org. Today I'll share about one of my favorite amenities a house can have—the front porch, and why it can be one of the most important rooms of your home.
Watch on YouTube Rediscovering the Front Porch: Why It Still Builds Family and Community with Carol Roper https://youtu.be/6Z2MJOzaMj0
Listen to the first episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Open Your Blueprint
Listen to the second episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series How to Build a Godly Home: Choosing the Right Location
Listen to the third episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Envision Your Dream Home
Listen to the fourth episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series How Building a Dream Home Tests your Marriage-and Your Faith
Listen to the fifth episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series The Secret Behind a Strong Spiritual Home (Hint: It's Not Being Pinterest Perfect)
Listen to the sixth episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Why You Matter: The Hidden Strength in Every Home
Listen to the seventh episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series The Power of Light: Becoming a Spiritual Lamplighter
Listen to the eight episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Oaks of Righteousness: Raising Families with Deep Roots
Listen to the ninth episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Your Scars Tell Your Story with Carol Roper
What scars do you carry? Maybe you've had a c-section (or 3) and don't want to wear a bathing suit anymore (among other reasons). Maybe you've been injured in an accident and try to disguise the evidence. Or maybe you've suffered from cancer and now have an ugly scar as a reminder of your survival. Whatever the reason, it's natural for us to want to cover unsightly scars from public view. When I was in my mid-twenties and almost put my eye out from accidentally shoving my face into a large splinter, I didn't realize the permanent damage that could have been done until the ER sent for a plastic surgeon. He said I was too young to carry a scar like that for the rest of my life, and I'm grateful he repaired the wound. Today I can barely see the scar. But only a few short years later I would deal with so much pain that there would be a permanent scar on my soul. This time, however, I was glad to have an enduring reminder of my healing.
This is the ninth episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series. If you've missed any of the previous episodes, I hope you'll take the time to go back and listen, starting in your podcast app with How to Build a Godly Home: Choosing the Right Location. But the very first episode, Open Your Blueprint, can only be found on my website at CarolRoper.org. Today I'll share how the scars left on historic homes after catastrophic events mirror the scars we carry from our own life storms.
Watch on YouTube Your Scars Tell Your Story with Carol Roper
Listen to the first episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Open Your Blueprint
Listen to the second episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series How to Build a Godly Home: Choosing the Right Location
Listen to the third episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Envision Your Dream Home
Listen to the fourth episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series How Building a Dream Home Tests your Marriage-and Your Faith
Listen to the fifth episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series The Secret Behind a Strong Spiritual Home (Hint: It's Not Being Pinterest Perfect)
Listen to the sixth episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Why You Matter: The Hidden Strength in Every Home
Listen to the seventh episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series The Power of Light: Becoming a Spiritual Lamplighter
Listen to the seventh episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Oaks of Righteousness: Raising Families with Deep Roots
Home isn't just a place—it's a story. When my husband and I set out to build our forever home on his family's farm, we weren't just choosing land; we were choosing legacy. Every step across those pastures reminded us that roots matter—both the ones in the soil and the ones in our hearts. And as we stood beneath a solitary oak, we realized this journey was about more than a house. It was about building on a foundation that time can't shake.
This is the eighth episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series. If you've missed any of the previous episodes, I hope you'll take the time to go back and listen, starting in your podcast app with How to Build a Godly Home: Choosing the Right Location. But the very first episode, Open Your Blueprint, can only be found on my website at CarolRoper.org. Today I'll share why cultivating strong family roots matters.
Listen to the first episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Open Your Blueprint
Listen to the second episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series How to Build a Godly Home: Choosing the Right Location
Listen to the third episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Envision Your Dream Home
Listen to the fourth episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series How Building a Dream Home Tests your Marriage-and Your Faith
Listen to the fifth episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series The Secret Behind a Strong Spiritual Home (Hint: It's Not Being Pinterest Perfect)
Listen to the sixth episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Why You Matter: The Hidden Strength in Every Home
Listen to the seventh episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series The Power of Light: Becoming a Spiritual Lamplighter
Watch on YouTube Oaks of Righteousness: Raising Families with Deep Roots with Carol Roper
I'll leave the light on for you. Have you ever heard that line before? Motel 6 turned that phrase into a promise—but spiritually, it's a calling. Darkness is everywhere, but one light can change everything. That light is Christ in you.
Just like lamplighters once walked city streets to protect their communities, you've been called to guard your home with vigilance and faith. The Proverbs 31 woman never let her lamp go out—and neither should we. In this episode, you'll learn practical ways to keep your spiritual flame burning, strengthen your connection to the Holy Spirit, and become the lamplighter your family needs.
This is the seventh episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series. So far, we've delved into the preparation processes of designing and building your dream home. Today we're talking about the power of light.
Listen to the first episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Open Your Blueprint
Listen to the second episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series How to Build a Godly Home: Choosing the Right Location
Listen to the third episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Envision Your Dream Home
Listen to the fourth episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series How Building a Dream Home Tests your Marriage-and Your Faith
Listen to the fifth episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series The Secret Behind a Strong Spiritual Home (Hint: It's Not Being Pinterest Perfect)
Listen to the sixth episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Why You Matter: The Hidden Strength in Every Home
Watch on YouTube The Power of Light: Becoming a Spiritial Lamplighter with Carol Roper
Sometimes the most important role is the one that feels the least glamorous.
We live in a world that celebrates big wins and visible achievements. But what about the quiet, everyday work—the kind that rarely gets applause? Have you ever felt unimportant in your own home, wondering if anyone notices the meals, the clean laundry, the late-night homework help? The truth is, your role isn't just important, it's essential. You are the strength that holds everything together.
This is the sixth episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series. So far, we've seen why we need a blueprint, discovered the best location, created a vision, learned how building a dream home tests your marriage and faith and found the critical component of our dream home's foundation. Today we'll see why you, the woman of the home, matters.
Listen to the first episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Open Your Blueprint
Listen to the second episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series How to Build a Godly Home: Choosing the Right Location
Listen to the third episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Envision Your Dream Home
Listen to the fourth episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series How Building a Dream Home Tests your Marriage-and Your Faith
Listen to the fifth episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series The Secret Behind a Strong Spiritual Home (Hint: It's Not Being Pinterest Perfect)
Watch on YouTube Why You Matter: The Hidden Strength In Every Home with Carol Roper
Picture this: a stunning home with gleaming floors and perfect décor—but underneath, the foundation is cracked. Eventually, everything starts to tilt and crumble. The same thing happens in our spiritual lives when we focus on appearances instead of what's beneath the surface. Without a strong foundation, even the most beautiful house will eventually crack and crumble. The same is true for our spiritual homes.
Discover why appearances aren't enough, how to check for cracks in your spiritual foundation, and practical ways to build a home rooted in faith and grace. Whether you're navigating marriage challenges, raising kids, or simply longing for a home filled with peace, this episode will help you dig deep and start building on bedrock that lasts.
This is the fifth episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series. So far, we've seen why we need a blueprint, discovered the best location, created a vision and learned how building a dream home tests your marriage and faith. Today we're going to see what critical component needs to be included in your spiritual dream home, and how it changes everything.
Listen to the first episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Open Your Blueprint
Watch on YouTube The Secret Behind a Strong Spiritual Home (Hint: It's Not Being Pinterest Perfect) with Carol Roper
What happens when building your dream home nearly breaks your marriage? In today's episode, I'm sharing a raw, honest story from my own life—a season when stress, exhaustion, and unmet expectations left me wondering if my relationship with my husband would survive. But through that struggle, I learned a powerful truth: when we try to manage everything in our own strength, we end up drained and discouraged. The good news? God is the ultimate builder and the best general contractor for your home and family.
This is the fourth episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series. So far, we've seen why we need a blueprint, discovered the best location and created a vision for our dream home. Today we're going to talk about why God needs to be the builder of your spiritual dream home, and how surrendering control to Him changes everything.
Listen to the first episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Open Your Blueprint
Watch on YouTube How Building a Dream Home Tests Your Marriage-and Your Faith with Carol Roper
Every great home starts with a dream—a vision for life within its walls. But before the first nail is hammered, the blueprint must be drawn. After decades of designing houses, I've learned a blueprint isn't just about rooms and square footage; it's about reflecting the heart of the family. The same is true for our spiritual homes. God, the Master Architect, has a design for each of us—a home filled with abundant living that's better than anything we could imagine. Today, we'll start by asking: What does your spiritual dream home look like? And how do we align that vision with God's perfect plan according to His Word so our homes become places where faith thrives and families flourish?
Over the next couple of months I'll be sharing my Kitchen Table series. Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home. These episodes are based on the award-winning blog series I wrote several years back that I believe are even more important in today's culture. But there's one episode that is really the starting point for this series and you'll find it on my home page when you click the Open Your Blueprint button.
Watch on YouTube Envision Your Dream Home with Carol Roper
Ever feel like building a godly home is overwhelming? You're not alone. In this episode, we uncover the very first step to creating a home that stands strong—starting with the right location. Deciding where to put a dream house is the most important part of the design process. Putting so much effort into creating a great home only to realize later it was built in the wrong place can shatter any hopes we have for a strong family.
This week is the first in my Kitchen Table series called Blueprints to Building Your Spiritual Dream Home. These episodes are based on the award-winning blog series I wrote several years back that I believe are even more important in today's culture. But there's one episode that is really the starting point for this series and you'll find it on my home page when you click the Open Your Blueprint button.
Listen and begin your journey toward peace, purpose, and a lasting legacy.
Watch on YouTube How to Build a Godly Home: Choosing the Right Location with Carol Roper
We've all heard it before—bridging the communication gap with a teen can feel like trying to build a bridge with spaghetti. But don't worry, we've got you covered. We're diving into one of the most critical aspects of parenting: communicating with your teenager. Today's guest, Mark Gregston, a renowned expert and founder of Parenting Today's Teens, will share his invaluable insights and practical tips to help you connect with your teen in meaningful ways. Mark will guide us through the challenges and nuances of communicating with teenagers and will explore common barriers, effective strategies, and real-life examples that illustrate how to navigate those tough conversations. Whether it's dealing with a defiant teen or simply trying to understand their world, this episode is packed with actionable advice to improve your relationship with your teen.
You can find out more about Mark's ministry at Parenting Today's Teens and Heartlight Ministries. Also, if you'd like to hear some of the teen's stories from Heartlight Minstries go to Heartlight Stories
To find the Blueprint Tips for this episode go to CarolRoper.org/podcast
Watch on YouTube Unlocking the Secrets to Effective Comminucation with Your Teen with Mark Gregston
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Find the first episode for the start of next week's Blueprints to Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series at the Open Your Blueprint button on my homepage at CarolRoper.org
We're celebrating five amazing years of incredible testimonies and conversations! In this special anniversary episode, we're sharing your favorite Christmas traditions, chatting with two inspiring young moms, Carli McNamara and Rebecca Edwards, about holiday memories and motherhood, and revealing the top 10 most-loved episodes of the podcast. Plus, I'll share how many countries the podcast has reached and the surprising number country where we're downloaded the most outside of the United States. We also announce the first and second place winners of our celebration giveaway! Whether you've been here since day one or just discovered us, this episode is packed with joy, nostalgia, and hope for the season ahead.
Check out all of the links-including the top 10 episodes, book recommendation, The Art of Manliness Podcast, the Billy Graham Online Advent Devotional, and other shows mentioned in this episode-at CarolRoper.com
Heartache is something we all face—whether through loss, disappointment, or unexpected challenges.
Today's guest, Kara Stout—author of An Untroubled Heart—opens up about her personal journey through grief, waiting seasons, and life's unexpected challenges. Drawing from her experiences of loss and her own medical crises, Kara shares how faith became her anchor when peace felt out of reach. Her message is clear: even in the darkest valleys, God's presence offers comfort, strength, and hope.
Her story reminds us that hope is not the absence of heartache but the assurance of God's nearness in it. Whether you're battling anxiety, navigating loss, or longing for peace, Kara's insights offer encouragement and practical steps to experience God's comfort daily. Through her 30-day devotional, Kara invites readers to begin each morning in God's presence and end each day in His calming embrace—creating a rhythm that nurtures faith and resilience.
Check out Kara's website and book, An Untroubled Heart: Calming Anxiety and Finding God's Peace. You can also follow her on Instagram at Sincerely by Kara
Watch on Youtube Hope Beyond the Heartache: The Journey to an Untroubled Heart with Kara Stout
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Have you ever struggled with unforgiveness? If we're honest I believe we all have. But that's not how God wants us to live. Even though He commands us to forgive, it's not just to let the other person off the hook. He wants us to forgive because He knows how holding onto resentment can cause a cancer to grow in our hearts, hurting us so much more than the person who caused the hurt. In this episode I'll share several instances where God convicted me of my unforgiving heart as well as a parable where Jesus shows us how ungrateful we are when we don't forgive.
Watch on YouTube Unlocking Joy: The Surprising Power of Letting Go with Carol Roper
Visit the website at CarolRoper.org
What if the way you love could change the world—starting in your own home? In a culture that feels fractured and hostile, loving others like Jesus isn't just hard—it feels impossible. But what if God gave us a blueprint for loving without limits?
Author and podcaster, Rachael Adams has recently released her second book, Everyday Prayers for Love: Learning to Love God, Others and Even Yourself. We are often told the Bible is God's love letter to us, yet we struggle to comprehend the height, width, and depth that this eternal God has for His beloved. How would fully understanding God's love for us change the way we love others? The way we love ourselves? In this episode, we'll uncover practical ways to reflect His heart in everyday life, even when opinions clash and relationships feel strained.
Find Rachael at RachaelKAdams.com
Rachael's newest book Everyday Prayers for Love: Learning to Love God, Others, and Even Yourself
Share your favorite Christmas tradition for a chance to enter our five year anniversary episode giveaway, which includes a $50 Amazon gift card! Enter by November 13 here
Watch on YouTube Can Love Really Change a Broken World? How God's Love Transforms Hearts-Starting with Ours with Rachael Adams
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If this episode encourages you, would you please leave a rating and a review? Your reviews are a gift to me, and I read every one. And, now, if I read your review on an episode, you can win a free t-shirt! All you have to do is fill out this form to let me know and I'll get in touch if I share it.
We all walk through seasons that feel like a desert—lonely, exhausting, and full of questions for God. In this episode, I open up about my own painful wilderness years—struggling with infertility, chronic illness, and depression—and how I eventually discovered that God hadn't abandoned me after all.
Through my story, you'll see that the desert isn't a place of punishment but preparation. It's where God strips away our dependence on everything else so we can truly know Him as our provider. If you've ever wondered where God is when life feels dry, this episode will remind you that He's still working, still leading, and still faithful—right in the middle of your wilderness.
Scripture mentioned in this episode is Psalm 40:1-3
Watch on YouTube Have You Lost Hope? Building Your Faith in a Season of Despair with Carol Roper
Find the Open Your Blueprint bonus episode only at my new website CarolRoper.org
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Every marriage goes through seasons—some filled with laughter and connection, and others that feel dry, distant, or lonely. Maybe you've found yourself wondering, "What happened to us? Why can't we enjoy doing things together like we used to?" The feelings you once had faded, and no matter how hard you try, it feels like you're just going through the motions.
If that sounds familiar, you are not alone.
Dan and Danielle Macaulay, founders of MarriedUp.net and authors of The Triangle Effect, talk about what to do when love feels more like effort than emotion—and how inviting God into the center of your relationship can renew your faith, your hope, and your heart for each other.
If your marriage feels stuck, strained, or spiritually disconnected, this honest and encouraging conversation will remind you: your story isn't over, and God can still bring beauty out of what feels broken. But before we get started, I just wanted to warn you that we do talk about intimacy some in this episode so you may not want little ears around.
Check out my new website, CarolRoper.org, where you can find a bonus episode when you click on "Open Your Blueprint"
Watch on YouTube When Feelings Fade: Finding Hope for Your Marriage Through Everyday Moments with Dan and Danielle Macaulay
What dream have you had that you feel is too big to pursue? One of my big dreams has always been to go to England, the country my maternal grandmother was from. But I don't like to fly, I was worried I couldn't do that much walking, didn't know how to figure out all of the planes, trains, underground, taxis and Uber logistics, etc. etc. I decided not to give into those fears, however, when my husband, John, offered to take me on the trip of a lifetime to England and Scotland to celebrate my 60th birthday and our 40th wedding anniversary. Having recently returned from that trip I can honestly say it was worth every bit of planning, every mile flown and every step taken to make the dream a reality. There is a story in the Bible where God had a wonderful plan devised for His people, a land flowing with milk and honey, but 10 men prevented that dream from happening because they were too afraid.
Listen to Adeline St. John's episode
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Watch on YouTube What Are You Missing Because You're Afraid to Trust God?
Did your motherhood story turn out the way you hoped? Even if it didn't, God is still writing something beautiful. Motherhood is both messy and miraculous. Even the president of MOPS faced heartbreak in motherhood.
When Elisa Morgan led MOPS, she encouraged millions of moms — but behind the scenes, her own motherhood journey was far from perfect. In this candid conversation, Elisa shares the struggles and blessings of parenting, how she found God's faithfulness in the hard seasons, and why she believes mentoring younger women is one of the most powerful ways to build strong homes of faith, especially when motherhood doesn't look the way you expected.
If you've ever felt like you're not enough as a mom, this conversation will remind you that God is present in every part of your story. Whether you're a new mom or an empty nester, hope and healing are always possible.
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Watch on YouTube When Motherhood Doesn't Go As Planned with Former MOPS President Elisa Morgan
In this heartfelt episode I sit down with my mom and sister to share a legacy of faith, resilience, and family love.
My mom’s story begins with her mom, an English war bride, who left everything familiar behind to start a new life in America. Later, mom had her own military journey after she married my dad who was stationed at first in Germany and eventually was deployed to Vietnam. Even though it was difficult, mom learned how to make anywhere feel like home.
Through frequent moves, a long deployment, and so many home renovations, mom created a life centered on faith, love, and togetherness. Their story is a reminder that building a strong home isn’t about having the perfect house—it’s about the people, the faith, and the memories that fill it.
In this episode, you’ll hear: ✨ What life was like for my grandmother, a war bride starting over in a new country ✨ The lessons I learned from a dad who was always renovating and rebuilding ✨ What it means to “find home” no matter where you are
If you love stories about faith, family, and the power of home, this one will touch your heart and inspire you to see your own family’s story through fresh eyes.
Don't forget to sign up for my new monthly newsletter, The Keeping Room: Faith, Favorites and a Little Southern Soul. It's like a monthly care package for your soul and home delivered straight to your inbox!
Watch on YouTube Finding Home Wherever We Lived: My Mom's Story of Faith and Family with Christine Limoges (& Lisa Johns)
What does it take to break free from a lifetime of pain and abuse? Ruth Valor’s story is a powerful Christian testimony of how God can heal even the deepest wounds.
From the time she was just three years old, Ruth endured sexual abuse, physical abuse, and emotional neglect. Her father battled alcoholism and carried his own scars from an abusive childhood, leaving Ruth desperate for love and acceptance. That search often led her into destructive relationships—what she now calls having a “broken picker.”
But God had a greater plan for Ruth. At her lowest point, she encountered Jesus and began a journey of healing from abuse and breaking the cycle that had defined her life for so long. Today, Ruth leads Journey of Hope, a ministry dedicated to helping both survivors of abuse and those who have caused harm find freedom in Christ.
In this powerful conversation, you’ll discover: ✨ How generational trauma and “daddy issues” affect our choices ✨ Why abuse survivors often repeat destructive patterns—and how to break free ✨ The moment Ruth found hope and began her healing journey with Jesus ✨ How faith in Christ brings lasting freedom from abuse and brokenness
If you’ve experienced abuse or know someone who has, this episode offers encouragement and practical hope. Ruth’s story is proof that no matter how broken the past, Jesus can restore, redeem, and lead us into the abundant life He promises.
You can find out more about Ruth's ministry at JourneyofHope.net
Watch on YouTube Breaking the Cycle of Abuse: A Story of Healing and Hope with Ruth Valor
Before the Israelites could enter the Promised Land, they had to stand at the edge of the Jordan River — and trust God to make a way. At a retreat diving deep into the book of Joshua, the leader God appointed after Moses died, I found myself at my own river’s edge, staring at something God was asking me to let go of. But I wasn’t ready. This is the story of how He met me there — in my fear, in my wrestling — and how crossing over became more than just a metaphor.
Sign up for my new monthly newsletter, The Keeping Room: Faith, Favorites and a Little Southern Soul. From a favorite house plan to my go-to beauty products with some decor and faith-filled inspiration sprinkled in. It's like a care package for your soul and your home delivered to your inbox!
What happens when kids grow up in Christian homes, attend church regularly, and still end up thinking more like the culture than like Christ? That’s the question Elizabeth Urbanowicz couldn’t ignore as a classroom teacher—and it sparked a mission that’s now helping families around the world.
In this episode, Elizabeth shares how her background in education and apologetics led her to create Foundation Worldview, a curriculum designed to help kids think critically, biblically, and confidently. You’ll hear how simple, age-appropriate tools are transforming children from passive consumers into thoughtful, truth-seeking disciples of Jesus.
Whether you're a parent, grandparent, teacher, or ministry leader, this conversation will encourage you to build a strong foundation of faith at home—with practical ideas, engaging resources, and a whole lot of hope.
Foundation Worldview
CarolRoper.org
Have you felt God calling you to step outside of what you know how to do into an unknown arena? Over 12 years ago I felt led to begin writing. Me, the girl whose college English teacher said that if I didn’t start writing shorter essays, I would flunk her class. I had no idea why God wanted me to write, and sometimes the question still begs an answer, but I was obedient, and God opened doors I never knew were there.
In this personal episode, I share my journey of stepping outside my comfort zone—from drawing house plans to writing stories—and the doubts that nearly made me quit.
But then, God sent a letter. Not just any letter—a handwritten note from a prison inmate who read my “silly little story” and found hope in the most unexpected way.
This episode is a powerful reminder that obedience doesn’t always come with clarity, but it always comes with purpose. If you’ve ever questioned your calling, struggled with confidence, or wondered if your story matters… this one’s for you.
💡 What You’ll Hear: * The doubts and discouragement that nearly made her quit * The unexpected letter that confirmed her calling * Why your “small” story might be someone else’s lifeline * Encouragement for stepping into unknown territory with faith
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Watch on YouTube https://youtu.be/mlRF6Eh23SA
Do you ever wonder if marriage can be great—not for the rare few—but for you? Today’s episode answers that question with a resounding yes.
In her new book, Making Marriage Easier, Arlene Pellicane shares lots of funny (and painful) stories that we’ll talk about today. Like her mortifying story about electrolysis and how her wedding almost went off without her! She also gives practical wisdom like the four key decisions that make marriage easier and how to keep a marriage vibrant when you feel like roommates. Arlene was a delight to interview, and you’ll love her honest feedback when it comes to knowing how to make marriage easier.
Go to CarolRoper.org/podcast for the link to your free 50 date ideas
Watch on YouTube Christian Marriage Advice That Will Make You Laugh, Cry and Actually Use with Arlene Pellicane
Twelve years ago, Noelle Lawson died from alcohol poisoning. Her husband, Scott, had just been trained to do CPR and was able to revive her before the ambulance arrived. Their lives have never been the same since. Scott and Noelle share their story of alcoholism and how a deadly accident Scott was involved in while in high school delayed his obedience to follow God into the ministry for over 30 years. Both Scott and Noelle share how God transformed them by breaking their addiction to alcohol and move on to become counselors. Scott is the former pastor of Happy Trails Cowboy Church in Pelzer, S.C. and he and Noelle have recently merged their church with Temple Baptist in Simpsonville, SC and have moved their congregation there as well. They share their hard story of how God brought them into an amazing relationship with Him through His faithfulness and healing.
If you are walking your own hard road through addiction, running from God or trying to see your way through a difficult time, I know Scott and Noelle will bring you encouragement today. And at the end of this episode, they generously share how you can reach out to them if you need help. This special couple truly has a heart for bringing healing and hope to those who've lost hope.
For contact info for Scott and Noelle go to carolroper.org/podcast
Have you or someone close to you experienced trauma? Most of us have at one point in our lives to various degrees. Kim Haar had an extreme trauma when her usually calm ex-husband broke into her home one night, beat her for three-and-a-half hours, shot holes in her walls, kidnapped her and took her to her boyfriend's house where he shot him ten times. This horrific story plays out like something from a movie, but unfortunately Kim knows all too well how real it was. But thankfully she's still alive to share her story and give others hope that there is healing on the other side. Kim is a licensed professional counselor and marriage and family therapist who knows how to lead people to victory over their past trauma rather than living life as a victim. her testimony is a living example that demonstrates what the enemy meant for evil, God redeemed for good.
Today I have three very special guests, my daughter, Elise Roper Younts, along with her husband, Wes, and his mom, Frieda (who's also one of my best friends!). Elise and Wes walked their own lonely journeys through singleness before finally finding each other and marrying last March. Even though for most of their lives they lived exactly 7.3 miles apart, and Wes's mom and I have been best friends for 28 years, they'd never met except in their preschool Sunday School class. You may remember Elise's story from episode 19 about how her fiancé broke off their engagement and left her heartbroken. Wes has his own testimony of 10 years of singleness and not dating after he realized he had allowed dating to become an idol for him. I introduced Frieda to you, along with Julie, in episode one. Frieda and I walked with our children through their lonely seasons of singleness and prayed for them through the difficult times. We had no way of knowing at the time, but God was working behind the scenes to draw Elise and Wes closer to Him so that He could bring them together in marriage. In this episode Frieda and I discuss the struggles of parenting single adult children and I share the prayer I wrote asking God to bring Elise a husband. Elise and Wes share their wedding vows that they wrote to one another.
If you're a single adult, or the parent of a single adult, and have grown discouraged in your loneliness and feeling left out, I pray this episode will encourage you and bring hope to your journey.
For additional show notes and photos go to CarolRoper.org/Podcast
Elise's previous episode: Listen to How a 133-Year-Old House Helped to Heal a Broken Heart with Elise Roper
Frieda's previous episode: Listen to The Importance of Friendship with Julie Bagwell and Frieda Younts
Jodie Berndts' Episode: How to Pray Powerful and Effective Prayers for Your Children, No Matter How Old They Are with Jodie Berndt
One Wednesday night after church I struck up a conversation with another church member, Henry Mitchell, and he shared all of the great things God had been doing in his life. Now I knew Henry had been released from prison over two years prior and that he'd served a long time in prison, but I didn't know how long he'd served or why he'd been arrested in the first place. Henry shared that three weeks after his 24th birthday he killed two people in a drug sale gone bad. he spent four-and-a-half months in solitary confinement after his arrest and was sentenced to life with a possibility of parole in 20 years. While he was in solitary confinement, he began reading a New Testament a chaplain had given him and Henry gave his life to Christ. He cried for three days because he didn't believe a person could be cleansed like that. Henry served almost 34 years in prison before he was finally granted parole on his 15th try. After his release he started praying for God to bring him a good job, a nice home and a dependable, affordable car. God took care of him by providing each one in some of the most incredible ways.
As a result of Henry's relationship with Jesus he's become one of the most faith-filled evangelists I've ever encountered, always saying, "Praise the Lord" and sincerely meaning it. If you're struggling with something you've done in the past and don't believe God could ever forgive you, I hope knowing Henry's story will help you understand that God will forgive you, no matter what you've done, as long as you repent and accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. You're going to be blessed by Henry's testimony of God's grace and mercy and I hope it will cause you to pray bolder prayers and build a bolder faith in your own life.
To see more show notes from this episode go to CarolRoper.org/podcast
If you’d like to hear more epsiodes about tough topics, check out my episodes with Mike Novotny Tackling Tough Topics: Mental Health, Porn and Politics. Or if you're concerned about raising your son in the current culture listen to Blueprints for Raising Boys to be Godly Men with Erin and Jason Davis.
Cynthia Tobias was on my bucket list since before I started this podcast because of the work she's done teaching about the strong-willed child. Her book, You Can't Make Me: But I Can Be Persuaded, was a key influence in helping me raise my strong-willed daughter, Elise. Before I knew how to handle her stubborn temperament, I would frequently end up frustrated and in a puddle of tears. But once I learned some of the tools and tips Cynthia shares, it became easier for me to understand how to get Elise to cooperate more (hint: it doesn't involve getting angry or raising your voice).
In this episode Cynthia shares, Three Quick Ways to Recognize and deal with Your Strong-Willed Child, Teen or Adult, as well as the magic word you can use that almost always works to get a strong-willed person to cooperate and where you can find immediate free resources like The Strong-Willed Child Emergency Kit. I know you'll be so encouraged with Cynthia's solid advice on helping guide your strong-willed child. As she states in this episode," It's a compliment that God gave us to have a strong-willed child... When they're born, they don't have any idea how to use it. It's up to us to help guide it, shape it, and form it and let God use it." You're going to want to thank Cynthia after hearing this episode.
Go to CarolRoper.org/Podcast for show notes
Molly Stillman has lived the type of life that when shared, people stop in their tracks and ask, “Wait, what happened?” Molly’s mother, Lynda Van Devanter Buckley served as an Army nurse during the Vietnam War and wrote the bestselling memoir, Home Before Morning. When Molly was seventeen, Lynda passed away after an eight-year battle with an autoimmune disorder due to her exposure to Agent Orange. Four years later, Molly turned twenty-one and unexpectedly inherited a quarter of a million dollars from her mother’s estranged family’s estate. Through “retail therapy” and a long series of grossly irresponsible financial decisions, Molly found herself broke with over $36,000 in credit card debt less than two years later. Shame, guilt, and embarrassment set in.
Listen in as Molly shares her journey to faith as she worked her way out of debt and reveals how every messed up, broken story has a purpose. She now helps others through podcasting, speaking and her book, If I Don't Laugh, I'll Cry: How Death, Debt and Comedy Led to a Life of Faith, Farming and Forgetting What I Came into This Room For.
For show notes go to CarolRoper.org/Podcast
If you enjoyed listening to Molly's story check these podcast episodes linked below:
Discovering the Dad Who Raised Her Wasn't Her Biological Father with Megan Phillips and
Finding Freedom from a Poverty Mindset with Kimberly Long
Christy Braddock has struggled with shame from a teen pregnancy and years later, abortion. The guilt became a heavy weight to carry. Christy got pregnant at 15 and gave her baby up for adoption. Then at 21 she became pregnant again, but this time she decided to keep the baby and get married, thinking this was her second chance to raise a child. But because her marriage was so dysfunctional she made some poor choices, including abortion, that she’s had to overcome with Jesus’ grace and forgiveness. Today, Christy’s passion is helping women to break free from shame and boldly share their testimonies and, because of that, has created The Shine Collective with Christy B., a space for healing hearts and brave stories. When you hear her testimony of faith today, you’ll also hear the joy and light that comes from within her since she’s found freedom and forgiveness through the love of Jesus. Here's Christy's story...
Go to CarolRoper.org/podcast for additional shownotes
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Watch Breaking Free from Shame: Pregnant at 15, Redeemed by Faith with Christy Braddock
As we’ve entered the last week of May, I remember how crazy this time of year is for those who have school-aged children. I know a lot of parents are in what many call Maycember. The chaotic final days of the school year entail so many parties, ceremonies, graduations, proms, concerts, teacher appreciation gifts and sports tournaments. It can also bring lots of anticipation, with kids looking forward to summer break and wondering what teacher they’ll have next year.
For me, however, I’m often reminded of a difficult memory that occurred over 20 years ago at the conclusion of my son’s first year of kindergarten. That year I had to tell six-year-old Jacob he wouldn’t be moving up to first grade with his friends in the fall.
Several months earlier, Jacob’s kindergarten teacher called my husband and me in for what we thought was a routine conference. Expecting to hear glowing reports of our son’s schoolwork, we were instead faced with a situation that brought frustration and heartache to our family.
Jacob’s teacher began by saying Jacob had been very distracted over the last few months, and she felt he needed to be tested for ADD. She handed us a paper outlining the symptoms and advised us to have a doctor confirm the diagnosis.
Then she dropped the bomb.
“I believe Jacob would be better off if you held him back a year,” she said coolly. “Of course, the choice is yours, but he won’t benefit if you send him on ahead.”
Here's Jacob's story...
Also, I’d love for you to become part of the Building Strong Homes Community and sign up for my email list where you’ll also receive my baked spaghetti recipe.
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Watch on YouTube Lessons Learned and Victories Won Through Our Son's Struggle with ADD with Carol Roper https://youtu.be/IO7tY33uiCU
Liz Cobo says that nothing has deepened her faith and changed her walk with Jesus like studying the Bible. Studying God's Word literally changed her life. Things that were once important priorities aren’t anymore. Things that were once afterthoughts are now at the top of her list. Scripture is God's self-revelation and is available to anyone willing to take the time and make the effort to read and study. Liz understands that now. God promises in his Word that he will give us greater understanding of His Word when we read it. Liz always believed in God, but didn’t always know Jesus and lived a lot of her life not knowing what the Bible says and doesn't say. Maybe you’ve experienced (or are experiencing) the same thing? We know what it means to be an unbeliever or to be unchurched. But what about believers who don't know God's word? She describes them as soldiers who take no weapons or no armor into war.
Liz wants women to become educated believers and shares practical ways to learn. Her passion is to help them understand, study and apply the word of God in their daily lives. And to share God’s truth with grace to unbelievers and the unBibled.
We talk about all of this and more in this episode. Here's Liz' story...
Also, I’d love for you to become part of the Building Strong Homes Community and sign up for my email list where you’ll also receive my baked spaghetti recipe.
You can also click to sign up to become part of my free Facebook community.
Watch on YouTube Do You Know How to Gracefully Defend Your Faith? with Liz Cobo
I don’t know about you, but in my home the laundry room is considered one of the most important rooms. It’s command central. When my kids were still at home it was also a disaster on most days. Oh, it might be clean for a few brief hours, but then when everyone started slinging off boots and muddy clothes, you’d never know I’d darkened the door that day.
Many days the frustration of laundry, picking up clothes, blankets, cups and shoes (the list could go on infinitely) is overwhelming, especially with kids in the home. Before my children flew the nest, I’d get mad and start to spew at them, wanting to ask the question my mom used to ask us in jest (mostly), “What’d your last maid die of—overwork and underpay?” I always laughed at that question, but now I can appreciate the significance of it. That’s sure what it feels like sometimes.
Listen as I share a perspective I learned years ago that helped me no blow a fuse every time I walked in the door to a messy house and laundry room.
Also, I’d love for you to become part of the Building Strong Homes Community and sign up for my email list where you’ll also receive my baked spaghetti recipe.
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Watch on YouTube Are You Harboring Bitterness Toward Your Messy Family? with Carol Roper
Husband-and-wife music duo, Kenny and Claire Hilliard both grew up in the upstate of South Carolina before God took them the long way around to finally settle in Nashville, TN. In 2015, during Kenny’s tenure as a senior pastor and worship leader in Asheville, North Carolina, he was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Shortly after successful surgery to remove the tumor, Kenny received a second diagnosis, Ehlers Danlos Syndrome—a degenerative genetic disease that left him temporarily impaired. The couple embraced a return to music during Kenny’s recovery, founding a music teaching studio and penning modern hymns for their home congregation. Kenny and Claire also share some of their travel experiences from being on the road six months of the year touring with their 3 kids in an RV across the country. This special couple is honest about the struggles they’ve endured and continue giving God glory via their music through it all.
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Watch on YouTube Are You Weary? A Musical Duo's Story of Hope Through Life's Storms with Kenny and Claire Hilliard
When my kids were teens, I shared with both of them that I used to curse—a lot. You should have seen the expressions on their faces as their jaws dropped, and eyes grew wide with disbelief. “Not you Mom! I don’t believe it!” I was pleased that I had to convince them otherwise, glad that I’d decided when they were both very little that my speech needed to change. That, and the Holy Spirit got ahold of me.
When I was thinking about this week’s kitchen table topic, I was surprised by some of the pushback I received. I had no idea that cursing for Christians was a controversial subject. No, the Bible doesn’t explicitly say, thou shalt not curse, but as I looked up scriptures about our speech, I believe it’s overwhelmingly clear that God does not want us using bad language to express ourselves, especially in front of those who aren’t Christians.
Listen as I share what I learned the Bible has to say about our speech and how we should portray ourselves as Christians in the episode.
Also, I'd love for you to become part of the Building Strong Homes Community and sign up for my email list where you’ll also receive my baked spaghetti recipe.
You can also click to sign up to become part of my free Facebook community.
Watch on YouTube Is It Really That Bad for Christians to Cuss? with Carol Roper
For show notes visit CarolRoper.org
Mary Marantz knows how fear can hold us back. Even though she was able to leave the musty single-wide trailer of her childhood in West Virginia and make her way to Yale Law School, she always carried the fear that she would be found out. Even though she had worked hard and earned every grade and scholarship she received she thought others saw her as an imposter. So, she strove to be the best at everything she did, and she was. But the life of perfection has a way of draining the joy out of you. Mary finally realized that fear was holding her hostage to a life that didn’t provide freedom and that he is a boring liar. In this episode she shares part of her fascinating story of growing up in rural West Virginia, which is the topic of her first book, Dirt, with a dad who was a proud eighth generation logger, a mom who cleaned houses and her amazing grandma Goldie. In her newest book, Underestimated, she shares how she overcame perfectionism, procrastination, people-pleasing and more. She understands the drive to prove others wrong and show everyone just how far you’ve come, while also doubting yourself at every turn. Mary has learned that we all must own the muddy parts of our stories so we can move forward in the purpose God has for us. Because, as Mary says, God does His best work in the muddy, messy, and broken if we’ll only learn to dig in.
Go to Carolroper.org for show notes
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If you'd like to connect with me or have an idea for an episode you can email me at buildingstronghomes@gmail.com
Watch on YouTube Underestimated: From a Single-Wide Trailer in W. Va. to Yale Law School withe Mary Marantz
When I started this podcast, my two best friends, Frieda Younts and Julie Bagwell, graciously agreed to be my first interview. We wanted to help other women find and experience friendship like ours, because good, godly friends can have an amazing impact on your life, as we all can testify. One of the things Frieda said during that interview describes the foundation of our friendship.
She said, “We started with [honoring God in our get-togethers]. When we started with that, God knit us together. That’s why we don’t have huge arguments because we’re knit together by God. He started our friendship, and I think we’ll be friends till we die.”
I sure hope so.
You might be listening to this thinking, “Good for you, Carol. I’m glad you found your friends but I’m still lonely, wishing I had at least one good friend I could count on.” And I understand. I remember how hard those days were when I was a young mom. Or maybe your kids have moved out and you’re struggling to learn how to live this new empty-nest lifestyle and would love to pour out your heart to other women in the same stage of life. Or you may have recently moved to a new community, and you don’t know how to find someone you can relate to.
As I look back at how our friendship formed, I see lessons I’ve learned and things we did right when we weren’t even aware of it. In this episode I share some things we did that I hope will help you find your own lifelong friends.
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If you'd like to connect with me or have an idea for a Kitchen Table episode you can email me at buildingstronghomes@gmail.com
Watch on YouTube From Lonely to Loved: A Blueprint to Building Lasting Friendships with Carol Roper
Christian comedian Kerri Pomarolli knows what's it like to feel hopeless. After she and her comedian husband divorced, she didn’t think anyone would want to hire her for Christian events again, so she holed up in her bedroom and hid under the covers, binge-watching all five seasons of Friday Night Lights, drinking coke and eating a balanced diet of M&M’s and salt and vinegar potato chips. Becoming a member of the Single Moms’ Club wasn’t exactly on her bucket list, but God revealed a plan for her to reach a whole new group of people. That was the motivation for her to get out of bed and start working again as He provided opportunities she’d never expected. Kerri’s resume includes being on the Tonight Show 29 times and named one of LA’s Most Inspiring People by LA Voyage Magazine and Comedian of the Year by The Hollywood Red Letter Awards in 2022.
In this episode Kerri shares her journey as a comedian and how she’s making single parenting work for her and her two daughters. She also brings lots of humor as she shares her life experiences as well as practical advice for single moms. Even though divorce was never something she wanted, she’s learned how God can use it for good.
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If you'd like to reach out to me with episode ideas or any other reason, you can email me at buildingstronghomes@gmail.com
Watch on YouTube Hope and Humor After Divorce: Thriving as a Single Mom in Christian Comedy with Kerri Pomarolli https://youtu.be/w9xH51hBV_c
As I pondered the topic for this week’s kitchen table episode, the same thing kept coming to mind. An important question I’d like to ask you: What’s the bravest thing you’ve ever done?
When I first thought about that question several things immediately came to mind. Quitting my job as an architectural draftsman and buying a flower shop with my sister-in-law with neither of us having had any background in floral arranging. Buying a computer and learning AutoCAD so I could freelance drawing house plans while working from home--after we lost money in the floral business and had to sell it. And going to a writer’s conference all alone and barely knowing a soul there.
These decisions all took considerable courage, and they had a huge impact on my life. But as I dug deeper, I realized the better answer to that question. Not only because it changed the trajectory of my life, but it also changed me, my marriage and my family.
Watch The Bravest Thing I've Ever Done with Carol Roper on YouTube
Go to CarolRoper.org/podcast for show notes
Prayer to accept Christ:
“Lord, I know I am a sinner. I ask for your forgiveness today. I believe you sent your perfect, sinless son, Jesus, to die on the cross and be raised again to save me from my sins. I know that no one comes to you except through faith in your Son, Jesus Christ. I invite you into my heart and life to forgive me of my sins and save my soul. I turn over my life to you as both my Lord and my Savior. I want to have a relationship with you and find abundant life in Christ. In Jesus name. Amen”
Listen to The Importance of Friendships--Still Going Strong After 30 Years with Julie Bagwell and Frieda Younts
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Jessica Ronne has endured more heartache than most can even fathom. She found out when she was pregnant with her second son that he’d had a stroke in utero and would be profoundly disabled if she carried him to term. She and her husband made the decision to carry him to full term and let God handle the details. Lucas does have those disabilities, but Jess and her husband never wished they’d made a different choice. Then, several years and two more children later, Jess’s husband was diagnosed with a brain tumor and passed away at the age of 33, leaving her to take care of their four small children.
But God didn’t leave her in her grief. She met a wonderful man, a widower with three children and they married, blended their families and even added one more to the mix. Even though Jess has a hard story, she’s used her experience to create The Lucas Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to serving parent caregivers with respite, recognition and resources. She is also the associate producer of the documentary Unseen and the author of four books, including her most recent, Caregiving with Grit and Grace.
Jessica’s pain led her to create resources to help others, because she understands what it means to be in an unfamiliar world of grief and caregiving, not knowing how to navigate it all. Her relationship with Jesus is even stronger today than when she was a young mom because she learned to lean on Him, and even question Him, through it all. Even though her story is hard, she fought her way through it and made it to the other side to let you know whatever you’re going through, God’s got you.
The Bible says in 2 Corinthians 1:4 that “He comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.”
Here's Jess' story...
For show notes go to CarolRoper.org/podcast
Hey listeners! I’m popping into you podcast feed with a surprise! Starting now, I’ll be releasing solo episodes every other week to share some of my life experiences and Jesus moments with you! I’ll still be doing interviews but thought it would be fun to be able to talk directly to you about my struggles and triumphs. And I’m calling these episodes The Kitchen Table. So why the kitchen table? I’m so glad you asked!
I believe the dinner table is an important ingredient in the glue that helps us build strong families. My siblings and my children would agree. And so, these solo episodes that I’ll bring to you, hopefully every 2 weeks, will be short stories of how I’ve seen God work in my own life through sometimes mundane, and other times amazing, experiences and how those experiences have grown my faith. Just like if you came to my house and we sat around my kitchen table enjoying a snack and a cup of coffee (or hot tea for me!). I may even share some things I’m learning in the Word that might encourage you.
And since we’re talking about the dinner table, you might have heard that one of my favorite recipes to make for a crowd is baked spaghetti. It’s the meal my husband and I shared the first time we met, at a church youth group progressive dinner on New Year’s Eve, 1979. My mother-in-law shared the recipe with me years ago and I’ve always made this my go-to meal when I need to feed a lot of people, especially when I had lots of kids over for youth group events or parties. Guideposts magazine picked up our story and even printed the recipe for the baked spaghetti that has kind of become my trademark. So, if you’d like to receive that recipe, go to the link below and sign up and you’ll receive an email where you can download it. You’ll also receive weekly updates about podcast episodes as well as any other events that might be happening and maybe even some of my thoughts on faith and family. You’ll also be able to see a few Instagram posts from recent days.
So, let me know what you think about this Kitchen Table episode and if you have a question or an idea about something you’d like for me to discuss, please don’t hesitate to email me at buidingstronghomes@gmail.com. I’d love to hear from you! I’ll have a link to that in the show notes.
Show notes and link to baked spaghetti recipe
CarolRoper.org/podcast
Melissa Huray lived a life of hopelessness as a former alcoholic who struggled with addiction from the time she was a child. First it was sugar and junk food. Then, because her father was an alcoholic and she saw him go to alcohol to diffuse many situations, she believed alcohol was the magic cure for all of her troubles. But instead of finding healing in the bottle, she found herself in a hopeless cycle of addiction, believing she could stop at any time, but finding that she didn’t have the strength to overcome the hold alcohol had over her. Until she finally fully surrendered to Christ and prayed for healing. Melissa has a fascinating story of turning her life around through the power of Christ, not her own, and using her experience to counsel others living in addiction and bringing freedom through the gospel. In this episode she shares practical tools and encouragement to help addicts and those who love them fight the battle of addiction.
Melissa is now an author and has been a part of Mike Lindell’s recovery network for over a decade. She has much wisdom and insight for those looking for recovery. Melissa now experiences the longing fulfilled and is humbled to be able to share her healing story. If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction of any sort, this episode is one that will bring hope and encouragement.
Find show notes at CarolRoper.org/podcast
Does God care about the little decisions you have to make every day?
The Bible is full of spiritual wisdom. But does God provide specific direction for real-world questions? Questions like Is this the right job? and Which college should my child attend?
The answer is a resounding yes. And in this episode, you will discover how to access God's divine wisdom in any situation.
Jane Glenchur had no concept of a loving heavenly Father who longed to interact with her daily through prayer. To her, God seemed light-years away, too busy running the planet to even notice her, let alone want a relationship. She had head knowledge of God but no heart knowledge.
That all changed when she took a bold step of faith and attended a Beth Moore Bible study and saw the passion Beth had for God. Having grown up in a denomination that had served Jesus up like dry toast, Jane's hunger for a personal connection with Him translated into a prayer that would change the rest of her life: "Lord, I want the same passion she has."
As she continued on in the Bible study, the weekly cry of her heart became, "Lord, make me passionate about You".
Jane's pursuit caused her to realize that God is looking for people who have a passion for Him and that passion unlocks doors to encounters with Him that can be entered no other way. She shares the seven secrets to praying with power that God taught her, along with other gems of prayer wisdom, to help take the guesswork and stress out of decision-making. Her numerous personal stories will motivate you to set apart time with the Lord and tune your ear to His voice during your daily routine.
In this conversation, Jane shows how ordinary believers like you and me can receive extraordinary answers to our prayers.
For show notes go to CarolRoper.org/podcast
Hi listeners! Welcome back to the podcast! This is season 5 (can you believe it?) and episode 117! I took a few weeks off to enjoy my family over the holidays and to spend some time on a few exciting things I have in the works, so I appreciate your patience as I took a break from putting out the podcast. But now we’re back and there are a lot of exciting episodes coming up in this season and I can’t wait to introduce them to you!
Did you know that 20% of the youth that age out of the foster care system are instantly homeless. Tori Hope Petersen was one of those young adults who decided it would be easier to go it alone than have to navigate the system that caused her so much pain, having been in 12 foster homes from the ages of 12-18. But Tori was blessed to have mentors to come alongside her and help, eventually becoming adopted by her track coach.
Tori’s mom came from brokenness and generational curses and did the best she knew how, but Tori has become intentional about breaking those curses in her own family. She also does advocacy in the foster care system and has written two books, Fostered: One Woman’s Powerful Story of Finding Faith and Family Through Foster Care, and her just released book, Breaking the Patterns that Break You: Healing from the Pain of Your Past and Finding Real Hope That Lasts.
As I spoke to Tori, I realized that, even though she’s still so young, her experiences have made her wise beyond her years.
If Tori’s story encouraged you would you kindly leave a rating and a review on your favorite podcast app? You can go to my Facebook or Instagram at Building Strong Homes and find a video there that will show you how to do that if you’re not familiar with the process.
For show notes go to carolroper.org/podcast
Merry Christmas Y’all! I know as this episode drops it Thanksgiving week but since Thanksgiving is so late this year, I wanted to get a head start on Christmas! I’ve got my tree up already so I can enjoy it longer and I’m not sad about that at all! Haha.
Another reason I wanted to go ahead and release this episode is because I’m sharing some Christmas traditions, and you may want to implement some of these ideas into your own family and might need a little time to prepare.
So, I’m going to share a little research, a few fun and meaningful Christmas traditions and some fun Christmas stories as well as something we did when our family was grieving and having a hard time wanting to celebrate the holiday at all that helped a lot.
Check out the show notes at CarolRoper.org/podcast
A Marriage That Started With Spaghetti - Guideposts
If you listened to my podcast episode this past June, Fear is a Liar, you heard me talk about a couple in our church whose testimony made me decide to keep going with this podcast. When I was ready to shut it all down their story made me want to keep going so that others will have a place to share their own amazing God stories so together, we can help others to keep building strong.
You wouldn't think a breast cancer diagnosis would lead a couple into a marriage that was more joyful than they could have ever imagined, but that's what happened with Glen and Kelly Daigle. They had both been married before they met and were ready for a fresh start, having each gone through difficulties with drugs and alcohol. Glen had recently finished a self-admitted time in rehab for alcohol addiction and Kelly was looking for a man who'd been married, didn't have children and loved the Lord. Since Glen met all three requirements they dated and eventually married. But everything wasn't all rainbows and hearts. Glen spiraled into such a deep depression Kelly says many days she prayed she wouldn't come home to find that her husband had committed suicide. After Glen found help from counseling their lives were okay, but still not great. Neither of them had a strong relationship with God, they just did the bare minimum. Until Kelly's breast cancer diagnosis. Something changed in both of them as they realized the only thing they had to hold on to was Jesus, and they weren't letting Him go.
There are so many ways that God showed up in each of their journeys that there's no denying the Hound of Heaven was pursuing them from the very beginning. If you feel like you've messed up so badly that there's no promise of hope in your life anymore, this episode is for you.
For show notes go to Carolroper.org/Podcast
Watch on YouTube No One is Too Far Gone for God to Use with Glen and Kelly Daigle
Have you ever had a life changing moment? A tragedy, unexpected diagnosis or sudden loss that left you feeling alone, confused or in despair, wondering what to do next? When Wendy Rickard's husband fell into a utility area, dropping twenty feet on his head, she began to question God. He survived, but his brain injury meant her family lost the father and husband they depended on for everything. Their family of four imploded.
Wendy wondered what God's purpose was in this heartache, if He would take care of their future and if their lives would ever be the same again. God’s answers were not immediate, and quite frankly, rather slow. But He did answer her questions in His own way and in His own timing.
Today Wendy can tell the story of both her husband and their family's healing and she's sharing that story in this episode. If you've been through a life-altering experience, Wendy wants you to know that no matter what you are facing, God can bring hope and healing to you as well.
For show notes go to CarolRoper.org/podcast
If you'd like to watch the podcast on YouTube go to this link: https://youtu.be/CNwVxvCAfxg
Y’all, I’ve had Sophie Hudson on my bucket list of guests since before I started the podcast! She’s the co-host, along with Melanie Shankle, of the Big Boo Cast podcast as well as the voice of the Boo Mama blog (she shares in this episode how that name came to be!) and author of several of my favorite books. She’s a southern girl from Alabama who loves her family and her football but mostly she loves Jesus. Her books include A Little Salty to Cut the Sweet, Home is Where My People Are and Giddy Up Eunice. And she recently released her newest book, A Fine Sight to See: Leading Because You Were Made for It, where she shares how it empowers women to embrace their God-given roles as leaders and serve with boldness, both inside and outside the church. She was such a delight to talk to and has such a heart for women! I know you’re going to enjoy listening to our conversation and love Sophie as much as I do!
Go to CarolRoper.org/Podcast for shownotes
You wouldn't expect a bout with breast cancer and a heart transplant would lead to a better marriage, but that's exactly what happened for Anthony and Mary Mabry. In 2018, before Mary's breast cancer diagnosis, their marriage was difficult. But Anthony was there for Mary through six rounds of chemo, losing her hair, a double mastectomy and 20 rounds of radiation. Finally, she was cancer free, and they were ready to move on with their lives. But their marriage still wasn't great. Then the tables were turned in 2020 when Anthony discovered he'd been having silent heart attacks for over six months, and he was put on the transplant list. Something neither of them had seen coming even though a heart attack had taken one of Anthony's brothers a few years earlier. After 48 days in a hospital two hours away from home, Anthony was finally sent home with an electric device to keep his heart working. However, the device was only supposed to work for a year. But God showed up over and over again in their story as He provided one miracle after another as they navigated the difficult journey, waiting 2-1/2 years before finally receiving a heart and kidney transplant.
Now, they say their health struggles helped to build their faith and made their marriage so much stronger than it was before both of their health crisis and they give God all of the glory. Listen to how God provided for and healed not only their bodies, but also their marriage.
CarolRoper.org/podcast
Hey listeners, I just wanted to take a few minutes to address some things I’ve been hearing about and thought I’d share a few thoughts that I hope are encouraging to you through this little bonus episode.
Right now, our country is one of the most divisive states we’ve been in since before the civil war. Our world has been turned upside-down where good is bad and bad is good and no one seems to know what truth really is anymore. And this is having an alarming effect on our children and young adults, especially those who haven’t been educated with critical thinking skills and that is having a disastrous effect on our culture. And to be honest, it can seem hopeless, especially for our children and grandchildren, and our nation’s children overall.
But, I’ve also heard that, as far as the election is concerned, many Christians are just sitting this one out. They are also throwing up their hands and saying Jesus is coming back soon so we’ll just hunker down and wait for Him to make things right again. Wow! Talk about a hopeless stance coming from a people who have the most hope of all! We think that we have no position of power or influence so what we do doesn’t matter. Well, I want to remind you that we are not helpless, and we certainly aren’t hopeless. Y’all, we are called!
In this episode I will share what we, as Christians, need to do in order to make a difference in our nation for God's glory.
Find all the links at CarolRoper.org/podcast
Please be aware that this content is not suitable for young children.
George Carneal grew up in the ’70s, raised by a Southern Baptist minister in the ultra-conservative Bible Belt where his world revolved around the church, country fried chicken and trying to fit in with other boys. As disco music pulsated through the speakers in his bedroom, he plotted his escape from the misery and boredom of Southern suburbia before landing in Los Angeles; a city of glitz and hedonism. Much like Alice as she traveled through the looking glass, this is George's journey through a queer culture fantasyland filled with drag queens, drugs and dangerous situations before discovering healing, joy and peace in Christ.
In this episode, George, author of the book From Queer to Christ, shares his painful journey through a secular world at odds with homosexuality, in addition to a religious world that is hostile to homosexuals. He is hopeful that sharing his story through the eyes and mind of a confused child dealing with a same-sex attraction will give some insight into the pain and difficulty of navigating those two worlds. After 25 years of living as a gay man God brought him out of that lifestyle and into His glorious truth. His story will help parents of children of all ages understand how best to influence them for God, as well as teens and adults who are struggling with the LGBTQ agenda in their own lives.
George says that he wrote the book for three reasons:
- To give Christians insight into what it's like for someone dealing with same-sex attraction and their struggle with faith
- To give hope to parents who have children in the LGBTQ lifestyle
- To give LGBTQ individuals who are struggling with this lifestyle to understand that there's a different narrative and that they are being lied to and expose those lies and find peace and give them hope
George has been out of that lifestyle for almost 17 years now and has a passion to help others learn the truth. Through his testimony he wants others to know that deliverance from bondage is possible and there is hope in Christ.
Go to CarolRoper.org/Podcast for shownotes
GeorgeCarneal.com for George's website
George's book From Queer to Christ
What a pleasure it was to interview Mart Green, son of Hobby Lobby founder David Green, to talk about his family’s philosophy of faith and generosity. Mart is such a down-to-earth guy who happily shares the secret to Hobby Lobby’s success. I loved hearing the fun and practical ways Mart and his family celebrate each other and minister to those around them. Money isn’t the only way to bless people and Mart makes that clear in the examples he gives. He also shares about the new book he has coming out, co-authored with David Bowden, Learning to be Loved: The Everyday Believer's Guide to a Rich Relationship with God, a transformative guide that will help families strengthen their relationships with God together.
Mart also shares several vulnerable stories in this book, including how he had unintentionally hurt his family and through that experience learned the importance of emotional trust. And he talks about the freedom his wife gained after learning to forgive her parents. Both of these stories took time for them to heal before they felt comfortable enough to share, but they know God can use their stories to help others draw closer to Him.
CarolRoper.org/Podcast for shownotes
Hey friends! I’m back from my summer hiatus and have some awesome guests lined up for you this fall, starting this week with Stephen Kendrick of the Kendrick Brothers. Alex and Stephen Kendrick have brought us some great movies like Facing the Giants, Fireproof, Courageous and War Room and their newest movie, The Forge, will release in theaters nationwide on August 23 and he’s here to tell us about it.
I had the privilege of watching a pre-screening of the movie and I must tell you that there are several scenes in this film that brought me to tears. The story involves a single mom, played by the amazing Priscilla Shirer, who is trying to instill character and responsibility into her 19-year-old son without the help of his father. An older gentleman comes along and decides to disciple this young man and by building that relationship shows the power of godly influence in his life. There are several themes in this movie that show the impact of the gospel when we are courageous enough to step out in faith and walk in obedience to God. And the part I love the most is the power of a praying mama! Priscila does an incredible job of tapping into the emotion we feel as moms when our kids aren’t making the best choices and how God can answer our prayers beyond what we could even imagine.
For show notes go to CarolRoper.org/podcast
TheForgeMovie.com
One of the reasons I felt called to start this podcast was because of stories like Donovan and Lavonna Garrett's. If you don't believe God can make a difference in your marriage and family then you need to listen to the testimony of how Donovan's alcohol abuse almost destroyed him, his marriage and his entire family. As I look at the photos of their beautiful family today, I'm in tears, knowing that if Donovan hadn't surrendered his life to Christ, their story would have had a much different outcome. No, they aren't perfect, as none of us are, but they have so much joy radiating from them because of what God has done. If you or someone you love is struggling with alcohol, I promise this episode will encourage and give you hope.
Go to carolroper.org/podcast for shownotes
Overcoming Alcoholism to Restore a Marriage Parts 1 & 2 with Donovan and Lavonna Garrett - Carol Roper
One year ago I had the pleasure of interviewing Kara Stott, author of one of my favorite books, An Intentional Life, for the podcast. It was great meeting Kara on Zoom and hearing her story from her own voice. But this past spring my friend, Julie Bagwell, and I were able to meet her in person at her Pursuit Retreat outside of Nashville, Tennessee! She has such a heart for Jesus and ministering to women and it was evident as she served us over several days next to the beautiful lake at Wildwood Retreat. She's one of the kindest and most thoughtful people I've ever met and I loved her even more after spending a few days with her.
If you missed listening to Kara's story I promise this is one that will make you understand the importance of family and how God calls us to prioritize our loved ones. She shares how she gave up a thriving ministry to have more time with her family and Jesus. Obedience isn't always easy, but God always promises to bless us through it.
Summer Throwback! My guests for the first episode of this podcast were my two very best friends, Julie Bagwell and Frieda Younts. We’ve been friends for over 30 years now! Over time we’ve experienced lots of ups and downs but have remained close through it all. How did we do it? By being honest and real with each other, for one thing, but mostly by building our friendship on the foundation of Jesus Christ.
Growing up I only had one friend at a time and always felt like I never belonged. In my late 20’s I began praying for God to bring some good friends into my life and He was faithful to do just that through Julie and Frieda.
Each of us has been married for at least 30 years and have grown children and now grandchildren, so we have lots of experience under our belt—some good and some bad. But we’ve held onto each other through it all and are grateful God has helped our friendship to remain strong.
In this episode we talk about how hurts and jealousy, especially in a group with three friends, can be easy to fall into. But instead of letting them fester we bring it out in the open and talk about these things in the spirit of love. Friendship is work, but it’s so worth the reward.
As I listened to this episode again, I thought of how much changed since our conversation. It's amazing to think we didn't know the good and the bad that were about to happen in just a few short months. But even through it all, we can still say God is good.
Our desire through this conversation is to help other women experience friendship like we have, because good, godly friends can have an amazing impact on your life. But in order to make it work we must be intentional. Listen in as we discuss simple and practical ways we learned to grow and sustain our friendship.
Go to CarolRoper.org/podcast to check out the shownotes
I’ve really struggled to put into words all that I wanted to say to you today because the last few months have been difficult for me as I’ve been seeking what God wants me to do with the podcast. I’ve been doing this for 3-1/2 years now and have recently been in a deep season of discouragement. As I prayed and continually asked God what my next steps should be, I only sensed silence from Him. I’ve gone through seasons of silence before, but this has been especially hard because I wanted to make sure I was being obedient to what God wanted me to do, not just put out a podcast to build my own, or anyone else’s, platform.
To be honest, I’ve been so discouraged that I had pretty much decided I was going to shut it all down. And to be completely honest, podcasting can be lonely and discouraging. When I couldn’t see a direction to where God was leading, I just wanted to throw in the towel. In this episode I will share what God has been showing me recently, an update of what's going on with my family and my plans for the future of the podcast.
Go to CarolRoper.org for shownotes and links to resources mentioned
"Mothers are a sleeping giant and when the giant awakens, take cover--things are going to change! I believe the giant is slowly stirring and beginning to wipe the sleep from its eyes." - excerpt from Your Girl by Vicki Courtney
Over 15 years ago this quote stirred my soul to the point where I decided I wanted to be one of those mothers who stood up to make a difference and began a ministry for youth girls titled You-Nique Girls. God lit my soul on fire for those girls and I prayed for them and desired they know God in a real and personal way. It's still one of the reasons I do this podcast. Moms (and dads) can influence kids in such monumental ways, but we can't be afraid to take on the giant of cultural lies that invade almost every aspect of our children's lives.
My guest today, Julie Loos, shares why she and Mama Bear Apologetics founder, Hillary Morgan Ferrar, share a passion for teaching moms how to equip their children to learn how to defend their faith. They saw the alarming statistics of the number of kids leaving their beliefs and wanted to take action. As Julie says in this interview, "There's a lot we can do as parents to help our kids be solid in their faith."
In this episode Julie shares a wealth of information, starting with a simple definition of apologetics, weaving in her story of mistakes she made as a mom, defining the "chew and spit" method to help your kids discern what's right and wrong and ending with a plethora of resources to equip moms to learn how to teach their children how to stand up for their beliefs, including Julie and Hillary's newest book, Honest Prayers for Mama Bears. She even reads one of the powerful prayers in the book titled, Raising Dragon Slayers in an Era of Dragons that will inspire you to persevere in our post-Christian culture.
This interview will give you so many practical tools to lead your kids, from preschool through college, to a stronger faith in our upside-down world.
Go to CarolRoper.org/podcast for shownotes and links to resources
You can't go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending. This is a quote from C.S. Lewis my guest, Jennifer Sakata, shares that fits her own life story. Having grown up with an alcoholic mother and stepdad she didn't understand that her family life was dysfunctional. Not until she began to notice that her friends' families functioned much differently than her own. But when she became a teen, she and her little sister were removed from that environment. Unfortunately, the sisters were separated, each going to live with their respective grandparents. Only then did Jennifer begin to understand the difference between a house and a home.
Because of her upbringing, the habits of her own mother began to manifest in her when Jennifer had her own children, and she made a decision not to raise her boys the same way she'd been brought up. She also shares how she finally met her biological father when she was in her forties and how God brought a wonderful relationship from that. Jennifer has lived through a lot of difficulty in her life but because she intentionally decided to break the cycle from her own childhood, she transformed her anger into love. And she shares some of the practical ways she was able to do that in this episode. Y'all are truly going to enjoy hearing Jennifer's story.
Go to carolroper.org/podcast for shownotes
Welcome to the 100th episode of the Building Strong Homes Podcast! What an amazing ride it has been to get this far, and I want to thank all of my listeners for showing up each episode! So, I thought it would be fun to introduce you to my husband, John, and our children, Elise and Jacob, and have them share some of their stories from growing up on the farm. I ask each of them share their thoughts on what it means to build their faith and what kind of legacy they want to leave. John even shares a story I'd never heard before about being put in a police car and hauled off to be interrogated! This was while we were married, y'all! How did the kids know this story and I didn't??
I know this episode is a little different, but I hope our conversation will encourage you as you journey to build your own strong home and family. And don't forget, every episode is now on YouTube so you can see how we interact as well as listen. There's a link below that will take you to the YouTube channel. And I'd love for you to like and subscribe so you'll be updated with every episode. There are also links below to the two previous episodes Elise was on so you can hear a little more of her story. And if you don't follow me on Facebook or Instagram, I hope you'll head over there and follow Building Strong Homes. I'll be sharing more reels and fun stuff about my family over there.
Once again, thanks for being a part of this podcast community and remember to keep building strong!
"Faith is the refusal to panic." This quote by Dennis Rainey had a profound impact on Lori Margo as she walked through her difficult journey with cancer. Because her own mother had been diagnosed with cancer at the same age Lori received her first diagnosis and passed away two short years later, she had every reason to panic. But as she walked her own path, she realized that if you're going to believe the Bible, you've got to believe the whole Bible.
After Lori finally beat her cancer, she lost her dad to the same horrible disease, and even though she told others God had been with her through that hard season, she began to question if that were actually true. So, she decided to start keeping track of God's goodness in the midst of pain. When she sat down to write she immediately came up with 30 instances of how God had been with her in the loss of her father. That started her on a quest to look for God in all of the difficult seasons in her life and she began what she now calls tracking God. She not only does it in her own life, but in her children's as well. And now she teaches others how to track God through their own hard stories. Lori is an inspiration of faith and hope and I know her story will point you in the direction of finding God in the hard, too.
For shownotes go to CarolRoper.org/podcast
Have you ever wondered if God had something specific for you to do? That maybe you missed your calling, or you don't know what your purpose is? I think all of us at least once in our lives have questioned, "What am I here for?" or "Is there an assignment you have for me God?"
Mandy Hood, a self-described introvert, felt God calling her to become involved in helping at a crisis pregnancy center years ago and stepped into a volunteer role. Several years later she felt God leading her to leave her job as an office administrator after 24 years and took a job in that crisis pregnancy center. That career shift led to a one-third cut in her family income. Even though she was terrified, she knew she needed to be obedient. During her time and that position she learned new skills for what God had for her next: create a program to bring women together.
Today, The Connection is a thriving community-based ministry designed to connect women with each other and God. They offer fun social activities, Bible studies, small groups and a mentoring program that is conducive to welcome Chrisitan women and women who may not have a relationship with God. This organization exists and impacts the lives of so many today. My prayer is that her story will encourage you to step into your calling too.
Links to Resources
Find out more about Connecting Women with God
Check out Mandy's books, Let's Get Together: The Story of a Unique Women's Ministry and Let's Make Plans: Journal to Discover God's Plan for You
Did you know the average age of a widow is 59? And there are eleven million widows in the United States with 1000 women becoming widowed every day?? This is a sobering topic none of us likes to think about, but the truth is, because it's so prevalent, we need to talk about it.
Marilyn Nutter suddenly became a widow twelve years ago after 42 years of marriage and knows first-hand that widowhood is an uncomfortable the topic. But she also knows that there are many women out there, like herself, who are hurting and looking for resources to help. Because of this, she's written a book, Hope for Widows: Reflections on Mourning, Living and Change. She wrote it for two groups of people: widows and those who know and love widows. It's a valuable source of encouragement and comfort as widows adjust to their new normal and reimagine an active life with purpose in their future.
She also gives practical tips on how to interact with widows in a way that lifts them up and provides much needed help. And she shares her secret to learning how to do things her husband used to take care of. We also talk a little about how to be better prepared if something does happen to your husband. Marilynn has acquired a lot of hard-earned wisdom over the last twelve years and wants to share that wisdom with you so that your load won't be quite as heavy to carry.
Resources
Order Marilyn's book, Hope for Widows: Reflections on Mourning, Living and Change
Find out more about Marilyn and check out additional resources at Marilynnutter.com
Griefshare
Watch on YouTube Hope for Widows and the People Who Love Them with Marilyn Nutter
Related Episodes
Finding Hope After Loss with Mike Nappa
Embracing Joy in Life: Lessons from Carol McLeod on Finding Happiness Amidst Challenges
Learning to Trust God in Our Suffering with Kathy Burry
What To Do When Your Life Falls Apart with Marilyn Nutter and April White
A Widow’s Journey Part 1 with Melanie Forbes Cook
Is hospitality something that doesn't come easy for you? Are you always worried about how clean (or messy!) your home is? Or that you can't cook? Or that you just don't know how to entertain? My guest today, Sue Donaldson, is the queen of hospitality and she's here to help. Yes, she grew up with a mother who loved welcoming people into their home, but Sue's grandmother, her mom's mom, never invited people in. In spite of that, she decided she wanted to learn how to be hospitable and did just that.
Now, because of her mother's influence, Sue's gift of hospitality is second nature for her. But she's learned that it's not about a clean house or even entertaining, it's about serving others. Pinterest and Instagram have skewed our ideas of hospitality, but Sue has so many practical and creative suggestions about how to make it easy for you.
She also talks about how being a mother of young children is like living on a desert island (amen!) and how important it is to have a community of other moms around you and one of the best ways to do that is by inviting those moms in. Yes, welcoming people past the threshold of your front door can be vulnerable, but it can also be very rewarding.
We also talk about mentoring and a secret to make it easier for both the mentor and the mentee. And Sue has some great free resources she'll share at the end of our interview. You'll be excited to start welcoming people into your home after you listen to this episode.
As the mother of a son, I understand the challenges of raising boys to become good and godly men. When my son was young, I was always second guessing myself and wishing I had a blueprint to help me, and my husband know the best way to lead him down the right path towards manhood. This episode is a resource I wish was available then.
My guests today, Erin and Jason Davis, parents of four boys themselves, have recently released their book, Lies Boys Believe: And the Epic Quest for Truth. In this episode they share why giving our boys a foundation based on truth will help them navigate our difficult culture, how we should encourage our sons to have hearts that please God, not just behave in a way they won't get caught, as well as developing a no-secrets family. I also asked several moms of boys if they had questions for the Davis's and they had some great ones! Erin and Jason were so gracious to answer as many as they could and so this episode is a little longer than most. But I know you're probably struggling with some of these same questions, so I wanted to make sure we addressed them. They have so many practical ideas on how to connect with boys that I know you're going to come away from this episode better equipped and more confident to be the best boy parent you can be.
Check out the show notes at CarolRoper.org/podcast
Is the current status of our world, nation and maybe even your community getting you down? Do some days make you wonder if you’ll ever experience joy again because there’s so much hard in your life right now? My guest today, Brant Hansen, will help us look at the bright side of things by turning our focus to all of the good that is around us. And y’all, I can’t believe this, but I called him by the wrong name a couple of times in this interview and he wouldn’t let me edit that out!
Brant has a humble and empathetic heart and an amazing sense of humor that allows him to share stories from his own life that encourage and lift people up. One of my favorite quotes from this episode is when Brant says, “Maybe we need to all learn how to be awkward. It’s not the worst thing in the world. I could survive that.” He shares many of his awkward moments to prove he knows what he’s talking about. So, let’s learn to get over ourselves and experience joy in the hard.
Mike Novotny is not one to run from tough topics. As a matter of fact, he's even written a book about it called Taboo: Topics Christians Should be Talking About but Don't. Sounds pretty intriguing, right? In this episode we dive into topics that deal with mental health, suicide, pornography and politics. Mike also shares some of his personal struggles as well. I appreciate the fact that Mike isn't just sharing his opinions about these hot-button issues, but that he goes straight to the Bible to share what God says about them. I hope this episode will encourage you to not shy away from tough topics and stand strong on God's word for answers to tough questions.
Molly Stillman has lived the type of life that when shared, people stop in their tracks and ask, “Wait, what happened?” Molly’s mother, Lynda Van Devanter Buckley served as an Army nurse during the Vietnam War and wrote the bestselling memoir, Home Before Morning. When Molly was seventeen, Lynda passed away after an eight-year battle with an autoimmune disorder due to her exposure to Agent Orange. Four years later, Molly turned twenty-one and unexpectedly inherited a quarter of a million dollars from her mother’s estranged family’s estate. Through “retail therapy” and a long series of grossly irresponsible financial decisions, Molly found herself broke with over $36,000 in credit card debt less than two years later. Shame, guilt, and embarrassment set in.
Listen in as Molly shares her journey to faith as she worked her way out of debt and reveals how every messed up, broken story has a purpose. She now helps others through podcasting, speaking and her new book coming out in March, If I Don't Laugh, I'll Cry: How Death, Debt and Comedy Led to a Life of Faith, Farming and Forgetting What I Came into This Room For.
The empty nest years can feel like a season of losing our purpose, especially as a mom. When the kids leave home many of us are plunged into feelings of loss and grief, not knowing how to handle the extra time and conversations with our spouse. Ruthie Gray has been there and feels so passionately about ministering to women in this phase of life that she wrote a book, Empty Nest Awakening: Weaving the Threads of Your Passion into Purpose.
As a mother of four adult children, Ruthie has walked her own journey through the empty nest and has learned a lot about how we can grow and be filled with purpose once the kids leave home. She also addresses the pains of being in the sandwich generation as well as ideas on how to connect with your spouse when it's just the two of you again.
Ruthie is funny and practical and has a lot of great wisdom to share. You'll walk away from this conversation with a renewed perspective of the empty nest and be excited to forge ahead into the future God has for you.
Find shownotes at CarolRoper.org/Podcast
In this episode my guest, Amber Albee Swenson, shares practical tips that are really simple to incorporate into your relationship with your spouse, as well as warning signs that show you might be in dangerous territory with someone outside of your marriage. Amber has lots of great wisdom including this: "There's a woman out there who would be thrilled with your husband. So, stop being critical [of him]. Being critical is not a spiritual gift." That's a good word we need to frequently be reminded of.
One of the struggles that hit every family in some way is when you lose someone you love. Today's guest, Mike Nappa, lost his beloved wife, Amy, to cancer in 2016. In the years since her passing God has helped him to learn why grieving is such an important part of losing a loved one and how He's taught him how to grieve well.
This is one of the most touching and informative interviews I've done.
Mike has such a heart for those who are walking their own grief journey, and he truly wants to help those who are hurting as well as those who are trying to be there for them and understand their pain and what they need. He shares what one friend does for him every year on the anniversary of his wife's death (which, by the way is September 11) and why that has helped him to not only grieve that day well but also to look forward to it. Mike also talks about how his then three-year-old granddaughter struggled with her own grief and how one teacher recognized and helped her deal with her grief in the middle of a meltdown. He also gives wise advice to someone who is in the depth of despair in their grief journey.
Before I interviewed Mike, I asked my mom if she had any questions she'd like me to ask him since she's not quite three years out from losing my dad. He was genuinely happy to answer her question. Mike truly is one of the nicest guys I've ever had the pleasure of talking to and I know our conversation will be a blessing to you.
For more information and resources go to CarolRoper.org/podcast
Mike's book, Reflections for the Grieving Soul: Meditations and Scripture for Finding Hope After Loss
Does this sound familiar? You've been told to simply trust that the school system has your child's mental well-being covered. But what happens when that trust results in your child feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or lost in the education system? The pain of watching your child struggle while being told to just wait it out can be unbearable. It's time to take action and discover effective strategies to support your child's mental health in the school system, so they can thrive academically and emotionally.
In this episode my guest, Katie J. Trent, shares why she is a passionate advocate for children's mental health in the school system. With a background in counseling and ministry, Katie brings a wealth of experience and insight to the challenges children face today. Having worked as an elementary school counselor, she witnessed firsthand the impact of the highly politicized agenda on children's well-being. Katie is dedicated to empowering parents with the knowledge and tools to navigate these challenges and create a nurturing environment for their children's mental health. Her new book, "Recipes for a Sweet Child," offers creative and Bible-based activities that foster emotional well-being. With her expertise and genuine care for children, Katie is a trusted resource for parents seeking to support their child's mental health in the school system.
If you're feeling frustrated and discouraged because your efforts to serve others are not producing the desired result, then you are not alone! Perhaps you have been tirelessly volunteering your time, but still witnessing little impact. Maybe you have been pouring your heart into a cause, only to face constant setbacks and obstacles. Whatever the case may be, know that many others have experienced this same pain, and there is hope for a breakthrough in your journey of serving others.
Melissa Roberts is an incredible woman who has devoted her life to uplifting and nurturing others. As the founder and CEO of Rahab's Women and Children Home in Griffin, Georgia, Melissa exudes compassion and a deep desire to create a better world. She is a dedicated wife, a loving mother of six children, and a strong advocate for the importance of good family values. Through her determination and sheer will, Melissa has implemented a twelve-month program for homeless mothers, equipping them with essential life skills. Her uncompromised dedication to instilling biblical principles and creating solid foundations for these families is truly inspirational.
**Since we recorded this episode Melissa has encountered an issue. They were set up by a nonprofit CEO to lease a house from him and things were going well. Then he passed away and God told Melissa it was time to find another home. Little did she know that only weeks later the new CEO would be asking them to leave so she could live in the home. She believes it is a God mission for his family to come together and help relocate the five families that live in Rahab’s. When she learned they had to move, she told God what she wanted, and He's is doing it!
They immediately contacted a realtor friend in the area and two weeks later, a property surfaced that he thought would be perfect for us, and it is. It's almost 5 acres, with two houses on the property that will house their families. But the houses need some work and Melissa is working on getting supplies and things donated and volunteer labor to get it ready.
So, they need financial help. Their move in cost is $4400 and, so they won’t have to deplete their account, they need to raise that amount plus moving cost and repairs in the home in order to make these homes into what they need for their Rahab families. If you feel led to give, would you please go to RahabsHouse.org to donate. You will be investing in women who are willing to work hard and want to create a better life for themselves and their families.**
Every individual, no matter their background or circumstances, deserves a life of abundance. We want to help shift their mindset and help them see themselves how God sees them, so they can create a sustainable lifestyle and bless the next generation. - Melissa Roberts
Go to carolroper.org for show notes
In a world where children's literature seemed innocent and free from controversy, Marcia Moston's journey took an unexpected turn. As she embarked on her role as a library board member, little did she know that she would stumble upon a hidden truth. The prevalence of gender identity ideology in those beloved books shook her to the core, shattering her perception of what was safe for children. But it was a chance encounter with a frail individual who had undergone a life-altering transition that deepened her longing for answers. And now, she realizes her quest is far from over.
Marcia is a dear friend with a vibrant personality who, beyond her teaching prowess and literary finesse, has delved into a realm not commonly her playing field. Fortified with years of experience as an English educator as well as a storyteller, Marcia has used her convincing wit to voice her concerns about the sweeping wave of gender identity ideologies affecting our youth. She has bravely accepted to navigate this controversial territory with the sole intent to help educate parents wading through the unsettling tide. Her empathetic nature coupled with an educator's understanding makes her a reliable compass on this voyage.
Kids want help and hope. We need to be there for them, navigating through the challenges and providing support. - Marcia Moston
Go to CarolRoper.org/podcast for show notes and more resources
In a world defined by the pursuit of greatness and recognition, one woman dared to challenge the norms. Kelly Needham's captivating journey unfolds, revealing an unexpected twist she didn't anticipate. As she grapples with her identity and insecurities amidst her husband's soaring success, an internal dialogue sparks, questioning the meaning of it all. She discovers how we as a society have been fooled into chasing meaning and purpose in all the wrong places, identifies the source of our hunger for the extraordinary and shows us the steps we can take today to build a purpose-filled reality without turning our lives upside-down.
Kelly Needham, an author and Bible teacher, is an inspiring personality who lives in the bustling city of Dallas, Texas. Kelly, a mother to five wonderful children, uses her experiences to motivate others to find true contentedness beyond societal expectations. Her book, 'Purposefooled', is a testament to her realizations and learnings about how a meaningful life is not defined by external recognition but by the individual's internal sense of fulfillment.
Go to CarolRoper.org/podcast for resources and free Puposefooled Going Deeper Guide
In the heartland of Tulsa, Oklahoma, Daniel Grothe grew up enveloped in the loving embrace of a pastor's home. Faith and community were his foundation, guiding him through life's ups and downs. But it was the unexpected twist that awaited him in Colorado Springs that would truly test his understanding of stability. Little did he know, the purchase of a piece of land would not only connect him to his childhood memories on his grandparents' ranch in Idaho, but it would also reveal a deeper purpose - one that would forever alter the course of his life. Daniel's narrative paints a vivid picture of connectedness, place, and stability. Taking cues from his grandparents, who lived in the same small town in Idaho for 86 years, he emphasizes the importance of belonging in a community and sustaining deep roots. He shares how location greatly impacts our sense of self-value and how living in a place for a long period allows us to forge deep relationships and develop a sense of community. This sense of belonging can tremendously enhance our self-value, reinforcing the idea that we are significant and valued members of our community. His perspectives are sure to challenge your thoughts and provide fresh insights.
We are living in a human experiment for the first time in human history... living as tourists instead of as members of a place we're passing through. - Daniel Grothe
Loneliness is worse for our health than smoking a pack of cigarettes a day. - Daniel Grothe
Brittany Roper is a woman of unyielding resilience and enduring faith who is an example of positivity amidst the many trying circumstances she's experienced. Her life journey, which includes triumph through fertility issues, the complex realities of raising special needs children, and the heartbreaking loss of a child, as well as her own battle with breast cancer, paints a raw and touching picture of both the adversities and joys of life. As a devoted mother, her incredible story is a testament to her unbroken spirit and steadfast faith, finding strength and gratitude amidst the chaos of everyday life.
If you're feeling overwhelmed by your suffering and finding no relief in your current efforts to overcome it, such as seeking professional help or relying solely on your own strength, then you are not alone!
In this episode, you will be able to:
- Discover how leading with integrity trumps emotional reactions when steering the leadership helm.
- Adopt faith and worship as essential tools for enduring during tough times, inspired by real-life stories.
- Learn from Joseph and Peter's epic undertakings as chief examples of overcoming life's adversities.
- Realize the liberating force of the spoken word of God and ponder on its relevance in day-to-day life.
- Immerse yourself in the joy of classic Christian literature and embrace outdoor activities as meditations on God's creation.
My special guest is Carol McLeod
Step into the sphere of faith with Carol McLeod, a woman whose sole purpose lies in communicating the timeless truths of Scripture. As a mother, a grandmother, and a woman of faith, Carol has spent years finding strength and peace in the teachings of the Bible. Her drive to kindle a ray of hope in the hearts of the disheartened led her to write inspiring Bible studies. Sharing from her own experiences of pain and loss, Carol offers a powerful testimony that even on life's darkest days, God's love and faithfulness shine through.
The resources mentioned in this episode are:
- Join Carol McLeod's Bible study: Timeless based on the book of First Peter.
- Visit Carol McLeod's website at Carolmcleodministries.com for more information on her books, podcasts, TV show, and blog.
- Email Carol at Carol@Carolmcleodministries.com to join the private prayer group Warrior Moms for mothers with prodigal children or those who have been cut off by their grown children.
- Purchase Carol McLeod's book, Meanwhile, which focuses on the life of Joseph and offers insights on living well in the midst of devastation.
- Explore the concept of finding purpose in pain and how God can use evil for good by reading Genesis 50:20 and reflecting on Joseph's story.
- Consider attending Carol Roper's retreat at The Cove, Operation Restoration, which draws inspiration from the restoration of Joseph and his family.
- Reflect on the hope and strength found in the Bible and seek comfort in knowing that God is with you in your deepest moments of pain.
- Pray for your children, especially if they have strayed from their faith, using fighting scriptures such as John's promise that God hears
If you or someone you know and love has a special needs child or adult in their life then you are going to love hearing Lynn Blackburn's story about her sweet daughter, Emma. Emma was diagnosed with Rubinstein-Taybi Syndrome when she was a baby and Lynn says that having a child with a disability rocked her world, but God was both patient and faithful as she and her husband, Brian, wrestled with their new reality. Being Emma's mom has changed her in ways she never could have imagined. On this episode Lynn shares the joys and challenges of raising a child with special needs into adulthood. Emma is now 20 years old, and Lynn tells what the next chapter of life will look like for her and their family. She also shares practical takeaways and some guilt-free advice for taking care of special needs children to adulthood and beyond.
Lynn is the author of ten Christian romantic suspense books, homeschools her boys and loves sharing stories of her family life to encourage other parents navigating their own family challenges.
Today's guest is the author of one of my most favorite books, An Intentional Life: A Life-Giving Invitation to Uncover Your Passions and Unlock Your Purpose. I was so excited when Kara Stott quickly agreed to be on the podcast, and we became fast friends. She's passionate about connecting women and helping them grow in their relationship with the Lord, to understand their calling and to step out into the things God has asked them to do. But after working so hard building up her Pursuit Ministry, at what looked like the pinnacle of her success, God called her to lay it all down. Through that act of obedience, she began to understand what the really important things in life are. This book talks about her journey to live an intentional life that honors God, your family, your church, community and yourself.Â
One of my favorite observations she talks about in this episode is when she says, "If Jesus spent 30 years in family and three years in ministry... we have this all backward." That was an eye-opening statement for me. Kara also shares her heart for the family table, her husband's struggle with PTSD and one of the fun things she and her husband do to keep their marriage fresh and focused on each other. We cover so much good stuff in this episode I know you'll walk away with lots of new ways to live an intentional life.
Erica Wiggenhorn used to be afraid to read her Bible. When she first became a Christian, she was told by her youth leader she needed to read her Bible in order to grow closer to Jesus. But whenever she tried reading it, she felt like she was reading a foreign language. So she avoided her Bible and Bible studies for years, until a friend drug her to a study. And it changed her life. Once she began realizing how powerful God's word is her appetite for Bible reading grew exponentially. So much so that she began teaching Bible studies and how now written numerous studies, including her most recent one Unexpected Revival: Experiencing God's Goodness Through Disappointment and Doubt, a study through the book of Ezekial. Erica says, "There is power in [the Bible]. There is power in this word. It is alive. It is active. And it does something in us when we open it."Â
Erica's heart for Jesus and others shines bright in our conversation.
Show notes: Carolroper.org/podcast
Erica's website Ericawiggenhorn.com
Cynthia Tobias has been on my bucket list since before I started this podcast because of the work she's done teaching about the strong-willed child. Her book, You Can't Make Me: But I Can Be Persuaded, was a key influence in helping me raise my strong-willed daughter, Elise. Before I knew how to handle her stubborn temperament, I would frequently end up frustrated and in a puddle of tears. But once I learned some of the tools and tips Cynthia shares, it became easier for me to understand how to get Elise to cooperate more (hint: it doesn't involve getting angry or raising your voice).
In this episode Cynthia shares, Three Quick Ways to Recognize and deal with Your Strong-Willed Child, Teen or Adult, as well as the magic word you can use that almost always works to get a strong-willed person to cooperate and where you can find immediate free resources like The Strong-Willed Child Emergency Kit. I know you'll be so encouraged with Cynthia's solid advice on helping guide your strong-willed child. As she states in this episode," It's a compliment that God gave us to have a strong-willed child... When they're born, they don't have any idea how to use it. It's up to us to help guide it, shape it, and form it and let God use it." You're going to want to thank Cynthia after hearing this episode.
Heather Millsaps and Leslie Hawkins are two of the co-founders of New Day Recovery in Fountain Inn, S.C. Both ladies and their husbands have incredible testimonies of how God delivered their husbands from drug and alcohol addiction and saved their marriages. Leslie's husband, Stephen, has epilepsy and suffered a seizure that resulted in him having brain surgery that exacerbated his existing drug and alcohol addiction. Heather's husband, Glenn, had a shoulder injury that resulted in him becoming dependent on painkillers. Both of these families walked a difficult road to recovery and, after the healing came, Leslie had a recurring dream about helping people recover from addiction. After having the dream several times, she finally shared it with her husband, who shared it with one of their church pastors, who in turn encouraged them to start a ministry. Heather, who wasn't aware of Leslie's dreams, responded in an act of obedience from a Sunday morning message saying she felt she needed to help people seeking recovery. Once these ladies and their husbands, along with two other couples, Nick and Wimberly Cox and John and Megan Phillips, got together they created New Day Recovery with the help of Capstone Church. Megan, by the way, was on episode #73 and Laura Barrineau, who is also mentioned in this episode, was my guest in episode #72. I hope you'll listen to their stories as well.
You're going to love Leslie and Heather and their hearts for helping individuals and families in their recovery journey. When you're going through something hard, it's such a comfort to have someone come alongside you and say, "I understand, I've been there too. I can help." That's what this group is doing. If you or someone you love struggles with addiction, I pray this episode will give you practical ways to find hope and healing.
Today on the podcast I'm thrilled to introduce you to writer/director David Helling. David wrote and directed the recently released to theaters movie His Only Son. We had a great conversation about his journey into film making and I asked why he wanted to share this story of when God asked Abraham to sacrifice his only son, Isaac, David said when he lived in San Fransisco while attending film school that time and time again this story would be a point of contention. Not only did he see non-believers have an issue with this passage, but he also saw believers not knowing how to answer it. The movie beautifully shares Abraham and Sara's struggle through the years of longing for a son as Abraham and Isaac make the three-day journey to Mount Moriah. His only Son received a 72% rating from the Angel Guild-- the group of over 64,000 Angel Studio crowd funders who review and greenlight creator projects. This is one of the highest scores ever given.
David is a U.S. Marine corp. veteran whose time in the deserts of Iraq was the impetus for the film. He shares in this interview how he'd have to spend nights in the desert near where the biblical story of Daniel took place and the effect that had on him and his relationship with God and His word. I found David to be a genuine person who loves the Lord and wants to lead others to read and study the scriptures for themselves, so they'll grow in their relationship with Christ too. I know you're going to enjoy getting to know the man behind the movie.
I'm so excited to introduce you to this week's guest, Ruth McWhite. You'll just love Ruth, as do many people in our community. She was recently honored by the South Carolina Baptist Convention last month during Women's History Month, as a woman who is making a difference, and I couldn't agree more. She has blessed so many in her life through her teaching, speaking and mentoring to women. She recently retired from North Greenville University as the Director of Womens Ministry and now serves as a Biblical counselor at Rocky Creek Baptist Church in Greenville, S.C.Â
I asked Ruth to come on the podcast to share about her passion, mentoring younger women, and to share about those who mentored her and made a real difference in her life. She also tells how you can make a difference in the lives of others, too. It's not hard, and it shouldn't be scary, and Ruth shares practical ways we can pour into the lives of others. Once you hear our conversation, you'll feel like Ruth is your best friend. And if you don't already know her, you'll want to. Enjoy our conversation!
Jennifer Dukes Lee has been on my bucket list to interview since I started the podcast. I've followed her blog for years and have always been drawn to her authenticity and vulnerability and her writing has ministered to me, especially in my season of parenting. On this episode Jennifer and I discuss a little about her book, Growing Slow: Lessons on Unhurrying Your Heart from an Accidental Farm Girl, and the section she most wanted to delete from it titled Winter. But y'all! It was the best part of all! She also talks about her new book, Stuff I'd Only Tell God: A Guided Journal of Courageous Honesty, Obsessive Truth-Telling and Beautifully Ruthless Self-Discovery.Â
When I saw that Jennifer's latest book was a journal, I wasn't sure what to expect, but she's convinced me this is something we all need. She shares the benefits of journaling and how the practice can help us heal and give us confidence to face our future. She asks questions in this book that truly help us find the answers to why we struggle with certain things, kind of like a counseling session, and helps us find hope to overcome our strongholds. Jennnifer shares one of her favorite questions in the journal (I loved this one!) as well as one of the hardest questions for her to address. This episode will enlighten you in so many ways and I know you'll love Jennifer and want to get this journal for yourself!
When Megan Phillips was 35 years old, she found out that her father was not her biological dad. This news left her reeling, thinking that her whole life had been a lie. But after the initial shock, she decided she wanted to find her biological father and set about looking for him with only two pieces of information: a fake name and a fake home state (neither of which she knew was fake). But God intervened and she miraculously found her biological dad and was amazed by the wonderful grace of God in her life. Megan's mom told her about her real father in a fit of anger before going to get help for her alcohol abuse. But Megan shares that "in the process of Mom breaking, she shattered me. But I don't know that I'd have it any other way." As I listened to Megan's story the verse from Genesis 50:20 kept coming to mind. What the enemy meant for evil God used for good.Â
Listen how Megan not only found her biological father, but also two half-brothers and her dad's wife. Megan says that "my life would not be the same today if my (adoptive) dad had not stepped in and raised me as his own." Isn't that the story of the gospel? I know you'll enjoy hearing Megan's story of healing and hope.
As Laura Barrineau tells it, she hasn't suffered a lot of terrible things in her life and for years she felt like her testimony wasn't good enough. Many times, when we grow up in a good Christian home, accept Christ as a child and live mostly for Jesus, we don't think our stories are good enough to share. But Laura eventually realized that even though she didn't have a miraculous testimony, that didn't mean God didn't want her to share her story. Instead of feeling guilty, she began to express gratitude to God for the good things He's allowed her to experience and that's caused her to grow even closer to Him.
Laura and her husband, Chris, have stepped out in faith and God has given them amazing testimonies about how they planted a church, adopted a sweet down-syndrome baby, Caleb, from China, and are now opening their hearts and homes to foster kids who need their love and encouragement. She and Chris understand that everybody's story is different, but God wants to use everybody's story for His glory. My conversation with Laura will bless your socks off!
As Laura Barrineau tells it, she hasn't suffered a lot of terrible things in her life and for years she felt like her testimony wasn't good enough. Many times, when we grow up in a good Christian home, accept Christ as a child and live mostly for Jesus, we don't think our stories are good enough to share. But Laura eventually realized that even though she didn't have a miraculous testimony, that didn't mean God didn't want her to share her story. Instead of feeling guilty, she began to express gratitude to God for the good things He's allowed her to experience and that's caused her to grow even closer to Him.
Laura and her husband, Chris, have stepped out in faith and God has given them amazing testimonies about how they planted a church, adopted a sweet down-syndrome baby, Caleb, from China, and are now opening their hearts and homes to foster kids who need their love and encouragement. She and Chris understand that everybody's story is different, but God wants to use everybody's story for His glory. My conversation with Laura will bless your socks off!
After the death of her brother and son in the same month, Amy Debrucque understandably struggled privately with severe anxiety. It would take a cancer diagnosis 14 years later for her to finally lean into her faith and surrender the burden of fear. She learned that although fear is normal, courage gets the final say. Amy had to walk through her own journey of letting go of anxiety and fear before she could teach women like her how to stop being afraid and start living on purpose and has spent the last five years coaching and leading others to freedom.Â
One thing Amy shares in this interview that I believe many of us can relate to is, "At night was my kryptonite. I could be great all day and then the silence at night was deafening to me... That's when my anxiety would really ramp up. It was in the evening when all of those negative thoughts and all those fears would pour in. It was debilitating." But now she has learned the secret to overcoming anxiety and fear: surrendering to God every day. I know my conversation with Amy will be an encouragement to you if you're facing fear, anxiety, perfectionism or having the confidence to step into the purpose God has for your life.
For years Jenn Mair struggled with body image issues. She believed the lies that had been spoken to her by others and our culture, "you are too much" or "you are not enough." This kicked in an eating disorder and addiction to working out. For years, she felt like she could never measure up to what the world defined as beautiful.
One day, while running on a treadmill, she felt hopeless and thought, "there has to be more to life than this." She knew she wasn't alone because others around her either felt hopeless or wanted control of their health and wellness. Shortly after this moment, God led her to become a certified group fitness instructor but use it as a tool for the Gospel. Her passion is to let others know they have been set free from the lies and bondage of our fitness culture. In 2016, Jenn founded Whole Fitness, a program dedicated to building a healthy and whole community: mind, body, and soul.
Julie Bagwell began her own health journey when she realized she had been living her life in overdrive to care for her family and others, without spending much time taking care of herself. Learning the value of rest, tending to her soul and changing her mindset that working out is a form of worship, helped her heal and become stronger in mind, body and soul! She became certified to lead faith-based fitness classes where she met Jenn Mair. Julie will soon be launching a Whole Fitness branch in the Fountain Inn area where she hopes to encourage others with this new mindset.
podcast notes at CarolRoper.org/podcast
For years Jenn Mair struggled with body image issues. She believed the lies that had been spoken to her by others and our culture, "you are too much" or "you are not enough." This kicked in an eating disorder and addiction to working out. For years, she felt like she could never measure up to what the world defined as beautiful.
One day, while running on a treadmill, she felt hopeless and thought, "there has to be more to life than this." She knew she wasn't alone because others around her either felt hopeless or wanted control of their health and wellness. Shortly after this moment, God led her to become a certified group fitness instructor but use it as a tool for the Gospel. Her passion is to let others know they have been set free from the lies and bondage of our fitness culture. In 2016, Jenn founded Whole Fitness, a program dedicated to building a healthy and whole community: mind, body, and soul.
Julie Bagwell began her own health journey when she realized she had been living her life in overdrive to care for her family and others, without spending much time taking care of herself. Learning the value of rest, tending to her soul and changing her mindset that working out is a form of worship, helped her heal and become stronger in mind, body and soul! She became certified to lead faith-based fitness classes where she met Jenn Mair. Julie will soon be launching a Whole Fitness branch in the Fountain Inn area where she hopes to encourage others with this new mindset.
CarolRoper.org/podcast
Singleness can be a long a lonely journey, leaving you wondering if God really does see you in your struggle. Today I have three very special guests, my daughter, Elise Roper Younts, along with her husband, Wes, and his mom, Frieda (who's also one of my best friends!). Elise and Wes walked their own lonely journeys through singleness before finally finding each other and marrying last March. Even though for most of their lives they lived exactly 7.3 miles apart, and Wes's mom and I have been best friends for 28 years, they'd never met except in their preschool Sunday School class. You may remember Elise's story from episode 19 about how her fiancé broke off their engagement and left her heartbroken. Wes has his own testimony of 10 years of singleness and not dating after he realized he had allowed dating to become an idol for him. I introduced Frieda to you, along with Julie, in episode one. Frieda and I walked with our children through their lonely seasons of singleness and prayed for them through the difficult times. We had no way of knowing at the time, but God was working behind the scenes to draw Elise and Wes closer to Him so that He could bring them together in marriage. In this episode Frieda and I discuss the struggles of parenting single adult children and I share the prayer I wrote asking God to bring Elise a husband. Elise and Wes share their wedding vows that they wrote to one another.
If you're a single adult, or the parent of a single adult, and have grown discouraged in your loneliness and feeling left out, I pray this episode will encourage you and bring hope to your journey.
Have you or someone close to you experienced trauma? Most of us have at one point in our lives to various degrees. Kim Haar had an extreme trauma when her usually calm ex-husband broke into her home one night, beat her for three-and-a-half hours, shot holes in her walls, kidnapped her and took her to her boyfriend's house where he shot him ten times. This horrific story plays out like something from a movie, but unfortunately Kim knows all too well how real it was. But thankfully she's still alive to share her story and give others hope that there is healing on the other side. Kim is a licensed professional counselor and marriage and family therapist who knows how to lead people to victory over their past trauma rather than living life as a victim. her testimony is a living example that demonstrates what the enemy meant for evil, God redeemed for good.
Find show notes at CarolRoper.org
Kimberly Long thought she was destined to be poor. It was a sweet surprise to find out she could control her financial future. Unknowingly, she had allowed fear to reign, keeping her in constant stress--until she discovered seven basic principles. Too many people give in to their hopeless situation, not knowing they hold the keys to abundant living. If you have given in to financial hopelessness--STOP. No one is destined to continue under the burden of financial stress or remain in the pit of debt. We are financially destroyed for lack of knowledge. But through God's promises there is hope. I pray this episode will help you step out of any poverty mentality mindset you may have to attain financial freedom.
A significant life is simpler than you think. In a culture where bigger is seen as better, it's easy to wonder if your quick prayer between errands or the short note you text a friend means anything in God's kingdom. Today's guest, Rachael Adams, reminds us that every little thing we do can go a long way in God's hands. Rachael has just released her devotional book, A Little Goes a Long Way: 52 Days to a Significant Life, where she shares personal and biblical stories of how God took something small and made it something significant. She Says, "The reality is everybody [God] used was ordinary and He used mundane moments for everybody. And I think we sometimes read scripture in these big highlight moments and forget the daily, ordinary, mundane ways that they lived, too, and I realized a significant life is simpler than we think."
Rachael also shares how little invitations that were given to her caused her to grow in her relationship with God. And I share a personal story of how one devotion in particular spoke to me in such a meaningful way. Rachael is truly a genuine and godly woman who wants to encourage others to watch how God can take our everyday actions and transform them for His eternal purpose. I promise this episode will inspire you to keep doing small things in great faith.
Quotes From Rachael
"The reality is everybody He used was ordinary, and He used the mundane moments for everybody. And I think we sometimes read scripture in these big highlight moments and forget the daily, ordinary, mundane ways that they lived, too, and I realized a significant life is simpler than we think."
"I believe if you could see yourself through God's eyes it would change your world. If we really believed that it would change the way we lived our life... every single moment."
"If nothing is too insignificant for the Savior of the world, nothing is too insignificant for me."
"That's what the enemy wants us to do, to be so discouraged and not believe that it matters and to stay stuck in feeling insignificant because then we don't do anything at all, and we bury our talents... There's so much at stake if we don't [do anything]."
Scripture and Resources
Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin... - Zechariah 4:10
Rachael Adams podcast, The Love Offering and her new devotional book A Little Goes a Long Way: 52 Days to a Significant Life. You can find out more about Rachael at RachaelKAdams.com
Mentioned in this episode: Fun and Meaningful Christmas traditions with Jennifer Deese
Twelve years ago, Noelle Lawson died from alcohol poisoning. Her husband, Scott, had just been trained to do CPR and was able to revive her before the ambulance arrived. Their lives have never been the same since. Scott and Noelle join me for this episode and share their story of alcoholism and how a deadly accident Scott was involved in while in high school delayed his obedience to follow God into the ministry for over 30 years. Both Scott and Noelle share how God helped them break their addiction to alcohol and move on to become counselors. Today, Scott is the pastor of Happy Trails Cowboy Church in Pelzer, S.C. and Noelle is his number one supporter. They share their hard story of how God brought them into an amazing relationship with Him through His faithfulness and healing.
If you are walking your own hard road through addiction, running from God or trying to see your way through a difficult time, I know Scott and Noelle will bring you encouragement today. And at the end of this episode, they generously share how you can reach out to them if you need help. This special couple truly has a heart for bringing healing and hope to those who've lost hope.
I'm pretty excited to tell you about today's guest, Tanya Christiansen, because she's an actress who recently played in the movie, The Mulligan with Eric Close and Pat Boone. I've never interviewed an actress and it was so fun to go behind the scenes with her and hear how movies come together and the comradery that's shared between the cast and crew. Now, you may be wondering how a movie relates to building strong homes. Well, entertainment is a big part of Christian families' lives and it's really hard to find good quality movies that are clean, have a good moral and story and can be watched by children. This movie is one of those rarities. So, listen to my conversation with Tanya and find out why The Mulligan is a great movie to see. It's the story of second chances through the power of Jesus Christ. Tanya also shares about being in the movie, I Still Believe, based on Jeremy Camp losing his first wife to cancer. That's another great movie recommendation. I hope this episode will encourage you to support Christian entertainment so more good quality movies and TV shows will be made.Â
Y'all are gonna love todays' guest, Nicki Koziarz. Nicki is a wife, mama, best-selling author, Bible teacher, podcast host and a farmer all rolled into one bubbly package. She has an incredible testimony of getting pregnant at 19 and was given an ultimatum to either get married or move out. She and her husband, Kris, decided to get married and are still together 22 years later. As a young wife and mom Nicki was asked by a friend to lead a Bible study in her home and ended up having around 50 ladies attend for about two years. That was the start of her journey into womens ministry which eventually led to her becoming a part of the Proverbs 31 Ministry team.Â
She and her husband and three daughters are now first-generation farmers (which she says is a fancy way of saying they have no idea what they're doing) and live on what they call the Fixer Upper Farm, because they've had to put so much work into it. But now God is pivoting them a bit and she shares how they've chosen a new name for their farm and are pursuing another big farm dream. It's so fun listening to Nicki's farm adventures! And she has a new book releasing in March that she talks about. In this episode she also shares about losing her mom after a six-month battle with a brain tumor and soon after she lost her brother to suicide. She's had a hard last few years, but she still radiates with the joy God has given her.
Today's guest is someone I'm so glad to have share her story and her ministry on the podcast. Jodie Berndt is the author of the Praying the Scriptures for Your Children series and has impacted so many parents' prayer lives--including mine! Her book, Praying the Scriptures for Your Adult Children, was so impactful for me that I bought one for every close friend and family member with adult children. Jodie shares how she first learned about praying the scriptures for her children at Moms in Prayer and how those prayers were instrumental in changing the mood in her home and changing her children's lives. She has some creative ways she's developed to pray for your own kids and I'm planning on implementing a few for my children and even my grandson. I share a little during this episode about how her book influenced me to write a prayer for my daughter's future husband and how God answered that prayer in an amazing way. Jodie has so much great wisdom and practical tips that I know you'll be better equipped to pray for your children no matter how old they are.
I can't wait to introduce to this week's guest! She's one of the cutest, most inspiring and fun people on the internet who always leaves you with a smile. KariAnne Wood is the creator of Thistlewood Farms blog where she gives lots of fun, practical and economical tips about home decor and she also shares parts of her story. KariAnne and her husband took their four kids and jumped from everything they knew and loved in the Dallas, TX, area over a decade ago, to a place where they didn't even have one stoplight in the whole county! They wanted to raise their kids away from materialism and in the country. This led to her creating the blog and she shares the hilarious story of her first blog post that will help you understand why she's so loved. She shares in this episode that she believes Jesus takes our brokenness and He writes the chapters of our stories better than we could ever imagine or even think and shows just how God keeps doing that in her life. She also teaches us some of her favorite tips on finding the best thrift decor and tops it all off with the best advice she was ever given (it was from her dad). There's so much good stuff and we laugh a lot in this episode. I know you'll have a brighter day after listening!
When Juli Sellers agreed to care for her father, the decision wasn’t easy. She had to reconcile years of abuse with the growing need to help him as his memory diminished. After a lifetime of hurt, she searched for the forgiveness that would heal their relationship before it was too late. In Juli’s book, Yes, Father: A Daughter’s Journey to Forgiveness, she shares the hopeful story of her journey into caring for her father with Alzheimer’s while learning to forgive him for his past.
If you’ve longed to restore a broken family relationship or have cared for a parent with Alzheimer’s, you’ll relate to the struggle of hanging on to hope in the midst of difficult circumstances. I hope you’ll be encouraged by Juli’s testimony of her healing from her own personal father wound.
One Wednesday night after church I struck up a conversation with another church member, Henry Mitchell, and he shared all of the great things God had been doing in his life. Now I knew Henry had been released from prison over two years prior and that he'd served a long time in prison, but I didn't know how long he'd served or why he'd been arrested in the first place. Henry shared that three weeks after his 24th birthday he killed two people in a drug sale gone bad. he spent four-and-a-half months in solitary confinement after his arrest and was sentenced to life with a possibility of parole in 20 years. While he was in solitary confinement, he began reading a New Testament a chaplain had given him and Henry gave his life to Christ. He cried for three days because he didn't believe a person could be cleansed like that. Henry served almost 34 years in prison before he was finally granted parole on his 15th try. After his release he started praying for God to bring him a good job, a nice home and a dependable, affordable car. God took care of him by providing each one in some of the most incredible ways.Â
As a result of Henry's relationship with Jesus he's become one of the most faith-filled evangelists I've ever encountered, always saying, "Praise the Lord" and sincerely meaning it. If you're struggling with something you've done in the past and don't believe God could ever forgive you, I hope knowing Henry's story will help you understand that God will forgive you, no matter what you've done, as long as you repent and accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. You're going to be blessed by Henry's testimony of God's grace and mercy and I hope it will cause you to pray bolder prayers and build a bolder faith in your own life.
In today's episode I have the pleasure of interviewing Alex and Candace Cooke, whom I've known for a long time but have recently connected since we've joined Infinity Church where we learned they were embarking on a journey to become missionaries to Mexico. When I invited Alex to come on the podcast, I didn't know much of his story at all. But when they came to record and Alex said he was going to talk about alcoholism too, I asked, "who's alcoholism?" and he said his own. I was completely surprised. Alex and Candace share how his alcohol problem had gotten so bad that she left him and was determined they were going to be divorced. But when Alex finally surrendered his life to Jesus and stopped drinking, she said, "I know that only God could have done that work in this man."Â
They share how God started drawing Alex to missions in Mexico and why they don't feel both of them have to be called to surrender to the mission field. They also talk a little about their coffee business, Confidence Coffee Supply (which is a sponsor of this podcast) helps to support them in their ministry. I can't wait for you to hear Alex and Candace's story of redemption and grace.
In this week’s episode, I’m honored to introduce you to Kathy Burry. If you live in our area, you probably know Kathy or her husband, Jimbo. Kathy is such a delight, even though she’s endured so much heartache in her life. She lost her mother to suicide when Kathy was only 29 years old, and she was diagnosed with breast cancer and endured chemo and a mastectomy in her 40’s. But her greatest challenge was losing her 20-year-old son to leukemia 16 years ago. Actually, this episode releases on the 16th anniversary of her son, Johnny’s, death. Kathy talks about how good God has been to her even though she’s had to walk such a difficult path. She says, “Only God can give peace to a broken-hearted mama and daddy that have to live without their boy on this earth.” This episode touched my heart so much. Kathy’s story will encourage you and give you hope, especially if you’re walking your own difficult journey. If you don’t already know and love Kathy, you definitely will after this episode.
In this episode I have an honest conversation with Asheritah CiuCiu about her battles with food addiction and her revelation about how she found freedom from that addiction. If you’ve ever felt stuck in a seemingly endless cycle of overeating, yo-yo dieting, and obsessive thoughts about food, this episode is for you. Whether you feel defeated by your lack of self-control or enslaved by your longings, the answer to food fixation isn’t in the $500 billion diet industry. Nor is it in a diet book or eating plan. Because at its core, our problem isn’t really what we eat, it’s why we eat. She shares practical steps on how to have a healthier relationship with food through a stronger relationship with Christ.
I know you're going to love today's guest, Alli Worthington. Alli is a speaker, author of four books, business coach and podcaster. She is also my business coach and the co-creator of Called Creatives. In today's episode she shares how she built her business after her family lost everything and filed bankruptcy in 2008. She had $42 in startup money and Google. Because of that experience, Alli's mission is to create tools to help women grow a fierce faith, build their dreams and ultimately love their lives, just as she's been able to do. Alli believes if we, as women, hold ourselves back it's not going to help us expand the Kingdom. We need to step into everything God has for us. My interview with Alli is so inspiring that I know it will encourage you to build whatever dream or calling God has put on your heart. And if you don't know what that is yet, listen to Alli's journey and see how God took her step by step to where she is today.
Lauren Jackson has had a lot of hard challenges in her young life but she's one of the most optimistic people I've ever met. She married her high school sweetheart, who'd become a quadriplegic after a horrific accident, and was his caregiver from the beginning. After Lauren and her husband, Joel, had been married three-and-a-half years, they decided to expand their young family by adopting a teenage boy out of foster care. Only eight months later her husband died of a heart attack and Lauren was left to raise their son, Freddie, alone. She shares how she and Freddie moved to her dream farmhouse after that and how healing it was for them. God's hand has been working all throughout her story and she wants others to know how faithful He's been to her and that He will be faithful to them as well. Her enthusiasm for life shines through as she talks about the dreams she has for her future (she's still only 33 years old!) and how she realizes it probably won't be long before she's an empty nester. Even though she's journeyed through the hard she wants to be a bright light to those around her. You're gonna love Lauren!
I was so excited to get to interview Lee Nienhuis and she did not disappoint! I felt like we were kindred spirits. Lee has written two books, Brave Mom, Brave Kids and her most recent book is Counter Cultural Parenting. She has a passion to encourage moms to be brave in praying for their kids to be warriors for Christ, even when you know that means a warrior must fight battles. She talks about how she realized that one day while she was praying and shares how she was able to overcome that fear and become a brave mom. Lee knows that Satan can use our fear as a weapon against us. He wants nothing more than for us to live in fear and complacency because that will never lead to being effective for Christ. I know this episode with Lee will inspire you to become the brave mom God has called you to be, as well as who your kids need you to be.
When I found Kimberly Amici's podcast, Build Your Best Family, I knew we were kindred spirits. Kimberly has such a heart for helping women develop a positive and nurturing family through her podcast, coaching and courses. She is an interior designer who helps people design environments where their families will thrive. Several years back, Kimberly realized her family's mantra had become, "Let's just get through this week." (Sound familiar?) She said they were always going somewhere but weren't going somewhere on purpose. When she realized this, she decided to embark on the journey of finding purpose for her family. Along the way she learned about creating culture, mission and vision and learned how to develop these into practices that changed her family's lifestyle. She talks about how every family is known for something, which I'd never thought about before, and she makes you think about what you want your family to be known for and how to implement that. Kimberly understands how environment and design of our homes plays into creating the culture we'd like to have. Even if you don't have kids at home, you can still put these principles into effect for just you, or you and your spouse. There's a lot of great take-aways from today's episode. I hope you'll be inspired to make positive changes in your own family from Kimberly's message today.
Todays' guest, Connie Tresedder has an enlightening teaching about how changing our thinking can change our lives-literally. Everything Connie says in this episode makes so much sense as to why we get stuck in our thoughts and in our lives. She challenges us to think about our thinking; something that sounds so simple and yet is so profound. She shares that our emotions are a direct result of our thoughts and when we change our thoughts, we change our lives She helps us understand that just because someone speaks negative words over us doesn't make it true and explains how our thoughts can steal our peace. I know this episode with Connie will bring a spark of excitement and hope into your heart today!
Today's guest, Melissa Capps, has lots of great tips and insight on the relationship between clutter and our mental health. Melissa worked in the mental health space for several years before she started her home organization business, Simple Spaces, ten years ago. Y'all, there is so much good stuff we discuss in this episode. Melissa's business literally began from a Facebook post asking if anyone needed help organizing. With her unique understanding of clutter AND mental health, she's been able to help many people figure out how to organize the spaces in their lives. She's believes there's no perfect way to organize and that it looks different for every person. Organizing your space well is about what works for YOU and brings YOU peace. And Melissa answers the question why we procrastinate so much. She also believes our homes are not meant to be museums or storage units--they're where you live.
I'm also excited to share that Melissa will be one of our speakers at the Building Strong Homes Live Hometown Event on May 21 in Fountain Inn. She'll be doing the VIP pre-conference hands-on workshop, Conquer the Clutter, that morning and at the evening event she'll be speaking about Reclaiming Peace in Your Home and Life. Please go check out the link to find out more about the event and to purchase tickets. It's going to be so much fun!!
Have you ever thought to yourself, " Why in the world would Carol Roper start a podcast?". Well, today's episode is a lot different than all of my other podcast episodes. I'm sharing my journey on how I started this podcast, and all of the twists and turns God took me on to get here. When I started writing ten years ago, I never would have guessed I'd end up starting a podcast. But through a series of circumstances, I felt God leading me to reach more people-especially those in my community-through podcasting. It's been an intimidating journey because I'm so technologically challenged (ask my kids!), but God has helped me every step of the way. I also talk about why I stopped my job drawing house plans and committed to giving that time to the podcast instead. I hope my story will encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and do the things God is calling you to do as well (because God is always calling us to do something!).
Also, I'm excited to be announcing our first-ever Building Strong Homes Live Hometown Event! This is something God laid on my heart a few months ago and can't wait to tell you all about it! Get your tickets now because seating is very limited. I can't wait to see you there!
This week I'm re-releasing an episode I did when I first started the podcast with a delightful guest from merry old England, Adeline St. John. Adeline and I met in 2016 when she reached out to me via Messenger and told me she was my husband's cousin. After the initial shock--both of my husband's parents we're only children--I learned the fascinating story of how she helped find us after her dad spent years searching for his biological father and why I believe I was the one she was supposed to finally make contact with. She shares how her dad found out at the age of 12 his father wasn't who his mom had always told him he was and the 60 year journey of dead-end leads that finally paid off and led to the confirmation that he'd finally found his real father. This is a story that has the ingredients of a great British novel: mystery, World War II, an English lass and an American soldier and highlights the importance of knowing our family history and legacy in order for us to have a real sense of belonging.
Todays' guest is Tamera Rasmussen, a board certified licensed professional counselor, motivational speaker and podcaster. She has an incredible story of overcoming a difficult childhood that led to her career in counseling. She dropped out of school at 16, worked two jobs and homeschooled herself so she could go to college. She got engaged when she was 17 but lost her fiancé in a tragic farming accident seven days before their wedding. Later, she met her now husband, who was a widower with a baby and a toddler. All of Tamera's struggles, experiences and education have taught her to learn to navigate and lead others through their own difficult circumstances. She believes there's a purpose in the pain for everyone and that God uses our suffering. Tamera also shares some strategies to help with relationships between parents of teens and young adult children as well as more serious situations we may deal with as parents. And she gives some great advice about finding the right counselor as well as how to tell of you need to find another counselor. There really is so much great stuff in this episode that will help you deal with any relationship you may be struggling with right now. She understands that relationships rupture because of unmet needs and helps us understand how to start the process of reconciling those relationships.
Today we're going to be talking about a really difficult topic: suicide. Last week, Miss USA 2019, Cheslie Kryst, who was only 30 years old, jumped to her death from her high-rise condo building in Manhattan. On the outside she had it all: beauty, brains (she was a lawyer), and fame (she was also a correspondent with the TV show Extra). But she struggled greatly with depression. If you're listening to this podcast today. I want you to know that I don't believe in coincidence. There's a reason you're here. If you're contemplating suicide, I want you to know there's always hope. Always. If you've lost someone to suicide, I hope this episode will bring you comfort. And if you have no idea why you should listen to an episode about suicide, I want you to know that it's much more common than you think, especially since the pandemic hit. And you may be able to help someone else who is thinking they have no reason to live.
And so today I want to introduce you to my dear friend, Beth Saadati. Beth has the heartbreaking story of losing her 14-year-old daughter to suicide nine years ago. The trail of broken hearts and lives she left behind is devastating. She, like Cheslie Kryst, had a bright future ahead, was smart and popular and had a loving family. But she didn't believe there was hope for her. And so, she ended her life and so many lives have never been the same since. Beth has been faithfully sharing Jenna's story for almost a decade now, hoping she can make a difference in the lives of others who have suicidal thoughts or those dealing with loss through suicide. Even though Beth will never get over the death of her beautiful daughter, she still understands that life must go on, for her own sake as well as the sake of her husband and two remaining children. Ask God to open your heart, eyes and ears as you listen. My prayer is that this episode will save at least one life today.
And if you, or someone you know, is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please call 1-800-273-8255 for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline or go online at suicidepreventionlifeline.org.
Since there has been so much doom and gloom for going on two years now, I thought we'd lighten things up a bit by interviewing a wonderful lady who is a Christian speaker and comedian, Jane Jenkins Herlong. Y'all are gonna LOVE Jane. She grew up in Charleston, S.C. as a tomato farmer's daughter and ended up being crowned Miss South Carolina. She has lots of funny stories to tell, as well as some poignant ones that will warm your heart. Jane believes that story is how we speak in the south and her roots run deep. She also believes humor is so important because it diffuses many stressful situations. I know you're going to love my conversation with Jane.
Today's guest, Maggie Wallem Rowe, is a national speaker, dramatist, blogger and author based in western North Carolina whose passion is to connect people to God and each other. She's also a pastor's wife and talks about her hesitation in marrying a pastor and later becoming a mom. She didn't feel she was up to either of the tasks. When I asked her where the fear of being a pastor's wife stemmed from, she said, " I couldn't think of anything I would be worse at than being a pastor's wife.". And her fear of becoming a mom came from seeing how unselfish her own mother was. But hear why she decided to finally concede and have children. She eventually had three kids and later added two bonus kids to their family. That's an incredible story!
Maggie also became an author at the age of 67 when most people are retiring. She believes you're never too old to start something. I know our conversation will inspire you to step out in faith and do whatever God is calling you to do.
Today I'm welcoming Erin Weidemann to the podcast. Let me tell you how much I love Erin! She is a bundle of energy and is on fire for God and reaching girls for Him. Erin has an incredible story of beating cancer five times, each time the cancer came back within nine to twelve months. She started her cancer journey as a 26-year-old atheist, but through the process she found the goodness of Jesus Christ. She's now been cancer free for ten years!
But there's even more to Erin's story. She started teaching middle school girls in her church over ten years ago and was looking for resources that had stories about women in the Bible and couldn't find any. When she asked 20 of these girls if they could name any women in the Bible and none of them could do it, she knew she needed to do something, so she and her husband took a huge risk, quit both of their jobs and created a fantastic resource for girls called The Bible Belle series. She started out writing one book about Hannah in the Old Testament and now God has exploded their ministry to include 13 books for girls ages four to twelve. You won't believe all of the things God has done to help grow their business, especially the amazing gift from a random stranger when they were first starting. Even though it wasn't easy, and they took such a huge risk, Erin says, "I was determined to make these books happen. God healed me. He'd taken us on this journey. He gave us an idea...I don't want to get to the end of my life and have a really awkward conversation with Jesus where He says, 'Hey, you know that idea I gave you and you did nothing with it?' So, she spent three years writing the first book and sold $17,000 in books the first year it was released. I could go on and on about Erin and all we talked about, but you'll just have to listen. If you've ever felt the call of God on your life to do something for Him, this episode will give you the courage you need to step out in faith and do it!
Hey friend! I'm so glad you're here for this bonus episode with Sandy Myers! If you missed last week's interview with her, I hope you'll go back and listen because she has a great testimony that includes being a child of divorce, struggling with singleness until she was 30 and then having to deal with infertility for years after she married. But today's episode is all about you! Sandy is a temperament coach who understands how important it is for us to become aware of the way we're wired so we can learn to rise up in our own strengths instead of sinking in our weaknesses. She believes self-awareness and emotional intelligence can really bring clarity into your life. Sandy's life was radically changed when she learned the different facets of her own temperament, so much so that she became a temperament coach. She has such a passion for helping others discover their temperament because it also gives insight into your personal life and is a great foundation for personal development areas. There's so much good stuff in here that Sandy graciously shares. My prayer is that this episode will not only help you understand yourself and your needs better, but also those in your family. It's a great tool to give insight into how you handle stresses and pressures of life based on your unique set of needs. She also shares in this episode the nine words that can change your life. I hope you come away from this interview ready to make progress in your life and your family.
This week I'm introducing you to Sandy Myer's. Sandy is a first generation American who struggled with fitting in as she was growing up. Her parents divorced when she was a teenager and the only stability she had during that time was from her aunt who lived hours away. But that aunt influenced her and her twin sister to give their lives to Jesus and they were never the same. Sandy shares how people would ask them why they smiled so much and they would always tell then about Jesus. Even though her parents never reconciled, God eventually redeemed her entire family and now they all love the Lord.
When Sandy became an adult she knew she wanted to be a wife and mom, but struggled with singleness until she was 30 years old, when she finally found her husband. Then, after a few years of marriage they went through years of infertility. Sandy learned pretty quickly that God's dream is the home. She says, "He's really into marriage and all of that. But when you come out of brokenness, growing up a product of divorce--an adult child of divorce--there's some trust issues that automatically come."
Sandy also talks about being a temperament coach and gives us insight into how learning our own temperament can help us with our relationships and finding our best self. And if you stay until the end of the episode you'll hear about a special bonus I have for all of my listeners. Let's just say it's a Christmas gift and birthday celebration all rolled into one!
Today we conclude our fatherhood series with representative Mark Willis from Fountain Inn. Mark and I have known each other since high school and I've always been impressed with his heart for others and love for his family. In this episode, he shares his fears about becoming a father and how now his favorite thing he gets to do is be a daddy to his three adult children and now a son and daughter-in-law. He also talks about what made him get into politics and why his family is so involved in the process. And he shares a fun fact about how he and his wife, Tracy, have purchased a small farm in Fountain Inn and how that has helped his family grow even closer. Mark has always been involved in his children's lives, and was even the PTA president during their elementary, middle and high school years. But, he's quick to give credit to Tracy for being a great teammate on their parenting journey with God as their coach. He also shares about how he and Tracy made a huge sacrifice after they had their first child in order for her to be a stay-at-home mom. I know you'll love getting to know Mark and learning more about him and his family. My prayer is that this episode will help you build a stronger relationship with your own kids.
Welcome to the second episode in our fatherhood series. You are going to be so blessed by today's guests, Cecil Stokes and his son Boone. November is National Adoption Month and Cecil's story is unique because he adopted Boone out of foster care as a single dad. Only .03% of kids are adopted by single dads. When Cecil was in his late thirties and had just ended a serious relationship that he thought would lead to marriage, he decided to ask God if it would be okay for him to adopt a son out of foster care. He felt God say not now and so he persisted in that prayer. When Cecil was 42 God finally showed him it was time.
Boone had been in foster care for three years and was in ten foster homes when he came to Cecil. His behavioral problems that stemmed from the mental and emotional abuse he endured from his biological parents made it difficult for him to be fostered. When Cecil and Boone tell the story of the day they met it will amaze you. Usually social workers stay for several hours to help make the transition before they leave, but theirs left in fifteen minutes!
Cecil says they were created to be a family and that Boone had to go through ten foster placements and he had to go through decades of not being married so that they were ready at that exact moment to be matched as a family through foster care. Now Cecil and Boone have created a ministry called Boone and Me where they travel the country and share their story educating churches and the congregation about foster care and adoption. They've had the privilege of being interviewed on the Focus on the Family broadcast and love telling anyone who will listen how God created beauty from the ashes of their lives.
This week is the first episode in our fatherhood series. I've been thinking about doing this series for a while now because I want to get the message out that fathers DO matter in a home. Our culture misleads us to think it doesn't matter if you grow up with a father or not. But it does.
Now if you're a single mom and you've just thrown up your hands and wonder why you should even bother, please don't get discouraged. This just means it's important for you to be more aware and to be intentional about including godly men in your children's lives. If there is a grandfather, uncle, or coach that can impact your child for good, you need to search for those men and ask for their help. It should encourage all of us as we think about Jim Daly, the president of Focus on the Family,, and how he grew up with an absent father. It helps us understand the importance of a fatherly figure in our children's lives. Jim Daly's influence was a coach who took him under his wing and made him the godly man he is today.
So, today we start our series with Dr. Ralph Carter. Dr. Carter has been a pastor for over 40 years and has seen first-hand the importance of having two parents in the home. He shares about his own father and their relationship as well as biblical wisdom and principles about fatherhood and parenting in general. You'll love Dr. Carter's engaging way of talking and you'll learn how God instructs us to teach and train our children. We talk about how television has impacted our perception of fathers over the last several decades and the top two pieces of advice he has for parents. There is so much great information in this episode I know you'll come away feeling more equipped to parent well.
Y'all, I'm so excited for you to hear this episode with Katie J.Trent! With school back in full swing and the stresses of COVID possibly keeping kid's home again, I know Katie's message will give you practical wisdom you're searching for if you're trying to decide whether or not homeschooling is the right fit for your family. I know Katie's message will equip you with much of what you need to know to get started. She is such an inspiration to parents who are scared to homeschool because of all of the unknowns.Â
But, even if homeschooling isn't on your radar, Katie's story is such a powerful testimony of how God worked in a young girl's life while she was living in a dysfunctional home. Her dad abandoned their family when Katie was in middle school and left her mom to raise five kids alone. Katie was confused because of the vastly different faith of her parents and had prayed for God to give her clarity about what was true. Then she married and had a very rocky first couple of years until God intervened. She and her husband knew they wanted a different life than what they'd seen growing up, but didn't know how to get there. Eventually Katie left a thriving career in school counseling and mental health program management so she and her husband could bring her kiddos home. Katie's mission is to inspire women to grow in their faith, strengthen their families and simplify their homeschooling journeys. She has a book coming out in October titled, Dishing Up Devotions: 36 faith Building Activities for Homeschooling Families, that is a great resource for anyone wanting to grow their children's faith through interactive , fun and practical devotions. I know you're going to love Katie!
The last year and a half have been difficult for all of us. We've all suffered losses and heartache in the wake of Covid that has left all of us reeling and trying to learn how to overcome and accept our grief. That's why I believe todays' guests, Marilyn Nutter and April White, will encourage so many listeners. Marilyn lost her husband suddenly a few years ago and April was diagnosed with a rare disease that forced her to give up her Pharmacy career and left her family with a huge financial loss. Instead of becoming bitter, they chose to write a book titled, Destination Hope: A Travel Companion When Life Falls Apart. They want to bring hope to those who are grieving any sort of loss and help them understand that the hit that knocked you down doesn't have to keep you there.
Okay moms of teens... listen up! You've asked for real tips to help parent your teenagers so this week's guest, Kelda Poynot, is here to share her wisdom. Kelda's got lots of practical tips to help navigate through what often can be a tumultuous time for us and our children. Although Kelda has a master's degree in elementary counseling, she ended up working more with teens over the years and has learned how to build strong relationships with them, as well as her own four children who are now adults.
This interview is a good bit longer than my other episodes, but when Kelda and I were about to wrap up and I asked her for any resources that helped her in raising her own teens, we got into how personality tests can help us better understand our teens. She had so much great wisdom and insight to share that I had to include it in the interview. I hope you'll take advantage of some of the great suggestions she shares here to help build stronger relationships with your own children. If you feel like you'll never get through to them, listen up and put some of her tips into practice in your own home.
I cannot wait to share this week's guest episode with you. La'Toya Guillory grew up as a latch-key kid with a single mom who worked two jobs to support her family. Because of her parent's divorce, La'Toya decided when she was ten-years-old that she wanted to make a difference by either going into social work or going to law school. She landed on the former and received a bachelors degree in Child and Family Studies and her masters in human services with Specialization in Marriage and Family. But because she didn't have a strong role model in her personal life, she thought marriage wasn't a priority for her and decided she would have to give up any dreams of becoming a wife and mother. But when she met her husband, Kevin, she knew God had a plan for both of them to create a legacy together. Now they've begun a non-profit organization called Family Connection Inc. to help children between the ages of 16-21 successfully transition out of foster care by teaching them life skills to enter into the adult world. She also has a passion for casting a vision for your family, and believes it can be used as a powerful tool to create purpose and a stability in a home.
This week we're sharing part two of Amy Straley's hard story of an abusive 17 year marriage which finally ended in divorce and then her entering into the dating scene and all of the struggles that entailed, especially as she was trying to parent two teen kids. Last time we had to stop in the middle of Amy's story where she was sharing about breaking up with a man she'd dated for about two years. But when she did he began stalking her, calling her from different phone numbers and contacting her through different email addresses. He was extraordinarily manipulative. It's a gut-wrenching tale of sorrow. But today she shares the rest of her story about how she finally surrendered her life to Jesus and then rebuilt her home into one that is now healthy and whole. I so appreciate Amy's vulnerability these last two episodes and know her willingness to share will encourage others going through some of the same hard things.
Divorce is designed to destroy you. That is a very raw quote from this week's guest, Amy Straley. But, with God's help, Amy is an overcomer. When she married her high school sweetheart she envisioned a blissful future ahead. Instead, she endured 17 years of emotional, verbal and eventually physical abuse., before realizing there was no hope for her marriage. When she finally divorced him she expected life with her kids would transform into something better. She thought she was living a healthy life because it looked so much like what she thought was the typical divorcee's behavior. But after going through several toxic dating relationships, looking for a man to save her, she finally hit rock bottom and landed on her knees, begging Jesus to help her find a way out of her chaotic lifestyle and into one filled with peace and abundance. She shares how those years of marriage and then singleness negatively affected her and her children and how she finally came to realize she needed to rebuild her family from the ground up. Amy is now an example of how God can bring you to abundant life in Him. She's so in love with Jesus and knows He's the only Savior she needs to help her find joy and contentment in her life.
As a mom of three adult children, Laura Thomas has some great ideas about how to successfully prepare for and navigate the empty nest. With the graying of divorce becoming more prominent than ever, now is the time for us to address what we want our marriage to look like after our kids have flown the nest. She talks about the importance of date night and how to start dreaming together again. Laura has so much great wisdom and practical tips on this topic. Even if your kids are still very young, or have long been gone from the home, you'll gain so much from this message.
In today's episode Kirby King shares the difficult story of finding out about her husband's six-month long affair when she'd been married 34 years. Kirby decided to forgive him and hold onto her marriage, but after he kept going back to his mistress time and again she knew she could no longer be the peace keeper. Even though Kirby did everything she could to make her marriage work, it didn't turn out the way she wanted. But she shares how God is writing a new story for her and how she was able to let go of the bitterness toward her ex-husband. She also talks about her third child being born with Down Syndrome and her struggle coming to grips with that and how her now 29 year-old Down Syndrome son is about to be married. Such an exciting story! Kirby is an optimist and her passion in life is to teach people how to run to Jesus. You will walk away from this conversation encouraged in whatever situation you may be facing today.
Pamela Henkelman has an amazing story of redemption that began when her stepdad shot her mom, the bullet grazing her heart. As a result of the shooting her entire family came to salvation in Christ. She shares how her family reconciled and how she and her stepdad even had a great relationship after that. Pamela also talks about how, when she was pregnant with her third child, her doctors advised her to abort her baby due to the threat of a disability and what happened when she didn't heed their advice. And she talks about her husband's health crisis that lasted four years and how she saw her prayers answered. I know you'll be amazed by her story.
This week's guest is Peggy Bodde. Peggy is an amazing woman who overcame childhood trauma to become a successful business leader. She was adopted as a baby by a couple who abused her her entire childhood and kicked her out of the house at 13 years old. But that brought relief rather than fear and Peggy made her way to a better life with the help of her church and one particular family who took her in. Peggy now has a ministry called Sacred Work, where she mentors and leads women in the corporate world. She also talks about how she struggled in relationships with men due to her childhood abuse and how her friends told her her "man-picker' was broken and what she did to overcome that that and eventually find her prince of a husband.
Welcome back to Part two of Natalie Husks story. Last week Natalie shared about her years as a former model where she was lured into the exciting culture of the modeling world. But once she became part of that world, the constant pursuit of perfection drove her to numb herself by becoming addicted to heroin and cocaine. Years later she came to realize a repressed memory of being molested as a child was the catalyst that led her down the pathway of rebellion. If you haven't listened to last week's episode I hope you'll go back and hear the beginning of her story.
In this week's episode Natalie tells how she was finally set free from her addictions. We also talk about how our culture has been turned upside-down as far as morality and how harmful social media can be for kids. There's a lot of deep stuff we go into in this episode so you may not want little ears close by for this one. We also talk about eating disorders, something Natalie struggled with for years, and her advice about what to do and what not to do when trying to help someone with an eating disorder. In addition to that, she talks about her realization of what it's like trying to maintain the same standard of beauty while living in the "real" world. There's lots of great information and perspective in this interview.
This week's guest is a former model and drug addict, Natalie Husk. Natalie is a beautiful young woman who was invited into the modeling industry where she became addicted to drugs. In spite of growing up in a Christian home, Natalie lost her way and became a prodigal daughter. After a stint in rehab she came out ready to live a drug-free life, only to be lured back into modeling where life became so much darker and her addiction grew to include shooting up heroin. For ten years her parents did everything they knew to help deliver her from this lifestyle, to no avail. But she finally came back to Jesus and is here today to share her story. If you've ever loved someone with an addiction I know Natalie's story will inspire and encourage you. There's always hope when God is invited in.
Welcome back to part 2 of Melanie Forbes Cook's interview. Last week Melanie shared about losing her husband to a heart attack 14 months ago after almost 25 years of marriage and ministry and the painful events that led up to his death and how she handled it. If you missed it, I hope you'll go back and listen. This week she dives into all that's happened since his passing and how journaling has led her to soon publish four books to help others deal with grief. She also shares in this episode five tips for those who've lost a loved one and five tips for their support team. These are real and practical ways to get through the crushing weight of grief and also also how to really help others who are in the midst of grief. I know you'll be so glad you listened.
Today I'm introducing you to Melanie Forbes Cook. Melanie's story is heartbreaking but hopeful. She lost her 52 year-old husband to a heart attack just 14 months ago after almost 25 years of marriage and ministry. I know death and grief can be an uncomfortable subject to deal with, but Melanie has so much wisdom to share with those who are either walking their own grief journey or have someone in their life who is. She also shares how she and her husband adopted three children from foster care and how one of those children in particular stretched her faith in a huge way and taught her how to trust God more. It's a lesson she still clings to as she walks through the grief of losing her husband. I know you'll learn so much from her story.
This week's guest, Lindsay Jackman, is someone who's been on my bucket list for a while. Once you hear her story you'll understand why. Lindsay has a fascinating tale of how she and her husband, Chris, were able to pay off their crushing $300,000 of student loan debt in only seven years. When they discovered they wouldn't even be able to make the monthly payments, Chris came up with the idea of flipping and selling houses. At first Lindsay objected when he presented his plan to her, but then she saw how God could use it to release them and their future children from the slavery of debt. They also had a vision for their family that included Lindsay eventually becoming a stay at home mom. She began blogging at The White Buffalo Styling Co. and sharing her family's story of what they were doing with each individual flip. That blog led to her being able to leave her job as a teacher and be a full-time mama, a.k.a. Mama Buffalo. Lindsay also shares how she and Chris are in the process of adopting a baby from China which wouldn't have been possible if they still had their original debt.
I know you'll love hearing her share how she and her husband can look back and see God's fingerprints all over their journey to building a life that led to the freedom from debt they now enjoy and the eventual opening of their business, Buffalo Ridge Builders.
Today I'm honored to introduce you to my podcasting mentor, Alana Dawson. Alana has such an amazing story about how God got her attention after she had a life-threatening pulmonary embolism a few months after she experienced a miscarriage. Because of the miscarriage, she decided to give up on God's call on her life. But after her health scare she saw how good God actually was to her because of what she now understood to be the miracle of her girls' births. Through this process she decided to once again be obedient to the call He had given her and soon after started a podcast. Alana has a passion to help other women discover and fulfill their calling. She is also a military wife and mom to two girls and shares in this interview how her family manages the long periods away from her husband. I know you'll be blessed by her story.
Today's guest is someone I'm privileged to introduce you to, my daughter, Elise Roper. Elise has such an amazing testimony of how God took some deeply painful disappointments in her life and strengthened her faith and trust in Him. The most difficult one being her fiancé breaking off their engagement after almost all of the wedding had been planned and deposits paid for. We talk about that horrible time in her life and how God gave her the opportunity to restore a 133 year old house in the middle of our little town and used that to help heal her broken heart. after the future she thought she would have turned to ashes. We share how we worked together to bring beauty and life back to the old home and how it represented Elise's own journey in tearing out the pain and restoring her own life.
This week's guest is Daphne Woodall, grew up the youngest of 11 children in a blended family. Her biological father left before she was born and she never really knew him. But God blessed her with a wonderful step-father when her mom married her third and final husband. She talks about her relationship with him as well as some of her siblings and how she's always tried to keep connected to family. She was even instrumental in leading her older sister to Christ not long before she passed away from cancer.
Daphne also shares the difficult story of her step-dad's suicide when he was 91 years old. She couldn't understand why he made that decision but never got mad at God because she knew that would not have been God's choice for him. She felt like God wrapped His arms around her during that time of grief, giving her immense joy because she knew her dad was now with Jesus.
And if you've ever wanted to know what it's like being the Chick-Fil-A cow, Daphne gives us the scoop from her own personal experience. I know you're going to love getting to know Daphne!
This week I'm welcoming a precious young woman of faith to the podcast, Casey Jones. Casey's world was turned upside-down when, during her pregnancy, she and her husband found out their baby had a rare, malignant tumor - so rare it is only found in 1 in 40,000 babies. She shares how the doctors recommended she deliver the baby at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, a 13 hour drive from their home in South Carolina, and that she needed to be there weeks prior to delivery. Her high-risk pregnancy was an emotional roller-coaster of faith, praying that God would heal her baby girl and allow her to live, while knowing God doesn't always answer our prayers the way we want. Immediately after Skylar was born she was rushed to emergency surgery and almost didn't survive. After weeks in the NICU Skylar was finally released to go home only to find out a month later that the tumor had returned and she would need chemotherapy.
Although it has been a tough journey for Casey and her husband Chris, their faith has grown exponentially as they learned to trust God with their baby girl. Because Casey is so passionate about sharing her faith journey with others, she's written a book titled The First Year: A Testament of Faith and Miracles. Her story is real and honest and gives hope to those who are going through their own difficult journey. I know you'll be blessed by Casey's story.
Today's guest, Anna Bargeron, almost died after she delivered her first child. Because her pregnancy had been uneventful, doctors were mystified by her extreme sickness after delivery. After they finally discovered the reason for her near-death experience, Anna and her husband had to make the difficult decision of whether or not to get pregnant again or, instead, seek to adopt. Eventually they adopted a little girl, but Anna then struggled with guilt and depression. She shares how she'd never heard of an adoptive parent having the "baby blues" and didn't understand why she couldn't break free from it. Adoptive parents are almost never told of the difficulties they may face and Anna wants to make sure every potential adoptive parent isn't blindsided like she was by the unexpected feelings that can come with adoption.
Anna also shares some of the resources she used to find the best adoption agency for their family, one that cares about the birth families as much as the adoptive parents. She believes that most of the time the spotlight is on the adoptive parent and how lucky the baby is. Instead, she sees the birth mother as the hero in the story. I know you'll be appreciate listening to Anna's touching perspective on adoption.Â
Today I'm thrilled to introduce you to my friend, Ruthie McCraw. Ruthie has a big heart and big personality and she really knows how to love people well. She shares in today's episode about how mentoring and hospitality has influenced her own life, starting with her mother, who always welcomed Ruthie's friends into their home and how she ministered to those friends around her table. Ruthie says, "She just shared life and Jesus." Ruthie talks about the importance of mentors and hospitality and says, "There's just something special about welcoming people into your home. Mentoring and hospitality are important topics to discuss when it comes to building strong, godly homes. It's one significant way we can change the landscape of America when it comes to family. I know you'll love getting to know Ruthie and her heart for bringing others in so she can love them like Jesus would.Â
Today's guest is Celeste Vaughan. Celeste is a pharmacist who has an amazing story about how she ended up addicted to pain killers after suffering numerous seizures. She shares how she struggled with work, raising three children--including a baby--all while trying to keep her addiction hidden and under control. From the outside it looked like she had a charmed life, but inside she was just trying to get through the day. She actually got to the point where she didn't even care whether or not she was healed, she just wanted to know why she was having to walk this horrific journey. She prayed for the rapture, healing and every selfish prayer she could think of just trying to fix herself. After seven years of addiction, God finally brought her to freedom. One of the messages Celeste wants to get out is that you are not alone. Talk to somebody. There is so much help out there now for addictions. Find an internist who treat opioid addiction with Suboxone. It is very treatable. This life can be wonderful again after addiction and depression. Don't give up! There's always hope!
Today's guest is Kristen Gault. Kristen has an amazing story of hope after beating stage two triple negative breast cancer after she was diagnosed at the age of 37. After 16 rounds of chemo, 33 radiation treatments and several surgeries she's now cancer free and is still declaring God's goodness in her life. She has such a strong faith and trust in Jesus that she's an inspiration to many who have followed her journey. Kristen shares how her family, friends and community stood strong around her immediately after she was diagnosed. Because of this, she wanted to give back after her recovery and began a fundraiser called Give Cancer the Boot. She also started a cancer support group in her community which allowed her to make a difference for others suffering from the dreaded disease. Kristen is such a delight and I know you're going to love her and be encouraged by her testimony. I can't wait for you to meet her!
This week's guest on the podcast is LaTan Murphy. LaTan is a woman of many talents: an interior decorator, author, singer, speaker and co-host of Real Victory Radio. She's also a self-proclaimed chicken who recently released her newest book, Courageous Women of the Bible: Leaving Behind Fear and Insecurity for a life of Confidence and Freedom. I know you're going to love our conversation where she shares lessons learned about Deborah in the Bible and how God used her to help save a nation from their enemies and bring 40 years of peace. In today's culture it's important to become the courageous women God is calling us to be so that we can make a difference in this generation and generations to follow. I hope you'll be inspired by this episode to trust God and step into your calling.Â
Today I’m excited to welcome Stacey Chapman to the podcast! Stacey and her husband Erick, have an amazing story of adopting three children and after they felt their family was complete, felt God leading them to take on one more. Their story begins with the heartbreak of infertility and several miscarriages that led them to the beautiful children they now call their own. She shares a realistic look at adoption and all of the fears and hardships they had to face along their journey. I know you’ll love Stacey and her authentic story of building her family through adoption.
Todays' guest for the podcast is my dear friend, Marcia Moston. She has lived such an amazing life of adventure, from being a hippie and living in a real life teepee to moving to Guatemala and becoming a missionary and eventually making her way to South Carolina. Marcia is a wonderful storyteller who shares a tale mixed with heartbreak, humor and hope. She was a good Catholic schoolgirl who entered her adult life seeking truth in all the wrong places, even looking to astronomy and palmistry at one point. But she finally surrendered to God when she hit rock bottom. Her testimony is a story of how God has remained faithful throughout all of her life. She's the other of two books based on her life, the most recent one titled, Going South: with the God of Jacob's and My Mistakes. This is an episode you won't want to miss.
I know you're going to love this week's guests, Dan and Wanda Perry. Dan and Wanda have a powerful story of how they endured a season of grief together while their son, Nathaniel, chose to walk a prodigal path. They share some of their son's perspective while he was living a wayward lifestyle and what finally brought him to a strong relationship with Christ that eventually led him to become a missionary. If you're dealing with a prodigal, or know someone who is, this episode will encourage you and give you the hope you need to keep pouring into that child. It's an incredible story of God's grace.
This week we're welcoming back Ann Curry and Leigh Owens who shared their story in last week's episode of Leigh losing her mom and youngest sister in a car accident and Ann losing her first husband when she was in her mid-twenties. They came together as a family when Jimmy, Leigh's dad, married Ann and brought her into the Curry clan. I hope you'll go back and listen to last week's episode if you haven't already. We're backing up a couple of minutes into last week's show as a reminder of how the kids felt about welcoming baby brother, Luke, into their family and the powerful revelation that he shared with them later in life.
They also talk about losing Jimmy to Alzheimer's and how they dealt with their grief in that season and how the lessons Jimmy taught them in earlier years brought them full circle. Here's the rest of our conversation.
I know you're going to love my guests for the next two weeks, Ann Curry and Leigh Owens. They are two of the funniest women I know. I keep telling them they need their own show! They've gone through so much heartache in life but their faith keeps them smiling. Leigh lost her mother and youngest sister in a car accident when she was just ten years old. Ann became a widow in her mid-twenties after being married only 20 months. They came together when Jimmy, Leigh's dad, married Ann and brought her into the Curry clan. You'll be amazed at their hope-filled perspectives and appreciate why their hashtag is CurryStrong. You'll be laughing and crying listening to their compelling story of God's grace in the midst of loss.
Today I'm thrilled to introduce you to one of my writer friends, Carolyn Knefely. Carolyn has an impressive resume of extremely diverse careers, but what makes her story so incredible is her strength to overcome her childhood of her and her younger brothers often being left alone for days at a time. From the age of four or five Carolyn frequently begged for food from neighbors and even stole bread in order to survive. When she was 18 years old she nearly attempted suicide, but God intervened and made her realize she didn't have to be a victim of her circumstances. Hers is an incredible story of how God took this poor, dirty, starving little girl that no one seemed to love and launched her into a world where she became trained and certified by the Protocol School of Washington Fine Dining and then taught business etiquette to colleges, churches and corporations. If you've ever felt you can't succeed because of a difficult childhood, listen to Carolyn's story and realize how God can help anyone overcome their past to make a real difference in the world.
This week I'm interviewing a delightful guest from merry old England, Adeline St. John. Adeline and I met in 2016 when she reached out to me via Messenger and told me she was my husband's cousin. She shares how her dad found out at the age of 12 his father wasn't who his mom had always told him he was and the 60 year journey of dead-end leads that finally paid off and led to the confirmation that he'd finally found his real father. Their story highlights the importance of knowing our family history and legacy in order for us to have a real sense of belonging.
Today we're returning to the emotional story of Donavan and Lavonna Garrett whose marriage seemed doomed due to Donavan's alcohol abuse. If you missed last week's episode please go back and listen. They have a miraculous story of going through the heartbreak of 13 miscarriages and finally being blessed with two babies. But the stress sent Donavan into a tailspin that resulted in a seven year journey of despair for their family. Today you'll get to hear how God rescued Donavan from his addiction and restored their marriage and family. I know you'll be blessed by the outcome of their story.
This week's guests are special friends of our family, Donavan and Lavonna Garrett. I'm so humbled by their willingness to share the hard story of Lavonna's loss of her parents and only sibling to cancer, their years dealing with 13 miscarriages and their painful struggle through Donavan's alcohol abuse. It's an incredible story of hope, forgiveness and healing. My hope is this episode will encourage you, especially if you're walking through your own seemingly hopeless situation.
Can you believe it’s December already? 2020 has been one for the books and I’m ready to put this all behind us and jump into the festivities of the season. So today I’m excited to introduce you to my newest friend, Jennifer Deese. Because Jennifer loves Christmas and all of the holiday traditions that go with it, I invited her to share some of her favorite traditions that we hope you’ll want to add to your own this year. Let me be clear, this is not a podcast designed to load on more mama guilt during an already crazy, busy time of year. Instead, we share some ideas you may want to add to your own celebration along with a few practical tips. I know I’m always looking for fresh ways to make this season more special. Although Jennifer doesn’t have unlimited time or money (she has four children and a full-time job!) and she hasn’t lived a charmed life she’s still managed to find fun and creative ways to celebrate the season, even when she was a single mom. She’s been through some tough times in her life, which is why these long-standing traditions are even more dear to her and her family. They provided stability for her kids during those difficult years. I know you’ll be blessed by our conversation.
My guests for this first podcast episode are my two very best friends, Julie Bagwell and Frieda Younts. We’ve been friends for 26 years! Over time we’ve experienced lots of ups and downs but have remained close through it all. How did we do it? By being honest and real with each other, for one thing, but mostly by building our friendship on the foundation of Jesus Christ.
Growing up I only had one friend at a time and always felt like I never belonged. In my late 20’s I began praying for God to bring some good friends into my life and He was faithful to do just that through Julie and Frieda.
Each of us has been married for at least 30 years and have grown children, so we have lots of experience under our belt—some good and some bad. But we’ve held onto each other through it all and are grateful God has helped our friendship to remain strong.
In this episode we talk about how hurts and jealousy, especially in a group with three friends, can be easy to fall into. But instead of letting them fester we bring it out in the open and talk about these things in the spirit of love. A friendship is work, but it’s so worth the reward.
Our desire is to help other women experience friendship like we have, because good, godly friends can have an amazing impact on your life. But in order to make it work we must be intentional. Listen in as we discuss simple and practical ways we learned to grow and sustain our friendship.
Welcome to the trailer episode of the podcast! I believe we have the power to change the world, but we must start in our own homes. Building godly homes is a holy calling we should pursue in order to make a real difference in our culture. Join me each week as I interview guests who've faced challenges in their own home life and have come through with inspiring stories of hope. Let these conversations help you navigate the struggles you face in your own home so you can keep building strong!