Elevating Motherhood: Recent Episodes

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Be Honest: How was your Mother's Day?

In this episode, I talk about:

• The importance of reflecting on what went well (and what didn’t) during this year’s Mother’s Day

• How my Mother’s Day this year ACTUALLY went

• Setting up everyone for success on Mother’s Dayand Father’s Day

• Checking in with my husband before Father’s Day about what he wants and needs that weekend (and in his everyday life)

• Making Mother’s Day and Father’s Day a wholeweekend celebration instead of just a day

• Taking time on Saturday to be by yourself before Mother’s Day

• Giving him time alone on Saturday before celebratingtogether on Father’s Day

• Meeting needs before celebrating and using frustrationsas growing points instead of just frustration points

Join me at this year’s FOCUS Retreat! To find out more and register, go to: www.thefocusretreat.com

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Mother’s Day brings with it a roller coaster of emotions…and there are some complex reasons for that. Heaven forbid we feel disappointed on Mother’s Day because we feel like we can’t express that and feel guilty for even feeling that way or explode from trying to keep those “negative” emotions inside for too long. Add in things like loss, longing, grief, infertility, work,the craziness of the calendar in May…and it’s no wonder many moms get overwhelmed and underwhelmed at the same time on Mother’s Day. Chris took the kids out for the morning and I wanted toprocess this Mother’s Day with you while I have a minute to reflect. This is a heavy one for me since it’s my first one without either of my grandmas. Mother’s Day expectations are on our minds as the big dayapproaches…most of us are in charge of balancing the family calendar and most celebration details and this holiday is one that supposedly is for us, not by us and, and, well, that’s hard.I have a few thoughts, ideas, and stories to share withyou in this episode. Here are a few highlights: Grace upon grace upon graceYour emotions are valid10/10 recommend time alone the day BEFORE Mother’s DayFeeling disappointed on Mother’s Day is more common than you think*Clear communication about what I want on actual Mother’s Day as a way to avoid disappointment or hurt feelings will go a long way!More episodes and info available at: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

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A rare appearance from my husband Chris who courageously shows up today in a raw, candid conversation with me about marriage, expectations, and who needs to do more.It’s really hard to talk about marriage in a public forum because it can be easily be misinterpreted as “advice” …and we want to reassure you that today’s episode is not intended to be marriage advice, it’s not about anyone in particular, it’s us seeing a common thread all around us (even online and in shows!) and pulling that thread to see where it leads us. Our hope is that this episode is a conversation starter foryou and your spouse—a perspective that leads to deeper growth and conversation. We hope it’s an example of how two people in a marriage can view things differently and not have those differences be a hinderance or cause hurt to the other. These are incomplete thoughts—observations rather than conclusions.Will you see yourself in this episode? Will you see yourmarriage in this episode? Will your husband? We don’t know. Marriages have similarities and differences across the board. We’ll be curious to hear your thoughts at the end. Thanks for listening and for your gentleness and respect as we pull at this new thread in a public and unscripted way. In this episode Chris and I talk about: · Martyrdom· Husbands not doing enough· Financial trials in our current culture· Our current economy· Tensions in marriage· Man dogging culture· Allowing time for transitions· Looking for creative ways to bring in more money· Answering the call to do more· Having patience with transitions· Ideals· Starting over· How it’s hard to find the motivation to do more for less· Skewed expectations of what we are bringing to the table · Are women growing & changing at a faster rate than men?· Dads not being on board with homeschool and why· Jealousy in our roles· Living a scheduled life when your family doesn’t· Moms researching parenting· Fair expectations· Happiness and rest for both spouses· Respecting each other’s perspectives· Man hating culture is trickling into marriage culture· Actions speak louder than words· Men feel emotions like stress and jealousy too · What do you believe about your husband? · What do you believe about your marriage? · What is the undercurrent in your marriage? Christian Business Women! This is for you: www.thefocusretreat.com

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This is a high energy conversation. For some reason it’s highly political at the moment to talk about boys, men, gender, and masculinity. And here we are as moms, right smack dab the middle of the over-politicized nonsense,trying to have meaningful marriages with our husbands and raise our sons well in a world that bashes boys and men.

We need to talk about the tension—both the undercurrent in our culture and the outright hatred toward men. We need to stand up for our sons and raise them up at the same time. In this interview you’ll hear me tell the story about how when I found out I was pregnant at 40, I knew I was going to have a son. I knew I was going to be called to speak out about the war on men happening in our current culture.

My guest today is Durenda Wilson…she is a friend of mine but also a brilliant writer and podcaster. I look to her a lot for homeschool and parenting advice. She speaks out on this subject with so much grace and encouragement. Her perspective really takes the charge off our current culturalmessaging and puts tools and encouragement back in the hands and hearts of moms so we can show up well in our marriages and in our motherhood.

You’ll leave this conversation feeling equipped as a boy mom and have a better understanding of what true masculinity is.

Durenda Bio: Durenda Wilson has been married to Darryl for 34 years. He wanted two children and she wantedten. They compromised at eight. Durenda has over 30 years of homeschool experience. She also has 11 grandchildren (7 are boys) who are also being homeschooled. During her years of experience in home education, she has seen first hand how kids learn naturally and effectively when they are given time and space along with encouragement to trust their own learning processes. She wants to take this hard-earned wisdom and mentor moms—she believes an encouraged mom is always abetter mom. Durenda began The Durenda Wilson Podcast for this purpose back in July 2017 which grew quickly and gained recognition with both families and leaders in the homeschool community. Durenda has over 500 episodes to choose from and boasts over 3 million downloads!

FULL SHOW NOTES AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Durenda's Links:

Buy Her Book: https://a.co/d/3lEu5J4Website: www.durendawilson.com

Instagram: @durendaleewilson

Today’s Sponsor: The Focus Retreat

www.thefocusretreat.com

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Well, it's been another week of the internet going crazy. But so many friends and followers sent me two of the same poststhis week and I felt called to share my thoughts on them because to me they are incredibly related:1. Hannah of Ballerina Farms is competing in the Mrs. World Pageant and the internet has decided she is dangerous and setting a bad example (oooooookay…)2. The teacher calling for parents to take phones away fromkids and stop letting phones raise their children because 4th graders are bullying, body shaming, and twerking on the playground.  What Do I Think the REAL Issues Are? We have some thinking to do as parents. We can do better as moms (& no, that's not shaming)The need for more self-awarenessParenting our own childrenThe real danger: peer-oriented cultureMom shamingToxic postpartum messagingBullying (by grown-ups and kids)Who are the bullies? Cattiness & MeannessThe over-sexualization of everythingEase and convenience over depth and meaningHealthy boundaries with internet useParents need to ask themselvesAllowing sensationalism to trump the real lessonsAs moms, we need to strive to do better by our kidsThe call to strive “Am I smiling and laughing at strangers entertaining me onmy phone more than I’m looking at my kids and smiling and laughing because they are bringing me joy in my every day?” -Lori Beth Auldridge No ad spots today because I wanted to get right to themessage. But check out all our sponsors at www.elevatingmotherhood.com

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Hebrews 10:1 “Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us.”

Happy 2024, Mamas! We're grateful for 2023 and ready to move forward with confidence into 2024! 💜

In this episode I talk about:

• The continued need to pray for Maui

• Our move to the mainland

• Our family’s 2023 trials and wins

• Travel recap: we went to 19 states in 2023!

• Seeking comfort and ease…and then shifting away from that goal

• Trusting God’s timing

• Working on humility

• The spiritual ease that has come from moving to a Christian community

• Word of the year: Endurance

• How the word “endurance” has changed me on every level in just a few days

• Abandoning American hustle culture

• Self-control

• Fruits of the Spirit

• Following the path that God sets out for us

• “planning” and “goal setting” vs. acts of obedience

• The gift of aging and maturity and experience

• How fantastic it feels to grow up

• Following the shift in our path

• Understanding that God has a path laid out for us

• Count it all joy…even the hardships

• Going into 2024 with enthusiasm

• Ending 2023 with gratitude

• Endurance for a very specific purpose

• Following God’s path for me

• The ability to handle hardships

• Praying for you and your family in the new year!

Visit: www.elevatingmotherhood.com & sign up for my newsletter

Join my support community: Elevating Homeschool Community

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I love today’s passionate and honest conversation with my in person friend Nikki Phillippi. We’re both freedom loving homeschooling who spend a LOT of time thinking about education standards, education philosophy, and education reform. We’re both life-long learners who like to dive deep into many topics that affect us as mothers and topics that affect our children’s education…and then we discuss them over long voice memos to each other. It’s pretty fun. I 10/10 recommend finding another mom friend to voice memo with. Today you get to bepart of our in-depth back and forths as we talk about education reform, protecting our freedom to homeschool, misinformation about homeschool, and our own personal education journeys.

Nikki’s Bio: Nikki Phillippi is a very popular YouTube personality, author, recipe creator, and podcaster. She is a wife, mother, and second-generation homeschooler. Nikki is passionate, authentic, and honest in ways that inspire me--truly. If you already know Nikki, you’ll love hearing her show up in classic Nikki fashion as she shares about her education journey and why homeschool is her hill to die on. If this is your first introduction to Nikki, hold on tight! She is a ball of energy! I’ll be sure to link to her YouTube channel in the show notes as well as my recent episode with her on her YouTube channel where we go even deeper into homeschool freedoms and education reform.

In This Episode, Nikki & I Talk About:

· Growing Up: Nikki’s homeschool journey as a child

· Bullying in school

· Homeschool advocacy

· Being advanced and being behind in school at the same time

· Feeling held back in subjects in school

· Feeling “stupid” in school

· Physical and mental abuse in school

· John Taylor Gatto's Book Dumbing Us Down

· Kids are convinced they are stupid

· Learning to love learning

· Tailoring education to individuals...& so much more!

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM Please Visit Today’s Sponsor: The Elevating Homeschool Community

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I’ve wanted to tackle so many topics over the years but have avoided hitting record because I felt like my thoughts were incomplete. Pettiness has been a topic swirling in my mind for the past few weeks because of two conversations I overheard on Halloween. And, well, here are my incomplete thoughts on the topic. Here are also the bible verses I looked up to help me find peace with these two stories: What Does the Bible Say About Being PettyPhilippians 2:3-4 Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.Ephesians 4:29 Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.Romans 12:2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self control; against such things there is no law.Galatians 6:7 Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap.Romans 15:5 May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus.1 Corinthians 13:4-7 Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.Romans 12:3 by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned.What Does the Bible Say About PrideProverbs 16:18 Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.Romans 12:16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight.What are your thoughts? What do you want to add to these incomplete thoughts on pettiness? Email me: loribeth@elevatingmotherhood.comMore at: www.elevatingmotherhood.comElevating Homeschool Community: here

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Ruth Chou Simons is an artist in so many senses of the word. Her latest book Pilgrim: 25 Ways God’s Character Leads Us Onward is stunning and inspiring. It’s a beautiful exploration of God’s character and faithfulness and is bursting with Ruth’s signature watercolor art. It’s a gift for the eyes and the heart.

Years ago I had a friend say to me, “I think Jesus was a greatperson and someone worth striving to be like. I don’t like all the religion and church stuff, and I wouldn’t call myself a Christian, but I do think that Jesus was real and someone worth striving to be like.” Pilgrim is the book I wish I had to give her in that moment. Understanding the character of God in a biblical context where we can start to break down who He is and what His worksshow us is important. Understanding His character helps us understand His strength—it gives us not only something to lean in to, but an example of compassionate character to strive toward.

We’re on a journey, a path that we travel every day and Ican tell you that walking a path set out for me by Jesus is a lot easier than trying to create my own. As mothers, we need strength for our daily journey. It’s available to us. Sometimes we need reminders that nothing separates us from God’s love. Pilgrim is a beautiful reminder of that. Pretty enough to leave out on the table as our daily reminder that God’s provision and grace is available to us.

Ruth is wonderful. If you already know who Ruth Chou Simonsis, you’re going to love this interview. If you’re hearing about her for the first time here, know that I am so honored to be the one to introduce you to her and her work.

Ruth’s Bio: Ruth Chou Simons is a Wall Street Journal bestselling and award-winning author of several books and Bible studies, including GraceLaced, Beholding and Becoming, and When Strivings Cease. She is an artist, entrepreneur, podcaster, and speaker, using each of these platforms to spiritually sow the Word of God into people's hearts. Through social media, her online shop at GraceLaced.com, and the GraceLaced Collective community, Simons shares her journey of God's grace intersecting daily life with word and art. Ruth and her husband, Troy, aregrateful parents to six boys—their greatest adventure.

FULL SHOW NOTES: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

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Nourished Motherhood: www.atnourishedmotherhood.com

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I’ve never really understood why podcasters do seasons...until I hit a point in my life where my personal seasons started to demand the I shift my professional seasons. So I took a break from podcasting to focus on my family's needs, travel, work on new projects, etc. So what was I up to? Listen and find out!

In this episode I talk about:

• Finding home when you can’t go back to where youwere “born and raised”

• Creating home in a new place

• We moved…again! New house, same state

• Acts of obedience

• Needing to be present

• Spiritual warfare

• The predator load at our new house

• New farm additions!

• The transition from farm to suburbs to farm

• Our 3 week long RV trip

• My personal health journey

• And more…!

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God’s timing is so good. If you follow me on IG, you’ve probably heard me talk about how I feel like my current life lessons all center around humility and God’s timing over mine. Well, the timing of this episode’s release is just perfect. I needed this episode when I recorded it and I needed it again this week with our family moving (again! We’re still in Idaho, but moving is pretty all consuming no matter the distance!) I have been feeling overwhelmed in this unexpected season of chaos. Bonnie’s books have truly been gifts to me at different moments in my life. Today we’re talking about her newest book Breathe: 21 Days to Stress Less and Transform Chaos to Calm (but I also recommend her other book Sweet Like Jasmine).

You’ll probably hear the surprise in my voice at how Bonnie and I just jumped right into the deep end with this conversation. Bonnie’s willingness to be vulnerable and connect with people honestly and openly is part of what makes her such a special guest.

If you are in a season of chaos (which I feel like is probably most moms with kids at home), this episode is for you. If you’re a mother who is getting things done but you often feel like you’re surviving alone, this episode is for you.

Bonnie’s Bio: Bonnie Gray is the author of Breathe: 21 Days to Stress Less and Transform Chaos to Calm, Whispers of Rest, Finding Spiritual Whitespace and Sweet Like Jasmine. An inspirational speaker and podcast host of Breathe: The Stress Less Podcast, Bonnie touches thousands of lives using storytelling, soul care, and prayer. Bonnie’s global following of readers come to her for inspiring Christian content in her authentic, unique voice. Her writing has been published and syndicated across a broad online audience. Bonnie lives in California with her husband and two sons.

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

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“We need sandpaper in our lives.” – Shallon Payne

Today I’m excited to introduce you to my friend Shallon from The Appalachian Homestead. Shallon and I talk often over IG and text about all kinds of things. It’s so nice because the two of us share a bit of an automatic understanding of each other and the way we see life because we were both raised in the Appalachian Mountains. I was raised farther North in the foothills and she’s in the heart of Appalachia, but there are things we just “get” about each other and life. I know that our upbringing allows us to see the world differently. We’re a proud people with big ideas. People from Appalachia have a strong sense of family. And yet here I am living far, far away from my family and have for a long, long time.

Shallon and I intended to talk about how the internet is ruining motherhood and how it’s gonna be alright because everything comes out in the wash. But we ended up talking about way more than that! This is a different kind of episode…it’s like y’all are gonna walk into the middle of a conversation with Shallon and I. And in that sense it’s waaaaaaay different than my other episodes.

I’m glad it turned out this way because I want you to see that it’s possible and important to talk about big ideas about motherhood with other moms. You can be similar in some ways and totally different in others, you can agree, disagree, and still love, respect, and glean from the wisdom of other moms. None of us are exactly the same, even if we’re from a similar area or have a similar background. But all of us need community, “Big C Community”—especially us moms—so we can sort out this world that gets a little cattywompus at times.

Shallon’s Bio: Family wisdom is the generational wealth of The Appalachian Homestead. Shallon and her husband Mark share this with their followers via their website and social media platforms. I hope you will join them on their platforms as they share life, the old ways, and the wisdom of the ages.

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

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Happy Mother's Day, Mama!

This is a super special episode…not just because it’s in honor of Mother’s Day, but because there will be 4 mamas speaking life over you today! 3 of my dear friends in life and business—Jennifer Ford Berry, Amy Debrucque, and Becky Kopitzke are joining me for this conversation. These lovely mamas are all members of the mastermind I’ve had the honor of being a part of for a while now, they are also authors, speakers, podcasters, coaches, wives, and mothers. We talk often about how these multiple roles take a lot of our time and energy and brainstorm together on a weekly basis about how we can thrive in various seasons of motherhood and live a more integrated life where family and business exist to support one another.

And that’s what today’s conversation is about. Thriving in each season of motherhood. Integrating our different roles in different seasons. And what it looks like to work on our own personal growth along the way. This is a beautiful conversation filled with vulnerability and stories as we share about our own personal struggles, times of worry, moments of judgement, and times we grappled for control…as well as how we got to the other side of those tough moments. This episode is packed with truths and encouragement!

I’m excited for you to get to know Jennifer, Becky, and Amy more…these women are also my co-hosts for The Focus Retreat happening this September in beautiful Kentucky. This episode is a great opportunity to get to know them more so you can connect with who will be speaking into your life and business this fall at the retreat. We have unique perspectives and convictions, but always manage to find common ground as women who have hearts for Jesus and encouraging other moms through our businesses and ministries.

I adore these women and know you will, too. Check out the show notes for links to their websites and IG profiles as well as links to The Focus Retreat. www.thefocusretreat.com

Stay tuned at the end, too, for a special message from Becky about The Focus Retreat and our bonus Early Bird Mother’s Day specials!

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

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Today is a very special interview. I had the honor of interviewing Sally Clarkson, someone whose work I’ve leaned into often. Sally is such a loving resource for my homeschool, mothering, and spiritual growth. In this episode we’re talking about her new book Teatime Discipleship: Sharing Faith One Cup at a Time. I read it from cover to cover and wow—what a gift. Sally shares from the heart about how simple everyday practices like teatime can be a catalyst for connection, friendship, hospitality, ministry, and encouragement. It’s a foundational tool for women to center their hearts and draw nearer to God and one another. And wow, do mothers need more of that right now—we need the opportunity to be impacted by an encouraging host and the opportunity to be such a host. The world tells us we’re too busy for such things…Sally reminds us that we’re not and that there is everlasting greatness in the small moments with those we love.

Sally’s Bio: Sally Clarkson is a bestselling author, renowned speaker, and beloved mentor who has dedicated her life to inspiring countless women to live for Christ. She’s sold more than a million books and her podcast, At Home with Sally, has received more than 20 million downloads. Sally has been married to herhusband Clay for more than forty years. They have raised four adult children. Today, Sally splits her time between the mountains of Colorado and the rollingfields of England.

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

My Favorite Quotes from Sally’s New Book:

Page 21: “Come here and feast and rest a while. Good food, conversation, and friendship are awaiting you. I have prepared a place for us. You are special and I love spending time with you.”

Page 42: “A host provides for the comfort and security of all who cross her doorstep.”

Page 71: “If wisdom, truth, and love have been built up as resources in our hearts, then when we encounter people, they will draw wisdom, truth, and love from the ways we speak to them and interact with them. People draw from what we have invested in our souls over the years.”

Page 85: “The truth of Scripture is food for your mind—spiritual nourishment for growing in maturity, faith, and wisdom.”

Page 85: “Yet I have found that I often have to be the one who invites, who welcomes, who initiates the very fellowship I need and long for. When women seek out and cultivate fellowship, a community thrives.”

Page 111: “A wise woman takes care of her soul.”

Page 138: “Leaving a legacy of faith requires a lifetime of living steadfastly through each season and its demands.”

Page 139: “What might you do today to help your focus shift from the situation immediately surrounding you to the eternal unseen glory that is being worked out through those situations?”

Today’s episode is sponsored by Homeschool Explained, an online course I created to help parents find their confidence as they begin their homeschool journey. Homeschool Explained is also for families who are already homeschooling but feel they could use more resources and a confidence boost to keep going...now with an updated PDF and monthly ongoing encouragement!

In Homeschool Explained I show you what modern homeschool days actually look like—all while covering major topics like curriculum, homeschool styles,subjects to teach, cost, state laws, socialization and so much more. This course takes the guess work out of where and how to begin and leaves you with solid support and resources from day one. I would be honored to help you to start your homeschool journey with confidence! Find out more at www.homeschoolexplained.com

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Do you ever feel like there aren’t enough hours in the day? That your calendar is full and overwhelming? That busy is your new normal and you wish it weren’t? When my schedule gets too full, I know that something needs to change and that usually it means I need to sit down and have a come to Jesus meeting about my priorities. I need prayer, I need perspective, and I need practical steps. Our guest today is going to speak with us about all of those needs. Overextending ourselves…most of us want to change…

Most modern moms feel overextended and like they want change. Crystal is just the encourager we need to work through those feelings and make actual change. You are going to leave this episode renewed—I was…three times over! Once after reading her book, again after this conversation, and once more when I was editing this episode. At the end of the show I share 4 ways that Crystal’s book changed my life. Get ready for some tips, encouragement, and fresh perspective about how to best budget our time as moms.

Crystal’s Bio: Crystal Paine is the founder of MoneySavingMom.com, host of The Crystal Paine Show podcast, and a New York Times bestselling author. Her desire is to help women across the globe live with more joy, purpose, and intention in their everyday lives. She lives with her husband and six kids in the Nashville, Tennessee, area, where she is actively involved in her local church. Her biggest passions are helping women understand how the gospel can radically transform their lives, raising awareness for foster care, going on adventures with her family (locally, domestically, and internationally), finding great deals at the grocery store, having heartfelt conversations, and trying to read too many books at one time!

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Today’s Sponsor: THE FOCUS RETREAT www.thefocusretreat.com

The mastermind I’m in with Jennifer Ford Berry, Becky Kopitske, and Amy Debrucque has an exciting announcement! We are hosting our first ever in-person retreat this fall at Shaker Village outside of Lexington, KY. It’s called The Focus Retreat and we could not be more thrilled to share this opportunity with you! Join us this September for an opportunity to gather with other business minded mamas who long for the opportunity to carve out time to focus on what matters most to them in their businesses and lives—community, strategy, family, organization, and confidence. We’re taking a whole woman approach to our coaching in this retreat by integrating business, personal, and spiritual growth—I love that this will all happen in-person with other woman who value genuine community over networking.

They’ll be keynote workshops, break out sessions, social gatherings, a mastermind panel to help you learn how to form your own, (and the in-person opportunity to introduce you to other women who are also interested in joining a mastermind) PLUS an optional VIP experience at Amy’s lake house with live music, delicious food, and sisterhood. Come hang out with me, Jennifer, Becky, and Amy in-person this September at The Focus Retreat in beautiful Kentucky! Go to www.thefocusretreat.com for more information and to reserve your spot for this boutique retreat. Tickets are limited. Head to www.thefocusretreat.com to reserve yours!

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There are so many times in my life I’ve wondered if I’m a people pleaser. I’ve wondered if I was taught to be, if everyone in our society is to some degree. I’ve questioned if some of my decisions are centered around people pleasing, and if it’s something I need to work on it my life. Am I modeling it for my kids? Expecting it from them unintentionally? I’m sure you’re here because you’ve wondered similar things.

My friend Lynn Carter is here to help us unpack our people pleasing habits and provide us with some much needed perspective to refocus our time, attention, values, and schedules and shake our people pleasing tendencies. She’s sweet, funny, kind, and encouraging. She tackles this conversation without making it a “heavy” and for that I’m so grateful.

Lynn’s Bio: Lynn Carter is the creator and host of The Good News Mama Podcast, she is a wife, boy mom, her sons’ coach (which she talks about in the show), and my dear friend.

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT ⁠WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM⁠

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: ⁠www.elevatingmotherhood.com⁠

Instagram: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhood

Today’s Sponsor: THE FOCUS RETREAT ⁠www.thefocusretreat.com⁠

The mastermind I’m in with Jennifer Ford Berry, Becky Kopitske, and Amy Debrucque has an exciting announcement! We are hosting our first ever in-person retreat this fall at Shaker Village outside of Lexington, KY. It’s called The Focus Retreat and we could not be more thrilled to share this opportunity with you! Join us this September for an opportunity to gather with other business minded mamas who long for the opportunity to carve out time to focus on what matters most to them in their businesses and lives—community, strategy, family, organization, and confidence. We’re taking a whole woman approachto our coaching in this retreat by integrating business, personal, and spiritual growth—I love that this will all happen in-person with other woman who value genuine community over networking.

They’ll be keynote workshops, break out sessions, social gatherings, a mastermind panel to help you learn how to form your own, (and the in-person opportunity to introduce you to other women who are also interested in joining a mastermind) PLUS an optional VIP experience at Amy’s lake house with live music, delicious food, and sisterhood. Come hang out with me, Jennifer, Becky, and Amy in-person this September at The Focus Retreat in beautiful Kentucky! Go to ⁠www.thefocusretreat.com⁠ for more information and to reserve your spot for this boutique retreat. Tickets are limited. Head to ⁠www.thefocusretreat.com⁠ to reserve yours!

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“What does it mean to be creative…it’s allowing yourself to be so inspired by the beauty of the world that you want to capture it in some kind of form and then having the discipline to actually carry it out.” -Ashlee Gadd on the Elevating Motherhood Podcast

Mothers often feel guilt when they pursue something that takes time away from their children, especially when that something could be deemed less important than parenting. Writer Ashlee Gadd felt the same way when she was navigating being a first-time mother, exhausted yet yearning to be creative. Now a mother of three and the founder of Coffee + Crumbs, an online community bringing mothers together through storytelling, Gadd intentionally finds time to be creative.

Ashlee Gadd is someone I’ve followed my entire motherhood journey…for almost a decade. I’ve listened to her podcast and read her blog. Ashlee has been showing up for years through her brand Coffee + Crumbs. She’s been creating and mothering that entire time and all of those years of experience with creating and mothering are now brought together in her beautiful new book Create Anyway: The Joy of Pursuing Creativity in the Margins of Motherhood.

Her book and this interview inspired me so much and I know they will inspire you. In a world that tells moms they are too busy to go to the bathroom by themselves let alone create anything, Ashlee is a voice of compassion and practicality that says “yes you can be a mom and create. Yes you can take matters into your own hands and make the time. Your ideas matter. Your creations have great purpose in this world. You’re not alone in your desire to want to create and bring more beauty into your life and the lives of your family and community.”

Ashlee’s Bio: Ashlee Gadd is author of Create Anyway: The Joy of Pursuing Creativity in the Margins of Motherhood and the founder of Coffee + Crumbs—a beautiful online space where motherhood and storytelling intersect. As a writer and photographer, Ashlee has spent her entire motherhood creating in the margins. When she's not writing or vacuuming Cheerios out of the carpet, she loves making friends on the internet, eating cereal for dinner, and rearranging bookshelves. She and her husband have three kids and live in Northern California.

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

TODAY'S SPONSOR: WWW.HOMESCHOOLEXPLAINED.COM

Today’s episode is sponsored by Homeschool Explained, an online course I created to help parents find their confidence as they begin their homeschool journey. Homeschool Explained is also for families who are already homeschooling but feel they could use more resources and a confidence boost to keep going. My course is designed to save you time; it can be really overwhelming typing “how to homeschool” into an online search engine then spending hours sorting through the results. With Homeschool Explained, there will be no more maddening online searches for how to start homeschooling—this is me, a passionate veteran homeschool mom, holding your hand and walking you through homeschool 101 in just under 3 hours. The course is outlined to be logical and easy to understand. I take over 15 years of homeschool experience and condense it into a 3 hour instructional video and include a newly updated, downloadable PDF. I’m super stoked to announce that the PDF isn’t the only new upgrade! I’m now including ongoing encouragement! So learning doesn’t end when the tutorial video stops. At least once a month I’ll upload encouragement for you. This month I have 2…an audio for parents who are teaching their young children to read and a video about joyful journaling—how to bring joy into writing and record keeping.

FIND OUT MORE AT: WWW.HOMESCHOOLEXPLAINED.COM

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My children are homeschooled at home in Idaho but are technically private school students at Clonlara School in Michigan. How does that work? I get that question A LOT so I’ve invited April Huard, the Director of Education at Clonlara School onto the show to answer that question and share more about Clonlara’s unique and transformative mission.

Clonlara’s Mission: The mission of Clonlara School is to transform education on a global scale through a highly personalized approach that fosters authenticity, autonomy, and joy in the learning process. We are passionate about supporting homeschooling families as they follow their curiosities and become lifelong learners.

April Huard Bio: April is currently the Director of Education at Clonlara School, but started her education career as a second-grade teacher in a public school. When her oldest child was ready for kindergarten, she quit her job to start homeschooling her. April had no idea at the time that homeschooling would turn into a lifelong passion and prepare her for a career at Clonlara School. April and her husband have homeschooled all five of their children at various points during their school years. At Clonlara, April works with on-campus and off-campus students and an amazing global team of passionate educators.

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Today’s episode is sponsored by Homeschool Explained, an online course I created to help parents find their confidence as they begin their homeschool journey. Homeschool Explained is also for families who are already homeschooling but feel they could use more resources and a confidence boost to keep going.

My course is designed to save you time; it can be really overwhelming typing “how to homeschool" into an online search engine then spending hours sorting through the results. With Homeschool Explained, there will be no more maddening online searches for how to start homeschooling—this is me, a passionate veteran homeschool mom, holding your hand and walking you through homeschool 101 in just under 3 hours. The course is outlined to be logical and easy to understand. I take over 15 years of homeschool experience and condense it into a 3 hour instructional videoand include a newly updated, downloadable PDF. I’m super stoked to announce that the PDF isn’t the only new upgrade! I’m now including ongoing encouragement! So your learning doesn’t end when the tutorial video stops. At least once a month I’ll upload encouragement for you. This month I have 2…an audio for parents who are teaching their young children to read and a video about joyful journaling—how to bring joy into writing and record keeping.

SIGN UP TODAY AT: WWW.HOMESCHOOLEXPLAINED.COM

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“The modern homestead movement is 100% a state of mind. It’s the strive for self-sufficiency.”

My friend Kody Hanner wrote a homestead curriculum that my family adores. It’s being used by homeschoolers, schools, and I know some adults who could benefit from the huge amount of information in her homestead curriculum. Kody joins us today to talk about her curriculum, how it came to be, the modern homestead movement, life-long learning, parenting, and so much more.

Kody has generously offered a discount code for listeners of Elevating Motherhood. Use the code LORIBETH for 10% your purchase of the Homestead Education Curriculum

Kody’s Bio: Kody is a wife of a veteran, mother of 6, homesteader, and homeschooler, that has devoted her life to agriculture and embracing rural living. She created and authored the Homestead Education series of homeschool curricula that includes homestead science. She is the host of The Homestead Education Podcast, which is rapidly growing in popularity where she chats candidly about homesteading, homeschooling, and personal growth.

In This Episode, Kody and I Talk About:

· What qualifies as homesteading

· How she got started as a homesteader

· Her homestead background

· Homestead flexing

· Permaculture

· How she stared writing a curriculum

· The need for a homeschool homestead curriculum

· The writing process

· How long it took her to write the curriculum

· You don’t need to know everything, you need to know how to find good information

· The modern homestead movement

· Reach out to your county’s extension office for resources

· Production over consumption

· Slowing down

· Taking responsibility for your life

· Having entrepreneurial values

· People like to quiz homeschoolers randomly

· Adding depth to science experiments

· Who the curriculum is for

· Complaints she has received about the curriculum

· Writing to a broad audience

· Healing disconnect

· Integrating topics into your homeschool...and SO MUCH MORE!

Full Show Notes Available at: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Today's Sponsors: www.homeschoolexplained.com and www.thefocusretreat.com

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What is your homeschool freedom worth? Today’s episode is probably going to be controversial to some listeners. My guest, Aby Rinella, and I are going to talk about School Choice and Public School Partnerships and what effect these have on homeschool freedom. You might not agree with what Aby and I have to say on these topics. You might agree with part of it. You might agree with all of it. And that is okay. We’re here to share a perspective that is not shared very often during recent conversations about School Choice. I always trust my listeners to use their discernment. You know what is best for your family. And I think we can all agree that there is no one size fits all solution for anything ever.

All of that being said, Aby and I are here today to share our perspective as two veteran homeschool moms with a lot of kids between the two of us. We are both passionate freedom fighting homeschool mamas who have been active in homeschool politics for quite a few years. Homeschool freedoms are under attack & are very much affected by the School Choice movement happening right now. I appreciate you showing up for today’s show and considering a different perspective than the one being sold by politicians…if nothing else, I’m hoping this conversation helps bring foresight to discussions surrounding school choice and public school partnerships as well as much needed perspective from homeschool families who have opted out of mainstream education.

Aby’s Bio: Aby Rinella lives in the mountains of the west with her college sweetheart and their three kids. Aby writes and speaks to encourage and inspire parents to answer the call to train up their children in God’s Word and to stand on truth in a culture that has lost it’s foundation. Aby can be found as a frequent guest on the Schoolhouse Rocked podcast and she and her husband serve on their state homeschool board. Aby also writes for the outdoor industry, sharing her family’s experiences in the outdoors. You can find her at www.calledtothetop.com

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

TODAY'S SPONSOR: HOMESCHOOL EXPLAINED WWW.HOMESCHOOLEXPLAINED.COM

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Leah Boden is back! Leah & I recorded Charlotte Mason 101 back in Episode 56…I highly recommend both of her episodes! Leah truly is the Modern Miss Mason and now has a book with the same title. I 10/10 recommend her book—it’s my favorite book of the year!

Charlotte Mason is a niche pedagogy that I passionately believe should be less niche and more mainstream. Charlotte Mason’s philosophies can be applied to education, homeschool, parenting, and life in general. I know I’m a better woman and mother after being introduced to her philosophies…and who better to introduce us to all things Charlotte Mason than Leah Boden!

Leah’s Bio: Leah Boden is wife to Dave, mother to four children, and a longtime home educator. With over two decades of experience in church leadership, Leah’s background also features many years in youth, children’s, and family work within the church and for the local education authority. Leah speaks, hosts podcasts and coaching sessions, and runs workshops sharing the beauty of a Charlotte Mason approach to childhood, motherhood, and education. She and her family live in the West Midlands, England.

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

BLOSSOM & ROOT DISCOUNT CODE: LORIBETH10

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This is a very raw episode about a woman who is very dear to my heart.

My beloved Grandma Huck passed away at the end of 2022. We just got back to Idaho after her funeral in Ohio and I have to tell you that with her passing, I feel changed. I feel like our family’s hearts will be forever full and forever broken at the same time.

I debated on sharing about her. She was so special it’s one of those loves, one of those special relationships you hold super close to your heart because it was that special. But I also think that her legacy is too powerful not to share.

Full show notes and blog will be available at www.elevatingmotherhood.com

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Books are incredibly powerful. We know this and yet as moms we don’t always make time to read. The world tells us that there is no time for anything, ever. And in the same breath often tells us what to do, what to read, how to think, how to mother…and a lot of that messaging leaves us feeling fearful, unworthy, and like we aren’t doing enough.

What if there was a way to step off the hamster wheel of modern motherhood and find ourselves feeling more whole, more worthy, and like we’re getting it right? And what if the secret to that was found in reading more books?

Today’s conversation with Jennifer Pepito is so enlightening. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, I am a changed person, a changed mother, and I believe a better mother because I read books. Namely the books of the authors I have interviewed here on the podcast, including Jennifer’s book Mothering by the Book: The Power of Reading Aloud to Overcome Fear and Recapture Joy. Jennifer is here to expand our book lists and shine a light on our motherhood journeys with deep, mature insights, ideas for battling comparison and other daily fears that arise in our mama hearts.

Jennifer’s Bio: Jennifer Pepito is the author of Mothering by the Book and the founder of The Peaceful Press (http://thepeacefulpress.com). Jennifer is on a mission to help moms overcome fear and love their life, and her homeschool curriculum empowers this through heroic stories, heartwarming poetry, and engaging life skills development. Her resources help create joyful memories among families, which leads to deeper connections and lasting relationships. Jennifer’s writing has been featured in several online and print journals, including Wild and Free, Commonplace Quarterly, and Home Educating Family. She’s a Wild and Free podcast host and has made guest appearances on popular podcasts such as 1000 Hours Outside, At Home with Sally, and Charlotte Mason Poetry. Jennifer lives in the mountains with her beloved family, where she enjoys reading aloud, working in her garden, and watching the sunset.

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhood

Wellnesse: www.wellnesse.com/loribeth (CODE: LORIBETH for 10% off your order!)

Homeschool Explained: www.homeschoolexplained.com

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This brief episode is a follow up to Episode 136…if you haven’t listened to that one, I highly recommend listening to that one first, otherwise this one won’t make very much sense.

I feel like it’s really important to not just talk about ideas or make plans, but to take time for self-reflection after an event to see how you’re feeling—especially as a mom.

Mamas set the tone for their entire family and sometimes it can feel really out of control to create a plan only to have the day come and the plan go out the window. Halloween 2022 was no exception for us. There were frantic moments the day of Halloween with costume preparation and getting everyone out the door on time, but all in all, I’d say this holiday went well and my goals ended up being more of a guideline than a set in stone plan of action.

My Original Goals From Episode 136 Included:

· Wean off of Halloween traditions (trick or treating)

· Switch Witch

· Harvest Festivals and parties over mainstream celebrations

· Heirloom costumes (no darkness)

· Celebrate with neighbors, make it clear we will use our discernment & leave if necessary

· Talk openly about Halloween and spiritual warfare

· Make pie instead of scary jack-o-lanterns

· Be aware of sweets consumption and ingredients

· Set a good example for our kids with either no costumes or innocent ones

· Up our vitamin regiment, get good sleep, take care of our health

How Halloween 2022 Actually Went:

· We’re still upping our vitamin regiment, getting good sleep and taking care of our health

· Switch Witch went off without a hitch

· We’re aware of sweets consumptions and ingredients—the kids asked about the candies they received and tried a few. They all agreed most of them were gross (green snickers, smarties, fire balls, etc). We let them have chocolates I bought at the health food store, let them keep just a few from trick-or-treating (they all chose less than 5 each!), and in general, candy was a non-issue

· We set a good example with no costumes…truthfully, I just didn’t have it in me this year. I was not motivated to spend money on Halloween costumes for the grownups

· The kids’ heirloom quality costumes were amazing and continue to be an everyday play hit in our homeschool. I’m really glad we invested in www.khepp.com and www.treasuresfromjennifer.com

· We did talk openly about Halloween and spiritual warfare…although it was a bit of a dance. I was left wondering if we shared too much or in the right way?

· We did not make a pie with our pumpkins, we fed them to the chickens after we carved nice things in them at a friend’s Harvest Party (did you see that “Jesus knows your harvest parties are really Halloween parties” meme going around?)

· Our church’s Harvest Festival was a blast…so wholesome and well organized! We will definitely be going again next year

· Are we weaning off Halloween? I don’t know. It was so fun doing an activity with our neighbors. I think it made me realize I want to do more adventures with them and it doesn’t have to be trick-or-treating

· A word on Trick-or-Treating…I had a moment where I thought this is so picturesque! What’s the harm in this? And then we came to the creepy house…listen to the full episode to hear this part

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

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Talking about mediocre motherhood is—believe it or not—probably one of my favorite things. I don’t align with a lot of the modern motherhood messaging that we’re fed and I know that our mama hearts desire more than mediocrity. I like talking about it so we can name it…and I name it so we can change it. Abbie Halberstadt is fighting mediocrity head on in her new book M is for Mama. She is here to remind us that hard is not the same thing as bad, she delivers so many other truths and encouragments. Hold on to your hats, mamas…today’s episode is on fire.

Abbie’s Bio: Abbie Halberstadt is a homeschooling mama to 10, former high school Spanish teacher, she is married to renaissance man with whom she’s built two DIY houses, she’s also a fitness instructor, business owner, blogger, bestselling motherhood author.

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Blossom & Root Discount Code: LORIBETH10 www.elevatingmotherhood.com/homeschool

Homeschool Explained Course: www.homeschoolexplained.com

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Halloween…you might be here because you feel something is different this year, too. Or you might be like “What’s the big deal? It’s just Halloween.” Or you might be here hoping I’ll expose it for the demonic celebration you think it is. Wherever you fall on this spectrum of perspectives, I’m glad you’re here.

People are super passionate about Halloween. Some love it and can hardly wait (my bestie from Episode 135 literally dresses up in 31 costumes and posts pictures of each online—one for every day of the month). And then there are those who are passionately believe Halloween is demonic with pagan origins. They see it as an invitation to invite darkness into our world unnecessarily. Some people view it as harmless and a holiday for people to just have a little fun, and there are those of us who land somewhere in the middle of all of these perspectives and aren’t sure how to feel about it or if we should take part in it. I think most of us in this middle are moms with little kids.

We don’t want our kids to be scared. We don’t like them exposed to evil or grotesque imagery and Halloween takes that control out of our hands. We don’t have control over what stores put on display, what people put up in our front yards (heaven forbid our neighbors put up a Freddy image on their front door for our toddler to stare at for a month), we don’t know who is going to open the door, what they’re dressed as, or if someone is going to jump out and try to scare us. And scare us anonymously…that’s the part that gets me…the masks make pranksters anonymous. That never sat right with me even before kids.

We live in a world where we tell our kids not to take candy from strangers…and then parade them around to the homes of strangers and instruct them to accept candy from them.

If you’re a “crunchy” mom like me, your kids don’t even know what reeses peanut butter cups and kit kats are…we stick to the healthier options when it comes to candy and rebuke mainstream, chemical laden crap. But that’s all people hand out because that’s what Costco, Walmart, and Target sell within our budgets.

And then there’s the costumes. Have you heard the term “prostitot?” It’s the kid sides prostitute worthy outfits that make most parents with any morals want to barf. Why on Earth do they sell midriff baring, mini skirt, way to adult costumes for kids (especially little girls)? They’re bad enough for the grownups (seriously…do an image search for “adult woman costumes” and tell me if anything comes up that doesn’t look like a hooker outfit with spandex, mini skirts, ruffles, boostiees, high heeled boots, and thigh high stockings)…but when they apply these same styles to outfits for children? I think a line needs to be drawn.

So.

Here we are. Parents acting hypocritically while often dressed as prostitutes filling ourselves up with chemical laden sugar all for the sake of “tradition” and “having a little fun.”

I know that might seem harsh, but when I take a step back and actually look at the holiday…that’s what I see. And I’ve been guilty of more than one of those offenses.

But we’re talking about THIS Halloween. And how many of us are feeling THIS year. 2022 is just hitting differently. It’s been over 2 years of divisiveness and 2 years of spiritual warfare being out in the open. So anything that causes division (like attitudes about a holiday) and anything that is obvious spiritual warfare (think light vs. dark…which, no one can argue that Halloween doesn’t fall into the “dark” category) is a huge turn off.

FULL SHOW NOTES AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

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My best friend wrote a book about business and I couldn’t help but read it through the motherhood lens as well. So that’s what this episode is about: applying business principles to motherhood as a way for moms to find their balance between the two. We’ll talk about the principles of growth mindset in both our professional and personal lives. We’re besties, so this episode starts out super informal and has it’s off the cuff moments throughout, but we do dive into the nitty gritty and I can promise you’ll walk away with some useful insights on how to show up as your best self in both motherhood and business.

Amanda has a section in her book where she talks about growth mindset. Finding joy in work and living the life you want to have. Finding what gives you life and joy. She lists the following elements of growth mindset that we’re going to talk about:

1. Reflection

2. Cultivating Your Purpose

3. Take on Challenges

4. Foster Grit

5. Write Your Goals

6. Check Your Attitude

7. Ask for Feedback

8. Stop Seeking Approval

9. Reward Actions, Not Traits

Amanda’s Bio: Amanda Furgiuele is a sole parent, multiple-business owner and entrepreneur, international performer, and an expert in creative problem-solving and time management. She is also the co-author of the Amazon best-selling book, The Pursuit of Badasserie: How to Create Badass Business Abundance, and co-hosts The Pursuit of Badasserie podcast. With over 16 years of experience as an entrepreneur, Amanda has extensive knowledge in productivity, structural development, strategic planning, crisis management, and business process improvements across multiple fields. She challenges her clients to stop making excuses and start making progress through innovative solutions to even the most mundane problems.

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhood

Wellnesse: I have a new discount code for you! Wellnesse—a company started by the amazing Katie Wells of the Wellness Mama podcast—has offered a discount code for listeners of Elevating Motherhood for her amazing products! Wellnesse makes some of my favorite toothpaste (including a strawberry one for kids that my girls approve of!), shampoo, conditioner, dry shampoo, tongue scrapers, silk dental floss, biodegradable bamboo toothbrushes and more. You can now use the code LORIBETH for 10% off your purchase. I’ll have a whole list of my favorite Wellnesse products on the Elevating Motherhood website soon, until then, go check them out on their site www.wellnesse.com and be sure to use the code LORIBETH at checkout for 10% off!

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“It’s ridiculous that birth plans even have to exist. The purpose of a birth plan really is to decrease the likelihood that you are going to be abused while you’re in this setting. To decrease the likelihood that people are going to do stuff to you that you don’t want done.”

-Dr. Sarah Leahy

Join our Birth Plan Workshop on July 19, 2022! (www.birthuprising.com/events)

There was a crazy letter circulating on IG recently that was penned by three OBs from New York about birth plans, letting their clients (specifically their pregnant moms) that birth plans were not welcome in their practice. There was a poor attempt at justifying their reasoning behind this, but the simple fact this “rule” in their practice was put into place is enough to show me that women NEED to talk about birth plans more—including what they are and why they are essential. Birth plans are about so much more than the ridiculous stereotypes that surround them. People dismiss them (medical providers and OBs) because they assume women are creating them thinking that their birth can be planned. We don’t create birth plans hoping our births will be “perfect,” they are an education tool, a path to clear communication with a healthcare provider, and so, so much more that we’ll talk about today.

It’s insane to me that there are OBs in the world that don’t trust in a mother’s ability to give birth to the point that they manipulate and micromanage every aspect of our pregnancy and birth experience—down to your expectations about your birth and your right to communicate with them. Birth plans are a necessity now more than they’ve ever been.

In this episode, you’re going to hear real life examples, stories from our birth and pregnancy experiences, how to find your conviction & strength to speak up, and even “elephant in the room” topics like “I want a homebirth and my partner does not” and explanations for basic questions like “why do I need a birth plan?” and “how do I start to create a birth plan?”

Dr. Sarah’s Bio: Dr. Sarah Leahy is a doctor of chiropractic, mother of three, artist, birth educator, and the creator of Birth Uprising. She shares passionate, funny, and informational videos & slides on the regular over on her IG account @birthuprising

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Please Visit:

WELLNESSE: www.wellnesse.com/loribeth Code: LORIBETH for 10% off your order

HOMESCHOOL EXPLAINED: www.homeschoolexplained.com

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Summer flies by...we only have 18 summers with our kiddos (but do we?) In this episode, I address the mom guilt that surrounds creating magical summer for and with our kids + give you some great ideas to have fun with ease--the ease that comes from living an aligned life.

The 2 Lists:

1. Family Values List

2. Summer Bucket List

Add meaning to your summer by creating a family bucket list that aligns with your family’s values. I know that my family thrives most when we align our actions and values…and that includes things like summer fun!

1. Identify what your family values—make a values list first!

· Examples: Faith, Social, Character, Health, Education, Time, Financial

· Our family values: time in nature, friendships, trying new activities, going to new places, eating quality foods, and rest.

2. Take everyone into consideration—create your activities/wish list!

· Take the pressure off yourself to be the one who does it all and plans it all. Summer magic can happen with the help and input of your family

· Ask everyone what they hope to do this summer

· Write down their suggestions. See what is feasible and which ones align with your family’s values

· If your kids are too young to give their input, use your values as a guide to create plans, adventures, or daily habits

3. Put your lists into action

· Every Day Goals: If you value being outside, an everyday goal could be to eat outside as much as possible or prioritize having your morning coffee outside or get outside first thing in the morning or last thing at night catching fireflies with your kids.

· Destination Goals: your value of being outside could look more adventurous and out of the ordinary rhythm of life, like booking a camping trip or planning a trip to a local park or stream you’ve never been to.

· Look to see which items overlap. For our family, our summer list includes requests for fishing, swimming, and being on a boat. One day on the lake in a boat could check all 3 of those hopes off our bucket list.

4. Troubleshoot with your Values List First.

· Use your values list to troubleshoot as needed. Plans go awry. Attitudes go sideways. The weather turns. Plans get messed up. How can we re-center? Go back to our values list first. It’s your values list that is going to inspire you and give you perspective when your bucket list of hopes goes sideways.

New Discount Code! For Wellnesse!

Use the code LORIBETH at www.wellnesse.com/loribeth for a discount on all of Wellnesse's amazing products!

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This episode will give you all the life and podcast updates for 2022 (so far).

It’s been a big break. Ironically, I’ve watched others around me take a long 6 month+ break at the same time. Coincidence or calling?

In the last 6 months, I've:

Had a baby

Stayed on an extended maternity leave (whatever that means)

Moved from Maui to Idaho (I answer the #1 question: Do you miss Maui?)

Found a new church & wonderful friends

Adventured daily!

Started a book

Joined a mastermind

Returning to the podcast:

A back log of episodes will be coming out shortly!

I look at what it means to elevate motherhood & how I'll be showing up boldly.

· Resources: I'll keep bringing you resources to feel confident

· Protection: Motherhood is sacred--to elevate motherhood means to protect the sacredness of our role as mothers

· Perspective: There is a need for paradigm shifts

· Bettering motherhood experiences: like birth, educating our children, finding balance in all areas of our lives, and encouraging moms to get to know themselves, show up as their most authentic self, and feel like you’re enjoying the journey

· Balance: I want to find the balance between being authentic and vulnerable and also being appropriately private

Want you to feel resourced:

· Email me and let me know what topics you’d like me to cover! Email me: loribeth@elevatingmotherhood.com

· What areas of your life do you feel like you need resources?

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Organizing is not my strong suit. It’s actually something that I tend to shy away from if I can help it. But in the interest of life-long learning and personal growth—and out of necessity because we had the huge move from Maui to Idaho coming up—I decided to tackle the topic with your help! This episode is packed with questions from Elevating Motherhood listeners.

My friend Jennifer Ford Berry made this deep dive into getting more organized so easy! She helped me so much during this transition. This interview took place before I even started packing the first box (and before the baby was born in December!) I got to apply her insights from this chat to the move and WOW what a difference. Her guidance was with me the whole time and has even carried over into setting up my new home here in Idaho.

Jennifer’s Bio: Jennifer Ford Berry is a professional organizer, best-selling author of the Organize Now series and Purpose Over Possessions…and she has a new book in May! She is also the host of The 29 Minute Mom Podcast—I was a guest on her show, too! She owns a semi-annual family consignment event: Mothertime Marketplace, is the president of Jennifer Ford Berry Ministries, and is a loving wife and mom of 2.

She shares all kinds of insights and tips for organizing your life and home. We all come to this topic with different energy—some of us love organization, some of us avoid it—no matter where you are on your organization journey, Jennifer has some helpful thoughts that will speak to you!

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

I have a new affiliate discount code for you! Use the code LORIBETH for 10% off your purchase at www.wellnesse.com

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“Ultimately, we recognize the season of Lent before Easter not because God demands it of us, not because Christ commanded it to prove our mettle, and not because we must perfect ourselves before we’re worthy of Easter,” writes Oxenreider. “We observe Lenten practices because they’re good for us… In a world that celebrates indulging our whims whenever we want, to practice the traditions of Lent is countercultural.”

Today is the first day of Lent—which is holding a new meaning for me this year as I pack up my house and life on Maui and get ready to move to Idaho (ironically in the middle of the Lenten season this year). The message and meaning of Lent is helping me get through this move by bringing in notions of self-discipline and reflection (which I need right now). Many of us think of Lent as a time of lack—of fasting & taking away. But what if we could expand that perspective and see the “lack” or “taking away” as making room for more, for celebration. Fasting making room for feasting. (Lent’s purpose is to quite literally makes room for Easter). What if this year we don’t skip straight to the Easter baskets and egg hunts, but use this time to come out of this season (a two year long season of lack) more meaningfully and intentionally?

If Lent is a new concept to you, don’t worry, we share the basics and history of Lent in this episode. If you’re an old hat at Lent, there’s something here for you, too, as Tsh Oxenreider walks us through her inspiring new book Bitter & Sweet as well her reasons why our world needs the life giving practice of Lent now more than ever.

Tsh’s Bio: Tsh Oxenreider is the bestselling author of several books, including Bitter and Sweet: A Journey Into Easter and At Home in the World, her memoir about her family’s year traveling around the world and living out of backpacks. She’s also a travel guide, teacher, and podcaster, and she lives in Georgetown, Texas, with her husband and three children. She is equally happy snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef with her family and putzing around her own backyard. Find Tsh online at tshoxenreider.com.

FULL SHOW NOTES AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

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HOMESCHOOL EXPLAINED

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A wealth of inspiration and a breath of fresh air, Liz Galvan gives moms permission to look fully at their lives and figure out how to live with intention—not only within their homes but within their family unit and within themselves.

In this episode, we explore how we can bring beauty, peace, and a sense of coziness into our homes all year long by embracing the interconnectedness of our own actions with how we react and perceive the world we live in. It begins with us, and we can think about it, take action, and have fun, all with the way we show up for those around us.

Liz’s Bio: Liz Marie Galvan is the author of Cozy White Cottage Seasons, a blogger, momma, wife, and co-owner of the home décor boutique, The Found Cottage. Liz blogs daily on her website, LizMarieBlog.com, where thousands of people go for tips and inspiration each day—whether she’s blogging about life on the farm, their fixer-upper 1800s farmhouse, her latest DIY project, or even about their adoption journey. Liz lives in Michigan with her veteran husband, Jose, and their son, Copeland Beau, along with a few sheep, a lot of bees, a bunch of cats, and even a couple of dogs. You can follow Liz and all of her adventures on Instagram @LizMarieGalvan.

In this episode, Liz & I talk about:

· Her blog and new book

· Life on the farm

· Being in business with her husband

· Adopting

· Being “cozy in the moment”

· Her brick and mortar store, The Found Cottage

· Preconceived notions about what “cozy” is

· The definition of “cozy”

· Finding what your senses love

· Budgeting vs “Pinterest perfect”

· Design decisions

· Rugs as a design choice and budget savior

· Social media pressures

· The notion of being “real”

· Being drawn to authenticity

· Showing up on hard days

· The seasonal approach to cozy

· Going into the seasons with a fresh mind

· Ways to create memories with your family

· Being present and in the moment

· Multitasking and self-care

· Mom guilt

· Justifying your home and self-care

· Being a better parent by taking care of yourself

· Taking your form of rest daily

· Disconnecting

· Seasonal bucket lists

· Creating cozy family traditions

· Giving back during the holidays

· Going back to the basics

· Being intentional

· Using what you have

· Plants in your décor

· Slow growth

· Keeping a white house clean with kids and pets

· Learning to stop apologizing

· Tips to keep whites white

· Perfection is not cozy

Liz’s Links:

Website: https://www.lizmarieblog.com/

https://www.facebook.com/LizMarieBlog

https://www.instagram.com/lizmariegalvan/

https://www.pinterest.com/lizmariegalvan/_created/

https://twitter.com/lizmariegalvan

https://www.youtube.com/user/LizMarieGalvan

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My hair may be changing, but so am I.

Growing out my grey is about soooooooo much more than hair. A year in, I’m more genuinely confident –that doesn’t mean I love every day, but my gosh, I see the growth literally and figuratively. I see the beauty and the potential. Maybe it’s because I’m a mom, but I know how quickly this transition will fly by, even if it takes years.

In this episode I talk about:

· Why I’m growing out my grey

· Shout out to my hairdresser Tiana

· How it all started

· How it’s going

· Vanity

· Non-toxic shift

· Primally Pure

· The ups & downs of growing out my grey

· Reflection

· Self acceptance

· Slowing down

· The slow process of growing out my grey

· Detachment

· Understanding my whys behind my choice

· Other people’s reactions to my decision

· Feeling “old” or looking “old” with grey hair

· The disbelief of others that I’m actually doing it

· Obvious disapproval of others

· Insults—intentional or not

· The people who love it

· Authenticity

· How others have inspired me

· How I’ve kept that ripple of inspiration going

· Deep, instant connections

· “You know you could just dye it” reactions

· Why others choose to grow their grey

· Months of unfolding

· Endless support of Silver Sisters

· #silversisters

· #grombre

· #growingoutmygrey

· #greyhair

· #grayhair

· #silverhair

· #greyhairmovement

· Two funny stories about growing out my grey

· Brad Paisley’s song “Then”

· Fertility = youth

· Different perspectives on aging

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Have you thought about going back to school, pursuing your certification, degree, or even masters degree? Or maybe you’re dreaming of starting a business or passion project…but you’re a mom and busy and life seems overwhelming as is…so you question whether you can truly add one more thing to your plate financially, time wise, or even just mentally, emotionally, or physically.

There are so many factors to consider when wondering if your dream can or should come to life. And right as you are working out the details in your head or journal, cue the mom guilt and imposter syndrome.

But at the same time you look around and see that other moms are doing it or have done it. If you are anywhere on this journey toward making time for school, yourself, and/or your dreams, this episode is for you.

Maui mama Malika Dudley is here to answer questions about her story that led her to obtaining her masters degree and starting a podcast called Comminification (all about the beautification of communication). All while mom-ing, working, and processing loss.

She and I share about our masters degree journeys—and while we dive into the pragmatics of it (scheduling, cost, etc). you’ll see that this is a much bigger conversation than the questions and pros/cons list you might be compiling. At the end of our interview I was really struck by how much our journeys were about more than those initial lists in our heads…when really it came down to alignment, learning about ourselves, our families and our communities.

This conversation is a living, breathing example of what it’s like when moms take the time to show up and pursue their passions. So if you’re thinking about going for it—whatever that means for you—get ready! You’re going to learn so much about yourself!

Bio, Links, Full Show Notes & More can be found at: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

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“We repeat what we don’t repair.” – Christine Langley-Obaugh

Thanks for being here for this episode. You don’t have to be a mom to a daughter to benefit from today’s show. If you’re a woman, you’re already in a mother/daughter relationship (you are someone’s daughter). If you are a mom to a girl, there’s that dynamic, too. Do me a favor…hop over to IG after listening to this episode and look for the Episode 126 post…then share with me which relationship dynamic or lens first drew you to this topic. I’d love to know.

That’s the interesting part of today’s conversation…we’re all bringing a different perspective to the table. It’s like looking at our past (back at our childhood), looking at the now (and our children’s childhood as well as our current relationship with our own mothers), and into our future (what we want our relationship with our children to look like in the future, how we want our relationship with our own mothers to change, and even looking at future in-law relationships)—all at the same time.

The mother/daughter dynamic is so important in our everyday lives and in our society as a whole. Ann Dillard is here to tap into why that is, how we can heal every mother/daughter relationship in our lives, and offer us empowering, transformative insights into this vulnerable topic.

Ann’s Bio: Ann Dillard is the founder of KIP Consulting Services, LLC and passionate about instilling hope and empowering individuals to live their best lives. She operates a thriving private practice in Decatur, GA, where she offers mental health services to teens girls and their families. Ms. Ann hosts conversation circles and coaching programs internationally, where she helps women of all ages to navigate challenges in their mother/daughter relationships She is the a co-author of the Amazon #1 Bestseller Unchain My Legacy and has contributed to several other publications. Ms. Ann has created several tools to help foster healthy relationships and stronger mothers and daughter bonds, as well as parents and their teenagers. Ann Dillard is a Certified Daring Way Facilitator, Internal Family Systems, and Brainspotting Therapist

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhood

Patreon: www.patreon.com/elevatingmotherhood

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjCL4jnooMFhvqTeHXGxUxQ

Please Visit Today's Sponsor: www.homeschoolexplained.com

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Fear, comparison, feeling inadequate, overwhelm, exhaustion…there are so many factors in our lives that bring on feelings of wanting to shut down. Especially as moms. Life is good and hard at the same time…but how do we live in that dichotomy? How can we embrace the hard parts of life and the highlight reel moments and learn from all of them? Author and speaker Lisa Whittle is here with us to share some ideas on this very subject.

Lisa believes that two truths can be true at the same time. Things work together, even if they don’t seem to be working out. Our lives and circumstances are not either or…

Lisa’s Bio: Lisa Whittle is the author of eight books, and her wit and bold bottom-line approach have made her a sought-after Bible teacher. She is also the creator of a companion video Bible study for Jesus over Everything. A pastor’s daughter and longtime ministry leader in issues relevant to the church, Lisa is the founder of Ministry Strong and the popular Jesus over Everything podcast, which debuted in the top 25 of Christian podcasts. Her love runs deep to see people pursue Jesus for life, grow deep roots of faith, and walk strong in the midst of a world that so often seems to have gone crazy. She and her family live in North Carolina. Her new book, The Hard Good, releases in early September.

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhood

Patreon: www.patreon.com/elevatingmotherhood

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjCL4jnooMFhvqTeHXGxUxQ

Please Visit Today’s Sponsors:

Blossom & Root: Today’s episode of Elevating Motherhood is sponsored by Blossom & Root a nature-based, Charlotte Mason inspired homeschool curriculum company that has been gently guiding and supporting families for years! This thoughtful, age appropriate curriculum begins at the preschool level with options all the way up to 4thgrade with more grade levels being released each year.

Blossom & Root is the homeschool curriculum my family uses and loves! The information and ideas are easy to follow, fun, and engaging. If you’re new to homeschool or looking for an inspired homeschool curriculum to help you lovingly teach and guide your children, I highly recommend Blossom & Root. Using this curriculum has brought so much connection and joy to our homeschool days—I love it! Blossom & Root has generously offered a discount for listeners of Elevating Motherhood: use the code LORIBETH10 at checkout for 10% off your order.

For more information about Blossom & Root, head over to www.elevatingmotherhood.com/homeschool

Homeschool Explained: An online course to help you start your homeschool journey with confidence! www.homeschoolexplained.com

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“We gotta talk to our kids. We have to equip them to make good decisions and we have to teach them truths so they recognize lies.”

Screen time, phones, tablets, computers…online predators, rule breaking, off the charts average daily screen times…parenting this generation of screen obsessed kids is so stressful.

Most parents know that too much screen time, especially social media, is unhealthy for kids, but they don’t know how to set wise limits and teach their kids the “why” behind the rules. Today’s guest Jonathan McKee has over 20+ years of experience with youth ministry and family research that has taught him that parents need to connect with their kids just as much as they correct their kids. In his latest book Parenting Generation Screen: Guiding Your Kids to Be Wise in a Digital World, he offers insights that show us that safe, loving conversations about screen use that will set kids up for a lifetime of good decisions and habits. But how do we do that? Where do we start? Don’t worry, Jonathan covers aaaaaaaaaall things parenting and screens today. And if it’s not in this episode (we talk about A LOT!), you’ll probably find it in his book.

Jonathan’s Bio: Jonathan McKee is the author of more than twenty-five books, including Teen’s Guide to Face-to-Face Connections in a Screen-to-Screen World; If I Had a Parenting Do Over; and the Amazon bestseller – The Guy’s Guide to God, Girls and the Phone in Your Pocket. He speaks to parents and leaders worldwide, all while providing free resources for moms and dads on his website becomingscreenwise.com. He draws from more than twenty years of experience working with teenagers, studying and writing about youth culture and the influence of digital media, and raising three kids with more devices than they can count! In 2018 Focus on the Family aired a broadcast of Jonathan McKee talking about helping our kids learn “wise posting in a digital world,” and plugging his book to teenagers, The Teen’s Guide to Social Media & Mobile Devices. The show was one of the top broadcasts of 2018.

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhood

Patreon: www.patreon.com/elevatingmotherhood

Please Visit Today’s Sponsors:

Blossom & Root: Today’s episode of Elevating Motherhood is sponsored by Blossom & Root a nature-based, Charlotte Mason inspired homeschool curriculum company that has been gently guiding and supporting families for years! This thoughtful, age appropriate curriculum begins at the preschool level with options all the way up to 4th grade with more grade levels being released each year.

Blossom & Root is the homeschool curriculum my family uses and loves! The information and ideas are easy to follow, fun, and engaging. If you’re new to homeschool or looking for an inspired homeschool curriculum to help you lovingly teach and guide your children, I highly recommend Blossom & Root. Using this curriculum has brought so much connection and joy to our homeschool days—I love it! Blossom & Root has generously offered a discount for listeners of Elevating Motherhood: use the code LORIBETH10 at checkout for 10% off your order.

For more information about Blossom & Root, head over to www.elevatingmotherhood.com/homeschool

Homeschool Explained: www.homeschoolexplained.com

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We’re showing up. We’re doing the work. We see what we’re tasked with as women and now moms—that we need to heal wounds, mend relationships, set goals, establish our values, and act on them…but what are our options when it comes to getting support to help us do the internal work?

When we think of seeking help some of the only things that come to mind are one on one sessions with a therapist and talk therapy. We’ve covered a few other options here on the podcast like brainspotting. But what else is there?

My friend Elizabeth Fisher Good is rolling out a new, transformative option this week—coaching in a group setting with other supportive women. She’s here to share all the amazing details with us today…and I decided to share it with you now because I’ve seen what comes out of Elizabeth’s dedication to helping women heal. She is an amazing resource and this healing group is an incredible opportunity to join her program A Journey to More. She is a calling awakener--someone who supports women on their journeys to understand that they are enough while honoring that they also want more in their life, that they want to answer their callings and find their purpose.

Elizabeth’s Bio: Elizabeth Fisher Good, Eternal Purpose Coach, helps women achieve a lasting freedom and a Kingdom mindset. She is a thought leader, CEO of The Selah Way Foundation, and author of Groomed. She not only breaks barriers and redefines leadership, but also steadfastly leads the charge in fighting for justice for the exploited... all while balancing her favorite roles as wife and mother of three. She challenges individuals to step out of the lies and shame of their past and embrace true freedom which comes from vulnerability, transparency and living with Jesus. Elizabeth has a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology and decades of experience in ministry and counseling.

Elizabeth is poised to change your world and motivates everyone she encounters to embrace their unique calling. If you're seeking to live life free and discover your true purpose, Elizabeth invites you to take this journey with her!

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Please Visit Today's Sponsor: WWW.HOMESCHOOLEXPLAINED.COM

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I would bet money that no one understands “vs. culture” better than moms. We’re thrown into it from the moment we decide to start trying or find out we’re pregnant. In an instant, we’re thrown into hospital birth vs. homebirth questions, breastfeeding vs. formula, cloth diapers vs. disposable, this brand vs. that brand, that car seat vs. this car seat. It’s overwhelming and at the end of the day feels like nothing less than a freight train of advertising campaigns, personal opinions that feel more like personal attacks, and social pressure to “pick a side” and stick to it in every anti vs. pro argument out there.

Just yuck.

We’re told we have to buy the whole package or align with one side—and there is no opting out, you have to choose and you can’t switch sides. But we know that this just isn’t true.

Examples of Vs. Culture:

· Hospital vs. homebirth

· Breastfeeding vs. bottle feeding

· Homeschool vs. public school vs. private school (Homeschool even has secular vs. religious)

· Vaccinated vs unvaccinated

· Masks vs. no masks

· Meat eaters vs. vegans

· Android vs. iPhone

· Pro-life vs. pro-choice

· Republican vs. Democrat

Vs. Culture Affects Us on So Many Levels:

· Personal

· Family

· Friends

· Community

· Larger culture

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Let’s Keep Talking About This!

· On Instagram: @loribethauldridge + @elevatingmotherhood

· On Patreon: www.patreon.com/elevatingmotherhood

· Through the contact form here on the website

Please Visit Today’s Sponsors:

Blossom & Root. Today’s episode of Elevating Motherhood is sponsored by Blossom & Root a nature-based, Charlotte Mason inspired homeschool curriculum company that has been gently guiding and supporting families for years! This thoughtful, age appropriate curriculum begins at the preschool level with options all the way up to 4th grade with more grade levels being released each year.

Blossom & Root is the homeschool curriculum my family uses and loves! The information and ideas are easy to follow, fun, and engaging. If you’re new to homeschool or looking for an inspired homeschool curriculum to help you lovingly teach and guide your children, I highly recommend Blossom & Root. Using this curriculum has brought so much connection and joy to our homeschool days—I love it! Blossom & Root has generously offered a discount for listeners of Elevating Motherhood: use the code LORIBETH10 at checkout for 10% OFF your order.

For more information about Blossom & Root, head over to www.elevatingmotherhood.com/homeschool

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“No good decision is made from fear.”

This is a lively conversation! It’s basically a couple of long-time homeschoolers getting together to talk homeschool and share a wealth of information and passion with each other and you.

Durenda Wilson is an interpreter of the heart. She understands what mamas think, feel, and worry about then shares insight with us in such a way that not only do we feel resourced but we feel equipped to move forward with confidence in our motherhood. We’ll be specifically talking about homeschool topics today but you’ll see that her ideas translate into motherhood in general. So whether you homeschool or not, there is something in this episode for you!

Durenda’s Bio: With more than twenty-five years of home education experience, Durenda Wilson is a trusted voice and resource at homeschooling conventions and on The Durenda Wilson Podcast. ### Zondervan is a HarperCollins Company and part of HarperCollins Christian Publishing. Zondervan is a world leading publisher and provider of Christian communications. The company’s products are sold worldwide and translated into nearly 200 languages. Zondervan offices are located in Grand Rapids, Mich. For additional information, please visit www.zondervan.com. Durenda and her husband, Darryl, have eight kids and six grandbabies (with more on the way). As an author and speaker, her greatest joy is helping moms discover God’s grace—and with it the courage to put their full trust in him, moving forward in faith and confidence.

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhood

Patreon: www.patreon.com/elevatingmotherhood

Please Visit Today’s Sponsors:

Blossom & Root. Today’s episode of Elevating Motherhood is sponsored by Blossom & Root a nature-based, Charlotte Mason inspired homeschool curriculum company that has been gently guiding and supporting families for years! This thoughtful, age appropriate curriculum begins at the preschool level with options all the way up to 4th grade with more grade levels being released each year.

Blossom & Root is the homeschool curriculum my family uses and loves! The information and ideas are easy to follow, fun, and engaging. If you’re new to homeschool or looking for an inspired homeschool curriculum to help you lovingly teach and guide your children, I highly recommend Blossom & Root. Using this curriculum has brought so much connection and joy to our homeschool days—I love it! Blossom & Root has generously offered a discount for listeners of Elevating Motherhood: use the code LORIBETH10 at checkout for 10% off your order.

For more information about Blossom & Root, head over to www.elevatingmotherhood.com/homeschool

Homeschool Explained. Today’s episode is sponsored by Homeschool Explained, an online course I created to help parents find their confidence on their homeschool journey. Find out more at WWW.HOMESCHOOLEXPLAINED.COM

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“How do I want to feel today?”

Are priorities and boundaries easy for you? Can you take a week off of work or a break from life and feel rested at the end of it? Are there moments in your life (like all of 2020 and now 2021) that have you feeling like you need to recover from an event or busy season?

Gillian Behnke is here to share 6 ideas with us that can help us on our road to (much needed!) rest and recovery. All 6 ideas begin with the letter R...but by the time we ended our chat, we’d come up with 14 Rs altogether. It’s a fun conversation that will encourage you to put yourself as a priority so you have the capacity to care for others.

Gillian’s Bio: As a busy mom of two, Gillian cares deeply about helping other moms feel better both mentally and physically. She believes that motherhood does not equal with exhaustion, and that it is possible to thrive mentally, emotionally, physically and professionally. Gillian is the founder of Mom Camp, a media and events company that empowers moms to live their best lives. She is also the host of the Mom Camp: Around the Campfire podcast.

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhood

Patreon: www.patreon.com/elevatingmotherhood

Please Visit Today’s Sponsors:

Homeschool Explained: Today’s episode is supported by Homeschool Explained, an online course I created to help parents find their confidence on their homeschool journey. I used to teach in-person workshops here on Maui to help families gather all the information and resources they need, answer all their questions, alleviate concerns, and help them get organized as they started homeschooling. Homeschool Explainedis the online version of those workshops. I totally get it, starting any new journey can be overwhelming…especially when it comes to re-thinking how your kids are going to get an education—and that you’re going to be the teacher. But don’t worry. There is so much support and freedom in homeschool. It’s do-able. It’s fun. And it takes way less time than most people think. I put almost 15 years of homeschool experience and insights into this easy to follow, easy to use online course that answers common questions, helps you work through worries, and saves you time. No more internet search overload. This is all the info you need to get started homeschooling today from a trusted, experienced source.

I show you what modern homeschool days actually look like—all while covering major topics like curriculum, homeschool styles, subjects to teach, cost, state laws, socialization and so much more. This course takes the guess work out of where and how to begin and leaves you with solid support and resources. I want you to start your homeschool journey with confidence! Find out more at www.homeschoolexplained.com

Join Lori Beth on Patreon! Elevating Motherhood is coming to life over on Patreon! I’m super stoked to let you know I’ll be over there in our online moms group in Patreon connecting with you and other incredible mamas. It’s such a great space where we can have deep dive discussions about today’s topic and every other topic discussed here on the show. WWW.PATREON.COM/ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD

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Today’s guest wrote a lovely, inspiring book called Growing Slow: Lessons on Unhurrying Your Heart from an Accidental Farm Girl. I devoured this book. I experienced the blessed timing of reading this book right after the book from last week’s episode with Ginger Stache, Chasing Wonder: Small Steps Toward a Life of Big Adventure…and mamas, if I could recommend reading any two books back to back, it would be these two!

In Growing Slow, Jennifer addresses all kinds of issues mamas struggle with and provides so much encouragement for our insecure mama moments when we feel like we’re falling behind, or our kids are falling behind, when we’re struggling to find time for ourselves…and even big moments when we’re looking at our life and realizing this is NOT what we expected or planned.

In this conversation, Jennifer reminds us that all the little things are the mattering things. And that it’s okay to change. Along with lots of other lovely reminders that will fill your mama heart. Thanks for being here for this joyful conversation.

Jennifer’s Bio: Jennifer Dukes Lee lives on the fifth-generation Lee family farm in Iowa, where she and her husband are raising crops, pigs, and two beautiful humans. She writes books, loves queso, and enjoys singing too loudly to songs with great harmony. Once upon a time, she didn't believe in Jesus; now he's her CEO.

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhood

Patreon: www.patreon.com/elevatingmotherhood

Join Lori Beth on Patreon! Elevating Motherhood is coming to life over on Patreon! I’m super stoked to let you know I’ll be over there in our online moms group in Patreon connecting with you and other incredible mamas. It’s such a great space where we can have deep dive discussions about today’s topic and every other topic discussed here on the show.

I’ll also be hosting virtual classes once a month for moms. There are already multiple classes that are up and evergreen & available for you to watch anytime! Join me for August’s class that goes LIVE on Friday, August 20th. Maui mama and creator of the Let’s Feed Them Plants Patreon channel is going to be sharing her top secret recipes with us for her award winning vegan nacho cheese and vegan sour cream. They are so delicious! Sign up this month and be entered in the drawing! There are currently four other classes you can take at any time, too: cooking, numerology, creative writing, and fascia exercises with new classes being shared every month.

Go check out the details at www.patreon.com/elevatingmotherhood I’m super stoked to be an ad-free, off social media, no distraction space to connect with you and other moms! It’s already been so refreshing and life giving to be able to connect deeper with you all. I’m excited for you to join us!

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We’re always chasing after something…why not chase after wonder?

The world is filled with wonder. It’s also filled with messages of chaos, burn out, busy-ness, and overwhelm. This past year has been no exception—especially for moms. When I picked up Ginger Stache’s book Chasing Wonder, all of those life sucking messages seemed to disappear. It was like a pressure valve released in my life and I was free to see the wonder around me again.

Ginger is a mom and author I am really excited to share with you. She is here with us today to share some of that release and encouragement I think our mama hearts and minds could really use right now.

Ginger’s Bio: Ginger Stache is the Chief Creative Officer of Joyce Meyer Ministries. She has worked in television for over 35 years, and, in that time, has interviewed Joyce and many influential Christian figures. Ginger hosts Joyce Meyer's Talk It Out podcast, and is one of Joyce's closest friends and confidants. This will be her first book. Ginger lives in St. Louis with her husband and has two grown daughters and one granddaughter.

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhood

Patreon: www.patreon.com/elevatingmotherhood

Please visit today’s sponsors:

Join Lori Beth on Patreon! Elevating Motherhood is coming to life over on Patreon! I’m super stoked to let you know I’ll be over there more than any other platform connecting with you and other incredible mamas. It’s such a great space where we can have deep dive discussions about today’s topic and every other topic discussed here on the show.

I’ll also be hosting virtual classes once a month for moms. There are already multiple classes that are up and evergreen & available for you to watch anytime! Join our online community for a cooking class, numerology class, creative writing workshop, and a series of 10 life changing fascia exercises—all available in Patreon now!

Go check out the details at www.patreon.com/elevatingmotherhood I’m super stoked to be an ad-free, off social media, no distraction space to connect with you and other moms! It’s already been so refreshing and life giving to be able to connect deeper with you all. I’m excited for you to join us!

Blossom & Root: Today’s episode of Elevating Motherhood is sponsored by Blossom & Root a nature-based, Charlotte Mason inspired homeschool curriculum company that has been gently guiding and supporting families for years! This thoughtful, age appropriate curriculum begins at the preschool level with options all the way up to 4th grade with more grade levels being released each year.

Blossom & Root is the homeschool curriculum my family uses and loves! The information and ideas are easy to follow, fun, and engaging. If you’re new to homeschool or looking for an inspired homeschool curriculum to help you lovingly teach and guide your children, I highly recommend Blossom & Root. Using this curriculum has brought so much connection and joy to our homeschool days—I love it! Blossom & Root has generously offered a discount for listeners of Elevating Motherhood: use the code LORIBETH10 at checkout for 10% off your order.

For more information about Blossom & Root, head over to www.elevatingmotherhood.com/homeschool

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“…(then there’s) the societal pressure, stigmas, & expectations that you have to choose one eating way, jump on that ship, then fire cannons at everybody else.”

What motivates people to start businesses? Channels? Recipes? Blogs? And what inspires people to choose eating styles? Paleo? Keto? Vegan? Whole 30? What motivates people to do the two together and show up for others with ideas for eating? Maui Mama Jessica Ross is here with us today to share her heart behind her vegan cooking show Let’s Feed Them Plants on Patreon. I personally follow Jessica because her recipes are delicious and years ago I discovered that I can get my family to willingly eat more vegetables when I lean into vegan recipes.

You all know I’m not a vegan…and that I don’t believe there is a one size fits all answer for everyone (ever) including eating styles. Jessica’s goal is not to talk you into becoming a vegan or try to convince you but to go plant-based, but instead wants to be a resource for families who are interested.

Jessica’s Bio: Jessica Ross is the creator of Let's Feed Them Plants™, an online cooking show that she created in her home kitchen on the beautiful island of Maui. The recipes she posts are the same ones that she feeds her family in real life. Her goal is to help make plant-based decisions more convenient, satisfying, and relatable. ⁠ ⁠ Many of Jessica’s recipes are comfort foods that everyone can enjoy whether they're plant-based or not.⁠ They are easily modifiable for those thriving on vegetarian, gluten-free or oil-free lifestyles. ⁠All of her recipes can be viewed, downloaded, and printed for FREE. Each of them comes with a beautiful recipe card that she hopes will hopefully become a permanent part of your meal rotations at home.⁠

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhood

Patreon: www.patreon.com/elevatingmotherhood

Please visit today’s sponsors:

Join Lori Beth on Patreon! Elevating Motherhood is coming to life over on Patreon! I’m super stoked to let you know I’ll be over there in our online moms group in Patreon connecting with you and other incredible mamas. It’s such a great space where we can have deep dive discussions about today’s topic and every other topic discussed here on the show.

I’ll also be hosting virtual classes once a month for moms. There are already multiple classes that are up and evergreen & available for you to watch anytime! Join me for July’s class that went LIVE yesterday, Friday, July 23rd. It’s a fascia movement class where we learn about fascia and it’s role in the body as well as 10 life changing fascia exercises that will help hydrate your fascia and positively effect your body! Sign up this month and be entered in the drawing! There are currently three other classes you can take at any time, too: cooking, numerology, and creative writing with new classes being shared every month.

Go check out the details at www.patreon.com/elevatingmotherhood I’m super stoked to be an ad-free, off social media, no distraction space to connect with you and other moms! It’s already been so refreshing and life giving to be able to connect deeper with you all. I’m excited for you to join us!

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I’m sure I’m not the only one who is feeling ready for get togethers and BBQs and celebrations with friends and family. I personally love celebrating and eating together as much as possible…but I do know there is sometimes some trepidation when it comes to planning these kinds of events. Modern pressure tells us we need to host a Pinterest worthy celebration and nothing less. I think in our heart of hearts we know that’s not true, but that doesn’t always make the stress of party or meal prepping any easier.

But Abby Turner of A Tabletop Affair is with us today to provide encouragement, help us understand why celebrating in community is so important and worthy of our time, and share ideas from her new book The Living Table.

Abby’s Bio: Abby Turner is a young professional who is single and loving life as a food blogger, speaker, and writer. Born into a large family, she grew up in Central Arkansas, where she learned the importance of community and Biblical hospitality at a young age. After completing undergraduate degrees at Ouachita Baptist University and obtaining her Master's from Baylor, Abby lived in 6 states in 5 years, learning that community is essential to a healthy relationship with Christ. Over the last few years, Abby has spoken at college/universities, churches, companies and has been featured on regional TV shows and podcasts. Abby's passion is to encourage women to stop wasting time waiting for the perfect family, house, or table and to start opening their homes, cooking for friends and building community. You can learn more about Abby and enjoy even more recipes by visiting her website at atabletopaffair.com.

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhood

Patreon: www.patreon.com/elevatingmotherhood

Join Lori Beth on Patreon! Elevating Motherhood is coming to life over on Patreon! I’m super stoked to let you know I’ll be over there more than any other platform connecting with you and other incredible mamas. It’s such a great space where we can have deep dive discussions about today’s topic and every other topic discussed here on the show.

I’ll also be hosting virtual classes once a month for moms. There are already multiple classes that are up and evergreen & available for you to watch anytime! Join me for July’s class that goes LIVE this Friday, July 24th. where we’ll talk learn about fascia and it’s role in the body as well as 10 life changing fascia exercises that will help hydrate your fascia and positively effect your body! Sign up this month and be entered in the drawing!

Go check out the details at www.patreon.com/elevatingmotherhood I’m super stoked to be an ad-free, off social media, no distraction space to connect with you and other moms! It’s already been so refreshing and life giving to be able to connect deeper with you all. I’m excited for you to join us!

Blossom & Root: Today’s episode of Elevating Motherhood is sponsored by Blossom & Root a nature-based, Charlotte Mason inspired homeschool curriculum company that has been gently guiding and supporting families for years! For more information about Blossom & Root, head over to www.elevatingmotherhood.com/homeschool

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Have you ever thought of your life in terms of being satisfied with it or not? To be honest, I’m not sure the thought of whether I was “satisfied” in my life and motherhood really ever crossed my heart, but when Alyssa Bethke’s book title came across my desk, I thought about the notion of satisfaction…and it became very clear that while maybe it’s something that wasn’t obvious to me in the past, upon reflection I realized that it is something that probably showed up often in my actions and self-talk.

So we’re going to talk about it today—feeling satisfied in life and motherhood. Alyssa is going to share what brings her peace and satisfaction. We’re going to tackle obstacles to feeling satisfied and just unpack and encourage all at the same time. I’m really glad you’re here for this conversation. I know we both hope it leaves you feeling inspired and closer to satisfied.

Alyssa’s Bio: Alyssa Bethke is a mother of three children, Kinsley, Kannon, and Lucy, and a dog named Aslan. She and her husband, Jeff Bethke, live on Maui, and are bloggers, YouTubers, and hosts of The Real-Life podcast. Jeff and Alyssa are the New York Times bestselling authors of Jesus > Religion and It's Not What You Think and Love That Lasts. They are passionate about encouraging and strengthening families through their awesome work at familyteams.com.

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Join Lori Beth on Patreon! Elevating Motherhood is coming to life over on Patreon! I’m super stoked to let you know I’ll be over there more than any other platform connecting with you and other incredible mamas. It’s such a great space where we can have deep dive discussions about today’s topic and every other topic discussed here on the show.

I’ll also be hosting virtual classes once a month for moms. April, May, & June’s classes are already up and evergreen—they are available for you to watch anytime! Join me for July’s Fascia Workshop that goes live on Friday, July 23rd. Sign up this month and be entered in the monthly giveaway!

Go check out the details at www.patreon.com/elevatingmotherhood I’m super stoked to be an ad-free, off social media, no distraction space to connect with you and other moms! It’s already been so refreshing and life giving to be able to connect deeper with you all. I’m excited for you to join us!

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This is an episode that absolutely reminds me of why I love podcasting so much. This episode is not only going to be a jam packed resource for you, a solid lead on where to start with metabolic health, but also an empowering conversation that will leave you more curious about your own body and health to the point that you’ll want to learn more AND take action.

Metabolic health is becoming more mainstream and thank goodness it is because metabolic markers are huge indicators in our lives! Today you are going to learn a ton of information about your body, your health, eating, lifestyle and so much more—information that’s going to empower you on your health (and life!) journey.

Kori’s Bio: Kori Meloy helps women restore their metabolism & youthful vitality through her online course, Freely Rooted. Through her journey holistically healing her Endometriosis & other chronic issues, she became passionate about answering the question “how do we eat, live, & move in a way that supports our actual physiological design?” If we knew the answer to this, we would know how to lay the foundation for our bodies to fall into balance & thrive! In a world of diet culture & noisy health + wellness advice, she realized that we are moving further and further away from what is truly supportive to the body. Kori set out to help women restore their own imbalances by taking charge of their health, rediscovering their biological design, & returning to real food. Kori is pregnant with her second child & lives on the island of Maui with her husband & 3 year old son.

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Please Visit Today’s Sponsor:

Blossom & Root: Today’s episode of Elevating Motherhood is sponsored by Blossom & Root a nature-based, Charlotte Mason inspired homeschool curriculum company that has been gently guiding and supporting families for years! This thoughtful, age appropriate curriculum begins at the preschool level with options all the way up to 4thgrade with more grade levels being released each year.

Blossom & Root is the homeschool curriculum my family uses and loves! The information and ideas are easy to follow, fun, and engaging. If you’re new to homeschool or looking for an inspired homeschool curriculum to help you lovingly teach and guide your children, I highly recommend Blossom & Root. Using this curriculum has brought so much connection and joy to our homeschool days—I love it! Blossom & Root has generously offered a discount for listeners of Elevating Motherhood: use the code LORIBETH10 at checkout for 10% off your order.

For more information about Blossom & Root, head over to www.elevatingmotherhood.com/homeschool

Homeschool Explained: www.homeschoolexplained.com

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Our bodies are AMAZING! And not just because they can grow and sustain babies but because of how they work. This conversation with Greta Wyeth will leave you feeling very appreciative of all your body can do. One of Greta’s many missions is to help women educate themselves about their bodies so they can clearly communicate and get the help they need. She goes about this in a really interesting way. I didn’t feel like I was being lectured to about what my body can do, but instead I felt awakened to mind-blowing ways my body works and communicates. I WANT to know more about my body and muscles and movement and fascia—not out of obligation, but out of pure curiosity & empowerment!

Fascia is a buzz word right now, and for great reasons! Greta shares with us what it is, what it does, what it looks like, and shares recent discoveries about its role in the body. But first she walks us through self-education, our physical body, muscle function, re-educating our pelvic floor, movement (like Pilates) and helps us understand more about ourselves so by the time we cover fascia, it just “clicks.”

Greta’s Bio: Greta Wyeth is a Nationally Certified and STOTT Certified Pilates Teacher who is rooted in science and dedicated to the inter-relatedness of form and function in the human body. She believes that knowledge of your own body along with how and why it moves can inform and inspire healthy movement patterns. Greta teaches her clients how to find effective movement patterns and the muscle activation that promotes strength, balance, and alignment. Having worked with NFL and MSL athletes and being a lead referral by Sutter Health and Kaiser Permanente OB/GYNs, Greta helps clients become their own best advocates. Greta is the Founder of Still Point Movement, an education specialist, course creator and mom of 2.

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Join Lori Beth on Patreon! Elevating Motherhood is coming to life over on Patreon! I’m super stoked to let you know I’ll be over there more than any other platform connecting with you and other incredible mamas. It’s such a great space where we can have deep dive discussions about today’s topic and every other topic discussed here on the show.

I’ll also be hosting virtual classes once a month for moms. April and May’s classes are already up and evergreen—they are available for you to watch anytime! Join me for June’s Creative Writing Workshop that just went LIVE yesterday, June 25th. where we’ll talk about the writing process, creative outlets & habits, and even how we can document special moments for and tell stories to our kids. Sign up this month and be entered in the drawing!

Go check out the details at www.patreon.com/elevatingmotherhood I’m super stoked to be an ad-free, off social media, no distraction space to connect with you and other moms! It’s already been so refreshing and life giving to be able to connect deeper with you all. I’m excited for you to join us!

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“There’s no better time to heal than now." -Jana Glass

A listener wrote in and suggested that I interview today’s guest Jana Glass about brainspotting—and I’m so grateful she did! If you ever have an interesting guest or topic that you believe could benefit moms, please reach out and share—the result could be something like today’s awesome episode!

Jana is going to share a therapy technique called brainspotting—she’ll describe what it is, how it works, what a brainspotting session looks like, and how it can help moms (during any time in their lives, but also specifically during the perinatal period). She also answers practical questions like “How do you know when you need therapy?” and “Who goes to therapy & why?”

I appreciate her approach to trauma and how she describes it as treatable…as well as her beliefs that there is no better time to heal than now, the strongest and bravest people reach out for support, and when we heal birthgivers, we heal the world.

This episode contains tons of general brainspotting information (great for anyone seeking healing modalities) as well as specific info for moms and moms to be.

Jana’s Bio: Jana Glass is a Licensed Professional Counselor certified in Brainspotting, Addictions, Perinatal Mental Health, and Telemental Health. She is in private practice in Atlanta, Georgia, USA specializing in treating trauma, addictions, and perinatal mental health including decisions and challenges around family expansion through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. She found her own perinatal healing through Brainspotting and is passionate about helping people heal and enjoy their role as a parent. Jana is a Certified Brainspotting Consultant and provides individual and group consultation.

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Instagram: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhood

Patreon: www.patreon.com/elevatingmotherhood

Please visit today’s sponsors:

Blossom & Root:Today’s episode of Elevating Motherhood is sponsored by Blossom & Root a nature-based, Charlotte Mason inspired homeschool curriculum company that has been gently guiding and supporting families for years! This thoughtful, age appropriate curriculum begins at the preschool level with options all the way up to 4thgrade with more grade levels being released each year.

Blossom & Root is the homeschool curriculum my family uses and loves! The information and ideas are easy to follow, fun, and engaging. If you’re new to homeschool or looking for an inspired homeschool curriculum to help you lovingly teach and guide your children, I highly recommend Blossom & Root. Using this curriculum has brought so much connection and joy to our homeschool days—I love it! Blossom & Root has generously offered a discount for listeners of Elevating Motherhood: use the code LORIBETH10 at checkout for 10% off your order.

Join Lori Beth on Patreon! Elevating Motherhood is coming to life over on Patreon! I’m super stoked to let you know I’ll be over there more than any other platform connecting with you and other incredible mamas. It’s such a great space where we can have deep dive discussions about today’s topic and every other topic discussed here on the show. I’ll also be hosting virtual classes once a month for moms.

Go check out the details at www.patreon.com/elevatingmotherhood I’m super stoked to be an ad-free, off social media, no distraction space to connect with other moms!

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If you could use a life-giving conversation right now, this episode is for you! Megan Smalley is here with us to share about her bookGive Grace: How To Embrace The Beauty of Life’s Brokenness but in the process we talk about #allthethings that moms feel deeply in their motherhood journeys and how we can show up with more grace for ourselves and others.

Megan and I “get” each other. We have a lot of similarities and yet we are not the same. You’ll hear that in this conversation as we cheer each other on while being in very different (and yet kind of similar) seasons of life. We talk about what works for us and our families without any expectation that the other’s life look, feel, or sound like ours. You’ll get insights into what’s worked well on our motherhood path and glimpses into the not so glamorous mothering moments. It’s a vulnerable and honest conversation that I’m honored to be a part of.

Megan’s Bio: Megan Smalley is the CEO of the popular online shop, Scarlet & Gold, the author of Give Grace, and the creator of the Overcome Journal. She grew up as a pastor's kid, and while the foundation of faith she was given is so important, it's the fires she's faced that have refined her heart and given her an unshakeable faith. Megan walked a hard road in pursuit of her lifelong dream to have children, and she's now Mom to three boys, who she affectionately calls "The Bad Business Club." Megan's journey to motherhood is only one piece of her story that's given her an important voice in the space of learning to overcome the hard stuff. She encourages women to overcome trials in their own lives and to give and receive grace in the process through her speaking, writing, and inspirational products. She lives in Alabama, ten hours away from her home state of Texas, where she and her husband Blake, a basketball coach, raise their young boys, twins Stisher and Eli and little baby James.

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhood

Patreon: www.patreon.com/elevatingmotherhood

Please visit today’s sponsors:

Join Lori Beth on Patreon! Elevating Motherhood is coming to life over on Patreon! I’m super stoked to let you know I’ll be over there more than any other platform connecting with you and other incredible mamas. It’s such a great space where we can have deep dive discussions about today’s topic and every other topic discussed here on the show.

I’ll also be hosting virtual classes once a month for moms. April and May’s classes are already up and evergreen—they are available for you to watch anytime! Join me for June’s Creative Writing Workshop where we’ll talk about the writing process, creative outlets & habits, and even how we can document special moments for and tell stories to our kids. That class goes LIVE on Friday, June 25th so there’s still time to sign up this month!

Go check out the details at www.patreon.com/elevatingmotherhood I’m super stoked to be an ad-free, off social media, no distraction space to connect with you and other moms! It’s already been so refreshing and life giving to be able to connect deeper with you all. I’m excited for you to join us!

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It took me a long time to read Nicole Unice’s new book The Miracle Moment: How Tough Conversations Can Actually Transform Your Most Important Relationships. Not because it was hard to read or uninteresting, but the opposite! I felt like I was holding an insider’s manual to therapy and self awareness right in my hands and wanted to take in every word! This is another one of those read that changed me. It got me thinking about what it looks like and what actions, words, and ideas it takes to build healthier relationships, have stronger & clearer communication with loved ones, as well as thoughts on how to get closer to my true self and heal some pretty important parts.

The best part? I had some questions for Nicole about the book and what she meant and she answers with such grace and clarity. What a gem! Her theories and tools apply to all areas of life: motherhood, parenting, marriage, extended family, work and business relationships, neighbors, friends—all of it! This book has something for everyone. If you have an area of your life that has you feeling like you could probably use a few more communication tools…this book, this conversation is for you!

Nicole’s Bio: Nicole Unice is a counselor and leadership coach who facilitates environments of safety and vulnerability so that leaders and teams can courageously identify obstacles keeping them from their maximum potential. As a sought-after speaker, Nicole has a down-to-earth style that allows even the largest gathering to feel conversational. Nicole is the author of several books focused on spiritual transformation and is a featured speaker through RightNow Media and Punchline. She holds degrees from the College of William and Mary and from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. Nicole and her husband, Dave, live in Richmond, Virginia, with their three children and two pups. Visit her online at nicoleunice.com.

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhood

Patreon: www.patreon.com/elevatingmotherhood

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Do you have a creative outlet? Have you ever thought of taking up burlesque as a creative outlet? My best friend and fellow mom Amanda Furgiuele did. She says she was tricked into it, but years later, she’s still at it and has turned her hobby into a business and now a podcast.

This mompreneur is going to teach us all about the history of burlesque and cabaret, drop some truth bombs, bust through some stigmas, and share what it’s like to be one of 4 hosts on a podcast. She even brings up things from years ago that I had all but forgotten—things about me that now you’ll know.

Keep in mind we’re real life best friends so if this is your first time tuning into Elevating Motherhood, know that this is a pretty casual episode but it’s still filled with lots of fun, stories, and laughs.

Amanda’s Bio: Amanda Furgiuele aka “Bourbon Layne” is the most mysterious member of the burlesque troupe Cabaret & Cocktails. She’s sinfully sultry with a steamy sense of humor. She’ll wrap around you like a warm shot of burlesque whiskey, and leave you drunk and wanting more. Bourbon has a unique creative outlook and comes with an impressive aerial background to Cabaret & Cocktails. As a Maui business maven she brings executive prowess to Cabaret & Cocktails. You may remember her from her hilarious Mermaid-Reverse Mermaid pole dance, her aerial hammock performance to “Close”, and her unexpected reveal during “Late Night Horrors” in her balloon number “Pumpkin Spice Spice Baby”. Bourbon was born with a burlesque mindset, reveling in costumes, sexuality, humor, and tease.

You guys. That was the bio she gave me to read. She’s also a mom to a 3-year-old who is also one of my favorite people and godmother to my kiddos.

FULL SHOW NOTES AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Join Lori Beth on Patreon! Elevating Motherhood is coming to life over on Patreon! I’m super stoked to let you know I’ll be over there more than any other platform connecting with you and other incredible mamas. It’s such a great space where we can have deep dive discussions about today’s topic and every other topic discussed here on the show. I’ll also be hosting virtual classes once a month for moms. April and May’s classes are already up (and evergreen!) May’s class is Decoding Your Birthday with Numerologist Nadia Bernardy. She gives us all the info we need to do our own numerology charts—and really anyone we know’s charts (I plan to do each of my kids). She also sheds light on what each numerology number (1-11) means. Go check out the details at www.patreon.com/elevatingmotherhood I’m super stoked to be an ad-free, off social media, no distraction space to connect with other moms! It’s already been so refreshing and life giving to be able to connect deeper with you all. I’m excited for you to join us!

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We’ve come to the end of what seems to be one of the craziest years ever in education. Now what? Do we take time to reflect on what actually worked and what can just go away and never return? Are you asking yourself, your community, your children, and/or your school reflective questions? Are you just so done with this year in general that you just want to move on and hope for the best in the fall? Or do you feel unsettled and unsure which direction to move forward? Should you just homeschool? Should you at least consider it?

You are not alone! Millions of families have this nagging notion that something needs to change but aren’t sure about what exactly needs to change. Do they just go ahead and prepare for next year with all options? Or…?

Well, you’re here. And that’s a start to the untangling of these questions. This will be a quick episode to help you sort out some of those doubts and move forward in a way that supports your family, your family values, and life goals without all the buzz and input from the outside world.

I totally trust you to make the best decisions for your family in all seasons of life—even crazy time periods like this. I hope you know you can trust yourself, too. (insert huge hug here)

I think so many folks get caught up on the details of homeschool—what it looks like, can they do it, what curriculum to choose, etc. that they miss the first step which is finding your conviction through clarity. The details are important, but they are not the whole story.

FULL SHOW NOTES AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Join Lori Beth on Patreon! Elevating Motherhood is coming to life over on Patreon! I’m super stoked to let you know I’ll be over there more than any other platform connecting with you and other incredible mamas. It’s such a great space where we can have deep dive discussions about today’s topic and every other topic discussed here on the show. I’ll also be hosting virtual classes once a month for moms. April & May’s classes are both live and waiting for you to join! April’s Class is Elevating Your Everyday Cooking with trained chef and holistic health coach Kris Dovbniak. May’s class is Decoding Your Birthday with intuitive numerologist Nadia Bernardy. Go check out the details at www.patreon.com/elevatingmotherhood I’m super stoked to be an ad-free, off social media, no distraction space to connect with other moms! It’s already been so refreshing and life giving to be able to connect deeper with you all. I’m excited for you to join us!

Please Visit Today’s Sponsors:

Blossom & Root: Today’s episode of Elevating Motherhood is sponsored by Blossom & Root a nature-based, Charlotte Mason inspired homeschool curriculum company that has been gently guiding and supporting families for years! This thoughtful, age appropriate curriculum begins at the preschool level with options through elementary grades--with more grade levels being released each year.

My family has used Blossom & Root from the very beginning—we love it! The curriculum and lessons are easy to follow, super fun, and can be as flexible or mapped out as you need. If you’re looking for an inspiring homeschool curriculum to help you lovingly teach and guide your children, I highly recommend Blossom & Root. Using this curriculum has brought so much connection and joy to our homeschool days—I love it! So do my kids. Blossom & Root has generously offered a discount for listeners of Elevating Motherhood: use the code LORIBETH10 at checkout for 10% off your order. More info can be found at: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/homeschool

Homeschool Explained: www.homeschoolexplained.com

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Today we’re talking very openly and honestly with Jenna Dillulio about her journey with alcohol, stigmas around drinking and sobriety, and mommy wine culture messages that are disempowering moms. Is this an anti-alcohol episode? Nope. It’s a pro-information, empowerment episode.

Jenna shows up with incredible vulnerability…and the result of such honesty is pretty mind blowing. She’s walking the walk and modeling kindness and authenticity in ways that we need more of in general—whatever the topic.

Jenna’s Bio: Jenna Dillulio is a social media influencer with a social media platform that is built around beauty, fashion and her sobriety. Her goal is to end the stigma of addiction in a fun light-hearted way, all while giving women a place to find inspiration with makeup and style.

I’ve followed her for a while and reached out to get her perspective on sobriety and mommy wine culture and I’m so glad I did. This episode contains a ton of points to ponder and apply to your own life and beliefs.

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhood

Patreon: www.patreon.com/elevatingmotherhood

Please Visit Today’s Sponsors:

Primally Pure: Thanks for Primally Pure for supporting today’s episode. Primally Pure, is one of my favorite companies. They excel at creating safe, natural skin care products made with quality ingredients. Primally Pure has become my go-to brand for clean, non-toxic face cleaners, creams, and serums. They're also the makers of my favorite all-natural (& effective!) deodorant. (I love their blue tansy one). They’ve generously offered a discount code for listeners: be sure to use the code: LORIBETH10 for 10% off your first order. For my personal review of their products, head over to www.elevatingmotherhood.com/primallypure

Join Lori Beth on Patreon! Elevating Motherhood is coming to life over on Patreon! I’m super stoked to let you know I’ll be over there more than any other platform connecting with you and other incredible mamas. It’s such a great space where we can have deep dive discussions about today’s topic and every other topic discussed here on the show. I’ll also be hosting virtual classes once a month for moms. April 2021 is already up and May’s class goes live on Friday, May 21st. May’s class will be Decoding Your Birthday with Numerologist Nadia Bernardy. She gives us all the info we need to do our own numerology charts—and really anyone we know’s charts (I plan to do each of my kids). She also sheds light on what each numerology number (1-11) means. Go check out the details at www.patreon.com/elevatingmotherhood I’m super stoked to be an ad-free, off social media, no distraction space to connect with other moms! It’s already been so refreshing and life giving to be able to connect deeper with you all. I’m excited for you to join us!

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Well, it’s official! We’re not done having kids! Baby #4 is due to arrive sometime in November or December. My “official” due date is Thanksgiving Day, but I tend to carry over my due date when given the space and freedom to go into labor on my own.

This time around is different than the other girls because it is a surprise this time around AND I’m now in a new decade of life.

What’s different this time:

• I’m 40 and unafraid.

• I have more research under my belt.

• I think I was in a bit of denial.

• My timelines aren’t lining up with other friends my age.

• I’m including the spiritual in this pregnancy and birth.

What's the same this time:

• The cravings.

• The nausea.

• The fatigue.

• The support.

The girls are excited. We’re excited. It’s crazy. We definitely are bringing a “One more? Why not!” attitude to this experience. I’m resting a LOT more, going to bed early, having crazy pregnancy dreams. All in all, I’m healthy, happy, and super humbled and stoked to be back on the front lines of motherhood—and just grateful that I get to have another child and friend to do life with.

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhood

Patreon: www.patreon.com/elevatingmotherhood

Join Lori Beth on Patreon! Elevating Motherhood is coming to life over on Patreon! I’m super stoked to let you know I’ll be over there more than any other platform connecting with you and other incredible mamas. It’s such a great space where we can have deep dive discussions about today’s topic and every other topic discussed here on the show. I’ll also be hosting virtual classes once a month for moms. April 2021 is already up and May’s class goes live on Friday, May 21st. May’s class will be Decoding Your Birthday with Numerologist Nadia Bernardy. She gives us all the info we need to do our own numerology charts—and really anyone we know’s charts (I plan to do each of my kids). She also sheds light on what each numerology number (1-11) means. Go check out the details at www.patreon.com/elevatingmotherhood I’m super stoked to be an ad-free, off social media, no distraction space to connect with other moms! It’s already been so refreshing and life giving to be able to connect deeper with you all. I’m excited for you to join us!

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“Toxic messaging encourages you to identify with the collective rather than your true self and family values.” – Lori Beth Auldridge

It’s time to call a spade a spade. There are societal messages about motherhood that are toxic to moms. Some people have told me they don’t like the word “toxic” to describe my thoughts on this, but to me, that’s what these messages are—toxic.

But that doesn’t mean we have to accept them or embrace them. What we can do is learn about them—and ourselves!—while we dismantle them and step back into our power as mothers.

In this episode I’ll share 5 lenses I put on when analyzing messaging for moms, what makes a message toxic, what we can do, as well as messages I’d like to see normalized in our motherhood culture…messages that support & resources mothers.

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

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“We’re not all called to live the same life and go on the same path.” -Bethany Adkins

What is purpose and why is it important in life and motherhood? Bethany Adkins is here to do a deep dive with us on this very topic—to help us sort out what purpose means to each of us as individuals, because everyone’s sense of purpose is different. Our culture pushes for all of us to conform to what purpose and success look like but the truth of the matter is, as we’ve discovered over and over here on the show, there is no one size fits all answer for anything—including purpose.

My favorite part of this interview is Bethany’s ease, confidence, and encouragement—she really leads by example while inspiring each of us to reflect on where we are, what we truly love, and who we are.

Purpose is powerful and can bring us so much peace as women and moms.

Bethany’s Bio: Bethany Adkins is a Pediatric Nurse turned stay at home mom who has always had a love for reading and writing, and she finally decided to pursue it full time. She is now a blogger, host of The Millennial Mission Podcast, freelance writer, and podcast manager. If she is not adventuring with her family in her spare time, you can find her at the nearest coffee shop diving into a good book or creating one of her own.

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhood

Patreon: www.patreon.com/elevatingmotherhood

MORE on Patreon! Elevating Motherhood is coming to life over on Patreon! I’ll be over there more to have deep dive discussions with you about today’s topic and every other topic discussed here on the show. I’ll also be hosting virtual classes once a month for moms. April 2021 is already up! It’s an amazing cooking class with classically trained chef and holistic health coach Kris Dovbniak! It’s incredible! I’ve been using the skills and tips from that class every day in my kitchen since filming. Go check out the details at www.patreon.com/elevatingmotherhood I’m super stoked to be an ad-free, off social media, no distraction space to connect with other moms! It’s already been so refreshing and life giving to be able to connect deeper with you all. I’m excited for you to join us!

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I learned from Dr. Donna Lane that : “According to a 2016 study published by Whitney and Peterson, one in six kids between 6 and 17 have a mental health diagnosis. This was, of course, pre-COVID. A recent study in Psychiatric Times indicated that isolation and loneliness increase the risk of depression up to 9 years after the event, and the duration vs. the intensity of loneliness was more likely to cause long-term mental health issues.”

No wonder our children’s mental health is one of the main concerns of many moms I talk with. But there are so many stigmas around mental health and fear of diagnosis that it can be difficult to navigate the world of mental health for ourselves, let alone our children.

We’ve talked about adult mental health topics here on the podcast before, but today we’re turning our focus to children’s mental health.

It’s a timely topic for all families right now as we navigate the events of the world. Dr. Donna Lane is here with us to share the basics plus deeper insights. We talk about why/when/how people seek mental health help for their children…and then goes on to explain in clear terms what mental health resources are available to children (what a psychiatrist is, psychologist, counselor, family therapist, and social workers) and then what therapy/counseling sessions look like both online and in-person.

Dr. Donna’s messages are for moms of younger kids as well as moms of teens who are concerned about the isolation from peer relationships and how that’s affecting their kids, signs to look for, and how to reach out. There are some thorough and helpful links to resources in the show notes.

Donna’s Bio: Drs. David and Donna Lane are a husband-wife counseling duo who specialize in trauma, grief, and loss as well as family relationships. While qualified by education, their life experience shapes much of their current-day work, as they have experienced first-hand the horrific death of their own son, who had a neurological disorder throughout his 17 years on earth. The Lanes are professors, counselors, consultants and award-winning authors; their research and writing on trauma and grief has been used extensively throughout the world in the aftermath of tragedies including the Sandy Hook shootings, Haiti earthquakes, Rwandan genocide and others. The Lanes live in the Atlanta area and have been married to each other for more than 40 years.

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Patreon: www.patreon.com/elevatingmotherhood

Instagram: @loribethauldridge

Bookshop.org: www.bookshop.org/shop/loribeth

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Picture this: Your newborn baby is finally sleeping. You take a few moments to gaze at them admiringly. Happy, tired, ready to lie down yourself. Finally, a moment of peace. And then your dog barks. Baby wakes up. You have to start all over. Cue the frustration and chaos.

There are many of us who would lose our minds in that moment—and rightfully so. The transition into becoming a parent is a big one. And avoiding chaos and frustration during all stages of parenting is a goal many of us have. This is no different with our four-legged family members as well. We want to avoid chaos and frustration. Today’s guest, Lisa Giesick is going to equip us with tips, strategies, and resources to teach us how to read our dogs, hire the right help when we need it, and set our families up for success—no matter what age or stage our dogs and kids are at.

This show is great for families who are expecting and have dogs, parents of newborns, babies, toddlers, and older kids as well. She shares so much information including etiquette and multiple ways we can keep our kids and dogs safe.

Lisa’s Bio: Lisa Giesick is the founder and owner of Ohana Pet Training as well as the head trainer. Having worked with animals since 1983 and in the animal welfare field for 16 years, she is a nationally certified dog trainer with the CCPDT (CPDT-KA) and is a member of the APDT (Association of Pet Dog Trainers) and the PPG (Pet Professional Guild). Lisa also is a certified evaluator for the AKC Canine Good Citizen Program.

At 13 years old, Lisa took on a job as a brusher/bather for a dog groomer to be around animals, thus beginning a life-long career. With an educational background in child development, psychology and criminology, basic and advanced humane academies, she continued her career as an animal control officer and Humane Investigations Supervisor for approximately 13 years.

In Monterey County, CA., Lisa then worked at the SPCA of Monterey County, as a humane investigations supervisor, a sworn humane officer, then as the manager of the Humane Education and Behavior Departments. There she taught humane education programs to schools throughout Monterey County for students of all ages as well as senior citizens and disabled children and adults. She was also part of the pet therapy programs in the community.

In September of 2005 Lisa left the SPCA of Monterey County to pursue her dream of starting her own pet training business. She also went on to teach animal behavior & care classes for high school students and started to teach group dog training classes at the Carmel Holistic Veterinary Clinic in Carmel, CA. before moving to Maui in June 2007 where she continued Ohana Pet Training.

Lisa has since taught countless puppy kindergarten and group dog classes and helped dogs and owners through private classes as well as behavior consultations and continues to positively influence the lives of many of Maui’s island dogs through these services.

Lisa believes that most behavior problems in dogs are caused by a lack of communication – because humans and dogs don’t speak the same language. Dog training to her is about building a relationship and she encourages people to learn to understand their dogs and teach their dogs to understand them through positive reinforcement techniques. She states: “Positive reinforcement is not only more humane than punishment, but it is far more effective. Punishing a dog for something he or she doesn’t know will not teach the correct way of doing something. Punishment will only make the dog confused and scared, while a dog that is taught what it is we desire in a positive way will stay relaxed, be able to listen better, be more self motivated to learn new things and have a deep trust relationship with their owner.”

FULL SHOW NOTES AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

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Are there things going on in the world that you wish you had more confidence to speak up about? Not just speaking up and sharing your opinions on social media, but taking your voice to the next level and contacting government departments or offices of elected officials—people and programs with power to make real, lasting, important change in your community. There are ways! And I’d love to help you find your confidence and courage to speak up, reach out, and create positive change in your community!

Welcome to “Lobbying with Lori” – Just kidding. Well, kind of.

I’ve been receiving a LOT of messages and questions from moms about how to write representatives—“What can we do?” shows up in my DMs a lot! Everything from moms saying they want more playgrounds and safe play spaces for their kids to moms not liking the direction the Department of Education is going or don’t agree with the Department of Health’s ideas at the moment. So what can we do?

Empower ourselves.

Mindset:

· Self Worth—our opinions matter. We can take them off of social media and into bigger action

· Elected officials—they are elected to represent us, not simply tell us what to do

· Non-elected persons—they need reminded that there is no one size fits all solution and that it’s important to value community input

· Kindness—we are people talking with other people

· Confidence—spend time building your confidence with practice

· Community—compose letters or draft ideas with others. Organization can help.

· Patience—lasting change does not happen immediately

Understand Who is Involved:

· Local, state, or national government

· Know what departments are also involved (i.e. Dept of Education, Health, Transportation, Agriculture, Parks & Recreation, etc.)

· Who within those offices

· The “person who answers the phone”: what you need to know

When to Call/Write/Email/Meet:

· The moment you feel called to do so, start drafting your thoughts and points

· Sit with your thoughts and pray about them

Actions:

· Call

· Email

· Letter

· Government sites: (i.e. https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov)

· Submit Testimony

· Attend county council meetings

· Attend meet and greets or encourage officials to have meet and greets

What to Include:

· Your thoughts, opinions, and/or concerns

· Resources

· Stories

· Examples

· Questions

· IMPORTANT Include the question/statement “Please reply with a response as well as the name of the person reading this email, how my message is being delivered to the person I intended to receive it, as well as details about how the opinions of the public/constituents/residents/etc. are being taken into consideration”).

How Often Should You Write/Reach Out:

· As often as you want. Let your intuition and passion lead you on this one—it’s your life, your community, your concerns.

Examples:

· A new playground

· Vaccine passports

You’ll experience successes and setbacks with all of this. Don’t be discouraged. Come back to mindset—your voice counts!

PATREON LINK: Coming soon!

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

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Exciting Announcement: The Elevating Motherhood Patreon page launches on April 1, 2021!

Search for “Elevating Motherhood” on www.patreon.com

When I started this podcast, I set the intention to reach episodes in the 100s. Episode 1 says “001” because I was determined to get to the 100s. And 001 is now 100 today! I’m so thrilled. Slow and steady got me to 100.

You know how you think you know what that’s going to look like? Or picture it as a big celebration or something and here I am sitting in my closet recording the episode because my office flooded and we had to rip out all the carpet and now it’s empty and bare. It’s fine.

Perspective, right? Unexpected remodel, but we work for ourselves so we can. I’ll have a beautiful office space when it’s done and well, we’re capable of handling it. If nothing else all of life’s curveballs combined with a can-do, life-long learner attitude have shown us that we can handle anything that comes our way. We will be tested and in the broad scheme of things that tested us this week, an office remodel is seriously a cake walk.

Episode 100 feels like a cake walk compared to the nerves I had over the first 30 episodes. Oh my gosh. If you could have seen me fumbling and nervous when recording technology was still new to me and I had a guest on the line and couldn’t figure things out compared to me casually recording in my closet in my jammies last minute. Night and day. I feel like a different person. That’s the power of slow and steady and learning grace.

Learned so much about motherhood

· I am not the same person I was before starting this podcast.

· I feel resourced and more confident. I’m changed by all of the books I read and authors I interviewed.

· I’m a better listener, a more compassionate friend,

· Power of asking questions

Learned so much about myself:

· There is no one size fits all answer

· Every family, mother are different

· Living more deeply in than truth than I ever have

Learned so much about the industry

· If I had a dollar for every time I heard something along the lines of “that’s not how people usually do it,” I’d be rich. I found out I’m one of the few hosts who actually reads the book BEFORE talking with an author

· I have a calm voice instead of an insistent or high energy one

· I trust my listeners to have discernment—I’ve interviewed women with vastly different beliefs than myself. I’ve had controversial guests on that caused a river of emails and DMs to pour in and say “I’m confused…why would you interview this person?” and ultimately “I thought you were just like me?” I’m not just like you, I’m not like anyone. You’re not just like anyone. How can that work in a world that tells everyone to be alike and think alike? By using our discernment, holding space for it, and encouraging it.

· I believe to the core of my being that we are all different and that it’s important for me to make space for those differences—but I do that by supporting women as they get to know their true selves and see those differences, discover what makes them unique, and shed the “shoulds” of what it means to be a woman, mom, wife, friend, sister, person.

In this search for resources, I’ve realized that we empower ourselves when we look into topics and research them for ourselves.

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

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“If moms aren’t comfortable in the kitchen, how can we teach our kids to be confident in the kitchen?”

When I say the words “cooking with kids,” how does that make you feel? Does it sound fun? Does the idea stress you out? If I were to talk about mac & cheese, does it create instant overthinking and big emotions? Do you love it? Hate it? Wish your kids would eat something else? Do you have a kid you’d refer to as a “picky eater?” Would you ever give your kids knives to use in the kitchen?

Take note of your answers to those questions because--oh man!—I want you to come back to those questions at the end of this episode after you’ve heard what Katie Kimball has to say and then answer those questions again! I bet today’s perspectives are going to blow your mind and shift your answers!

Katie encourages us in the best possible ways—by sharing truths & ideas that will increase our families’ confidence and connection.

She is on a mission to create a kids’ meal revolution! Because something that we do 3 times a day—prepare food for our kids and eat!—shouldn’t be as stressful as it is.

Katie believes that the best possible learning environment we have access to is the kitchen. Now that we're home more than ever and health is a top concern, we can use our family connection time in the kitchen to make a positive impact on the next generation. We can increase confidence, creativity, and connection through The Power of Teaching Kids to Cook, and start a #kidsmealrevolution that redefines the kids' meal as one that kids have cooked!

Katie’s Bio: Katie Kimball, CSME, founder and CEO of Kitchen Stewardship, is passionate about researching natural remedies and making healthy cooking easier for busy families. As a trusted educator and author of 8 real food cookbooks, she’s been featured on media outlets like ABC, NBC and First for Women magazine and contributes periodically on the FOX Network. Over the last 12 years, Katie has spoken prolifically at conferences, online summits and podcasts and become a trusted authority and advocate for children’s health. Busy moms look to this certified educator for honest, in-depth natural product reviews and thorough research, and she often partners with health experts and medical practitioners to stay on the cutting edge. In 2016 she created theWall Street Journal recommended best online kids cooking course, Kids Cook Real Food, helping thousands of families around the world learn to cook. A mom of 4 kids from Michigan, she is also a Certified Stress Mastery Educator, member of the American Institute of Stress and trained speaker through Bo Eason’s Personal Story Power. She is actively masterminding the Kids' Meal Revolution, with a goal of every child being able to cook.

Be sure to visit today’s show notes where Katie has graciously offered listeners of Elevating Motherhood a free online class: https://kidscookrealfood.com/elevatingmotherhood

Favorite Knife Skills for Kids video! Sounds a bit scary at first, but it’s really empowering! My 7-year-old is THRILLED about this class and loves that it’s tailored to her.

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Instagram: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhood

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjCL4jnooMFhvqTeHXGxUxQ

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Nothing in this episode is medical advice, but it is an honest conversation that is needed in the postpartum and birth space. What would happen if we found our brains as fascinating as our bodies during the transformation that is pregnancy and birth? Today’s guest, Dr. Walker Ladd poses that question and so many other thoughtful observations and perspectives about Postpartum Depression—thoughts that empower and resource women, providers, and anyone who supports mothers. Walker’s book Transformed by Postpartum Depression took me over a month to read. Not because I didn’t want to, not because it’s a stigmatized topic, or too taboo, but because it IS such an important subject—to me personally, to friends and family, to every birthing mother, and every birth support person out there. Right now it’s considered a heavy topic—but one that needs to be brought into the light. We can handle this information. We are strong and capable.  Learning about postpartum depression is important, even if it makes us uncomfortable. Walker encourages us in this conversation and reminds us that we can handle it. Dr. Walker Ladd’s Bio: Dr. Walker Ladd has been a recognized thought leader in the field of maternal mental health for nearly two decades. Her writing and research challenge current paradigms of motherhood and mental illness, using women's stories to reveal the hidden truths and extraordinary dimensions of the lived experience of motherhood. Her personal experiences with traumatic childbirth, breast cancer, postpartum depression, and major depressive disorder drive her passion for her bold, transformative and soulful work. In this episode, Walker & I talk about: · Being brave and talking about postpartum depression · Her book: Transformed by postpartum depression · How this book broke something open in me · Reading about hard topics as an empath · How generations influence postpartum depression · Empowering ourselves · Well intended interventions · Stigmas around postpartum depression...and SO MUCH MORE!

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

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You know how much I love Branch Basics and I am so honored that I got to speak with one of the founders, Kelly Love!

In this episode you’ll hear the story of how Branch Basics got started and how this educational company is helping families reduce their toxic burden and improve their health. Kelly goes on to share sooooo much helpful information about air quality, toxic burden, being our own advocates, and creating a healthy home.

Kelly’s Bio: Kelly Love co-founded Branch Basics, a wellness lifestyle brand that creates cleaning products using the most chemically sensitive as their benchmark for safety. Raised on the standard American diet and conventional products, it wasn’t until college that she experienced the power of living in an environment free of harmful chemicals along with eating according to the principles of Food as Medicine. All of the “normal” problems Kelly had experienced most of her life: dry and itchy eyes, painful menstrual cramps, joint and muscle pain, and even body odor disappeared! It turns out these issues don’t have to be normal after all, and Kelly is passionate about helping others on their health journeys. She lives in Jackson, Mississippi with her husband and two daughters.

In this episode, Kelly and I talk about:

· How Kelly, Allison, and Marilee started Branch Basics

· How all areas of our life (diet, products, home, lifestyle) influence our health

· Tossing the toxins

· The importance of reading ingredients

· The influence and impact of mothers in their choices for their children

· Selling soap vs. being an education company and lifestyle company

· Empowering people to take control over our homes

· Making our homes safe havens

· How removing harmful chemicals and scents can change your home

· Noticing the strong scents in the cleaning aisles at stores—all from sealed containers

· Low level chemical soup...AND SO MUCH MORE!

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Branch Basics Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/branchbasics

Instagram: @branchbasics

Discount Code: LORIBETH for 15% off your Bundle Purchase!

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhood

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjCL4jnooMFhvqTeHXGxUxQ

Please Visit Today's Sponsors:

Beautiful & Simple: Today’s episode is supported by Beautiful & Simple—an online boutique I’ve created and filled with products that are fun, useful, and encouraging. Some new kids’ mugs and made on Maui bags drop today and I have some plans to bring in more poetry tea time fun! Head to www.beautifulandsimple.com to see this week’s newest additions and check back often for updates.

Primally Pure: Primally Pure has also generously offered a discount code for Elevating Motherhood listeners: be sure to use the code: LORIBETH10 for 10% off your first order. For a list of my favorite products & more information, head over to www.elevatingmotherhood.com/primallypure

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Kendra Adachi, the New York Times Bestselling author and self-proclaimed “Pollyanna with a Clipboard” is here today to make us laugh, think, and grow as we embrace what matters, ditch what doesn’t, and get stuff done.

The principles from her book The Lazy Genius are life changing—truly! Her book, her podcast, her Instagram, her website, this interview…everywhere Kendra shows up, she makes an impact! I’m thrilled to be sharing this joy-filled conversation with you…you can hear us smiling the whole time!

We dive into a few principles from her Lazy Genius life philosophy and then go beyond those to unpack all things motherhood that we wish would shift so that moms can begin to drop the guilt, genuinely support one another, and thrive! She puts the power back in our mama hearts, minds, hands, and calendars.

Kendra’s Bio: Kendra Adachi is a bestselling author and podcast host. As a systems expert and professional permission giver, Kendra helps others stop doing it all for the sake of doing what matters. She lives in North Carolina with her husband and three kids.

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Kendra’s Links:

Website: www.thelazygeniuscollective.com

Instagram: @thelazygenius

Podcast: https://www.thelazygeniuscollective.com/lazy

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhood

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjCL4jnooMFhvqTeHXGxUxQ/featured

Please Visit Today’s Sponsors:

Branch Basics: Thanks to Branch Basics for supporting today’s episode of Elevating Motherhood! Branch Basics is an educational company that offers non-toxic, simple to use cleaning solutions for your home—using one powerful, plant & mineral based cleaning concentrate. You can literally use their one concentrate to clean everything…from bathrooms & windows to floors & laundry. Simply dilute their safe, effective cleaner into their refillable bottles. The instructions are right on the label. Branch Basics has been an amazing addition to our home. I’m always looking for ways to reduce my family’s toxic burden while maintaining quality and effectiveness…& Branch Basics fits the bill. Plus their goals align with mine...to make cleaning sustainable, affordable, and simple. Branch Basics has generously offered a discount code to listeners of Elevating Motherhood…use the code LORIBETH for 15% off their starter kits. Head over to elevatingmotherhood.com/branchbasics for more information.

Bookshop.org: Book lists are one of my favorite things (besides reading books & listening to audiobooks!). I love it when other bookworms share lists of their favorite books and wish lists for what they plan on reading next. It gets me excited about reading, introduces me new authors, topics, and genres, and takes the overwhelm out of sorting through massive online search results for things like “best parenting books” and “best books for children.” I've created book lists just for you! They're available now at https://bookshop.org/shop/loribeth I hope you enjoy them!

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Today’s episode is SO COOL. I have my numerology chart read to me for the first time ever and you get to hear my reactions to the results in real time. This was a wild conversation. Not only am I blown away by the accuracy of my chart, but I’m so inspired by the ideas and conviction I feel after hearing it.

My excitement is not me putting all of my faith in numerology or using it to replace my religious beliefs. Not at all. This reading carries the same weight as other ways I’ve gotten to know myself better—personality type indicators like the enneagram and Meyers-Briggs (although I do appreciate the presence of spiritual elements in numerology). This was so fun and insightful. It gave me lots to think about on my own personal journey of figuring out who I am—I feel 5 steps closer to my true self after this conversation.

You can tell I’m really excited to talk with my good friend Nadia Bernardy. The ideas are flowing at a really fast pace as we unpack where we are on our own journeys and how stepping into our true selves helps us step out into the world as our true selves and serve others.

I’m so curious and am going to ask you guys over on Instagram stories today: Do you see signs and symbolism in your life and in nature? Are any of those signs sometimes in the form of numbers for you? Do numbers speak to you? Are you someone who often sees groups of numbers together like 11:11 on the clock or 555 on license plates? If so, you’re going to love this conversation! Even if numbers don’t pop out to you yet or you’re just curious, I think you’re really going to like this episode.

Our guest today, Nadia Bernardy was with us in Episode 07 talking about Universal Law…I’m still not over the law of abundance (I literally think of it every day and every time I put together an episode for you). The confirmation in this conversation of that abundance and the importance of showing up as your true self in the world…wow. I feel so affirmed in this podcast project and my work to support mothers…I was floored and humbled all at once. I want that kind of confirmation for you. I want that kind of reassurance that knowledge and self-study can bring so I’ll be sure to link to how you can have your numerology chart read, too, in today’s show notes.

Nadia’s Bio: Nadia Bernardy is an Intuitive Coach who helps people tap into their true gifts to create work that lights them up. She is the Founder of Work & Woo and Host of the Where Dreams Are Made Podcast. She has been helping creative entrepreneurs share their gifts with the world since 2008.

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Nadia’s Links:

Website: www.nadiabernardy.com

Instagram: @workandwoo @nadianumerology

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhood

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjCL4jnooMFhvqTeHXGxUxQ/featured

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This episode broke me open. You’ll hear at the beginning how I’m almost kind of hesitant to bring up anything because I live on an island and what if people don’t like what I have to say about my birth stories or improving birth culture (here or anywhere). But Mandy Irby is a safe space—she is a safe person to open up to and share honestly and grow and change with. And I’m thrilled and humbled to be able to introduce her to you.

Mandy first caught my attention when another guest here on the show suggested that I check out her work. I went to her YouTube channel and wow! I discovered that she was dropping truth bombs as a L&D nurse—one of the only ones I’ve ever heard speak truth from the perspective of a nurse while also supporting parents, other nurses, and just telling the truth. It’s in that truth that birth culture can elevate and change for the better.

In her words, she likes to “shake shit up,” and if we’re being honest, that is EXACTLY what needs to happen to our modern hospital birth culture. This is not an episode that puts down or shames anyone—what it IS is a taste of honesty for a change.

She brings the mother AND L&D nurse perspective which is so balanced and refreshing and needed.

Mandy’s Bio: Mandy Irby, BSN, RNC-OB, C-EFM, LCCE, SpBCPE, APBT (aka The Birth Nurse) is a trauma-sensitive parent and nurse educator passionate about a more parent-centered and respectful birth culture. Mandy helps pregnant people and families prepare to birth boldly by understanding and advocating for voice, choice, and physiology. She’s been a labor nurse for over eleven years. Mandy is also a Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator, Authorized Peanut Ball Trainer, Spinning Babies Certified Parent Educator, and she absolutely loves connecting with L&D Nurses in her Biohacking for Birth and Peanut Ball workshops. She’s currently working from home with her engineer husband and daydreams of more office space and home espresso machines. Mandy loves exploring new trails and creeks with her two young children, running with a podcast on, and celebrating no-potty-accident days with their newest 4-legged family member, Maizey.

Mandy does not tiptoe around birth culture changes that need to be made: everything from implicit biases, systemic racism, and toxic hospital culture including: abuse, assault, and coercion. She’s an advocate for mothers, birth workers, midwives, labor delivery nurses, and OBs. She’s almost like this super optimistic & compassionate glue that we all need to come together and move forward together to elevate modern birth culture.

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Mandy’s Links:

Website: www.mandyirby.com

Facebook: fb.com/thebirthnurse

Instagram: instagram.com/mandybirthnurse

YouTube: youtube.com/mandyirby

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhood

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjCL4jnooMFhvqTeHXGxUxQ

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“Perfectionism is not just impossible in parenting but it is deeply at odds with our goals.”

When I read the book Expecting Wonder, it isn’t what I expected. I’m not 100% sure WHAT I expected but it really showed me that I came into a pregnancy book with expectations. I don’t know whether I thought it was going to be a story version of What to Expect When You’re Expecting or what…but I ended the book a different person. (Even as a non-pregnant person who has birthed three babies, I shut that book and felt heard & known in a way I haven’t before). Today’s conversation with the author Brittany Bergman will really show you why.

This book is a must read for moms who are expecting, who have had babies, and really anyone in the childbirth community. Brittany takes on modern motherhood culture messaging and names some of the major issues plaguing moms and thoughts around pregnancy. She also makes space for stories, listening, grace, growth, honesty faith, slowing down, self-compassion, instinct, and intuition. I’d love to see this book at the top of the list for new mamas over many of the other popular ones out there.

I love Brittany’s focus in her book. She sees pregnancy so much more than what is presented to us. It’s sold as a season that is hyper-focused on the physical -- the growing baby, a woman's growing body. We’re told what changes to expect, what to eat, what to do, and what not to do. But pregnancy isn’t just a means to an end of getting a baby into the world. It is a deeply transformative process for us as we become mothers. If we can lean into all the feelings pregnancy brings up -- not just joy and gratitude, but fear, loss, and even sorrow -- we can collaborate in the process of creating new life, for our children and for ourselves.

We swim in the deep end in this episode! It’s like Brittany and I met by the pool for the first time and decided to jump in the deep end and not get out for two hours. I could have talked with her all day…and I feel like you’ll feel the same, like you just want to stay in the deep end with her and listen all day.

Brittany’s Bio: Brittany L. Bergman is an author who is passionate about telling stories that provide refreshment, connection, and encouragement to mothers who don't want to lose sight of their identity. Her essays on motherhood have been featured in a variety of publications, including TODAY Parents, Motherly, Coffee + Crumbs, and The MOPS Blog. She lives in the suburbs of Chicago with her husband, Dan, and their two children. By day, she is a copy editor of nonfiction books at a publishing house. Her first book, Expecting Wonder, is about the identity-level transformation we experience as we become mothers.

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: @loribethauldridge & @elevatingmotherhood

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The Grammy’s were supposed to be this weekend and have now been postponed until March 14th from what the online world tells me. Today’s guest is part of a Grammy award winning band that was nominated for another Grammy this year…but then turned it down. Joe Mailander is the guitar player for The Okee Dokee Brothers and he is here with us today to talk more about the band’s heart behind their choice to decline their nomination as well as #allthethings. I kind of mean that—this conversation is amazing.

We go deep and wide in today’s episode covering all things singer/songwriter, parenting, child development, stigmas surrounding children’s music, the evolution of family music, history, storytelling, music genres, the creative process, connection with nature, adventuring, and how parents are changing the world.

Okee Dokee Brothers Bio:

As childhood friends growing up in Denver, Colorado, Joe Mailander and Justin Lansing were always exploring the outdoors. Whether it was rafting down their neighborhood creek or discovering hiking trails through the Rocky Mountains, Joe and Justin were born adventurers. Now, as the GRAMMY® Award-winning Okee Dokee Brothers, they have put this passion for the outdoors at the heart of their Americana Folk music. Joe and Justin record and perform family music with a goal to inspire children and their parents to step outside and get creative. They believe this can motivate kids to gain a greater respect for the natural world, their communities, and themselves. The five-time Parents’ Choice Award winners have garnered praise from the likes of NPR’s All Things Considered and USA Today, and have been called “two of family music’s best songwriters.

If you’re here because you’re already a huge Okee Dokee Brothers fan like myself and my kids, welcome! Joe is so great! If you’re new to their music, welcome! I’m thrilled to be the person who gets to introduce you to modern family music—not only from The Okee Dokee Brothers but other bands and musicians that Joe generously shares with us, too.

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Okee Dokee Home: www.okeedokee.org

Elevating Motherhood Home: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

On Instagram: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhood @okeedokeebros

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If you tuned into this podcast, I’m giving you a big hug. You’re probably here because you’re ready for change…maybe you or your kids have been struggling with virtual learning options…or you just need to know what your options are.

Or you might know friends who are struggling and talking about homeschool or wanting to know more about it and you wanted to check it out as a resource for them.

Or maybe you’re a teacher who is wondering what they heck this woman is going to talk about. Well, I’m not going to dis teachers or schools. They have been tasked with the impossible this year. We all have. I’m not going to dis parents either if virtual learning isn’t the right fit. This will be a space for support and options. Whatever your “why” for tuning in, I’m glad you’re here.

My intention for this show is to let parents know that there ARE options—and that homeschool is a legal, viable, freeing option for many families. Even if you have never homeschooled before.

I’m shocked at the number of parents who tell me that they didn’t know homeschool was even an option—that they felt like they “had to” do the virtual route this year. But it’s just not true. Homeschool is a valid, legal option in all 50 states (you can look up your state’s homeschool laws at hslda.org …HSLDA stands for Homeschool Legal Defense Association). That’s one place to start.

BUT I know from teaching classes to new homeschoolers and being a new homeschooler myself once upon a time that it is very overwhelming to jump into homeschool. Most people don’t dive into homeschool feeling confident, like it’s no big deal, or have a ton of experience they bring to the table on day one.

Before most parents can even think about getting started, they have to work through some hang-ups or notions that are in their head or heart. I want to go over a few of those with you and speak some insight and wisdom into those legitimate concerns.

7 Common Concerns About Homeschooling:

Concern #1: “I don’t have the patience to homeschool my kids.”

Concern #2: “I don’t want my kids to fall behind.”

Concern #3: “I don’t know what I’m doing.”

Concern #4: “My child won’t listen to me on a regular day, how will they listen to me when I’m their teacher?”

Concern #5: “I can’t work from home and homeschool my kids.”

Concern #6: “I can’t teach math, I’m no good at it.”

Concern #7: “I can’t just stop in the middle of the year and start homeschooling.”

Answers, links, & resources are all available in the FULL SHOW NOTES at: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

More info can also be found at: WWW.HOMESCHOOLEXPLAINED.COM

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“Are you telling your soul to sit down and shut up so you can do the ‘more important’ work of getting through the week?” -Allison Fallon

A lot of writers worry that their writing isn’t going to be any good—but then find a way through that doubt during their writing. A lot of moms worry that what they’re doing isn’t any good either. What if moms had a tool to work through that doubt? Today’s guest Ally Fallon makes a solid case for how writing could be just the tool we need. She brings all kinds of encourage and insight about the sacred act of making space for writing in our lives and how to not get stuck in our to-do lists or lost in distractions.

Ally is a new mom with a new book: The Power of Writing It Down: A Simple Habit to Unlock Your Brain and Reimagine Your Life. She’s going to help us see the myths surrounding writing (including the one that writing is for some people and not for others). She shares how writing has been transformative in her own life and shows us how it can reveal things we didn’t know about ourselves before we wrote them down. Writing is revelation and learning through play…things that we see and encourage in our children on a daily basis. Ally shows us how we can now turn that same philosophy and encouragement inward and apply it to ourselves as moms.

We talk about all the things: writing, motherhood, misconceptions, spirituality, connection, life-long learning, the power of getting to know ourselves, and what you can do to get started today. We’re going to bust through some learned writer’s block and show you how to use writing as a vehicle to get to know your truest self. This is a great episode for all moms—whether you identify as a “writer” or not. And if you’re a homeschool mom, it’s easy to see how these writing ideas can crossover into homeschool as well.

Ally’s Bio: Allison Fallon is an award-winning author, sought after public speaker, and nationally recognized writing coach. She has worked with thousands of people to realize their writing potential and become published authors.

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Ally’s Links:

Website: https://findyourvoice.com/ and https://thepowerofwritingitdown.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allyfallon/ and https://www.instagram.com/letsfindyourvoice/

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhood

Please visit today's sponsors:

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Did you read the title of this episode and think, “I can’t seem to get ONE type of rest as a mom let alone 7!?” I know I did a double take when I first read about Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith’s idea that there are 7 different types of rest and that we need all 7, but…my curiosity was peaked! Diving into her explanations has brought me so much personal clarity, I’m so grateful for her work and all the ways she shows up and encourages mothers.

This episode is so life giving—Dr. Saundra is articulate, kind, authentic, and just so generous with her insights. She teaches us what we need to show up as our true and best selves.

I left this conversation feeling so understood—and I know you will, too. As Dr. Saundra presents these 7 types of rest, she doesn’t do it in a way that’s overwhelming but rather shows us a bigger picture and that we really are all quite unique. The types of rest I need most in this season of my life probably aren’t the same types of rest you will benefit from the most right now. There is no one size fits all answer for everyone, but when it comes to rest, there are a lot of options! These ideas about rest will help you learn more about your true self so that you can understand what you need—and then confidently meet that need armed with information and insights about these 7 types of rest.

This topic is also a great conversation starter. Once you hear the different types of rest and take the quiz online (www.restquiz.com), I bet you’ll want to send this quiz to your partner, spouse, sisters, friends, and moms group so you can dive deeper into this topic with them! It’s the resolution we didn’t know we needed going into the new year. Learning about rest is a great way for us to become more self-aware so we can support and nourish our true selves, recover our lives, renew our energy, and restore our sanity.

Dr. Saundra’s Bio: Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith is a Board-Certified internal medicine physician, speaker, and author. She is an international wellness expert featured in numerous media outlets including Prevention, MSNBC, Women’s Day, FOX, Fast Company, Psychology Today, and as a guest on Dr. Oz show. She is the author of numerous books including her new book Sacred Rest: Recover Your Life, Renew Your Energy, Restore Your Sanity, including ground-breaking insight on the seven types of rest needed to optimize your productivity, increase your overall happiness, overcome burnout, and live your best life. Over 100,000 people have discovered their personal rest deficits using her free assessment at RestQuiz.com. Learn more about Dr. Saundra at IChooseMyBestLife.com and DrDaltonSmith.com.

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhood

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Welcome to 2021! The New Year brings with it a lot of talk about expectations, health, and overhauling our lifestyles and diets with goals, resolutions, and the best of intentions.

And, to be honest, I find all of the expectations surrounding the New Year really overwhelming.

And if our main goal is a healthy body, mindset, and lifestyle—what does that mean? What does that look like? Over the years, I’ve come to believe that true health varies for each person—and the more we can learn and broaden our understanding of “health,” we can easily begin to apply a wide variety of perspectives, ideas, and teachings to ourselves and our own health journeys. There is no one size fits all answer when it comes to our children’s health, our family’s health, or our own health.

I’m really excited for the opportunity to introduce you to Hilda Labrada Gore—someone who has been very influential in my own personal health journey. In fact, her voice and work is such an everyday presence in my life and learning that I realized it’s probably time I shared more about her and her work with you. She’s frequently referred to as “Holistic Hilda,” (which, the idea of holistic is just one more layer in the “what is true health” conversation). In this episode, Hilda and I talk about the realities of modern motherhood, what holistic means, ancestral concepts of nutrition, how we can nourish ourselves and our children, intuition, connection, ideas for improving our diet and overall health, as well as myths and expectations surrounding the idea of health & wellness in our modern world.

Hilda’s Bio: Hilda Labrada Gore is the host and producer of the Wise Traditions and Tradiciones Sabias podcasts. A certified health coach, she has traveled the world exploring traditional practices for optimal well-being. Hilda shares the best of experts, experiences, and epic adventures on the podcasts, her Holistic Hilda YouTube channel, and on ancestral health tours that she leads. Hilda is also a podcast coach and the author of “Podcasting Made Simple.” She especially enjoys helping people in the health and wellness space launch and improve their shows. Hilda has energy to spare thanks to her love for sunshine and liverwurst.

Hilda is passionate about helping mothers nourish themselves and their children well. The grace she brings to this conversation is just what I’ve been searching for to set the tone for a positive, nurturing New Year!

FULL SHOW NOTES + EPISODE AND BOOK REFERENCES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhood

Please Visit Today’s Sponsors:

Primally Pure: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/primallypure (Discount Code: LORIBETH10)

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Here it is! The last episode of Elevating Motherhood for 2020!

Wow! I’ve been hitting “publish” on episodes every single week for over a year and this will be my first break since then. It’s just for the month of December 2020—I’ll be back in January with at least one episode every week, but this will be last one for this year.

And I say “taking a break” but really, I’ll still be working hard behind the scenes to bring you amazing episodes in 2021, I’ll be recording interviews the entire month of December with guests that have made my jaw drop when I saw them on my calendar. I’ll also be working on another online course for you and writing two books! One is written and being organized and edited, the other I’ve been working on one day at a time. But just know that I am so so so so so so excited to bring these loving, supportive resources into the world. Because I know how much they are going to support you. I want you to feel resourced and confident and encouraged on your motherhood journey. That’s been my goal with the podcast all along and it feels incredible to expand that support through other forms.

In this episode, I wanted to spend some time reflecting. Self-reflection is something I encourage you all to do a lot in the show, so today I wanted to spend time reflecting with you…

I reflect and overthink about the show a lot and really vet guests and topics to make sure I’m aligning my actions and values (something else I talk about on the show all the time). I want to make sure that each episode is supporting you on your motherhood journey by bringing up topics in a very specific way. There are certain elements that go into each show that I wanted to be transparent with you about…

Elevating Motherhood is: It’s more than just a title, it’s a way of being, it’s something we do every day we show up as powerful, curious, compassionate, self-aware moms.

* Variety of Topics

* Perspective

* Life Long Learning

* Resources

* Confidence

* Sisterhood

* Honoring the whole woman in each of us

* Honesty & Vulnerability

* Connection

* Breaking through societal messages that don't serve mothers

And if you need proof of just how we do that, look at all the topics and guests that have been on the show for the past 15 months…

We’ve had:

* Called to Create Series

* Homeschool Series

* Dozens of topics

* CEOs

* Authors

* International Guests

* International Audience (downloaded in 55 countries!)

Where Elevating Motherhood is Going:

* Finding Joy

* Fostering Wonder

* Cultivating Curiosity

* Creating Connections

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEAVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

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* What Little Wonder**

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Love the podcast? Please let me & your mama friends know! Leave a review on iTunes to let me what’s serving you best. And share, share, share the show on social media, with friends & family, by word of mouth—whatever way you want to bring in your sisters to the conversation as we elevate modern motherhood together!

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“What kind of leader am I?”

All my sisters who have a strong-willed child, please raise your hand. All my sisters with more than one strong-willed child, raise both hands (unless you’re driving). Those hands you have raised will be praise hands by the end of this episode. Our guest Wendy Snyder is incredible! I went into this conversation feeling like “yeah, I know about strong-willed children…three to be exact,” and came out feeling resourced and confident. I’m so so so excited to share her and her messages with you!

Our conversation is so cool because we talk about everything from details to philosophies. At one point she & I basically renamed Positive Parenting to Powerful Parenting and shifted our own perspectives and grew ourselves while we were sharing our hearts. That is a power of a conversation between moms who are passionate about figuring this motherhood thing out, sharing ideas and stories, and basically showing up as best we can even when we’re tasked with challenges like raising strong-willed children.

Wendy is going to show us how we can be both firm and kind leaders in our home and encourage us in such a genuinely supportive and informative way—I know you’ll love this conversation as much as I do!

Wendy’s Bio: Wendy Snyder is a Positive Parenting educator, family life coach & advocate. She is certified in Redirecting Children's Behavior & The Joy of Parenting Program. Wendy founded her online business, Fresh Start Family, so that she could spread the message of positive parenting across the world. She is the developer of two online positive parenting courses (The Foundations Course & Jesus Guided Parenting) and also has a monthly membership program to further support families. Wendy helps families parent with great purpose and intention by creating healthy, respectful & cooperative relationships.

Be sure to check out today’s show notes for Wendy’s free guide to help you navigate & love life with your strong-willed kiddo! Click here.

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Please visit today's sponsors: Blossom & Root (code: LORIBETH10) and Primally Pure (code: LORIBETH10)

Love the podcast? Please let me & your mama friends know! Leave a review on iTunes to let me what’s serving you best. And share, share, share the show on social media, with friends & family, by word of mouth—whatever way you want to bring in your sisters to the conversation as we elevate modern motherhood together!

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/loribethauldridge

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“Getting into ethical fashion—you have to give yourself grace.”

Part of growing as moms, as people, and really elevating motherhood is to gathering new information, listening to stories, and considering perspectives that maybe we haven’t heard before. This is one of those episodes that is going to gift us with new to us information about how our purchases impact others (including other moms) around the world.

My guest today Lauren Manwill is the owner of Naupaka—a thoughtfully curated online boutique that focuses on fair trade and ethical fashion & products. Lauren is here to share stories and insights about how our dollar can be used to make powerful purchases for social change (a timely topic given that the holidays are upon us). There’s also a lot of inspiration to be found in how she got started and the stories she shares about how she balances motherhood, owning a shop, and homeschooling.

Lauren is a gracious voice and really brings her kind heart to the table as she gently educates us on why purchasing ethically made and fair trade items matter. She brings just the right mix of grace and encouragement that we need to grow and move forward with this new information so that we can step into our power of creating change through our purchases.

She’s going to teach us about what it mean for something to be “ethically made.” Unfortunately, in today's world not everything is made with fair labor standards and in safe conditions. An ethically made item is made by adult artisans or laborers in safe working conditions, who are treated kindly and are paid fair living wages.

This episode has all the classic themes that keep showing up over and over again here on the show: connection, aligning our action and values, slowing down, and giving ourselves grace as mothers. It’s also a lovely compliment to last week’s interview with Obakki creator Treana Peake.

Lauren’s Bio: Lauren Manwill is the owner and co-founder of Naupaka, an island boutique offering a stylish and creative curation of ethically made and fair trade goods. When faced with the many ugly truths of the Fashion and Retail Industry, she set out to become part of the solution rather than adding to the problem. Lauren spends her days at home with her two young sons and husband on the island of Maui.

Lauren’s Links:

Website: www.naupakastore.com CODE: YAYA10 for 10% off your order

Instagram: www.instagram.com/naupakastore

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Please Visit Today's Sponsors: Beautiful & Simple and MUTU System

Love the podcast? Please let me & your mama friends know! Leave a review on iTunes to let me what’s serving you best. And share, share, share the show on social media, with friends & family, by word of mouth—whatever way you want to bring in your sisters to the conversation as we elevate modern motherhood together!

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/loribethauldridge

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“Our children want to see us happy.”

Since recording this episode, I’ve started to implement the tips Toni-Ann is going to share with us today and I have to tell you, it’s made a positive impact in my house and in my head. Modern moms suffer from decision fatigue—big time—(especially right now).

If you’re a working mom, stay at home mom, work from home mom, or you identify with some crazy mash up of all three. This episode is for you. Toni-Ann shares ideas for us about the benefits of preparation and planning, how to deal with overwhelm, and even answers the million dollar mom question “how do you do it all?”

Toni-Ann’s Bio: Toni-Ann is a full-time dentist, a reservist in the Navy, and the blogger and podcaster at Real Happy Mom. She is a wife and a boy mom that understands the struggle of juggling work and home. When she is not working, she enjoys watching WWE and watching stand-up comedy.

This episode is packed with practical how-to strategies and ideas for how we can bust through myths about what it’s like to be a modern, working mom trying to juggle it all.

In this episode, we talk about:

· Distance learning & virtual school

· Being flexible and making way for change

· Asking for help…and receiving help

· Preparation & planning ideas for moms

· Toni-Ann’s top 5 tips:

· 1. Get your clothes ready for the week

· 2. Get your purse/bag ready

· 3. Meal Plan

· 4. Plan out your week—include time for you

· 5. Restart your devices

· Decision fatigue and what we can do about it

· What we do for “me time” each week

· Listening to our body

· Getting rest when we need it

· Meeting our basic needs

· Overwhelm & how we deal with it

· Leaning into reminders

· Scheduling

· Toni’Ann’s planner of choice: Stil Planner

· Toni-Ann’s online organization of choice: Trello

· Working mom myths we need to bust through

· How working moms and dads are treated differently

· Dropping the vs. in mom conversations

· Aligning our actions and values…and giving other moms space to do that, too

· Taking time to figure out what you REALLY want in life

· The importance of self-reflection

· Inspiration over comparison

· Toni-Ann’s Freebie: Sunday Prep Checklist Ultimate Working Mom Hacks - https://the.realhappymom.com/working-mom-hacks

FULL SHOW NOTES AND LINKS AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

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Love the podcast? Please let me & your mama friends know! Leave a review on iTunes to let me what’s serving you best. And share, share, share the show on social media, with friends & family, by word of mouth—whatever way you want to bring in your sisters to the conversation as we elevate modern motherhood together!

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I’ve known Treana Peake for many years and have always admired her incredible vision and generous heart. If you follow me on Instagram, you know I’m a big fan of her foundation—The Obakki Foundation—and their scarves for water program. It’s been amazing watching her business and philanthropic partnerships transform over the years and I’m super stoked to share more of Treana and her growth with you. She is a true thought leader in the philanthropic and social entrepreneurship space and today’s conversation really opened my heart to the changes that are needed and new ways we can show up in small but also generous and smart ways.

Today Treana shares about the power of believing in people and the creative ways she is helping open doors for communities around the world. We talk about the transformative influence of connection and compassion. We also chat about the pragmatics of being a working mom and what the balance of all of that looks like. Treana brings dignity and joy to every topic in this conversation. I appreciate her international perspective and all the ways she is updating philanthropic philosophy and contributing to purpose-led movements.

I learned about how I can show up differently as a consumer and as a mom. This conversation is absolutely about how we show in the greater world as women and moms…but also how we show up inside our home, too. Treana’s got some great insights into what engaged parenting looks like and how it can help us dump some of the mom guilt.

Treana’s Bio: Treana Peake’s passion for travel and eye for design, combined with her lifelong dedication to making a difference in the world, inspired her to launch Obakki in 2005. The Obakki Foundation, its philanthropic counterpart, followed shortly thereafter. For decades she has travelled the globe, always on the lookout for opportunities to wander off the beaten path to connect with people and their stories. Recognized as an influential speaker in the field of social entrepreneurship, Treana has spoken about modern philanthropic solutions in front of the U.S. Congress and the United Nations, and has been featured as a TED Talk presenter speaking on the power of selfless giving. In addition, her hands-on work in the field has been recognized and endorsed by the UN, UNICEF and The Carter Center. Treana has travelled to Africa over 70 times, often with the Obakki Foundation (our philanthropic counterpart), where she’s formed partnerships with people and communities that have lasted decades.

Thanks for being here for this empowering conversation that encourages trust, service, passion, responsibility, connection, and motherhood.

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Treana’s Links:

Obakki: www.obakki.com

The Obakki Foundation: www.obakkifoundation.org

Instagram: @obakki @obakkifoundation @treanapeake

Visit Today's Sponsors: Naupaka Online Store and Blossom & Root

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: @loribethauldridge + @elevatingmotherhood

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Megan Hillukka shows up in a brave way and graciously serves moms with PTSD and mothers who have experienced loss. I’m so grateful she is with us today to share more about her healing journey as well as resources and information about PTSD.

You might be here because you think you have PTSD, you know you have it, you know someone who has it, or you suspect a loved one might be suffering from PTSD. I’m grateful you’re here whatever your reason. I really feel that Megan’s story, perspective, and information can help.

Megan shows us how the label of PTSD can open the door to compassion. She offers us recommendations for getting help, details about what PTSD is and isn’t, treatment options, and so much hope.

Megan’s Bio: Megan Hillukka is a bereaved mother, with 6 children, 5 who are still here. Megan encourages and supports grieving mothers that though the worst thing has happened to them, their life is not over. She also experienced PTSD from finding her daughter Aria when she died, and has done the work to find healing in her brain and her life. From this, Megan wants everyone to know that PTSD is not a life sentence, and that healing is possible. Through her experience of the death of her daughter Aria, Megan has learned tools and ways of shifting grief so that it can become just a little bit lighter, and easier to live with. She helps her clients carry their grief instead of suffer with grief.

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Megan’s Links:

Website: www.meganhillukka.com

Podcast: Grieving Moms Podcast (new show every Thursday)

Facebook Support Group: www.facebook.com/groups/cultivatedfamily

Please visit today's sponsors:

Ojai Energetics: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/cbd

Homeschool Explained: www.homeschoolexplained.com

Love the podcast? Please let me & your mama friends know! Leave a review on iTunes to let me what’s serving you best. And share, share, share the show on social media, with friends & family, by word of mouth—whatever way you want to bring in your sisters to the conversation as we elevate modern motherhood together!

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/loribethauldridge

Facebook: www.facebook.com/elevatingmotherhood

iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevating-motherhood/id1479731562

Blog: www.yayamamas.com

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“Knowing when to recharge and knowing that’s okay, to me, that’s part of the balance.”

Today’s episode is a treat. It’s a cheerful conversation between work from home moms trying to juggle life, love, kids, chaos, business, and ecommerce as life-long learning, entrepreneurial moms.

Sarah has a beautiful online shop called What Little Wonder…it’s sweet, it’s charming, and (to me) the best part is: it’s gender neutral. As a girl mom with three daughters, I was over the “pink is for girls” nonsense before my first was even born. Sarah has curated a stunning shop that speaks to my mama heart (and style preferences!) If you’re in the market for holiday gifts, I highly recommend you check out What Little Wonder as an awesome way to shop small, support a small business, and cheer on this mom boss.

Sarah’s Bio: Sarah McNamee started What Little Wonder as a single mom after seeing a hole in the market for more items that weren’t so “baby.” It’s been three years since it’s launch and Sarah is now a mom of 5 (her youngest is 3 months old!) Each and every item in What Little Wonder is something Sarah would choose for her own children (which works out for us because she has such great taste!)

(Valid 11/7/2020 to 11/9/2020 only): We also teamed up for a generous giveaway over on Instagram, so if you are catching this episode today or tomorrow, head over and enter!

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Sarah’s Links:

Website: www.whatlittlewonder.com

Instagram: @whatlittlewonder

Please visit today’s sponsors:

Branch Basics

Pam Barnhill’s Morning Basket Plus

Love the podcast? Please let me & your mama friends know! Leave a review on iTunes to let me what’s serving you best. And share, share, share the show on social media, with friends & family, by word of mouth—whatever way you want to bring in your sisters to the conversation as we elevate modern motherhood together!

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/loribethauldridge

Facebook: www.facebook.com/elevatingmotherhood

iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevating-motherhood/id1479731562

Blog: www.yayamamas.com

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“Dear God, Thank you so much for the seemingly good and the seemingly bad for in this moment, I do not know the difference.”

Sarah Foley is one of those people who makes me feel like a better person and better mom simply by being herself. She leads by example…the way she shows up for herself and others is the definition of inspiring. I literally think of her every time I get dressed for the day and do my makeup when I feel like I don’t have time and have wasted precious moments trying to talk myself out of it. Sarah sees her worth (which is a stellar example for moms!), and she sees the worth in others—and then points it out and champions it.

Sarah’s Bio: Sarah Foley is on a mission to redefine what disability looks like and empower women to see opportunities for growth in their own seemingly disabling circumstances. She runs a mindset and fitness coaching business and was just featured in the new book Your Second Act by Patricia Heaton. She gives a fresh perspective on how our struggles can enhance our lives.

I’m excited for you to connect with Sarah. She shares so many gems of wisdom with us in this episode about mindset. Get ready for a brilliant conversation about trust, honesty, perspective, boundaries, resilience, emotions, parenting, inclusion, and inspiration.

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Sarah’s Links:

Website: www.verticalblonde.com

Instagram: @verticalblonde

Facebook: @verticalblonde

Please Visit Today’s Sponsors:

Naupaka: www.naupakastore.com -- (Code: YAYA10 for 10% off)

Primally Pure: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/primallypure (Code: LORIBETH10 for 10% off your first purchase)

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/loribethauldridge

Facebook: www.facebook.com/elevatingmotherhood

iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevating-motherhood/id1479731562

Blog: www.yayamamas.com

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We are deep into the beautiful season of Autumn. The days are flying by (sometimes) and other days drag on. But here we are, already at the end of October. Halloween is happening. Thanksgiving is almost upon us. Then winter and a whirlwind of holidays.

I want to slow down and enjoy this time as much as I can. One way to do this is to bring nature inside, go outside more, and be willing to explore in nature not only despite the change in weather but because of the change in weather. This does not need to entail gigantic displays or complicated decorations that don’t work for the season of life you’re in (I’m looking at you toddler moms).

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

In this episode I talk about:

• Why we need to consider the seasons

• Why we need to bring more nature indoors (and how!)

• Nature deficit disorder

• The disconnect we feel on so many levels right now

• A return to simple

• Supporting our body's natural rhythms

• What bringing nature inside and connecting with seasons looks like

• Practical, easy ways to bring nature inside

• Nature tables/displays

• What to do outside

• The importance of curiosity

• Foraging vs. buying

• DIY fall crafts and activities

• Celebrating autumn with kids

• Plant identification

• Autumn poetry (I adore "Come Little Leaves" by George Cooper)

• Connection with everything: yourself, your kids, nature, the seasons

Please visit today's sponsors:

Blossom & Root: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/homeschool (CODE: LORIBETH10)

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Love the podcast? Please let me & your mama friends know! Leave a review on iTunes to let me what’s serving you best. And share, share, share the show on social media, with friends & family, by word of mouth—whatever way you want to bring in your sisters to the conversation as we elevate modern motherhood together!

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Stacey and I have a GOOD time when we talk and this conversation is no exception…I’m so glad you’re here with us right now. Stacey Robbins is a wealth of information, perspective, and compassion. And most of that stems from a long, healing health journey that she’s going to share more about with us today. At 27 years old, Stacey was on the verge. On many levels. She struggled big time…but found healing, health, and understanding after turning inward—she really showed up for herself, put in the work, and is now thriving and helping others on their journeys.

I want you to stay with us as this conversation unfolds. We do go over the basics of thyroid health and awareness—such as what the thyroid does, why we should be aware of it, and what topics to bring up with your trusted medical professional—just know that we talk about the most important components of thyroid health first. And they might not be what you think. After editing this episode, I kind of wondered if I overshared (because I have thyroid issues, too) or went too far away from main topic of thyroid health, but after thinking about it (okay, after overthinking about it), I decided that what this conversation boils down to is what almost every episode of Elevating Motherhood boils down to: connection. It’s all connected. All of life is connected. And this conversation is no exception.

My hope is that if you’re curious about thyroid health, wonder if something might be off with your thyroid, or are currently suffering with thyroid issues or Hashimoto’s that you’ll learn a lot by hearing Stacey’s story and insights. She is after all the author of You’re Not Alone and You’re Not Crazy

Stacey’s Bio: Stacey Robbins (CHC, RYT200) is a soulful storyteller and key influencer in the global conversation on healing your life through Hashimoto’s. Her award-winning book, “You’re Not Crazy and You’re Not Alone” is filled with hilarious, honest, and heart-aching moments along the journey of doctors telling her the symptoms were all in her head, to telling her a year and a half later to get her affairs in order. Stacey holds nothing back as she weaves her heroic tale and playfully inspires women from all walks of life to see that we can use every circumstance -- including a diagnosis -- as a way to transform our victim mindset, rediscover our sense of humor, and learn to love ourselves again. Having brought herself back from the edge of a health crisis and losing over 100 pounds, Stacey addresses some of the important aspects of our healing: the spiritual, mindset, and emotions that affect every area of our health. Stacey’s approach with her clients and community is focused on reminding us that we are the most powerful healer in our lives and taking 100% responsibility for our life, health, happiness, and peace. In her darkest moments she dreamed her life and then, has been able to rise and live the life of her dreams: Raising her family in unique ways, traveling cross-country and then, to Europe for months on end, leading gorgeous boutique retreats in Italy, and writing her book, “An Unconventional Life: Where Messes and Magic Collide” where she shares the wisdoms and tales of a life lived outside of the norm. She brings all of this -- and more -- to her community as a speaker, coach, and dream advocate. Women walk away feeling relieved, comforted, and empowered and more at home in their very own soul.

I wish that for you today, mama.

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Love the podcast? Please let me & your mama friends know! Leave a review on iTunes to let me what’s serving you best. And share, share, share the show on social media, with friends & family, by word of mouth—whatever way you want to bring in your sisters to the conversation as we elevate modern motherhood together!

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“What are the things we need in a village to feel supported in our motherhood?”

As humans, we crave connection. As moms, I swear we crave it tenfold. It feels good to be supported and seen and loved and understood wherever we are on our motherhood journeys. But there’s this message out there or a belief or a generational hangover or something that is holding us back from friendship…many moms feel like they have to mother alone, that that’s “just the way it is,” or even how it should be. But I believe that’s just not true. You are automatically part of a group when we become a mom. Whether that is in-person, online, or just energetically. You have millions of women surrounding you who get it. Women whom you can call “friend” for a moment or a season or a lifetime. But certain cultural messages or limiting beliefs can leave us feeling disconnected from that sisterhood. The village is automatic…and yet it also has to be created, too. How confusing. No wonder so many of us feel overwhelmed at the idea of making friends as adults…especially early on in motherhood or are going through a big life change like a move and are trying to sort out other details of our life at the same time.

Or many of us fall into the trap of believing that one person can fill all of our needs for us…that there is just one human—a unicorn BFF or a spouse—who can be the support, see us, know us, love us, and understand us. A sort of “one stop shop” for friendship. But I’m not sure it’s fair to put all of that onto one person and expect them to be everything to us or for us. Don’t get me wrong, my husband (who is one of my best friends) and my BFF (who is now also a mom) make me feel loved, supported, seen, and understood without a shadow of a doubt. BUT. They aren’t the only ones who can do that for me. And as I diversified my friend circle (mostly through moms group and by connecting with moms I used to babysit or nanny for whose children are older) I inadvertently took some of the burden off of my husband and best friend by having my friendship needs met by others. Having a diverse group of friends also gives me perspective that one person can’t always provide.

There are so many ways we can talk about and examine our friendships and I really appreciate the way today’s guest, Emily Siegel, breaks it down for us. She believes that we can thrive having 5 different types of connections—and I think she is onto something. Emily has been studying friendship, talking about it, shining a light on it, and really taking the mystery out of friendship so that moms everywhere can start to shift out of this mindset that friends are too hard to make.

Today she is going to help us look at mindset and motivation, give us ideas for how we can overcome obstacles when making mom friends, and ways we can give ourselves grace as we learn how to make friendship feel lighter.

Emily’s Bio: Emily Siegel is a corporate mom and fierce friend. Host of The Connected Mom Life Podcast, she believes that authentic connections are not a nice-to-have, they are a must-have! And she is on a mission to help moms create more of them. Because she knows we weren’t made to mom alone, and it’s time to stop trying.

This conversation left me feeling grateful for the friends I already have—Emily helped me see all the ways they offer support and understanding—but it also left me feeling open and excited for all the friends I don’t know yet as seasons change. My hope is that you’ll feel encouraged and grateful after this episode, too.

FULL SHOW NOTES OVER AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Love the podcast? Please let me & your mama friends know! Leave a review on iTunes to let me what’s serving you best. Thank you, mama! I appreciate you!

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Today’s episode is a lot of fun! Kris Dovbniak is back to share new ideas with us about how meal prepping and planning can help save us time and money as busy moms.

You already knew that? From all your Pinterest searches? And the 9 million blog articles about it? Well, if you’re anything like me, you already know that meal prep and meal planning is meant to be helpful….and yet. I just don’t do it. It could be a personality type “thing” or me just not wanting to put in a bunch of work preparing freezer meals that I might not want to eat later when the calendar tells me I’m supposed to eat them.

It turns out that is NOT what meal prep is all about.

Kris convinced me to get out of my own way and see meal prep for what it really is: an empowering tool that can help me create more time for myself, not less. I always pictured meal prep as batch cooking only, but Kris has opened my eyes to the multiple possibilities of prepping (even for picky eaters like me).

I went into this episode wanting to learn more from Kris because she’s so awesome and knowledgeable…but not necessarily wanting to meal prep based on what I thought prepping involved. But Kris taught me there are strategies and skills for everyone…including my personality type and easy ways I can meet my family’s individual needs.

I’m so glad you’re here for this episode. Kris is going to help us stress less about food so we can enjoy our lives more by creating our own convenience around food to nourish ourselves and our families well without all the hassle.

Kris’s Bio: Kris Dovbniak is a certified holistic health coach, intuitive eating counselor, and trained chef. Her passion is to help women uncomplicate eating, stress less about meals, and bring joy back into eating again! Her secret sauce marries intuition and intention to help women ditch dieting, and create simplified routines, practices, and mindset shifts for balanced eating. She is the host of the Healthy Balanced Mama Podcast and the creator of several online courses including Uncomplicated Eating and Healthy Mama Meal Prep. She lives on an island off the coast of New England with her sailor husband and their two daughters.

In this episode, Kris & I talk about:

· Why people don’t meal prep & plan

· Why Kris is passionate about meal planning (& why I’m so glad she is!)

· Breakfast to go (my motivation to meal prep)

· Bringing in intention to prepping and planning

· Nourishing & joyful (the goal of meal prep)

· Is there room for unique needs in meal prep?

· The challenges and joys of being a “feeling cook”

· Kris’s 3 Categories: Flexible Foodies, Modern Moms, Busy Babes (Which one are you? Listen to find out!)

And so much more!

*Full Show Notes are available at: www.elevatingmotherhood.com***

Kris has generously offered Elevating Motherhood listeners a discount code for her newest online course!

USE THE CODE: LORIBETH15 for 15% off Kris’s Meal Prep Course!

Find the course here: https://healthymamalife.teachable.com/?affcode=113443_lmt4skld

Love the podcast? Please let me & your mama friends know! Leave a review on iTunes to let me what’s serving you best. And share, share, share the show on social media, with friends & family, by word of mouth—whatever way you want to bring in your sisters to the conversation as we elevate modern motherhood together!

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If you’re listening to this, you probably have a seven-year-old or a child near that age…we all know that kids have curious minds and listening ears. If you’re listening to this episode around or near them or are in the car with them, just a heads up that in this episode around the 40- minute mark we talk about Santa Claus and the magic of Christmas and how we celebrate and present that to our children. Just mentioning it because I want to honor that every family has their own way of celebrating holidays and traditions…also, listening ears and curious minds and all that. I invite you to use your own discretion.

My oldest turns 7 years old this week. In honor of this big transition, I’ve invited educator Jessica Stack onto the show to share insights about this particular age.

Have you noticed that your 7-year-old is talking back more? Or expressing defiance? Skepticism? Suddenly not trying or eating foods they loved before? Sensory challenges? Unable to sit still at the dinner table? Maybe out of the blue your child needs glasses? Or you get the sense that they don’t see the world the same as they did just a short time ago. This new Independence and defiance can really catch us off guard as parents…what happened to our babies!?

The changes at this age aren’t all shocking…they might also be expressing heightened curiosity and a desire to seek out more in the world like wanting to know “the facts” about what’s the biggest, fastest, tallest, etc. and how things work. You may have also noticed they have a heightened sense of competition and comparison (wanting to be better than). Or even a resistance to learning because your 7-year-old tells you they feel like they “aren’t good enough” or can’t draw or write out what it is that’s in their head.

If any or all of this describes you or your child, you’re not alone! Our babies aren’t our babies anymore! We’ve got big kids! And one of the best ways we can help them through this transition is to understand more about what it is they are going through.

It’s really easy to see this age shift as a big pain, but Jess and I want to encourage you to be curious about this age and all the change that it brings.

Jessica’s Bio: Jess is a Hawaii mom who has worked in public, private, and Waldorf schools, giving her a unique perspective on child development. She has a passion for the theatre, visual arts, food, and helping others. Jess holds a Bachelor of Education from University of Hawaii Manoa and a Diploma of Rudolf Steiner Education from Taruna College in New Zealand. She and her husband Will live on the island of Oahu with their two sons.

FULL SHOW NOTE AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Follow Jess on IG, Facebook, & Pinterest: @haystackessentials

Please Visit Today’s Sponsors:

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Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/loribethauldridge

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I find parenting to be easier in some ways when we as parents are working with some basic child development information. For example, it’s easier for me to understand why my baby wants to put everything in their mouth if I know they are teething and that biting down on anything provides some relief from the pain of teething. Or that if a tween is unusually moody or distant it could be because she is getting ready to get her first period. These are all basic child development facts that are easy to remember…and easy to forget in the moment.

There are lots of developmental milestones that come at various ages and the more we can learn about these milestones as parents—see them in our kids now AND have some info about what is to come—the more we can show up with compassion for what is happening (or going to happen) naturally.

We’ve all heard of the 5 senses (maybe you’ve even heard of a 6th sense), but in some education circles, there are 12 senses that develop in 7-year cycles over 21+ years.

Our guest today, Hannah Freed, is here to share her incredibly comprehensive knowledge about the 12 senses with us as a way to empower us as parents. The more we know, the better we can show up and support our kids where they are developmentally.

Hannah’s Bio: Hannah first experienced her passion for serving populations with special needs when she was 16 and an exchange student in Germany. She did an internship during her 11th grade year at a Camphill community. Camphill is an international movement of intentional communities designed to meet the needs of children, youth, and adults with developmental disabilities through a combination of community life, the arts, and work on the land. (She talks more about it in the show—it’s really interesting). Since then she has continued on a path of working with children to help make their learning experiences are positive and fun. Hannah has taught in both public and private schools for 20 years. For the past 13 years she has been the Educational Support Therapist in two different Waldorf schools, addressing foundational learning and behavioral issues. She is also a mama of two amazing boys. In her spare time, she paddles and races Hawaiian outrigger canoes and soaks up vitamin D and Sea.

CREDENTIALS:

· BS Special Ed. from Appalachian State University in NC

· MEd. Elementary Ed. with Waldorf Teacher Certification from Antioch University of New England in NH

· Waldorf Remedial Teacher certification through Association of Healing Arts

· Advanced Practitioner certification through Integrated Listening Systems

· Safe and Sound Protocol Certification

· Trained in HANDEL and Brain Gym Methods

You are going to learn a lot today. (I know I did!) And I am so excited for you, mama!

In this episode Hannah & I talk about:

· What the 12 senses of child development are

· The Lower Senses: (0-7yo) Touch, Life, Movement, & Balance

· The Middle Senses: (7-14yo) Smell, Taste, Sight, & Warmth

· The Higher Senses: (14-21yo) Hearing, Speech, Concept, & Ego

· We dive into each of the senses—what they are, how to support them, healthy & unhealthy presentations of them, and more

· The reality of children today

· The importance of meaningful work (i.e. chores)

· How we can have sensory issues as adults (and see ourselves in the 12 senses even years later)

· Healthy diet and the role of food in development

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Follow Lori Beth on Instagram: www.instagram.com/loribethauldridge

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On the first day Hillary Richards and her husband got their foster license, they got a call to take in two small children. And they did. Their foster journey ended in adoption and Hillary is here with us today to share about her journey as a way to shine a light on the foster care system & provide a fresh perspective for all of us.

She also shares new terminology that I wasn’t aware of. In Hawaii, foster families are referred to as “resource families.” She talks more about that on the show and why those terms are used. I have to say, that info and that new term really got me thinking.

If you have ever considered foster care or feel it is on your heart to look into it, Hillary’s firsthand account will provide a loving lens through which to hear the real, the easy, the hard, the details—all of it. Hillary shared with me that when they were thinking about fostering, she sought out firsthand accounts to help with her decision and I’m honored to be able to host her on this worldwide platform to share her firsthand account as a way to support others who are considering fostering.

In this episode, Hillary & I talk about:

· Her family’s story about when and how they started their foster care journey

· How fostering turned into adoption

· The foster care licensing process

· The rollercoaster of emotions of fostering: the rub is holding opposing forces at the same time

· New terminology: in Hawaii, “Foster Care Families” are called “Resource Families”

· Understanding that you’re a resource for the whole family

· The nitty gritty of the foster care: visitation, lawyers, the court system, etc.

· Visitation—how that works and what it looks like

· Birth parents

· The change, uncertainty, and loss…and the bright side, too

· Loss of control

· Feeling “touchy” in certain seasons of fostering

· Dealing with insensitive comments

· Being the buffer

· Fostering when you already have children

· How we are already managing transitions in our life

· How parents play an active role when worries and “what if” moments are present

· Foster & Resource Family support that is available

· Overwhelm and exhaustion

· The power of talking with friends who are also fostering

· The importance of “making a buddy” who is also fostering

· Formal and informal support

· If training really prepares you for becoming a foster care family

· Our internal biases about fostering, race, religion, etc.

· How family members are often the first ones to step up when there is a need

· How your current parenting skills will serve you well

· How intrusive (or not) home visits are

· Background checks, full medical history, financial questions, proof of marriage (if applicable)

· Commitment time

· Vacation and foster care (I did not know you cannot travel with foster children…but it makes sense!)

· How fostering is portrayed in movies and storylines

· Healthy curiosity and moving away from sensationalism so we can get closer to the good

· Avoiding jumping to conclusions about foster children

· Seeing everyone as the whole people they are

· Ideas for moms who are interested in fostering

· It’s never a bad thing to have more people invested in a child’s life

Connect with Hillary:

Instagram: @hrichardsclay

Please Visit Today’s Sponsors:

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If you have a baby, are expecting a baby, or just want to understand what bodywork and craniosacral therapy is—is episode is for you!

Austin Rees is back on the show to share her wisdom with us. She was here for Episode 026 talking from the mom perspective about education reform and self-directed education…and now she is here to share all of the info from a professional standpoint as someone who specializes in craniosacral therapy, lactation, babywearing, tummy time, and reiki. I’ll link to all her wondering offerings available through her website www.nourishandalign.com

You know how it goes…we set out to talk about infant craniosacral therapy (what it is, how it helps, who it is appropriate for) and went on to talk about other types of infant bodywork, tummy time, tongue tie, fussiness while riding in the car (information I wish I would have known years ago!), finding the right practitioner, trust, community, all the things.

Austin’s Bio: Austin Rees (she/her) has been engaged in the health field for over 20 years. She began researching pregnancy, childbirth, and lactation through independent studies when she was completing her degree in biology at Hollins University. Following graduation, she enrolled in the Lotus School of Integrated Professions’ Massage Therapy Program from which she became a Licensed Massage Therapist. Austin began assisting parents with breast/chestfeeding support in 2005 as an accredited La Leche League Leader. Eventually she became an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) in 2011 and a Certified Babywearing Consultant through the Center for Babywearing Studies in 2013. Since 2015, she has trained and become a Certified TummyTime! Method Professional, a Reiki Master Practitioner, and a Tethered Oral Tissue (TOT) Trained Professional. As an IBCLC, Austin often saw families struggling with the symptoms caused by tethered oral tissue (TOT): A restriction in the mouth caused by a tongue, lip, or buccal ties. Such restrictions have been responsible for many latching difficulties including pain and low supply. When paired with a frenotomy: tongue tie release, Austin saw firsthand how Craniosacral Therapy (CST) contributed to improvements in latch, comfort at the breast, and changes in the infant’s tongue and jaw movement. Through continuing education in tongue tie release habilitation, it became evidently clear and a natural next step for her to combine her massage therapy and lactation backgrounds and become a Craniosacral Therapy Practitioner. She specializes in pre and post frenotomy (tongue/lip tie release) bodywork for infants using an individualized approach for each client and family. Austin is a mother to four children and is married to an army veteran. The Rees family chose to move to Baltimore, Maryland in 2015 when her husband retired from the military. Immediately, they felt at home and are dedicated to volunteer in local organizations that strengthen the Baltimore community.

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“Act normal and read the room.”

Hilary Harris and her husband Rich are the hosts of the new podcast “It’s Okay to Laugh.” They are knocking it out of the park! As special needs parents, they felt called to talk more openly and honestly about their experience as a way to let other special needs parents know they are not alone and gently educate anyone else who is interested in supporting special needs families.

There are a lot of misconceptions surrounding disabilities. Being a care giver can be very isolating—Hilary understands this and is showing up in creative ways to shine a light into that space.

I love that you’re here for this conversation—whether you’re a special needs parent who is looking for support or a mom who is looking for ideas on how to help friends who have special needs children or how we can lovingly teach our kids how to interact with special needs families.

Hilary’s perspective, honesty, and humor are refreshing for all parents. She is honest about the realities of her situation and yet still full of hope, dreams, and a belief that there is more.

Hilary’s Bio: Hilary and her husband Rich are parents to three little girls, Jane, Haven, and Millie. They pastor at The Father’s House Church in Northern CA. Together they host their podcast, “It’s Okay to Laugh”. Their lives were changed when their first daughter Jane was born. Jane lives with epilepsy, blindness, immobility and special needs. It is Hilary’s desire to share their story through writing and speaking, to bring hope, healing and laughter to others who have faced disappointment and tragedy. Hilary graduated from Sacramento State with a BA in communication and is currently pursuing her Bachelor of Theology. Hilary LOVES eating great food, getting her fitness on, spending time outside with her family, and purging her kid’s toys when they aren’t looking.

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Love the podcast? Please let me & your mama friends know! Leave a review on iTunes to let me what’s serving you best. And share, share, share the show on social media, with friends & family, by word of mouth—whatever way you want to bring in your sisters to the conversation as we elevate modern motherhood together!

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Bestselling author, speaker, and mom to 5 boys Alli Worthington is here with us today to share about her new book Standing Strong: A Woman’s Guide to Overcoming Adversity and Living with Confidence.

I loved her book. I felt so understood and genuinely empowered in every chapter. It made me really slow down and take time to reflect on things like: What happens when we show up with faith? What happens when we choose not to be held back by crippling self-doubt and adversity? Why are women drawn to these empowerment movements? What does sisterhood in motherhood look like?

Alli’s message is steeped in abundance and faith. She encourages women to show up as who they are not who they’re told they should be. She confronts these messages about playing small with grace and models how to show up to the world with the gifts and talents we were given. On top of all of this, she’s just a gem. Truly.

Alli’s Bio: Alli Worthington is known for her straight-talking encouragement and practical tools that help women reach their dreams in business and life. She’s a business coach and co-founder of Called Creatives, where she coaches writers and speakers.

Author of The Year of Living Happy, Fierce Faith, and Breaking Busy, Alli is a well-known speaker and host of the popular podcast, The Alli Worthington Show.

Her no-nonsense, guilt-free take on business, family, and balance have led to appearances on TODAY and Good Morning America. (I’m so thrilled to have her here on Elevating Motherhood!)

Alli lives with her husband, Mark, and their five sons outside of Nashville with the only golden retriever who refuses to retrieve.

In this episode, Alli & I talk about:

· Her story

· Online opportunities for women

· Propel Women

· Taking responsibility for who/what we allow into our lives

· Not letting self doubt hold us back

· Answering God’s call

· The Writing Process: what it’s like to write and publish a book

· Showing up in Faith

· Breaking out of the good girl narrative

· The difference between playing small & humility

· Abundance…morethan enough

· Being called to more…and answering the call

· How we can face adversity & self doubt with strength, purpose, & courage

· Practical steps for us to reframe to abundance

· Partnership mindset

· Ezer

· Women hold the world up

· Women as world changers

· When the enemy holds us down & how we can move forward with confidence in those moments

· The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis

· Distraction

· Fear outside of ourselves (and not something is inside)

· Sisterhood in motherhood

· Finding community with other moms

· Why we need “Battle Buddies”

Alli’s Links:

Website: www.alliworthington.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Its.Alli.Worthington/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alliworthington/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/alli

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“Less stress, more trust.”

I’m so glad you’re here to learn more about yourself—body literacy, knowing and understanding how our body works & why + what your body is trying to tell you is so important. Self-awareness is a crucial to our overall health and wellness.

That’s why I’m so excited to introduce you to Dr. Molly Stiens who is here to share her thoughts on body literacy, managing stress, and also insights into the “whys” behind how our body works and how we can work with our bodies just as they are.

We’re going to talk about neuroception, creating a sense of internal safety, ways we can understand our longest nerve, our social engagement system, fight, flight, or freeze instincts, gut feelings and the role our nervous system plays in all of this.

Expand your heart and brain in this episode

Dr. Molly’s Bio: Molly Stiens DC is a mediator in unleashing the healing power of the body, community building enthusiast and encourager of living a radically heart centered life. Dr. Molly holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology & Kinesiology from Pittsburg State University & a Doctorate of Chiropractic from Parker University. Additional certifications include the Webster technique, training with ICPA, in craniosacral work, as a birth Doula & with BIRTHFIT pregnancy & postpartum fitness instruction. Her prayer is that this work will remind all individuals of the inherent power continually working within and around you.

In This Episode Dr. Molly & I Talk About:

· Her journey to becoming a chiropractor and studying what health and wellness can mean outside of “conventional medicine”

· How Beyonce saved her life (listen in for the joke)

· Body literacy

· Teamwork in medical care – partnership with a care provider

· The importance of knowing your body and

· Teaching & life long learning

· Her Health 101 chats

· Community education

· Creating internal safety

· Redefining what it is to be a “teacher” and how we learn

· Vagal nerve – what it is and what it does

· Neuroception

· Fight, flight, or freeze responses

· Nature vs. nurture in relation to the vagal concept

· Parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous systems

· Cortisol in the air right now & how palpable it is

· Ways you can support your unique neurological responses

· How we influence our children’s reactions

· How we keep each other in check

· The importance of self-awareness

· Generational differences

· The role of art, music, & nature

· Oxytocin mediated responses

· Breathwork

· The role of flexibility

· How the pace of modern life is affecting us

· If the cultural push for productivity is serving us

· Balance & expectations – seeking ease & happiness

· Yucky motherhood narratives and how to step out of them

· The impersonal element of life-long learning

· Letting go of perfection

· Finding connection s—within yourself, your family, your community, with nature

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

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I almost called this show: “The Truth About Sex: Libido Differences, Mindset, & Confidence” because there is so much to author Sheila Wray Gregoire’s messages in her new book 31 Days to Great Sex. You’ll hear in this conversation just how understanding and compassionate she is while also encouraging us to take small steps forward toward a better sex life.

The work she is doing is incredible. Sheila really flings open the door when it comes to sex—how we view it, how we talk about it—she brings honest perspective to the table for us to consider. In her newest book she points out that our primary sex organ is…our brain. Mind. Blown. When I read that I couldn’t help but think how freeing that thought was—what a conversation starter for any couple! (or moms group!)

We talk about lots of mom specific things in this episode…exhaustion and how to overcome it, connection, rebuilding trust, and confidence (in the bedroom, within our marriage, and in our own skin).

Sheila’s Bio: Sheila Wray Gregoire is a popular speaker, marriage blogger, and the author of eight books, including The Good Girl’s Guide to Great Sex. She loves encouraging women in their relationships, both with God and with their husbands, children, and friends. Her passion is for marriage, and she and her husband Keith speak together at marriage outreaches and at FamilyLife Canada marriage conferences. Sheila believes in authenticity, and gives real solutions to the very real and messy problems women, and couples, can face. You can usually find her in Belleville, Ontario, where she’s constantly texting her two young adult daughters and knitting. Preferably simultaneously.

In This Episode Sheila & I Talk About:

· Her two books on sex and how they differ

· The importance of being

· How sex is so much more than a physical act

· How to put the

· Mindset & beliefs we have around sex

· Looking at sex through the female lens

· Differences between men & women

· How we’re not broken if we don’t want to have sex on demand

· The toxic Hollywood views & messages of our culture that portrays sex all wrong

· Libido differences—they are normal and fluctuate

· Orgasm & foreplay

· Transitioning out of an “in control, clean, and organized” mindset

· Vulnerability

· Rebuilding trust

· Exhaustion and sex

· Not making sex a “to do” list item

· Survey results: the best years for sex in a marriage are between years 16 to 24

· Closeness that can come with raising kids together

· Identifying roadblocks to sex

· How porn effects marriages and warps our view of sex

· Confidence in the bedroom

· Dropping the pass/fail mindset when it comes to sex

· The power of flirting!

· Not making sex such a “heavy”

· Becoming brave when we talk about sex

· Finding ways to get to know ourselves, meet our needs, and just open up and talk about sex, be honest about it, and enjoy it

You can connect with all things Sheila at: www.tolovehonorandvacuum.com

Love the podcast? Please let me & your mama friends know! Leave a review on iTunes to let me what’s serving you best. And share, share, share the show on social media, with friends & family, by word of mouth—whatever way you want to bring in your sisters to the conversation as we elevate modern motherhood together!

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Are you thinking about hiring a doula but aren’t 100% sure it’s the right choice for you? How does your partner feel about having a doula?  Are they on the fence? Aren’t sure it’s necessary? It’s a big decision. Everything surrounding babies and birth can feel like a big decision. That’s why my husband Chris is with me today to help you on your quest to gather more information, stories, and resources to find out if hiring a doula is right for you. This episode is 2 parents who had 3 babies with 3 doulas sitting down together and casually talking about how our 3 different doulas all helped us before, during, and after the births of our children and why we absolutely recommend bringing a doula into your birth team. This show doesn’t contain medical advice, just parts of our 3 birth stories in the hope it helps you and your husband or partner by shining a light on how our doulas served BOTH of us during the pregnancy, birth, and newborn seasons of parenting. What is a Doula? I’ll start by telling you what they are not: they are not doctors, midwives, or lawyers. What they are: kind, compassionate, steady birth support Our Bio: Chris & Lori Beth have been together for 10 years, married for 7.5, with 3 kids together. We own a family renovation business, homeschool our kids, and live on a small farm on the island of Maui. We’re both BIG fans of doulas. We were able to see in hindsight (and in the moment!) just how pivotal their presence was at each of our births.  This episode is also a shout out to my 3 doulas—Jill, Kristina, and Kiana!—who helped me not only educate myself (soooooo much!) but also supported me during my labors and helped me process my birth stories after. Mamas, this is a good one to share with your birthing partner if they need more information. I think you’ll both appreciate Chris’s directness, examples, and stories. Sometimes it just helps to hear the dad’s perspective from someone else. We both hope it helps. In This Episode, We Talk About: · How our doulas provided physical, emotional, and informational support during my pregnancies, hospital births, and postpartum · How our doulas acted as buffers between the two of us as parents · How our doulas acted as buffers between me and the hospital staff · Evidence based birth says that a 2012 study showed that only 6% of birthing women used doulas (here’s hoping that number has increased over the years!) · The incredible steady support they offered during labor and delivery · How they helped me process my birth story after · Common hang-ups people have about hiring doulas and our personal responses to those · Why we believe doulas are key birth workers & should be more common

Online Doula Resources: · www.evidencebasedbith.com · www.pacificbirthcollective.org · www.dona.org

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Many families are moving this year out of want and/or need. If this is you and you’re considering selling, buying, renting, or relocating…or if you just want to hear some interesting and wild real estate stories, this episode is for you!

Jessica Baker is here with us today to give some practical tips for buying and selling a home, things to keep in mind for local and long-distance moves, and even Hawaii and Maui specific suggestions and stories. Jessica is a Maui based realtor with Hawaii Life and a personal friend who has been a knowledgeable and kind resource for me and many other families here on the island and is definitely someone I want to share with you.

Moves are stressful and complicated…our hope is that this conversation gives you some insider ideas, peace of mind, inspiration, and encouragement.

Jessica’s Bio (in her own words):

My journey to Maui began at a very early age! Well before I could read I always wanted to look at picture books of tropical fish and marine life. Eventually I would share with anyone who would listen, "When I grow up, I am going to swim with dolphins in Hawaii!" This was a very big dream for a kid in Michigan.

Fast forward to 2006. After graduating summa cum laude from the University of Michigan, I was fortunate enough to take my first (and only) vacation here to Maui with my parents. While we were having dinner that first night at the iconic Pioneer Inn in Lahaina Town, I just knew that the island was calling me. Armed with two suitcases and a bicycle, my next flight back to Maui two months later was as a brand new resident.

Now I have happily lived in Lahaina for fourteen years...(read Jessica's full bio over at www.elevatingmotherhood.com)

In this episode, Jessica & I talk about:

· Long distance vs. local moves

· How we both came to Maui

· What to look for when looking for a realtor

· Questions to ask your realtor

· Healthy boundaries & clear communication

· Clarifying expectations with your realtor

· When to schedule the moving company

· Things families have done really well to help kids get settled

· The benefits of seeing a house without kids in tow

· The importance of seeing “how the house will live”

· Moving tips: labeling boxes,

· Moving from the mainland to Hawaii

· Long term rental tips

· Prepping your kids for the move

· A bit about how kids process the transition

· Asking for help during a move

· Over-planning and under-planning

· Moving resources (being local and location specific)

· Box #1…and what it should have in it

· If your dream is to move to Maui…what’s it’s really like

· WILD stories about moving and showings!

Jessica's Website: www.jessicabakermaui.com (see the website for all her links & the free download!)

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Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

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Blog: www.yayamamas.com

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“Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to your life?” Luke 12:25

2020 has been an emotional roller coaster. This year has been nuts. Add to that the fact that motherhood can feel nuts some times and comes along with so many emotions that you just don’t know about until you’re in the thick of it.

A lot of moms I talk with (myself included!) talk about how these emotions can feel like they get out of control sometimes. And our guest today, Elizabeth Laing Thompson, is here to talk about just that as she shares insights into emotions, motherhood, types of feelers, self-awareness, anxiety, and offer ideas for us from her new book: All the Feels: Why Emotions are (Mostly) Awesome & How to Untangle Them When They’re Not.

Elizabeth’s Bio: Elizabeth Laing Thompson is the author of All the Feels, When God Says, "Wait," and When God Says, "Go." She writes at LizzyLife.com about clinging to Christ through the chaos of daily life. As a speaker and novelist, she loves finding humor in holiness and hope in heartache. Elizabeth lives in North Carolina with her preacher husband and four spunky kids, and they make her feel humbled but happy, exhausted but exhilarated, sometimes stressed but often silly—well, you know . . . all the feels.

As a Big Feeler, I needed this book and this conversation. Elizabeth’s insights really helped me learn more about how people come at conflict, stress, and anxiety in different ways. Her fresh, loving perspective gives us ways we can come to understand ourselves—and our emotions—in a really freeing way.

In this episode we talk about:

· Being a “preacher’s wife” & how it influenced her book

· Preacher’s kid to preacher’s wife…and all the stereotypes that come along with that

· How ministry families aren’t perfect and are not trying to be perfect

· The three types of feelers: Big Feelers, Steady Feeler, Reluctant Feeler

· Our spiritual self & spiritual health

· Prayer & feelings

· What happens when we stay stuck in our own thoughts and narratives

· The power of reflection…slowing down and taking time to get to know ourselves better

· Ways Elizabeth encourages people to slow down

· How both of us find that slow down time while our kids are asleep

· Journaling our feelings as a way to identify our feelings, upsets, etc.

· Anxiety (is anxiety even an emotion?)

· Sources of anxiety and stress

· Variety within stress and anxiety

· How to equip ourselves to handle stress and anxiety

· Feelings on caffeine

· Taking personal responsibility for our emotions and lives

· Becoming empowered by accepting this personal responsibility

· How we are not stuck with our emotions

· “The Happy House”

· How moms set the emotional barometer of the house…we set the mood

· Having a house where everyone feels comfortable and safe communicating their feelings

· One person’s feelings are not allowed to dominate the house

· Selflessness

· Self Control

· Self Awareness

· “Doing the work” as moms

· Being aware of our gifts and how they are helpful…and how knowing that can help us understand others

· Empowered to grow

Elizabeth’s Links:

Website: http://LizzyLife.com

Facebook: https://facebook.com/aLizzyLife

Instagram: @elizabethlaingthompson

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Sponsors: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/sponsors (Blossom & Root)

Instagram: @loribethauldridge

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What are periods like for you? Awesome? Awful? A breeze? Maddening? Inconsistent? Non-existent in this season? Whatever your current relationship with your body and period, whatever your age, whatever season you’re in when it comes to your menstrual cycle, this conversation is for you.

Did you know you can work WITH your menstrual cycle, understand more about your hormones, and live in harmony with your body rather than pushing against it? And all with simple tracking techniques and one helpful mindset shift.

Claire Baker is here to share with us about what those do-able changes look like and how they can positively influence our relationship with our bodies and daily schedules. Her work has helped me get more in touch with my own menstrual cycle and energy levels and taught me how to have more grace with myself and be more productive by simply being aware of where I am in my cycle.

Claire shares so much in her new book 50 Things You Need to Know About Periods: Know Your Flow and Live in Sync with Your Cycle that just launched yesterday here in North America!

The Book: You guys. It’s good. It is sooooooo good. It’s visually appealing, packed with information, easy to understand…there’s lists and charts and bullet points and graphs and fun illustrations…you’ll fly through it because it’s just so interesting! And on top of that, it’s inspiring. The whole thing is a call to action—for us to track our cycles, sync our lives, understand our bodies more, and reframe the next generations’ thinking about menstruation. Honestly. I’m excited to pass this book on to my three daughters and have it available to them as a loving, supportive resource.

Claire views periods in terms of seasons (Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter). And I have to tell you, thinking of it this way, there is so much freedom to be found in not trying to be the summer girl all the time. Claire wants us to adore our cycle, know ourselves better, and find monthly (and daily!) peace with natural hormone changes.

Claire’s Bio: Claire Baker is a teacher…and a sought-after period coach, author and speaker. For nearly a decade Claire has taught thousands of women how to live in harmony with their menstrual cycle, rather than working against it. Claire believes menstrual cycle awareness is the missing key in women’s wellbeing, empowerment and creativity, and her immersive online courses and workshops inspire women to know their flow and become the authority in their own lives. Claire’s online program Adore Your Cycle has students in over 35 countries.

With a background in visual arts and creative business, Claire is a certified health and life coach, has studied Menstruality Leadership and is trained as a natural fertility teacher. Known for her authentic voice and ability to ‘make periods fun’, Claire is regularly featured in publications such as Red, Glamour, and Women’s Health magazine. Originally from Australia, Claire now lives in sunny East London and spends her days coaching, teaching, writing, dancing and being as close to trees as she possibly can. After this conversation you’ll want to take Claire’s free cycle masterclass or say hello to her on Instagram.

(FULL SHOW NOTES OVER AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM)

Claire’s Links: Website: www.clairebaker.com Courses: (Here’s the free class!)https://www.clairebaker.com/free-class Instagram: @_clairebaker_

Elevating Motherhood Links: Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com Instagram: @loribethauldridge

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When I first started Elevating Motherhood, I had two episodes that I wanted to share with you…1. Create Something and 2. Study Something. Create Something came to life in episode 10…and now we’re all the way to episode 63. I wouldn’t say I got distracted so much as it didn’t feel like the “right time” to publish it.

But now feels right.

Our whole world feels flipped upside down, we’re being asked to rethink basically everything…including our role as parents, our roles in our house, how we think about education, how we learn, how our kids learn, all of it.

I want to encourage in the middle of all this change to not forget about you and your own education and life-long learning journey. I’ve found so much peace in studying things—and I want that peace for you, too. Do I mean go to college or take “official” classes? Not at all. What I want to encourage you to do is tap into your curiosity and take it one step further.

Why Study Something?

· We life-long learners (

· It’s a way to model life-long learning for our kids

· It acknowledges our curiosity and keeps it alive

· It’s a way to feel happier, smarter, and more connected

· To check something off a list

· As an escape

· A way to learn more about yourself—including what kind of learner you are

· As a chance to slow down

· A chance to turn inward

What to study? The choice is yours. Something that interests you, fills your cup, fills a need you have, or just sparks joy, curiosity, or confidence!

Examples of Topics I’ve Studied Recently: Chickens, orchards, gardening, miniature goats, dahlias, sourdough bread, children's literature, poetry, self-improvement, cleanses, gluten free baking, paleo, Ayurveda, non-toxic lifestyle, plant identification

What I’m Studying Now/What I Plan to Study Soon: Charlotte Mason (her life and her education philosophy), education reform, homeschool laws, watercolor, self-improvement (stays on my list), Weston A. Price (person and foundation), national parks, intuitive eating

When to start: Now...Tomorrow...Soon...Before you’re ready...With someone else

Time:

· “I don’t have time.” I hear this a lot. I have freeing news for you…that’s a fib. It just is. I’ve tried to see it as truth, but I just can’t. I’ve tried to see where we are putting all 24 hours in a day and well, truth by told, we all have the same 24. Not having enough time (i.e. being too busy) is a cultural myth that is perpetuated and celebrated…it’s the constant excuse that’s alive. Being “too busy” has become a badge of honor that need to go away, one day, one moment, one mama at a time. Time to take our time (and our power!) back.

· You do have time…but what about pragmatics? Get creative: Wake up early. Go to bed late. Do something with your down time other than tv or social media. Take care of you…mind, body, spirit.

· Do it when your kids are around (but they will interrupt…so you be the parent when they do. You don’t have to be harsh, you can just let them know that mommy is studying right now and that’s okay. Learning is important. We’re life-long learners. It’s okay if I read right now. It’s okay if I take time to learn about this. It’s okay if you wait a few moments. It’s okay if you study something you’re interested in while I do, too.

Mindset: (more show notes over at www.elevatingmotherhood.com)

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Mind, Body, Spirit…I believe that we have a lot of resources for how to care for our minds and bodies as moms, but what about our spirits? I think it’s really important that we as mothers nourish our spiritual side as well as our mind and body. It’s honestly one of the main ways I get closer to feeling “whole” and more like my authentic self, when I work on my mind, body, AND spirit (but especially my spirit). For some of us, this is done through our religion or church. Some moms don’t have a clearly defined or defined by an institution faith base.

So how do we talk about prayer when there is such a mix? I think it’s in sharing our stories, hearing the stories of others, sharing our hang ups, our doubts, our questions, our needs. I use prayer as a way to tune out the nonsense in our world and tune into my spiritual side. Prayer is my medium of choice. God is who I speak with as a person who identifies as a Christian.

But I’ll be honest, I’ve had doubts on my prayer journey. I’ve felt like I wasn’t saying or thinking the right things while praying, I don’t feel like I’m very good at praying out loud, especially in groups of people, and I’ve taken seasons off from consistent prayer in the past. But I never felt like it was okay to say those things out loud or explore ways to deepen my prayer practice.

That’s why I’m so glad I had the chance to talk with today’s wonderful guest, Chrystal Evans Hurst about her new book The 28 Day Prayer Journey. It’s awesome. It’s thorough and thoughtful. Chrystal shares so much insight and makes prayer do-able. Her book really helps readers establish rhythms and habits to transform their prayer practice.

Whether you have an active prayer practice or not, I appreciate you listening to this episode. I think it’s really powerful to acknowledge and grow the spiritual side of you. And we do that by slowing down, hearing stories, reading books, being still, and listening.

Chrystal shares some great ideas about the how, why, and when of prayer and brings ease to some common doubts surrounding prayer and what it’s like to talk with God.

Chrystal’s Bio: Chrystal Evans Hurst is an energetic, life-loving “girl-next- door” who loves encouraging others to fulfill their potential in Christ. With humor and vulnerability, Chrystal tells it like it is but does so with grace, integrity, and love.

She is the best-selling author of She’s Still There and Kingdom Woman. You can find Chrystal regularly sharing encouragement via her podcasts and blogs, where she poignantly reflects on faith and speaks with frank honesty about the everyday experiences of women.

Chrystal firmly believes God’s promise in Jeremiah 29:11, “I know the plans that I have for you...” and she desires to help other women believe and apply that truth to their lives. You can find Chrystal sharing chronicles of the journey at www.ChrystalEvansHurst.com.

Follow Chrystal on Facebook + Twitter + Instagram: @ChrystalHurst

FULL SHOW NOTES AVAILABLE AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/loribethauldridge

Facebook: www.facebook.com/elevatingmotherhood

iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevating-motherhood/id1479731562

Blog: www.yayamamas.com

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Have you ever heard of gameschooling? Strewing? Relaxed homeschooling? If so, you’ll know how magical these elements of home education can be. If not, you’re in for a treat! Jessica Waldock is here with us today to offer us tips and insight on all the things.

Whether the homeschooling an only caught your eye or it was the interest led learning or the word gameschooling, this episode is for you! It’s not just for parents of only children…you’ll see that very quickly.

Jessica is an incredible resource! Her website www.thewaldockway.com is fun, informative, and interesting. Her approach to home education is inspired. But she doesn’t just stop at creating an incredible education for her daughter, but then takes the time to put it all together for us.

Jessica’s Bio: Jessica Waldock is a writer, photographer, and homeschool mom of one living in sunny Florida. She founded The Waldock Way as a way to give back to the homeschool community that she loves so much. At The Waldock Way Jessica shares tips, tricks, inspiration, and unique resources that help ignite a love of learning in children that will last a lifetime. She inspires families to engage in homeschooling as a lifestyle where relationships come first and interested led learning prevails. Jessica also has a fabulous collection of unit studies on her website and shares generously on her YouTube channel.

FULL SHOW NOTES OVER AT: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Jessica Waldock links:

Website: www.thewaldockway.com

YouTube: www.youtube.com/c/thewaldockway

Instagram: www.instagram.com/thewaldockway

Facebook: www.facebook.com/thewaldockway

Please visit today’s sponsors:

Homeschool Explained: August 31, 2020 is the last day for the summer sale of Homeschool Explained, my online course that helps you feel resourced and confident as you start your homeschool journey. Use the code LORIBETH50 for 50% off your enrollment! That’s my thank you to you for being a listener of Elevating Motherhood!

Beautiful & Simple: My other favorite passion project is my online boutique Beautiful & Simple. I’ve filled it with products that remind us to slow down, practice self care, and focus on the meaningful parts of our day…the beautiful and simple ones. My favorite mug is the one that says “you cannot pour from an empty cup.” It’s my daily reminder to take care of myself so I can take care of my family. Go check out the collection of mugs, shirts & bags currently available at www.beautifulandsimple.com

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/loribethauldridge

Facebook: www.facebook.com/elevatingmotherhood

iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevating-motherhood/id1479731562

Blog: www.yayamamas.com

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“Adventure is the vehicle, connection is our destination.”

Second generation homeschool mom Greta Eskridge wrote a book! Adventuring Together: How to Create Connections and Make Lasting Memories with Your Kids...and it’s not only an awesome resource for homeschool families but ALL families! Adventuring together becomes an art, a simple space of connection & fun, and is totally do-able when viewed through the lovely lens Greta offers us.

This book is for all families (this episode is for all families!), whether you’d consider yourself a high adventure person, adventure weary, or if a trip to the store with toddlers is probably all the adventure you can handle in this season…this book is for you. Greta shares so much about how to engage with our children, embrace the new, and make our adventures positive learning experiences.

Greta’s Bio: Greta Eskridge is a nature lover, book reader, and coffee drinker. She craves relationship and loves having adventures. Her faith in God is the lens through which she sees life. Greta is a home schooling mom of 4, a wife of 22 years to Aaron, and an author and speaker.

Greta’s first book, Adventuring Together, releases July 2020 with Thomas Nelson. Greta is passionate about helping parents protect their kids from the devastating effects of pornography and she loves to travel the country sharing her message of joyful, connected parenting.

Greta would love to connect with you on her blog at www.gretaeskridge.com. She also loves hanging out on Instagram and would love to connect with you there too. You’ll find her @maandpamodern

“We were made for hard things…and this will make a good story later.” (my new life philosophy inspired by Greta and other mamas)

In this episode Greta and I talk about:

· The practice and time it takes to get the hang of homeschooling (every drop in the bucket counts)

· What it means to adventure together

· Why connection is so important

· What it’s like to be a second generation homeschooler

· How adventuring can bring joy into motherhood

· The call to connect with our kids and family

· The role of adventure in homeschool and motherhood

· Hope for the teenage years

· Being intentional with our kiddos

· Adventuring with various personality types

· Coping with misadventure

· Unplugging & distractions

· How we can provide learning opportunities for our children

· Adventuring with little kids—the good, the bad, the ugly, & the magical

· Starting adventure clubs and book clubs!

· Adventuring through books

· How Greta offers support for other moms

· And just so, so, so much encouragement!

Greta’s Links:

Instagram: @maandpamodern

Blog: www.gretaeskridge.com

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/loribethauldridge

Facebook: www.facebook.com/elevatingmotherhood

iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevating-motherhood/id1479731562

Blog: www.yayamamas.com

Please Visit Today's Sponsors:

Blossom & Root: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/homeschool

Homeschool Explained: www.homeschoolexplained.com

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“There are hard things in life, but should education be one of them?”

The perspective of a classroom teacher turned homeschool mom is pretty interesting…and very insightful. Monica Erwin is with us today to share more about her experience of moving from classroom teacher to homeschool mom…she shares so much about the mindset shifts she had to make and shows us a path toward a more compassionate approach to education and parenting. I was very moved by her honesty and really humbled by her stories and perspective.

There are stigmas surrounding homeschool in general…and we don’t skirt around them in this conversation. Monica shares how she moved from believing the old stigma that homeschool meant kids stayed home, fell behind, and couldn’t measure up to traditional education school kids to advocating for connection and the power of an individualized education that is a hallmark of homeschool. She walks us through how she was so involved in test scores and assessment and loved the structure and accountability of an institution, but then stumbled upon homeschool because of a family need. She once believed “(her) kids would never perform for me at home like they do for their own teacher”—but not anymore!

Education reform and reframing learning are happening all around us—we are in the middle of what I believe will be a pivotal point in the history of education. This is a long episode, but I followed Monica’s pace on this one and I’m so glad I did. There is a LOT to unpack when it comes to education reform. How fortunate we are to have Monica here to share her insights into this shift and how we can best show up during these big changes.

Monica’s Bio: Monica was an elementary teacher who unexpectedly became a homeschool mom of 3 kids. She lives with her family in San Diego, CA. Her vision is to encourage parents as they navigate the home education of their children by sharing her journey and pointing them to helpful resources. Follow Monica on IG: @sweetwaterhomeschool

In this episode, Monica and I talk about:

• Her school experiences as a child and how they shaped her decisions as a mom and how they led her to pursuing her teaching degree

• How she reframed her “school is tough—toughen up!” mentality to...(tune in!)

• How the switch to homeschool reduced stress levels by slowing down when she needs and picking up when it’s called for

• Getting over societal stigmas that are false (especially as it relates to modern homeschool)

• Taking the time to slow down and get it done.

• Homeschool styles

• Modern homeschool is NOT like it was in the 80s and 90s…how homeschool has transformed

• Upgrading our ideas about education

• AND SO MUCH MORE! Head to www.elevatingmotherhood.com for the FULL SHOW NOTES!

Please Visit Today's Sponsors:

Homeschool Explained: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/homeschool

Primally Pure: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/primallypure

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/loribethauldridge

Facebook: www.facebook.com/elevatingmotherhood

iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevating-motherhood/id1479731562

Blog: www.yayamamas.com

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When home education doesn’t feel manageable, that’s the time for us to reach out and lean in to experienced homeschoolers who are enthusiastic about helping…and today’s guest Kristi Clover is bringing the enthusiasm! She’s here as our own personal cheerleader today to talk with us about everything from organization, how to pivot when things get sideways, and offer us a dose of fun, joy, & grace.

We laugh SO MUCH in this episode! It’s a good time when these two Enneagram 7s who are also ENFPs get together! (p.s. I know you’re here for the homeschool motivation, but listen for the Princess Bride, Indiana Jones, & Frozen II references if you’re a fan…lol!)

Kristi’s Bio: Kristi Clover is a home organization and #momlife expert. She’s also the author of M.O.M.=Master Organizer of Mayhem and Homeschool Basics, the host of the Simply Joyful Podcast, and is a popular conference speaker. Her passion is to encourage families to find simple ways to bring more joy into their home and life. She loves to share about her adventures in motherhood and home life through a variety of media that you can find at KristiClover.com. Kristi lives in San Diego with her husband, Steve, and their five children. Be sure to connect with Kristi online for an extra dose of encouragement. She’s @KristiClover on most social media networks.

In this episode Kristi & I talk about:

· Fun, Joy, & Grace

· Her unique story of how she started homeschooling

· How she graduated her oldest this year!

· The power of pivoting

· Curriculum temptations

· Her book: M.O.M. Master Organizer of Mayhem

· Becoming more efficient

· Prioritizing what is important

· How lowering our expectations can serve us

· The Clover Crate System

· Organizing your homeschool year

· Not staying stuck

· Simply Joyful Podcast episodes about homeschool: Andrew Pudewa (episode 20)

· Mindset shifts we have to make for homeschool

· Instilling a love of learning in our kids…by setting the example!

· Homeschool room…do we need them?

· Streamlining your homeschool and your day

· 9-12 time blocking for homeschool

· How we find “me time” with full schedules & lives

· How we come back to center when we feel off balance

· How we don’t have all the answers…and that’s okay

· Stamina…how and when to say “yes” and “no”

· Dissecting cow eyes…true story.

· How to find homeschool support local to you

· HSLDA

· Finding homeschool conventions

· How homeschool rights are in jeopardy

· CHEA (Christian Home Educators Association)

· Curriculum suggestions: My Father’s World, Sunlight, IEW, Apologia, Math U See, Teaching Textbooks,

Kristi’s Links:

YouTube: https://YouTube.com/KristiClover

Instagram: https://Instagram.com/KristiClover

Facebook: https://Facebook.com/KristiClover

Podcast: http://SimplyJoyfulPodcast.com

Please visit today's sponsors: Oak Meadow and Homeschool Explained More at www.elevatingmotherhood.com/homeschool

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/loribethauldridge

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Today’s conversation is real, relatable, and empowering. Lauren Giordano is with us today talking about her new magazine, her beautiful shop, all the resources she offers, the importance of community (including how to be involved and how to involve others!), as well as so many stories that will warm your heart while offering a moment of calm. You’re going to learn so much about what homeschool can actually look and feel like today.

Lauren’s Bio: Lauren is a home educating mother and business owner. She has a passion for community and interest-led learning. Lauren and her family believe that all of life is school and try to soak up all experiences!

Things Lauren & I talk about in this episode:

· Her new magazine: The Kindred Learning Collection!

· Lauren’s homeschool style/philosophy

· Being flexible in homeschool education philosophy

· Why we knew we wanted to pursue homeschooling before we even had kids

· Learning from perspectives and people

· Life long learning as moms

· Bringing back enchantment & delight right now in our world

· A bit about unschooling

· “Parenting is a life long lesson in letting go”

· Expectations in motherhood and homeschool

· All of the awesome support Lauren offers:

o Kindred Learning Collection Magazine

o Chickie & Roo Shop

o Flower of the Month Club & More!

· Bringing beauty into your homeschool

· The importance of community

· How Lauren supports the community & offers

· Child led learning

· Nature studies

· Enrichment in our homeschool

· Being a friend who encourages and supports other moms on this homeschool journey

· How socialization is not a worry for most homeschoolers

· Personal accountability on social media

· How social media serves the homeschool community well

· (hilarious pie and sourdough analogies)

· Lauren’s favorite community resource: Instagram

Interesting Mentions from this Episode:

· Book Lauren is reading: The Well-Trained Mind

· The other book she’s reading: Understanding Waldorf Philosophy

· Firefly Nature School

· Curriculum mentions/materials: The Good & The Beautiful, Beautiful Feet Books, Simply Charlotte Mason, Singapore Dimensions, Montessori card sets, Steph Hathoway Designs, Stories Begin at Home, Letters from Afar, A Year of Tales, A Year of Learning, Rooted Childhood (for handcrafts), and Twelve Little Tales.

Lauren’s Links:

Website: www.chickieandroo.com

IG: @chickieandroo @kindredlearningcollection

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/loribethauldridge

Facebook: www.facebook.com/elevatingmotherhood

iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevating-motherhood/id1479731562

Blog: www.yayamamas.com

Please visit today's sponsors:

Blossom & Root: My favorite homeschool curriculum company! (Use the code LORIBETH10 for 10% off your purchase)

Homeschool Explained: My online course to help you get started on your homeschool journey feeling resourced and confident!

More on both over at: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/homeschool

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“Education is the science of relations.” Charlotte Mason

What is Charlotte Mason? What does that mean? Is that a school? An education philosophy? And actual person? I keep hearing “Charlotte Mason” or “Charlotte Mason inspired”—what does that mean?

These are common questions for parents who are new to homeschooling and I’ve brought the brilliant Leah Boden onto the show to get you those answers!

Leah’s Bio:

Leah Boden is married to Dave, they have four children and live in England. Leah is a long-time student and practitioner of the Charlotte Mason method of education and is passionate about helping parents find their freedom within the philosophy. Leah writes, speaks and podcasts from a foundation of faith whilst using the Charlotte Mason philosophy as a springboard into her lessons on childhood, motherhood and education. Leah delights in coaching and leading others in this refreshing way of life.

Leah is a Pastor at Mosaic Church - Coventry, speaker and writer for the international Wild + Free homeschooling community and creator of Modern Miss Mason.

In this episode, Leah & I talk about:

The Short List:

· Gratitude, integrity, discernment, peace, gentleness, inspiration, revelation, perspective, and joy.

The Long List:

· All things Charlotte Mason: who Charlotte was, her education philosophies, some history,

· Charlotte Mason in a nutshell

· Motherhood, Childhood, & Education

· Our homeschool journeys

· Some interesting education differences between US & UK education framework

· What Charlotte Mason meant when she said “education is the science of relations”

· The importance of connection

· How Charlotte Mason is truly a rich education

(FOR THE FULL LIST, SEE THE SHOW NOTES AT WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM)

· Discount Code for the Charlotte Mason Unboxed: LORIBETH20

Interesting mentions from the show:

· Ambleside Online

· Margaret A. Coombs book: Charlotte Mason Hidden Heritage

· The National Curriculum (UK version of common core, if you will)

· The Charlotte Mason Companion

· Catherine Levison (how to manuals)

· Charlotte Mason’s 6 Volumes

Leah’s Links:

Website: www.leahboden.com

Instagram: @leahvboden & @modernmissmason

Course: Charlotte Mason Unboxed https://coursecraft.net/courses/z9Yfe/splash?fbclid=IwAR0QIB_FlFgBKkiaHwRue2EVSOso6hMW928cM-X1hlxLreLX7Gh8OhGGxuY

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/loribethauldridge

Facebook: www.facebook.com/elevatingmotherhood

iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevating-motherhood/id1479731562

Blog: www.yayamamas.com

Please visit today's sponsors:

Homeschool Explained: www.homeschoolexplained.com

Pam Barnhill: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/pam

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Encouragement, Passion, Variety, and Beauty

The lovely Alisha Miller is here with us today. She is so encouraging. This conversation feels like sitting down with a super sweet friend to talk about all things homeschool. By the end, you’ll feel comforted, inspired, and motivated to move forward with homeschooling knowing you can implement her encouraging ideas. Alisha gives us specific examples of how she homeschools with multiples, how she meets her children where they are, and how she overcomes homeschool fears (fear rises up in all of us from time to time). We also talk about community, flexibility, and so much more! This is an episode for the heart…that also happens to contain practical tips. That’s so Alisha.

Alisha’s Bio: Alisha Miller is raising and homeschooling four daughters in northern Indiana. She has a passion for curating a curriculum that covers a wide feast and is inclusive of all people. She loves learning alongside her daughters on this journey. As an editor and writer for the Wild + Free magazine, she gets to combine her love for both English and homeschooling. She also enjoys sewing, gardening, reading, and learning new things.

In This Episode Alisha & I Talk About:

· The pace of learning to read (including late readers)

· Her examples of navigating reading and readiness

· What Wild + Free is & the support they offer

· The beautiful, eclectic mix of mamas who are part of W+F

· How we are always growing & thinking as moms and home educators

· Lessons & challenges we’ve learned along the way

· Fears that creep in and what we can do when that happens (including fear of falling behind)

· Being grounded in our beliefs and methods

· The importance of meeting your child where they are

· Raising whole children

· Laying a wide feast for our favorite people

· Aligning our values and actions in our home

· Homeschooling multiples

· Combining ages/grades/subjects

· Homeschooling with a 3-year-old in the house

· Gracefully maneuvering transitions

· Acknowledging the idea that we are going to be interrupted

· Scheduling flexibility

· How to keep moving forward and organizing

· Transitions (big & small)

· Balancing a full life & schedule

· Arranging priorities

· Life long learning – in us and our children

· Creating her own curriculum using the Charlotte Mason method

· Community

· Mother culture nights

· And more!

Interesting Resources Mentioned During the Show:

Book: For the Children’s Sake

Curriculum: Teach Your Child to Read in 100 Easy Lessons

Julie Bogart (of Brave Writer & The Brave Learner…from Episode 051!)

Cosmic Kids Yoga

Tales of Troy in Greece (trojan horse kit)

Charlotte Mason (homeschool philosophy)

Blog Post about writing her own curriculum: http://www.littlewomenfarmhouse.com/2019/07/homeschool-how-i-write-my-own-curriculum.html

Alisha’s Blog: www.littlewomenfarmhouse.com

Alisha’s Instagram:@littlewomenfarmhouse

Please visit today's sponsors: Blossom & Root + Homeschool Explained over at www.elevatingmotherhood.com/homeschool

FULL SHOW NOTES OVER AT: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

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“Truth, Goodness, & Beauty”

Get ready for some truth, goodness, and beauty! Pam Barnhill is here to share fresh ideas that will help you feel organized and ready to start your homeschool journey!

Pam’s Bio: Pam Barnhill believes that you don’t have to sacrifice relationships to homeschool strong. An award-winning educator, former journalist, and now homeschooling mom, she has a knack for breaking down big tasks into small, manageable steps and getting to the heart of the stories her listeners want to hear. She is the host of the popular podcast Your Morning Basket and the author of two homeschooling books: Better Together: Strengthen Your Family, Simplify Your Homeschool, and Savor the Subjects that Matter Most and Plan Your Year: Homeschool Planning for Purpose and Peace. Pam lives in the Deep South with her husband of twenty-five years, three (mostly) awesome kids, and the dog dynamic duo. You can find her online at www.pambarnhill.com

In this episode, Pam and I talk about:

· Homeschool for virtue

· What is a morning basket

· How to rock morning time (& what it is)

· Pam’s mentor Cindy Rollins (also a great resource)

· Teaching multiple grade levels at one time

· The power of flexibility & learning together

· The benefits of

· Why art & music appreciation are important

· Preserving the relationship when homeschooling

· Thoughts on motherhood & martyrdom

· Thoughts on patience

· Thoughts on being an adult

· Delight vs. fun

· The importance of normalizing homeschool for you AND your kids

· Two different kinds of subjects: Skill Based Subjects vs. Content Area Subjects

· Curriculum mentions: All About Reading, All About Spelling, Math U See, IEW Writing, The One Year Adventure Novel, Morning Basket for content area subjects,

· Book suggestion: Project Based Homeschooling

· Citizen Science Projects

· Favorite Resources: Schloe Sisters Podcast

· You don’t have to figure it all out your first year, first month, or first week

“Education is about learning to love what is lovely.” -(we can't remember)

All the ways Pam shows up for homeschool families:

· Her Podcast: Your Morning Basket

· Her Books: Plan Your Year and Better Together

· Her Course: Plan Your Year

· Her YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/threeturn

· Her Community: Email her info@pambarnhill.com& ask to join!

Pam’s Links:

All things Pam: www.pambarnhill.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourmorningbasket/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourmorningbasket/

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/loribethauldridge

Facebook: www.facebook.com/elevatingmotherhood

iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevating-motherhood/id1479731562

Blog: www.yayamamas.com

Please Visit Today's Sponsors: Oak Meadow and Homeschool Explained...over at www.elevatingmotherhood.com/homeschool

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Do you feel like you won’t be able to homeschool because you have negative ideas about what homeschool looks like? Do you wonder how on earth you’re going to find the time to homeschool your kids? Are you afraid you won’t have any time for you? How can you find time for yourself with this big, new responsibility?

No worries, mama!

Rachael Alsbury is here with us today to offer us modern homeschool support and talk about all things books, reading, and living with kids! She inspires moms in their reading lives on a regular basis both on social media and on her blog. She has incredible book resources, suggestions, and great insights for us!

Rachael’s Bio:

Rachael is a mom of four, photographer, and home educator who recently moved from Northern California back to Kansas where she grew up. She’s been a contributor for many homeschool resources, including Wild + Free and The Peaceful Press Blog. She writes her own beautiful blog at www.fromfaye.com where she shares encouraging tips for parents about books, homeschooling, natural living, baking, and all things home.

In this episode, Rachael & I talk about:

· How she finds time to read (with 4 young kids in the house)

· Tips for reading aloud to kids who don’t sit still

· Her homeschool journey

· Deconstructing how we think about education & learning

· How Books, time outside, & your own curiosity are key to homeschooling success

· Homeschool as a slow unfolding

· Pulling back the curtain & sharing our homeschool days online

· End of the year review

· Inspiration over competition

· Normalizing modern homeschool

· Homeschooling with a new baby around

· The beauty of audiobooks

· Modern homeschool support

· Investing in yourself

· Modeling curiosity

· Showing our kids we’re lifelong learners

· Choosing books (for yourself and your kids)

· Reading life

· Book guides (i.e. Sarah Clarkson: Book Girl, Podcast: What Should I Read Next?)

· Free seasonal picture book list by Sarah MacKenzie of Read Aloud Revival

· Curriculum Rachael mentions: Ambleside Online, Book Shark, Sunlight, Jennifer Pepito’s The Peaceful Press (The Kind Kingdom), Math U See

· Reading takes time

· How to relax when your emerging reader is taking their sweet time

· Community: Wild + Free

· Starting your own community

Rachael’s Links:

Blog: www.fromfaye.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachael.alsbury/

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/loribethauldridge

Facebook: www.facebook.com/elevatingmotherhood

iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevating-motherhood/id1479731562

Blog: www.yayamamas.com

Please Visit Today's Sponsors:

Homeschool Explained: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/homeschool

Branch Basics: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/branchbasics

Full show notes over at: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

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Julie Bogart is here with us today sharing all of her incredible insight and inspiration with us! Get ready to elevate your homeschool AND your motherhood journey!

If you know, you know…you’ll get why I’m so excited! If you don’t know yet, you will after today! Julie has been my go-to resource for all things modern homeschool since I had my own children. I’ve read her book more than once, I listen to her insightful podcast on a regular basis, I use her curriculum, been inspired by her poetry tea times, and just constantly recommend her and her work to all homeschool families and educators.

Julie’s Bio:

Julie Bogart is the popular voice of common sense and compassion in the homeschool community. She's the creator of the innovative writing program called Brave Writer and the popular fast-growing practice called Poetry Teatime. She’s the founder of a homeschool coaching community called The Brave Learner Home. She home educated her five children for 17 years who are now globe-trotting adults. Julie draws from her work with tens of thousands of homeschool families over the last 20+ years, and her own homeschool journey to enrich the homeschool and parenting experience. Her writing program includes award-winning online writing classes and paradigm-shifting writing manuals that allow parents and kids to become allies in the writing process. Julie is also the author of the best-selling book The Brave Learner and host of the popular podcast “A Brave Writer’s Life in Brief.” She enjoys raising African violets and playing with her brand new granddaughter. Julie lives in Cincinnati, Ohio.

In this episode, Julie and I talk about:

· Taking the long view as a mother

· Knowing our limits

· Recognizing learning

· The ghost of public school past

· The dangers of “rigor”

· Getting to our core beliefs about education

· Reframing education

· Accidental learning

· Invisible learning moments

· Observing: becoming students of our kids

· Resistance

· The value of video games

· The issue with screens

· The need for tangible ways for children to explore/learn

· Family culture

· Poetry teatime

· How to sustain our positive energy

· Preparing our homes

· Insights into what Julie’s schedule looked like

· The importance of coziness & collaboration

· Routine

· Giving into inspiration

· Planning from behind

· The Brave Writer curriculum

· Brave Writer online classes

· The Brave Learner

· Bringing joy & magic to homeschooling

FULL SHOW NOTES are on the website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Please visit our sponsors:

Blossom & Root

Homeschool Explained

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/loribethauldridge

Facebook: www.facebook.com/elevatingmotherhood

iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevating-motherhood/id1479731562

Blog: www.yayamamas.com

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Welcome to the August 2020 Homeschool Series!

Homeschool is alive and well…and modern homeschool support is nothing short of incredible! I’m humbled and honored to produce this series for you, mamas! I know these are uncertain times and our ideas and daily schedules surrounding education are shifting. I wanted to show up for you in a way that leaves you feeling resourced and supported. This month I’ll publish 10 episodes for the month of August every Wednesday and Saturday starting on Wednesday, August 5th.

I have an incredible line up for you this month! TEN episodes total featuring:

Julie Bogart

Pam Barnhill

Greta Eskridge

Rachel Alsbury

Alisha Miller

Leah Boden

Kristi Clover

Lauren Giordano

Monica Erwin

All of these incredible interviews plus discount codes, giveaways, and more!

(Follow me over there for the giveaways & discounts! www.instagram.com/loribethauldridge)

In this episode I answer all of the questions I’m asking my August guests:

• Details about my unique 10+ years long homeschool journey

• What I have used/use for curriculum: Blossom & Root, Oak Meadow, Christopherus, Live Education!, Brave Writer, & Wild Math

• What surprised me most about homeschool

• A favorite/memorable homeschool moment

• What homeschool community looks like for me and my family

• My favorite homeschool support resources

Plus, Resources I offer:

o Elevating Motherhood (www.elevatingmotherhood.com/homeschool)

o Yayamamas Blog (www.yayamamas.com/homeschool)

o Instagram (www.instagram.com/loribethauldridge)

o Tips of the Day (https://www.instagram.com/stories/highlights/18123667459115902/)

o Online Course: Homeschool Explained (www.homeschoolexplained.com)

o Discounts

o Giveaways!

LISTENER EXCLUSIVE: Use the code LORIBETH50 for 50% OFF of my how to homeschool course Homeschool Explained! This offer will remain open as a thank you to my amazing Elevating Motherhood listeners.

For more info on homeschool, head over to www.elevatingmotherhood.com/homeschool

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/loribethauldridge

Facebook: www.facebook.com/elevatingmotherhood

iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevating-motherhood/id1479731562

Blog: www.yayamamas.com

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Using a nature-based homeschool curriculum has taught me a LOT…about myself, my values, what I want out of this life, what I need, and what I want my days to look like as a work from home mom of 3. Those homeschool lessons have bled over into my motherhood journey, too, showing me what motherhood means to me, how I want to be seen and known by my kids, my willingness to learn beside them, my connection with the world around us, all of it.

I’m an opt-outer in a lot of areas of my life. Homeschool is obviously counter cultural for what most people choose for education (well, until recently). But so is my happiness in motherhood. We’re told to live on a schedule, live for the weekends, be irritated, drink to survive, stay inside and have a pristine, pin worthy house that doesn’t look like kids live in it. There isn’t this constant message about nature and motherhood. In fact, if you’re stereotyped—as a crunchy mom, an outdoorsy or sporty mom, or even a homeschool mom if you spend a lot of time outside or focused on nature. But it’s that connection with nature that has brought me a lot of happiness peace as a mom.

In this episode, I expand on these ideas and talk about:

• What I mean by nature-based motherhood

• Why moms especially need time outside

• How I work that into my every day life

• Full life vs. busy life

• Nature deficit disorder

Full notes at www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Please Visit Today’s Sponsors:

Blossom & Root: Today’s episode of Elevating Motherhood is sponsored by Blossom & Root a nature-based, Charlotte Mason inspired homeschool curriculum company that has been gently guiding and supporting families for years! This thoughtful, age appropriate curriculum begins at the preschool level—and acts as a much-needed resource for this age group.

Blossom & Root’s Early Years Volumes 1 & 2 are valuable tools for parents with young children—whether you choose to pursue homeschool long term or not. The information and ideas are easy to follow, fun, and engaging. School age curricula are also available with more grade levels being released each year. It’s the curriculum my family uses and loves. They’ve generously offered a discount for listeners of Elevating Motherhood: use the code LORIBETH10 at checkout for 10% off your order.

For more information about Blossom & Root, head over to www.elevatingmotherhood.com/homeschool

Primally Pure: Thanks for Primally Pure for supporting today’s episode. Primally Pure, is one of my favorite companies. They excel at creating safe, natural skin care products made with quality ingredients. Primally Pure has become my go-to brand for clean, non-toxic face cleaners, creams, and serums. They're also the makers of my favorite all-natural (& effective!) deodorant. (I love their blue tansy one). They’ve generously offered a discount code for listeners: be sure to use the code: LORIBETH10 for 10% off your first order. For my personal review of their products, head over to www.elevatingmotherhood.com/primallypure

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/loribethauldridge

Facebook: www.facebook.com/elevatingmotherhood

iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevating-motherhood/id1479731562

Blog: www.yayamamas.com

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This mama. This conversation. Her book. Her message. It’s all for you.

Angela Braniff and I started this conversation talking about her new book Love Without Borders: How Bold Faith Opens the Door to Embracing the Unexpected…and quickly moved into a deep dive about the heart of modern motherhood. This episode has all the things, all the elements, all the encouragement we as moms need to hear right now.

Angela’s Bio:

Angela Braniff is the founder of the popular YouTube channel, This Gathered Nest. She is an adoption advocate, home school mom, content creator, podcast host, and adventure seeker. Angela is married to her high-school sweetheart and together they have a full house: Kennedy (12) - their biological daughter, Shelby (10) - their 2nd biological daughter, Rosie (7) - adopted from China, Noah (7) - adopted from Congo, Jonah (5) - adopted domestically, and finally, Ivy + Amelia (18-month old twins) - adopted as embryos—Angela gave birth to them! Adding to their family of seven kids, after the book was finished, Angela and CR welcomed their eighth child, Benjamin, through adoption. Angela lives in North Carolina and has been featured in People, Today, UPTV, BuzzFeed, etc.

In this episode Angela & I talk about:

· Her book Love Without Borders

· Bold faith

· Reframing obedience

· Symbolism & messages in everyday life

· Leaning in and listening

· Her journey with adoption

· Spiritual journeys

· Divine providence

· Cultural messages that need reframing

· Dignity

· Counter culture

· Pressures of motherhood

· The heart of motherhood

· Influencer culture

· Her new podcast Well, That Escalated Quickly

· A healthy relationship with social media

· Perfectionism

· Introspection

· Adoption

· Ethics in adoption – and what we can do to help

Angela’s Links:

All Things Angela Braniff: www.thisgatherednest.com

Adoption Support: www.nationalangels.org

Love Box: https://www.nationalangels.org/lovebox.html

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/loribethauldridge

Facebook: www.facebook.com/elevatingmotherhood

iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevating-motherhood/id1479731562

Blog: www.yayamamas.com

Please Visit Our Sponsors:

Ojai Energetics: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/cbd

Branch Basics: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/branchbasics

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“You are smarter than you know, more resourceful than you know, and you are more prepared than you know.”

Ready to laugh AND be inspired? Then listen to this episode! We are going to stop guessing and start preparing because organization & declutter queen Kathi Lipp is here to take the overwhelming idea of prepping and bring information, joy, and good laughs into our day! Kathi is like the nicest neighbor that shows up in book form. You’re going to love her!

Kathi’s Bio:

Kathi Lipp is a national speaker and host of the Clutter Free Academy podcast, and bestselling author of The Husband Project, Clutter Free, and Overwhelmed. She and her husband Roger live in San Jose, California, and are parents of four young adults. Using humor and wisdom, Kathi offers hope paired with practical steps to women looking to live with meaning.

“Organization is taking care of your present and prepping is taking care of your future."

What We Talk About:

· Chickens and homesteading (for real…and it’s hilarious)

· Kathi’s Book Ready for Anything: Preparing Your Heart & Home for Any Crisis Big or Small

· Why prepping doesn’t have to be a heavy

· Why it’s important to take time to pause, get organized, & prepared

· 3-2-3: Kathi’s formula for starting your preparedness journey that puts supply lists into perspective

· Finances (and why they aren’t scary)

· Who you need to prepare for (and why it’s important to consider community in your head count)

· Ditching denial and taking action

· Societal messages that hold us back

· Pantry basics

· Finding peace, relief, & security in the prepping process

· Reframing overwhelm while prepping

Be a little more prepared today than you were yesterday. (Yes you can!)

Please Visit Today’s Sponsors:

Beautiful & Simple. Today’s episode is sponsored by Beautiful & Simple. An online boutique I’ve created and filled with products that remind us to slow down, practice self-care, & focus on the meaningful parts of our day: the beautiful & simple moments My favorite mug is the one that says “you cannot pour from an empty cup.” It’s my daily reminder to take care of myself so I can take care of my family. Go check out the collection of mugs, shirts & bags currently available at www.beautifulandsimple.com

Homeschool Explained. This course is for anyone who is interested in homeschool (now or in the future) but isn’t sure where to start. The information in this course will help you make an educated decision about whether homeschool is the right fit for your family and help you understand what modern homeschool days actually look like—all while covering major topics like curriculum, homeschool styles, subjects to teach, cost, state laws, socialization and so much more. This course takes the guess work out of where and how to begin and leaves you with solid support and resources. Start your homeschool journey with confidence! Find out more at www.elevatingmotherhood.com/homeschool

Kathi's Links:

Website: www.kathilipp.com

Podcasts: https://www.kathilipp.com/clutter-free-podcast/

Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/kathilipp/and Clutter Free Academy on FB:

Other Books We Mention: The Clutter Free Home, Clutter Free, Overwhelmed, and The Husband Project

Find Lori Beth at www.elevatingmotherhood.com + IG: @loribethauldridge

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• Trigger Warning * There is mention of loss and death in this episode—loss of a child, loss of a friend, and loss of parents.

Grief has been a roommate for Emily Humphries for a while now…and she’s graciously offered to share her story with us as a means of supporting other mamas who are also experiencing seasons of grief in their life. We can learn so much through simply listening to someone else’s story and hearing examples of all the how, when, why, who, what moments that come along with grief. Emily shares her story of how she shows up for herself and her family, especially her children after the loss of friends and family.

Emily’s Bio:

Emily is the host of The Simply Stories Podcast—and I love that she brings the power of story from her who over to Elevating Motherhood. Emily is a woman who loves Jesus, her family, words, and coffee (all though things don't honestly always run in that order.) Emily loves sharing about the activity of God in her life and creating space for others to gather 'round the table and share their stories too.

We talk about:

· Her experiences with tragedy & loss

· Talking with kids about grief

· Comfort (offering & receiving)

· The role faith plays in her journey

· The power of listening to our children process grief

· The importance of being clear with children when talking about death

· Paying attention to signs

· When our kids bring up death

· Dealing with the hard questions

· Kids at funerals/celebrations of life

· How to involve children in the process

· Making space for our children within our process

· The ministry of presence

· That there’s strength in our honesty and vulnerability

· The power of pausing and apologizing to our kids as needed

· Time blocking

· Dealing with our emotions at appropriate times

· Tension holds things together (think rubber band)

· Making time for our needs as the mom

· Cultural messages about death

· Ideas for how to get through in tough moments

· Leaning into community

· #allthethings

Listen to my conversation with Emily on The Simply Stories Podcast here:

https://simplystories.libsyn.com/episode-32-lori-beth-auldridge-elevating-motherhood

Please Visit Our Sponsors:

MUTU: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/mutu

Branch Basics: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/branchbasics

Emily’s Links:

You can hang out with Emily over on her blog, her podcast Simply Stories via https://simplyshenanigans.com or on Instagram: @simplyemhumph and @simplystoriespodcast

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/loribethauldridge

Facebook: www.facebook.com/elevatingmotherhood

iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevating-motherhood/id1479731562

Blog: www.yayamamas.com

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Eating isn’t supposed to be complicated…but it is. Most mamas I know have gone through seasons of not liking their bodies, eating disorders, deprivation, and just general complexity when it comes to meals and the foods we eat (or don’t eat).

But we have the opportunity to change that and model something different for our kids—something healthy and balanced. We are given the chance to learn and grow as women, moms, individuals and reframe our relationship with our bodies and with food. After talking with today’s guest, I feel like Intuitive Eating is a great place to start that healing journey.

Kristin (Kris) Dovbniak is a holistic health coach, certified intuitive eating counselor, podcaster, writer, speaker, recipe creator, trained chef, and mama of two. Her passion is to help women uncomplicate eating and stress less about food to bring joy back into eating again. She works with women worldwide to help them simplify nutrition and tune into their intuition to heal their relationship with food and their bodies and live happy, healthy, whole lives. She is the host of the Healthy Balanced Mama Podcast, creator of several online courses including Healthy Mama Meal Prep and Uncomplicated Eating. She lives on an island off the coast of New England with her sailor husband and her two sweet and spunky sous chefs, Sage and Wren, where you can usually find her in the kitchen.

In today’s episode, Kris & I talk about:

• Kris’s humbling (and relatable!) story about how she got into nutrition work * What a holistic health coach is and does * Who sees eating counselors & health coaches * Identifying the daily eating struggles we face as women * What most people do (& don’t!) understand about intuitive eating * Nutrition info mamas need to know * What intuitive eating is (& isn’t) * Thoughts on rule-based nutrition * Parenting through big changes in lifestyle and food choices

Please visit today's sponsors:

Blossom & Root: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/homeschool

Primally Pure: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/primallypure

Links for Kris:

Website: www.healthymamakris.com

Online Courses: https://healthymamalife.teachable.com

Kris has generously offered Elevating Motherhood listener’s a discount on her online courses! Use the code LORIBETH20 for 20% off enrollment into any of her beautiful and informative online courses—Uncomplicated Eating and Healthy Mama Meal Prep!

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/loribethauldridge

Facebook: www.facebook.com/elevatingmotherhood

iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevating-motherhood/id1479731562

Blog: www.yayamamas.com

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“The mess and the chaos is always going to be there and the trick isn’t to wait for that moment when that’s not there so that you can finally be satisfied, but to be satisfied even when you hear the cat throw up in the other room, you still smile and you still say ‘yes, this is where I’m meant to be.’ I really think that’s the root of purpose and satisfaction.”

Jennifer Fulwiler is with us today to discuss her new book Your Blue Flame: Drop the Guilt and Do What Makes You Come Alive.

Jen is incredible. Her book is incredible. Our conversation lit me up…we talked all things blue flame, what it’s like to be a stand-up comedian, our quests for satisfaction & purpose as moms & women, how we “do it all,” shame, humility, how our strengths and weaknesses are one and the same, and the part that interested me most, Jen’s ideas about the ideal “tempo of life.”

Tune in to hear more and be inspired by the vibrant Jen Fulwiler!

Jen’s Bio:

Jennifer Fulwiler is a standup comic, and former host of a daily talk show on SiriusXM, and mom of six kids. She’s here to talk about her new book Your Blue Flame(which I devoured in two days)…she is also the author of the bestselling memoirs Something Other than God (which I want to read next) and One Beautiful Dream. After being told that there wasn’t an audience for standup comedy done by a minivan-driving woman from the suburbs, she self-produced her own tour, which is selling out venues across the country.

Connect with Jen here: www.jenniferfulwiler.com

Listen to Jen’s New Podcast here: https://directory.libsyn.com/shows/view/id/jenniferfulwiler

Please Visit Our Sponsor:

Beautiful & Simple. Today’s episode is sponsored by Beautiful & Simple. An online boutique I’ve created and filled with products that remind us to slow down, practice self-care, & focus on the meaningful parts of our day: the beautiful & simple moments My favorite mug is the one that says “you cannot pour from an empty cup.” It’s my daily reminder to take care of myself so I can take care of my family. Go check out the collection of mugs, shirts & bags currently available at www.beautifulandsimple.com

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/loribethauldridge

Facebook: www.facebook.com/elevatingmotherhood

iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevating-motherhood/id1479731562

Blog: www.yayamamas.com

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No more guessing. We’re going to be proactive gather information to help our bodies and ourselves. We are worth it. I’m worth it. You’re worth it.

Physical Therapist Angie Peters is BACK! And we’re talking all things leakage after babies. Because…no more guessing. We’re going to learn more so we can strengthen our bodies and regain our sense of dignity around things that effect many moms like a leaking pelvis.

Angie’s Bio:

Angie is a physical therapist on the island of Maui who specializes in pelvic floor rehab. I used her services during & after two of my three pregnancies. She offered me loving support, guidance, & care during those sensitive times to help me figure out what was going on with my body and what I could do about it. Seeing her as a recovering mom opened my eyes to a whole world of resources that is available to postpartum moms!

Angie graduated with a masters degree from the University of Utah School of Physical Therapy in 2002. She has over 17 years of experience and continuing education in the outpatient orthopedic setting and has extensive post graduate work in the field of Women’s Health & Pelvic Rehabilitation through Herman and Wallace Pelvic Rehabilitation Institute. Angie shows great enthusiasm in education and improvement of pain-free function through a variety of clinic skills. She shares her free time with her husband and daughter. She also enjoys golfing, pickleball, and the great outdoors.

Angie serves our Maui community with a gentle and generous heart & I’m thrilled she is here to serve my listener community here at Elevating Motherhood as we dive deeper into the topic of leaky pelvis.

In This Episode, We Talk About:

Bladder leakage

Fecal leakage and smearing (yes, we go there)

Surprising contributors to leakage problems

What your poop is telling you

Constipation

How our diet contributes to or solves leakage problems

Proper toileting mechanics

What’s normal… what’s not

When to seek help from a physical therapist

Basic pelvic floor anatomy that all mamas should know

What’s going on in our bodies when they aren’t functioning quite right

How we can avoid wearing pads to protect against leaks

Ideas for strengthening the pelvic floor

The coconut wireless & Kegel exercises

Exercising & leakage

The role of core strength on pelvic strength

AND MORE!

Connect with Angie here: www.mauipelvicrehab.com

Please Visit Our Sponsors:

Primally Pure is one of my favorite companies! If you're looking for a new clean, safe, non-toxic deodorant that actually works, check out Primally Pure! Visit www.elevatingmotherhood.com/primallypure

MUTU System is a medically recommended, online exercise program that is designed to support mothers postpartum. A it's not just for moms with new babies. I started using it 2.5 years after my 3rd baby to help with my hip pain and unresolved diastasis recti. Find out more at: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/mutu

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/loribethauldridge

Facebook: www.facebook.com/elevatingmotherhood

iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevating-motherhood/id1479731562

Blog: www.yayamamas.com

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Kids don’t come with an instruction manual, right!? It’s true…but Jeffrey and Amy Olrick’s book The 6 Needs of Every Child is at the top of my list—it is the BEST parenting book on the market!

I’m not kidding. Even with three kids and three degrees + years of babysitting and nannying for other people’s kids, I still learned so, so, so much from reading their book. It was also the perfect middle ground for my husband and I to talk about parenting as individuals and together as a couple. It gave us the words to describe development and challenges.

Jeffrey and Amy are so charming: they’re a husband and wife duo who co-authored this incredible resource for parents. They offer us a mash up of neuroscience we can understand, their years of parenting experience, stories, humor, and decades of Jeff’s psychological research. They are here to give parents so much peace by helping readers (& listeners) transform our understanding of parenting—they offer us a much needed reframe: to see parenting not so much as a “job” but as a relationship.

They help us move out of those tough parenting moments with a little more grace by encouraging us to move beyond the hang up of “what do I do?” and into the mindset of “how shall I be with this person?”

Their perspective is refreshing, honest, and practical. It’s just the compassionate, easy to understand parenting book we need these modern times.

Bios:

Jeffrey Olrick, PhD, is a clinical psychologist who 
has worked with children and families for over twenty years. Amy Olrick is an author and human rights advocate whose work and writing have been featured in the Guardian and USA Today. Together, the Olricks run www.GrowingConnected.com, offering scientifically grounded and faith-informed resources for parents. They provide a much needed consilience for parents that we can all understand.

For more information about Jeffrey & Amy’s work, please visit their website: https://growingconnected.com

Or connect with them on social media: Instagram: @growingconnected FB: @growingconnected

And because I know some of you are here for the list of The 6 Needs of Every Child:

1. Delight

2. Support

3. Boundaries

4. Protection

5. Comfort

6. Equipping

Definitely check out the book for all the Olrick’s amazing details about what each of these needs mean and how we can gracefully meet them as parents!

Check Out Our Sponsors:

Blossom & Root: Blossom & Root’s Early Years Volumes 1 & 2 are valuable tools for parents with young children—whether you choose to pursue homeschool long term or not. The information and ideas are easy to follow, fun, and engaging. School age curricula are also available with more grade levels being released each year. It’s the curriculum my family uses and loves. They’ve generously offered a discount for listeners of Elevating Motherhood: use the code LORIBETH10 at checkout for 10% off your order. For more information about Blossom & Root, head over to www.elevatingmotherhood.com/homeschool

Branch Basics: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/branchbasics

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/loribethauldridge

Facebook: www.facebook.com/elevatingmotherhood

Blog: www.yayamamas.com

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I’m sure you’ve noticed by now if you’ve been listening to Elevating Motherhood for a while or follow me on Instagram that most of the personal use product brands I talk about fall into the “clean” category. They’re non-toxic, mostly plant based, or sustainable. Some are organic. Some companies are b-corps. But mostly, the companies and products that I talk about and use fall into the “clean” category.

Am I just being bougie with my choices? Or just trying to be trendy? Or use products that are “on brand?” No. (Those are common assumptions, by the way. I suppose I could be offended by those assumptions, but why? I honestly think people plug in those kinds of reasons because they don’t understand this new movement and our “whys” behind it. And I can’t help but notice that the current times are motivating people to reevaluate their priorities on a lot of levels—they’re prioritizing what health, wellness, and simplicity mean to them.

Which is why I wanted to do this quick show to take the mystery out of reducing toxic burden and offer ideas about how to get started if making a shift speaks to you. This journey for me looks like taking my health, my family’s health, and the planet’s health seriously. I definitely didn’t start doing it because it was convenient or “the norm.”

I don’t want you to feel like this is one of those “what you should be doing” episode. It’s meant to be informative—a resource for those who are curious about reducing toxic burden or exploring cleaner, healthier products because what you use on your body and put in your body matters. I’m going to keep it really simple by sharing my own examples and stories as well as products that I’ve settled on after a lot of years of searching and trial and error and been really happy with.

I’m also doing this episode because I get a lot of questions from moms about toxic burden. They want to know what it is, if it has anything to do with food or is it only relevant to things like cleaning products? Is it environmental? What classifies something as a “toxin?” Or another big one is why should we even try to reduce toxins in our lives when we don’t have control over most of the environments we’re in anyway?

These are all great questions! For me, reducing my family’s toxic burden isn’t a waste of time and while it’s true that I don’t have control over what we’re exposed to in most environments, I DO have control over what we use in our own home, what we put on our skin, and in our bodies. And that’s a big enough reason for me to make changes—even just lots of small changes—for myself and my family.

I don’t have all the answers, just ones I’ve answered for myself—and my opinion and experience is just that: mine. But I also know that hearing other mamas’ stories is really powerful and often just the catalyst we need to start our own personal journey.

I’m also doing this episode to raise awareness. We’re not taught or encouraged to look at labels or read ingredient lists. Companies want us to focus on the shiny advertising. But I have found so much peace in reading ingredients and knowing more about the products and brands I use, their sources, their standards, etc. It’s empowering to be able to analyze them for myself to determine what is safe by my own educated standards.

In this episode I talk about:

What Toxic Burden Is

Why I Care About Toxic Burden

Products I've Settled On Over the Years

Cleaning Products

Skin Care

Makeup

Air Quality

Water Quality, Contradictory Information, Sources, Getting to Know Yourself & More

Please visit www.elevatingmotherhood.com for the full transcript, links, & details.

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“Every woman deserves the dignity of a body that works and that makes her feel good.” Have you ever felt like your postpartum body was letting you down? Like it isn’t or wasn’t performing like it was supposed to? Mom guilt? Shame? You. Are. Not. Alone. And if there is one woman who understands those feelings of disconnection and what we can do about it, it’s today’s guest: Wendy Powell. Not only does she understand these common feelings and thoughts, but is committed to creating solutions for mamas who need more understanding and connection on their journeys. Wendy’s Bio: Wendy is a leader, speaker, maternal health pioneer, feminist, and founder & CEO of the leading global digital health tech platform MUTU System. Wendy is the woman behind the world’s best-selling, medically recommended, online program for mothers, trusted by over 65,000 women worldwide. Loved and recommended by Hollywood celebrity trainers and their clients, specialist women’s health experts, surgeons and even Royalty, Wendy is shifting the conversation on women’s bodies towards equality and empowerment for health, confidence and power. Wendy is on the Women’s Development Board of empowerment charity MicroLoan and works with medical professionals around the world to improve education, dignity and empowerment for mothers. Wendy has been featured on: Fox Health News | CNN | Huffington Post | Parent.com | BBC Radio 4 Woman's Hour | The Telegraph | Daily Mail | Mail Online | Mother & Baby | Daily Express | Red magazine | Made for Mums | UK Health Radio and now Elevating Motherhood. I’m humbled and honored to bring Wendy, her message, her story, her program, and her light into your life today. Mamas, get ready. Wendy is here to support us in so many areas—today’s episode is about business, peeing our pants, personal growth, professional growth, life-long learning, health, wellness, fitness, connection, creating value, dignity, and so much more. You are in for a treat.  For more information about Wendy and her incredible work, visit http://www.elevatingmotherhood.com/show-notes/episode-041/ 

Sponsors: Blossom & Root: Thanks to Blossom & Root for supporting today’s episode of Elevating Motherhood. This nature-based, Charlotte Mason inspired homeschool curriculum company has been supporting families for years. Their brilliant curriculum starts at the preschool level and offers options all the way into the elementary grades with more grade levels being released each year. It’s the curriculum my family uses and loves. If you are considering homeschooling your children in the fall or continuing your current home education journey but with more support. Now is the time to gather information about homeschool and start to find answers to all of your homeschool questions so that you can move forward with your family’s education decision with confidence. Checking out Blossom & Root’s age appropriate, supportive curriculums is a great place to start. They also offer a discount code for Elevating Motherhood listeners. Use the code LORIBETH10 at checkout for 10% off your order. Head over www.elevatingmotherhood.com/homeschoolfor more information. MUTU System: Wendy Powell is the creator and CEO of MUTU System. I’m a MUTU Mama myself and share more about my experience with it over at www.elevatingmotherhood.com/mutu

Elevating Motherhood Links:  Instagram: www.instagram.com/loribethauldridge Facebook: www.facebook.com/elevatingmotherhood

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How Ayurvedic Principles Can Elevate Your Daily Life. What is Ayurveda? Ever heard of it? Studied it? Tried it? Do you currently use principles from Ayurveda in your daily life? Or is this a brand-new topic for you?

Today’s episode is Ayurveda in a nutshell. Ayurveda 101. Or even an Ayurveda refresh, if it’s something you’ve studied in the past.

Jessica Quinn is here with us today to generously share her knowledge and expertise. She is an Ayurvedic Nutritionist who was raised in San Diego and has been living on Maui for 16 years. She splits her time between Maui and San Diego. She holds a B.A. from UC Berkley, and Teaching Credentials from National University. Jessica is also certified as a nutrition coach (Huntington College), yoga instructor (Maya Yoga), and Ayurvedic Health Counselor (CA College of Ayurveda). She studied under Dr. William Malik Cotter, Tracee Stanley, Nicki Doane, and Eddie Modestini.

Jessica offers Ayurvedic nutrition consultations, seasonal group Ayurvedic cleanses, Ayurvedic treatments, catering and private chef services, and hosts classes and retreats. Her favorite food is kitchari (which we’ll learn more about in this show). Learn more about her offerings at: https://www.jessicaquinnayurveda.com

Jessica is so thorough, going over:

· What Ayurveda is

· Where Ayurveda comes from

· Doshas: Vata, Pitta, Kapha

· The 3 Bodies: Karmic, Subtle, and Physical

· Agni: Why it’s important to have a strong digestive fire

· The 6 Tastes: Sweet, Salty, Sour, Pungent, Bitter, & Astringent

· Ayurvedic Modalities

· The importance of healthy daily routines and rituals

· Tips for moms to incorporate Ayurvedic principles into their lives

· Some history of Ayurveda + it’s modern influence…and so much more!

If all of these words and concepts sound foreign to you, don’t worry! They won’t by the end of the episode!

Jessica’s goal is to inspire others to feel empowered in such a way that they may learn how to take care of their body and mind with an essence of truth, vitality, and ease. I think every mama could use a big dose of that these days!

I was so inspired by our conversation that I decided to start my own journey with Ayurvedic nutrition and daily practices. I’ll be sharing more about it on Instagram (@loribethauldridge) and diving a bit deeper into this journey through my emails (sign up for my email list if you haven’t already! I share behind the scenes updates, discount codes, personal take-aways from each show, resources, and much more!)

There's more in the show notes at www.elevatingmotherhood.com!

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: @loribethauldridge

Facebook: Elevating Motherhood

Please visit today's sponsors: Branch Basics & Ojai Energetics

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“Release means reclaiming our minds, our lives, and our futures from the negative messages that held us back. Release allows us to name what was stolen and who we were before it was stolen and to start doing the work that has to be done to get it back.” – Elizabeth Melendez Fisher Good, page 144 of Groomed

Overcoming messages that shaped our past and limit our future—that’s what Elizabeth Melendez Fisher Good’s new book Groomed is all about. And she’s not just talking about survivors of sex trafficking that she works with on a daily basis, but all of us. Even our children. She’s here to talk with us today about her book, her own life lessons, and how we can move closer to who we truly are by moving beyond messages that limit us.

Elizabeth is a powerhouse of a woman and I’m so honored to share her with you. In 2011, Elizabeth cofounded what is today the leading provider to domestic survivors of sex trafficking, Selah Freedom. This organization provides Prevention curriculum for over 10,000 K-12th grade children, life-saving safe housing and resources to survivors, and education on this issue to millions annually. It also trains and partners with law enforcement, the FBI and United States Attorney’s Office to bring freedom to survivors and has been deemed a model organization serving this population. With her direction, she has led the organization in a financial growth of over 200% annually. She has also launched The Selah Way Foundation, a global network of leading service providers with three initiatives: Prevention, Protection and Provision. The goal of these initiatives is to get ahead of this issue in hopes of eradicating it and become a model and training arm for the international community. Elizabeth is a passionate pioneer and inspirational thought leader in the movement to eradicate sex trafficking and expose the root of the issue, childhood sexual abuse. She has spearheaded an awakening and brought partners and resources together with proven solutions to save lives. She is also the author of Groomed (Harper Collins, 2020). Using her own story of abuse, family tragedy, and rebellion, Elizabeth Melendez Fisher guides readers toward an understanding that grooming is oftentimes subtle, but it's always life-altering. She offers readers a way to overcome their past, starting with all-important but rarely explored idea of a selah, or a time of rest and reflection, and exploring active ways to forgive and move forward to a new level of freedom. Elizabeth has been highlighted and described as, “Part healer, part businesswoman, all resolve—if Selah Freedom is bringing light into the darkness, as the slogan says, then she is the one behind the megawatt.” She is the recipient of the prestigious New York City Global Business Leader Award and Tampa Bay Business Woman of the Year Award. Elizabeth has her Bachelor’s degree in Communications and her Master's in Clinical Psychology.

In this episode we talk about how we are groomed:

· For Appearance: “You exist only to make me look good.”

· To Be Invisible: “Your existence doesn’t matter to me.”

· To Endure: “You’re stronger than everyone else. You can handle it all.”

· For Judgement: “You are unforgivable.”

· For Financial Fear: “There’s not enough for you.”

· To rely on our phones for everything.

We also dive into the power of discernment and how the beliefs we were groomed to take on can suffocate our true identity.

This is a VERY powerful episode. I hope you’ll tune in, listen, and grow along side us.

For more information about Elizabeth and her organizations, offerings, resources, and how you can help, please visit www.freewithe.com

More over at: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Today's Sponsors: Primally Pure and Beautiful & Simple

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Soothed, settled, safe, and connected.

When Lisa mentioned wanting to talk about nourishment, my first thought was “Nourishment? What’s that? I seem to have forgotten…” How about you? Same? Are you feeling any kind of nourished right now, mama?

Good news: you’re about to! Lisa McCrohanis back to speak peace into our tender mama hearts right now—and I’m so grateful! She highlights how we can approach our life using our mind, body, and compassion. By the end of this conversation you’ll have a deeper understanding of not only how your nervous system works but ways we can soften, reconnect, and feel nourished. I’m personally dealing with big waves of emotion, fatigue that plagues me off and on, and snowballing thoughts that keep me exhausted some days. It’s not every day, just some. But it’s enough that I want to find ways to move through those days.

In this episode, Lisa talks with us about:

· Connection…with ourselves, with other people, with nature.

· These times are messing with our nervous system.

· The power of naming your emotions, softening the body, & applying compassion

· A simple explanation about what’s happening to our nervous systems right now

· Mind + body + compassion

· She even shares three powerful poems with us: Self Love; Hope; & Be

Lisa McCrohan, Is a Somatic Experiencing Psychotherapist, Integrative Coach, and author of Gems of Delight: seasonal inspirations for moms to heal the hurry and what is sacred. With an expertise in mind-body-spirit healing, Lisa works with men and women all over the world in their personal and professional development. She lives with her husband, two young children, and dog, Sherlock, in Middletown, MD, with the mountains outside her backdoor. You can find inspiration here: www.lisamccrohan.com.

Today's Sponsors:

Homeschool Explained: Homeschool Explained is an online course I created to help parents begin their homeschool journey with confidence. I was getting a lot of questions from parents about my family’s homeschool journey…they wanted to know more but weren’t sure where to get started or if it was a good fit for their family. So I started teaching in-person workshops here on Maui to help parents sort that out. But then requests starting come in from other islands and other places asking if I could put it online from them, too…so I did! I totally get it, starting any new journey can be overwhelming…especially when you feel this call on your heart to homeschool but aren’t sure where to begin. That’s why I’ve put over 10 years of homeschool experience and insights into this easy to follow, easy to use online course that answers common questions, helps you work through worries, and saves you time. Find out more at www.elevatingmotherhood.com/homeschool

MUTU System: MUTU is a body positive, medically recommended online exercise program for all moms. This 12 week program walks you through daily exercises you can do in the comfort of your home. It includes easy to follow modules, healthy eating tips, encouragement, support, and more. Find out more at www.elevatingmotherhood.com/mutu

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: @loribethauldridge

Facebook: Elevating Motherhood (www.facebook.com/elevatingmotherhood)

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Nicole Zasowski is here with us today! She is a licensed marriage and family therapist and the author of the incredible book From Lost to Found: Giving Up What You Think You Want For What Will Set You Free. She speaks to us on such a heart centered level. She’s kind, compassionate, open, and really models transformation for us—sharing her path to her true self and what that looked like for her. She opens up about her pain and triumphs in her book and in this interview. Today you’ll learn a bit about her book and her powerful personal journey into motherhood…she even shares ideas with us about how to be genuinely supportive when a friend is experiencing loss through miscarriage. Something that I wish we talked more openly about in general as a society…I’m just so grateful she’s here with us to get those conversations started in a really loving way.

Nicole is an old soul who wears her heart proudly on her sleeve, she enjoys writing and speaking on topics that merge her professional knowledge and personal experience. She lives in Connecticut with her husband and two young boys.

Thanks for being here for this conversation. I hope it leaves you feeling as supported and resourced as I did by the end of it. Nicole Zasowski is awesome.

Nicole Zasowski's Links:

Website: www.nicolezasowski.com

Book: From Lost to Found: Thoughts on Miscarriage, Faith, Joy, & Finding Our True Self

Instagram: @nicolezasowski

Twitter: @nicolezasowski

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicolezasowskiwriter/

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: @loribethauldridge

Facebook: Elevating Motherhood

Visit Today's Sponsors:

Blossom & Root: Today’s episode of Elevating Motherhood is sponsored by Blossom & Root a nature-based, Charlotte Mason inspired homeschool curriculum company that has been gently guiding and supporting families for years! This thoughtful, age appropriate curriculum begins at the preschool level—and acts as a much-needed resource for this age group.

Blossom & Root’s preschool curriculum (Early Years Volumes 1 & 2) are valuable tools for parents with young children—whether you choose to pursue homeschool long term or not. The information and ideas are easy to follow, fun, and engaging. School age curricula are also available with more grade levels being released each year. It’s the curriculum my family uses and loves. Blossom & Root has generously offered a discount for listeners of Elevating Motherhood: use the code LORIBETH10 at checkout for 10% off your order.

For more information about Blossom & Root, head over to www.elevatingmotherhood.com/homeschool

Ojai Energetics: Another great supporter of the show is Ojai Energetics. They are the creators of my favorite line of organic, water soluable CBD products. If you’re new to CBD or aren’t sure what it is or what it does, or why I’m talking about it on a show for moms, tune in to Episode 015 where Ojai Energetics CEO Will Kleidon answers all of those questions and so much more. He takes the mystery out of this often misunderstood product in a way that’s easy to understand. For more information about Ojai Energetics, their mission & products, plus a special offer for listeners, go to www.elevatingmotherhood.com/cbd

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Do you ever struggle with feeling like you’re “not enough?” Where does that feeling come from? How can we work through those negative thoughts? Who or what can support us on our very personal and individual journeys toward believing we are “enough?” What’s holding us back?

So many questions.

Where and who do we get our inspiration from? Should women only listen to women? Mothers only listen to mothers? As women, can we get inspiration from a man? I think the answer is YES! And that’s exactly why David Trotter is here with me today to talk about how we can show up, find our own answers, believe in our “enough-ness,” and be empowered to rise.

Who is David Trotter?

David Trotter is a Transformation Coach and Host of Inspiration Rising, a podcast dedicated to inspiring women (and the men who support them) to rise up in life, love, and leadership. Through his Launch Your Life coaching program, he helps women (and men) overcome difficult life transitions (divorce, empty nest, job dissatisfaction) and develop a workable plan to make lasting changes. He is also the author of "Empowered to Rise: The Secret to Embracing Your True Identity, Uncovering Your Super Powers, and Bringing Your Inspiration to the World." For over 25 years, he’s helped people get unstuck, clarify their goals, and take their lives to the next level through his leadership, speaking, writing, and filmmaking. David and his wife, Laura, have been married for over 25 years and live in California.

Today I asked David to share a bit about his new book – specifically more about the chapter called “I Am Enough.” Gosh, as moms, do you find yourself struggling with that concept? I know I do from time to time. But I also know that I can shift that feeling of “not enough-ness” and gain more confidence with time, intention, and practice.

Head over to www.elevatingmotherhood.com for more information & links.

Please visit our episode supporters: Primally Pure and Beautiful & Simple

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/loribethauldridge

Facebook: www.facebook.com/elevatingmotherhood

iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevating-motherhood/id1479731562

Blog: www.yayamamas.com

David Trotter’s Links:

Websites: www.insporising.com

Book: www.insporising.com/bundle

Podcast: Inspiration Rising https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inspiration-rising/id1448649388

Films: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm5084689/

Facebook: www.facebook.com/insporising & www.facebook.com/groups/insporising

Instagram: www.instagram.com/insporising

Twitter: www.twitter.com/insporising

Linked In: www.linkedin.com/in/jdavidtrotter

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Omg. How fluffy does reading poetry sound? Seriously. It seems so frivolous in our modern world. When I think of poetry I don’t picture a mom with a beautiful messy bun on the top of her tired head, sipping cold coffee in yesterday’s yoga pants while tiny children scream at her feet, doing everything they can to draw her attention away from the page she is so obviously not engrossed in.

Instead, when I think of poetry, I imagine something out of an old movie…sleek beatniks lying around an apartment in Paris, smoking, reading poetry aloud to one other on a lazy Saturday afternoon. Or Shakespeare, alone in his home, writing powerful works. Or college students wasting their money studying poetry. Or any other cliché or opinion about poetry that marks it as “not for us.”

Poetry is none of that. It’s none of those stereotypes. It is words strung together in such a way that it expands our hearts and minds. Poems leave room for us and our imagination—we get to put a piece of ourselves into them with our interpretation of the stories they tell or the scenes they paint or the points they make.

So how could reading poetry be perfect for modern moms? For the 9 reasons I’m going to share with you about how it helps me.

1. Reading Requires Intentional Stopping

2. It's Self Care

3. Poems are Typically Short

4. Poems are Calming

5. It's Artistic

6. It Feeds My Spirit

7. It Deepens My Connection to Nature

8. It Brings Me Into the Moment

9. It's a Positive Hobby to Model for my Kids

Listen to the full episode for all the details in between!

Visit Today’s Sponsors:

Blossom & Root. Today’s episode of Elevating Motherhood is sponsored by Blossom & Root a nature-based, Charlotte Mason inspired homeschool curriculum company that has been gently guiding and supporting families for years! This thoughtful, age appropriate curriculum begins at the preschool level—and acts as a much-needed resource for this age group. Blossom & Root’s Early Years Volumes 1 & 2 are valuable tools for parents with young children—whether you choose to pursue homeschool long term or not. The information and ideas are easy to follow, fun, and engaging. School age curricula are also available with more grade levels being released each year. It’s the curriculum my family uses and loves. They’ve generously offered a discount for listeners of Elevating Motherhood: use the code LORIBETH10 at checkout for 10% off your order. For more information about Blossom & Root, head over to www.elevatingmotherhood.com/homeschool

Beautiful & Simple. Today’s episode is sponsored by Beautiful & Simple. An online boutique filled with products that remind us to slow down, practice self-care, & focus on the meaningful parts of our day: the beautiful & simple moments. My favorite mug is the one that says “you cannot pour from an empty cup.” It’s my daily reminder to take care of myself so I can take care of my family. Go check out the collection of mugs, shirts & bags currently available at www.beautifulandsimple.com

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/loribethauldridge

Facebook: www.facebook.com/elevatingmotherhood

iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevating-motherhood/id1479731562

Blog: www.yayamamas.com

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I'm so honored to share the incredible Laura McKowen with you today! This conversation is AWESOME and just the start I was hoping for to a very…interesting & challenging topic.

How are we supposed to talk about alcohol as moms? Some of us drink. Some of us don’t. And there’s this weird divide between the two and unhelpful cultural influences that leave us fumbling for how to talk to one another about drinking and sobriety. Which is so weird as moms and friends and sisters to suddenly NOT know how to talk to one another about this “everyday ordinary” topic. It almost feels like it’s talked about for us in memes and wine apparel.

I’ve been thinking about how I wanted to bring up of the conversation of alcohol for a while and having Laura on to breech the subject feels right. She’s so kind and understanding and her journey brings with it important insight that we can all benefit from big time whether you drink or not.

It’s such a polarized topic when it doesn’t need to be. If it truly was “no big deal,” we wouldn’t be whispering about it. If it truly was “no big deal,” we wouldn’t have to feel like we might lose our friends if we choose not to drink. But these are real concerns for moms. And it feels like there’s not a lot of mom-specific support out there to help us navigate this topic. No guidelines for how to talk about alcohol and motherhood. So we live in this weird culture that’s polarized: either you’re in or you’re out. And if you’re out, you’re no fun. And you know what? That’s just not true. And it’s not helpful.

So what is helpful? Amazing women like today’s guest, author and speaker Laura McKowen.

Laura is going to share with us her story, her insights, suggestions for how to talk about alcohol and motherhood, and how to be supportive of friends who choose sobriety. Her message is very, very powerful. Laura is the author of We Are the Luckiest: The Surprising Magic of a Sober Life. She is a former public relations executive who has become recognized as a fresh voice in the recovery movement. Beloved for her soulful and irreverent writing, she now leads sold-out yoga-based retreats and courses that teach people how to say yes to a bigger life. She hosted the iTunes Top 100 podcast HOME, with over 1.5 million downloads. and has been featured on the TODAY show, in The Guardian, WebMD, New York Post, and more. She shows up as such a light and friend for this conversation and finds a way to make us comfortable with the uncomfortable while holding our hands and walking us forward.

I don’t want you to be afraid of this conversation.

It’s not a heavy…it’s full of hope, ideas, and inspiration. And gives us new perspective on how we can talk about it with each other, with our sisters, and be supportive of one another. We’re breaking through the “not knowing” and diving into it so we can come out the other side with more understanding, compassion, and resources to move forward with clarity and connection.

Elevating Motherhood Links:

Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/loribethauldridge

Facebook: www.facebook.com/elevatingmotherhood

iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevating-motherhood/id1479731562

Blog: www.yayamamas.com

Laura McKowen Links: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/show-notes/episode-034/

Please Visit Today's Sponsors: Primally Pure & Branch Basics

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We do not talk about sex after babies enough. How do I know? Because of aaaaaaaaaall the emotions that came up for me and other mamas when I broached the subject. “Should I do an episode about it?” I asked.The answer: 100% YES!

So I invited the energetic and talented blogger Jazmyne Futrell of www.mixedmombrownbabies.com onto the show to get this conversation rolling!

Jazmyne lives in California with her husband and their four children. She shows up on her blog (and social media feeds) honestly and openly—talking about all things motherhood, from kids, life, marriage, and travel to postpartum depression, c-section recovery, loving your body, learning to let go, how to stop fighting with your toddler about teeth brushing and so much more. It’s Jazmyne’s “no holding back” approach to life and motherhood that drew me to her for this conversation. And I was not disappointed!

I think we’re all listening to this episode for different reasons. Maybe you tuned in because your sex life could use some…elevating. Maybe it’s already great. Maybe you just want to hear moms being honest about sex because it’s (oddly) still so taboo in our culture. Maybe you’ll find this episode refreshing. Maybe shocking. Who knows? Either way, I’m so glad you’re here. This conversation feels brave and important—and you listening is brave and important.

In this episode we discuss:

· Jazmyne’s Story

· Tips from her blog article Learning to Enjoy Sex

· Why we need to talk about sex after babies more and why it’s hard to talk about for most women (especially moms)

· Breaking through clichés about sex & postpartum recovery

· The power of being present during sex

· Getting to know yourself, your needs, and more

· The importance of clear communication

· The opportunity for deeper connection in your relationship

· Postpartum issues that can arise

· Embracing the “new” that is inevitable after becoming a parent

· How essential creativity is

And then Jazmyne closes with the BEST TIP EVER for what to implement TODAY to start shifting your sex life for the better!

Sponsors:

MUTU Systems www.elevatingmotherhood.com/mutu The medically recommended online workout program for postpartum moms (yes, even moms who are years postpartum!) It’s easy to follow, do-able, and effective (less is more!) The sense of support in this online program is also incredible. If you suffer from Diastasis Recti, pain during intercourse, weakness, leaky bladder, or just want to feel stronger after having a baby, I recommend MUTU!

Ojai Energetics www.elevatingmotherhood.com/cbd The makers of the most advanced, water-soluble, organic CBD on the planet. Check out Episode 015. With Ojai Energetics CEO Will Kleidon for more information about what CBD is and how it is used by the body.

Links:

Connect with Lori Beth on Instagram www.instagram.com/loribethauldridge

Connect with Lori Beth on Facebook www.facebook.com/elevatingmotherhood

Connect with Jazmyne: @mixedmombrownbabies across all platforms

Jazmyne's eBook: coming soon!

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I knew something needed to change. I wasn’t getting what I wanted or needed out of my everyday life. I wanted more alone time, more date nights with my husband, deeper connection with my kids…I wanted us to be a family who goes outside more, one who has fun together…I felt like I needed to eat better and workout.

My list was so long and overwhelming that I knew I couldn’t start to improve all of that (or anything!) if I tried to change everything all at once. And my schedule was so full as a working, homeschooling mom that I wasn’t sure I’d find the time to work on even one topic. But I was determined to start. Determined to make changes.

5 minutes a day seemed do-able. (Start small, right?) It seemed sustainable, too. But there wasn’t anything out there that focused on topics I was interested in as a mom. So I wrote a Guided Journal—one that I wanted for myself—and shared it with other mamas. One topic + one month + just a few minutes a day.

The very first Guided Journal topic one was “Alone Time” (something so many moms talk about needing!). I wrote out the journal prompts for the whole month then answered one a day…and it changed my life.

I had more alone time than I ever thought possible. I was using it to take care of myself and meet my needs which led to me having more energy and positivity to share with my family. It turns out the saying “you cannot pour from an empty cup” is true. It was a breakthrough moment for me. I had been blocking my own alone time and had inadvertently taught my family that I didn’t need it by not taking it. Those truths all bubbled to the surface in one month’s time and were changed from that month on. Alone time was something all of us needed and deserved. We’re now a family that makes space for each of us to have the alone time we crave and deserve.

Once I had met my own needs, I turned my focus to my marriage. “Date Night” was the second month’s Guided Journal topic. I spent that month answering questions and figuring out what we needed to do to work in more date nights. That month was epic. We went on so many dates! There was suddenly time for dating where there had been none before. Why? Because we stopped blocking ourselves. We stopped talking ourselves out of dates. We stopped making excuses, showed up (for ourselves and each other), and put in the work…which meant going on dates. (Probably my favorite work ever).

From there my desire to work on all of the most important areas of my life—my motherhood, my marriage, my family, my friendships, my home, my everyday habits—exploded with energy and enthusiasm. At the same time it brought me peace. That’s why I broke through the vulnerability and shared it with other mamas, because I know I’m not the only one who feels crunched for time while wanting to make positive changes.

The best part is, Guided Journaling helps you discover what YOU need. It helps you find answers that work in YOUR life, not someone else’s.

Give it a try! All of these topics are available on my blog: www.yayamamas.com Simply click on the Guided Journals tab and choose a topic that speaks to you. Happy Journaling!

Guided Journals topics available: Alone Time * Date Night * Connection * Transition * Family Fun * A Sense of Home * Go Outside * Friendship * Philanthropy * Expectations * Finance * Fitness * Food * Detox * Legacy * Mom Style

Connect with LB on Instagram www.instagram.com/loribethauldridge & Facebook www.facebook.com/elevatingmotherhood

Visit Today's Sponsor: Blossom & Root (Code: LORIBETH10 for 10% off!)

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Home Education Resources...you asked, I answered! Tune in for encouragement, support, and sisterhood as well as answers from an experienced homeschool mama.

Episode 030 Is jam packed with practical tips and mindset shifts to help you through this complex transition into educating your kids at home.

Episode 031 Is a follow up where I answer listener questions from moms around the world who are searching for specific answers on their unique home education journeys.

In this episode, I give candid answers to listener questions about temporary homeschooling:

· What does a day look like?

· How do you set up a routine?

· How does everyone get along?

· How can I make this more fun?

· How do you separate the line between teacher and mom?

· How do you not fall into a rut and pretend it’s Saturday and just be lazy?

· How do you not drive each other insane?

· What school supplies do I need to buy and have on hand? (You’d be surprised if you look around your home at all the toys, books, games, and even empty boxes)

· How do I work a full day and then teach my kids for 6 hours after that?

· How do you teach your child when there are siblings around distracting them (especially younger siblings)?

· How do you stay on task and not bounce from one project to the next? How do you not get sidetracked by chores and to do list items?

· What if I don’t like this whole set up?

· How are you staying so calm in all of this?

· Do you do school 5 days a week or do you have a break day in the middle?

If you’re still looking for more answers or really want to dive deep into the full homeschooling process, I offer support in my online course Homeschool Explained. There’s also more info at:

www.elevatingmotherhood.com/homeschool

www.yayamamas.com/homeschool

I’ll be sharing more behind the scenes over on Instagram: @loribethauldridgeto help normalize what working from home + homeschooling looks like. Feel free to ask more questions. I’m here for you, mama.

Follow Elevating Motherhood on IG& FB! Like, comment, and share that you’re listening to the podcast!

Be sure to SUBSCRIBE so you never miss an episode!

Like the show? Leave me a review! Your feedback lets me know what you like, want, and need in your #momlife I’m here to serve you, open up conversations, tackle topics, and encourage connection. Reviews help me do that! Thank you so much!

Links:

Love the Show? Leave a review on iTunes! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevating-motherhood/id1479731562

Connect with LB on Instagram www.instagram.com/loribethauldridge

Connect with LB on Facebook www.facebook.com/elevatingmotherhood

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Schools are closed. You need help teaching our kiddos. You’re here for answers, tips, tricks, schedules, and resources.

If you find yourself needing to educate your kids at home for a while unexpectedly, I get that you might be in a bit of shock. It’s overwhelming. I think a lot of that overwhelm comes from this idea that just a day ago we had a predictable schedule in place and knew what we were good at…we’re good at being a parent, we’re good at our job, we understood our current roles and then were handed another one: the role of teacher.

Not knowing how to formally teach our kids can make us feel like we’re really bad at that or we’re going to fail at it. Those are very unsettling feelings. The overwhelm is so real for so many people. Please know that you’re not alone in those feelings, that they’re valid, and that there are many people out there who understand. And those of us who want to help you rise up, find your confidence, and move through this overwhelming time feeling understood, resourced, and supported.

So many of us are searching for coping mechanisms among all of the heightened emotions. Humor, frustration, unhappiness, venting, even panic—these are all real emotions that real people are feeling. It’s really important to acknowledge how you’re feeling. Name the emotions without shame. Know that they are normal, acknowledge them, and then use them as information to move forward. None of us want to live in those feelings of frustration, overwhelm, and unhappiness.

Please know that if the sources of your overwhelm stem from childcare, money, job, or food concerns, I wish I had the resources to immediately help you and calm your mama heart. I hope that there are friends, family, and local resources that you can reach out to now to help. I don’t think it’s too early to start accepting offers for help from school boards, food banks, churches, local organizations, and people who have been posting on social media that they want to be there for you. Believe them. Use them. Lean into your community. This truly is turning into a time of coming together even while we are apart.

Here are my top 14 tips for parents who are finding themselves doing all of life at home with their kids, including educating them.

1. Don’t Try to Recreate the Classroom in Your Home

2. Create Your Own Schedule

3. Try Time Blocking

4. Remember School is Supposed to be Do-able

5. Alternate Activities

6. Keep Records

7. Give Grace (and then more grace)

8. Go Outside (a lot)

9. Know That Resources are All Around You

10. Mindset is Everything

11. Lean Into the Process

12. Lean Into Your School’s Resources

13. Communicate with Your School Community

14. Take Care of Yourself

You are strong, you are capable, this is temporary, there will be ups and downs, those are normal, we’ll get through them together.

For more show notes & all links mentioned in today’s podcast, go to www.elevatingmotherhood.com

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Anxiety is one of the most requested topics from listeners here on the show. So many moms want to know more about it and/or what they can do to manage theirs or make it disappear.

I’m not a medical professional. I can’t diagnose anxiety, nor am I ever trying to by presenting episodes about anxiety. This isn’t medical advice, this is a discussion among moms. My goal is to empower mothers to learn more about themselves and encourage them to learn more about topics that inspire them, interest them, or even concern them. Topics like anxiety. We’re not going to shy away from it here on Elevating Motherhood, but instead seek out information and potential options. I don’t believe there is a one size fits all answer to anything…especially when it comes to moms & anxiety.

It feels like we’re in this sea of not-knowing when it comes to anxiety: we don’t know a ton about it even though it’s a very common notion, we have moments in our lives where we *think we might have it but we’re not sure and we don’t want to talk about it if we suspect we do, or if we do talk about it, there’s sometimes judgment or we’re offered unhelpful “advice,” or it’s ignored altogether. There are actually people who believe that anxiety isn’t real. There are so many opinions about anxiety, it’s no wonder moms feel paralyzed and don’t even know where to start seeking answers, information, and support.

So let’s change that.I want to talk openly about anxiety, share stories, and hear from moms & professionals. I really want to explore ways we can learn to support ourselves and other moms. Let’s have the conversations. My goal is to publish many episodes in an “Options for Anxiety” series where we learn about and dive into ideas that might help: Those of us with anxiety, those of us who wonder if we might have it, and even those of us without anxiety who want to learn how to be more supportive.

Today’s guest is the perfect intro to this series!

Breon Michel is a parent coach & educator who supports and empowers families with tools to create more ease, enjoyment, and self-compassion in daily life. With extensive training in mindfulness & self-compassion, nervous system regulation, and plenty of personal practice (and mishaps!) as a parent, she uses a heartfelt and integrative approach to helping parents deal with the challenges and vulnerabilities of raising children in the modern world. Breon is a Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction teacher with a Master’s in Applied Positive Psychology from the University of Pennsylvania. A love of learner at heart, she’s also partway through the Organic Intelligence HEART training, which is giving her greater insight into the key aspects of healthy nervous system functioning.

In today’s episode, we talk about: What anxiety is * What’s a coach vs. a therapist * Causes of anxiety (cultural, societal, familial, ancestral, etc.) * When to reach out for help & support * Approaches to therapy, including: somatic experiencing therapy, organic intelligence, talk therapy, family/parent coaching, self compassion, mindfulness & meditation, showing up as your genuine self, and anxiety & children

RESOURCES:

Psychology Today, Postpartum Support International, Postpartum Doulas, Steve Hoskinson (founder of Organic Intelligence) – “The job is enjoyment.” Peter Levine (Somatic Experiencing Therapy)

LINKS:

Love the Show? Leave a review on iTunes!, Connect w/ LB on Instagram & Facebook, Branch Basics, www.beautifulandsimple.com, www.breonmichel.com

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At some point, most parents are going to need to bring someone else in to help with childcare. There are a variety of options…daycare, school, family members, or even childcare swaps with friends. But not all of us have those options. We might live far from family or schedules don’t line up or…I could literally list 100 reasons why childcare might go awry (because it can & does!) and why we might need to seek out other options.

There also might be listeners who are expecting or have a new baby and want to plan ahead as much as possible. All of our situations are unique. But it’s safe to say, if you’re a parent with a child, have a child on the way, are a child care provider, or want to be a childcare provider (I’m looking at you 13-year-old soon to be babysitters!) this episode has something for you!

Today we’re going to talk about the difference between a babysitter, nanny, and mother’s helper.

And, of course, the real burning question: How much should we pay them?

We’re also going to touch on what to do when issues arise…and issues do come up. Having a childcare provider is a relationship and every relationship has ups and downs, joyful moments and disagreements.

So I asked Nicki Taylor, owner of The Nanny Connection here on Maui, (www.thenannyconnection.com) come on the show and shed some light on these questions. She also offers us communication & hiring tips while busting through myths and telling great stories (she has some doozies!)

Nicki is a wonderful mom to two children, ages 4 and 2. After receiving her Bachelors in Healthcare Administration and worked in corporate America in elder care for years before moving to Maui to take over her mother-in-law’s nanny agency. She’s been running the The Nanny Connection here on Maui and Lanai for over 6 years. The Nanny Connection expanded to Oahu this past year and is looking to launch in Kauai later this year. Nicki’s background in administration and her innate understanding and compassion as a mom make her an incredible resource and leader in her unique branch of the childcare industry. If you’re on Maui or plan to visiting Hawaii, The Nanny Connection is my number one recommendation for trusted childcare. I’ll be sure to link to The Nanny Connection in the show notes. We’re fortunate to be able to tap into her experience & resources today.

In this episode we go over:

· What is the difference between a nanny, babysitter, and mother’s helper?

· Why do people hire nannies? (there’s some myth-busting in this answer!)

· What kinds of questions should moms ask nannies when interviewing them for a position? Things they need to bring up?

· How much to pay?

· Common issues that come up for moms when hiring nannies? What can we do to avoid disagreements, drama, or tension with nannies?

· Common issues that come up for nannies? What can they do to avoid disagreements, drama, or tension with parents?

· Communication tools for moms & child care providers

Helpful Links:

Love the Show? Leave a review on iTunes!

Connect with LB on Instagram &Facebook

Visit Today’s Sponsors: Ojai Energetics and Primally Pure

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Sibling Rivalry…this is a dynamic topic! If you have more than one kiddo, you know that there will be inevitable moments of sibling rivalry: fighting, disagreements, arguing. So what can we do about it? Should we do anything about it?

We as parents bring so much of our own “stuff” to the table when it comes to sibling rivalry. Maybe you didn’t get along well with your siblings growing up. Maybe you still don’t. Maybe that’s motivating you to do whatever it takes to make sure your kids get along—now and in the long term. Maybe you did get along with your siblings and you want your kids to have that same loving relationship…but they’re just not falling into it as easily as you did. Maybe you didn’t have a brother or sister growing up and this whole sibling dynamic is new to you. Maybe you’re part of a blended family and your relationships are layered.

Sibling life. It’s complex. It’s multi-generational. And it’s not talked about openly all the time because it’s one of those areas of parenting where it’s kind of assumed that we should already know what to do. But the truth is: many of us don’t. And as a result we often carry shame, guilt, or frustration around our kids not getting along and us not knowing what to do about it.

That’s why I’ve invited Jailan Heidar onto the show to help us start that conversation and be more open about sibling rivalry. Jailan is a parenting educator and founder of Early Years Parenting. She is a mom of two little ones herself, she has a 5 and 2-year-old. She has been working with families for over 10 years as a certified Positive Discipline Educator. She earned her Master’s of Science in Child & Family Studies from Leiden University and is a certified Early Childhood Educator through UCLA.

Jailan grew up in Egypt and has been living in Europe with her family for over a decade. She is currently living in Munich, Germany and offers parenting consultations both online and in-person, as well as online courses and workshops focused on giving parents tools to get through everyday parenting struggles with ease and build relationships with their children.

Her online course “Raising Siblings without Rivalry” has helped mothers bring their kids closer and have calmer, more peaceful homes with kids who speak with each other more and fight less. If you’re interested, Jailan’s next 6 week course starts soon: on Monday, March 2, 2020.

Jailan gives us so many thinking points in this episode:

· Defining positive and respectful parenting

· The benefits of parenting support

· Honoring the individual

· Creating balance with items

· Giving the benefit of the doubt

· Listening

· Awareness

· Reflection

· Taking it one thing, one moment at a time

Tune in and then share your thoughts in the comments or start a conversation over on my social media accounts!

Jailan is so patient and supportive. I hope you enjoyed this interview as much as I did. When I let Chris listen to a few snippets, we realized we have a boundary and ownership things we could probably work on and iron out in our own household. And that’s okay! No shame in our learning game. If we find something that works, I’ll be sure to share it over on my IG @loribethauldridge

Links:

Love the Show? Leave a review on iTunes!

Connect with LB on Instagram & Facebook

Visit Today’s Sponsor: Blossom & Root

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Many of you know, I’m big into alternative education options. We personally homeschool our three children, but I know that’s not the best option for every family. The good news is, there are so many options when it comes to our children’s education—what works for one child might not work for another, and that’s okay. Options do exist. We don’t often hear about all of our options, but today we’re going to shift that with our guest Austin Rees. She is here to share her family’s alternative education journey with us.

Have you ever heard of self-directed education? Or Sudbury schools? Or a democratic school?

I thought I knew a little about the self-directed part, but Austin’s story really opened my eyes to a whole new approach that I can see working really well for a lot of kids. This episode is going to stretch your mind, heart, and imagination. It shifted my already alternative view of education.

Austin Rees is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant and Licensed Massage therapist who specializes in infant craniosacral therapy. She is also the creator of Nourish & Align. One of Austin’s favorite past times is facilitating introspective and integral retreats for women and birth professionals.

She is a mother to four children: Bella 16, Declan 14, Henry 12, and Maggie 6, and is married to her college sweetheart, Brad. She and Brad both decided early in their parenting journey to educate their children at home. After homeschooling with various curriculums they began researching self-directed education and the Sudbury school model.

When Brad retired from the military in 2015, they chose to move to Baltimore, Maryland. They picked that city because it was close to the Sudbury School, Arts & Ideas. So after 7 years of homeschooling, they enrolled them in a democratic school based in self-directed education where they have all been thriving ever since.

Austin & Brad’s commitment to their children’s education is inspiring. But that’s only one of the many take-aways from this episode. I’m really stuck on the “stop, pause, & care” notion she mentions part way though.

I’d love to hear what your takeaways are from today’s show. So after the episode, hop over to my Instagram @loribethauldridge or the website www.elevatingmotherhood.com to share your thoughts on this type of education. I can’t wait to continue the conversation with you! Love the show? Please leave a review on iTunes!

Sponsor: Branch Basics Go to www.elevatingmotherhood.com/branchbasics for my personal review of their products!

Helpful Links/Topics From This Episode:

Unschooling

De-schooling

https://www.aisudbury.org/

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I think it’s really easy to look at someone else’s successful business (especially on social media) and think that it must be so easy because it looks so effortless. Or someone else can look at the same business and think that it looks like it would be way too complicated, so they shut themselves off from the possibility that they, too, could do something that successful. That’s why I love these behind the scenes stories of mom entrepreneurs in the Called to Create series here on the show. There is so much to be gained from hearing their stories and learning about their journeys because it normalizes ups & downs, following your passion, lifelong learning, and the process of it all (including a real-life timeline of years and not the overnight success that we often perceive online).

MeiLi Coon’s story about how she became a master makeup artist and entrepreneur is just incredible. She’s joining us today to share her inspirational story of how her successful, elite bridal team MeiLi Autumn Beauty came to life. Her team is incredible. Her taste is impeccable. She turns out some of the most beautiful brides I have ever seen in my life. Her IG account (@meiliautumnbeauty) is like eye candy. A daily behind the scenes bridal magazine. Seriously, she is so talented.

MeiLi did my makeup for a photoshoot once and I’ll tell you, I’ve never felt so beautiful. But it’s not just because of the makeup. MeiLi made me feel seen, heard, and understood. That combination of talent and connection is what makes her stand out from the crowd.

The thing I love about MeiLi is her introspective nature. She doesn’t just apply makeup to brides, she sees the whole picture—and really celebrates each of her clients as a whole woman. She does all this, manages & trains an entire team, rocks the single mom life, and still makes time to encourage other women online and in our local community with her fundraising efforts.

Be sure to check out her website www.meiliautumn.com (which I’ll link to in the show notes) after the interview.

MeiLi’s story is not only fascinating but international and full of twists and turns. It reminded me that success does not happen overnight but that there’s a lot of determination, hard work, faith, and perseverance that goes into creating and running a successful business. I admire MeiLi’s work as a professional makeup artist and business owner…but also as a person and amazing mama. She inspires me and I know she’ll inspire you.

Find more over at www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Follow us on IG& FB! Like, comment, and share that you’re listening to the podcast!

Be sure to SUBSCRIBE so you never miss an episode!

Like the show? Leave me a review! Your feedback lets me know what you like, want, and need in your #momlife I’m here to serve you, open up conversations, tackle topics, and encourage connection. Reviews help me do that! Thank you so much!

Helpful Links:

Love the Show? Leave a review on iTunes! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevating-motherhood/id1479731562)

Connect with LB on Instagram (www.instagram.com/elevatingmotherhood)

Connect with LB on Facebook (www.facebook.com/elevatingmotherhood)

Visit Today’s Sponsor: Primally Pure (www.elevatingmotherhood.com/primallypure)

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In the spirit of expanding upon last week’s episode about how to create a successful moms group, I wanted to bring someone onto the show who could dive into those friendships a bit more.

Making friends as an adult is very different than how we made friends when we were younger. Our needs are different, the setting in which we make friends are different. So many elements of adult life—marriage, kids, moving, job changes—all of these complicate our efforts to make friends and can leave some of us feeling like we don’t even want to try.

But friendship is important. Especially as a mom. Our friendships with other moms can nurture us in ways that no other relationships can. Other moms just “get it.” They get us! They understand where we are and can empathize, offer relevant advice, hold our hand, and support us when we need it. And we’re gonna need it. In turn, we can do the same for them.

But life gets busy. Kids and schedules take up a lot of time. And in the middle of that whirlwind we can start to fall away from those friendships because we feel we don’t have time. Or issues and conflicts come up and we don’t know how to deal with them. So how do we foster friendships, work through challenges, and deepen our relationships with our mom friends?

I’d like to talk about it. I think we can benefit from talking about and focusing on our mom friendships more. Today’s guest likes to talk about friendship a LOT. Julia Wurst is the creator and co-host of the Dear Bestie Show, a podcast all about friendship. She and her co-host Mia Mauss (pronounced Moss) discuss topics that interest them as it relates to their friendship. They also read letters from listeners on the air. Julia is a wife and mom to a 4 year old daughter. She is currently a stay at home mom and loves to explore Maui with her family.

Here’s the link to my appearance on the Dear Bestie Show: https://www.facebook.com/KAKU885FM/videos/489057781964159/

In this episode we talk about: How the Dear Bestie Show came to life, common issues, hang-ups, & problems surrounding modern friendship, online vs. in-person relationships, cross sex friendships, enneagram, work/life balance, advice, & so much more!

If you found this episode helpful, please share it with other moms! Spread the word & start a conversation about mom friendships, enneagram types, or any other topic that was brought up in today’s episode.

Follow us on IG & FB! Like, comment, and share that you’re listening to the podcast!

Be sure to SUBSCRIBE so you never miss an episode!

Like the show? Leave me a review! Your feedback lets me know what you like, want, and need in your #momlife I’m here to serve you, open up conversations, tackle topics, and encourage connection. Reviews help me do that! Thank you so much!

Sponsor: Primally Pure For my personal review of their products and a list of favorites, go to www.elevatingmotherhood.com/primallypure

Helpful Links:

Love the Show? Leave a review on iTunes! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevating-motherhood/id1479731562)

Connect with LB on Instagram (www.instagram.com/elevatingmotherhood)

Connect with LB on Facebook (www.facebook.com/elevatingmotherhood)

Visit Today’s Sponsor: Primally Pure (www.elevatingmotherhood.com/primallypure)

Julia: @jgwurst

Dear Bestie Show: @dearbestieshow

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Motherhood can feel pretty isolating, especially in the first few weeks and months after your baby is born. Or when there are other big changes in your life like moving to a new town with your kids in tow. There will always be different seasons within your motherhood journey--even motherhood itself is a season—and those journeys, every one of those seasons are easier, lighter, and feel more do-able with support.

And there is nothing like the support of a solid, loving moms group.

There are lots of support avenues for moms out there—online and in person. And while online support can be awesome, there is nothing quite like being face to face with other moms and actually seeing that you’re not alone. Being in the presence of other moms can be life changing.

A moms group can provide much needed friendship, support, and learning opportunities—for you and your child. What do I mean by “moms group?” I mean moms that get together with their children, not just a meet up of moms only without children. Sometimes there’s some confusion around that, but I just wanted to be clear that I mean “moms + kids getting together.”

I started two successful moms groups here on Maui when my kids were younger and we still meet up 2-3 times per week even after 6 years! The two groups have kind of meshed into one as our kiddos aged—the older ones (who were just babies on blankets when we first met!) are now off to different schools or education paths, but we still have more babies being born every year in our circle of friends, so the group keeps growing and shifting. But even though the kids are growing and we’re growing and changing, the need for support never goes away.

Getting together with mom friends continues to be a highlight for me AND my kids every single week.

I get asked a LOT of questions about moms groups…how do you find one? How do you start one? How do you make time for one? What if there aren’t any where I live? What if I don’t like any? What if no one comes? What if there aren’t any moms around where I live? (Trust me, there are moms near you asking the same questions).

Let’s say you can’t find a local moms group. My advice is: Start One. It’s way easier than you think. (Here is more about how I started mine!)

Here are 5 tips to help you get started:

1. Pick a date/time/location

2. Choose a focus

3. Advertise

4. Establish guidelines

5. Let go of expectations

There are so many perks to running and being part of an in-person moms group…honest conversation, opportunities for your children to make their first friends, even chances for dads to meet and connect with other dads. The support and friendship between moms is powerful and very needed. Once your moms group is established, it really is as easy as picking a date/time/location and just showing up. And as your group grows and your connections deepen, I highly recommend starting to incorporate moms night out, too.

Take the lead. Brainstorm today. Start your group. Reach out. Be the change for other moms and yourself.

If you found this episode helpful, please share it with other moms! Spread the word that starting a moms group is easy, needed, and so awesome!

Shout out to my own moms groups…you have been and continue to be my life line on this path we’re walking together. I love and appreciate you.

And you, too, mama. If you’re listening to this episode, it could be because you have a calling on your heart to connect with and support other moms. And for that I applaud you. I hope you follow that calling and take action. I promise you, you won’t regret it.

More at www.elevatingmotherhood.com

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Parenting in the age of social media feels tricky, doesn’t it? I’ve found that a lot of parents feel insecure when it comes to rules about social media and how to approach it. We need to talk about it more and find ways to feel confident in our parenting in general, but especially when it comes to phones and social media.

That’s why I’ve invited Dr. Sarah Sarkis on to the show today to start that conversation and help us navigate these tricky waters.

Dr. Sarah Sarkis is a psychologist, writer, and performance consultant with a private practice in Honolulu, Hawaii (though it won’t take you long to discover she’s a Boston girl at heart). Her integrated approach is big on science and low on BS, empowering her clients to achieve long term change and growth through an eclectic blend of psychology, neurobiology, and functional medicine.

She created her blog, The Padded Room, as a virtual safe space to help people manage the jarring realities of life. There, you’ll find a soft landing for life’s harshest truths. We’ll link to that in the show notes. You can also follow her monthly essay series Shrink Rap via her work with The Flow Research Collective.

I came to this podcast with fear, guilt, & sensationalism and left with hope, confidence, and direction thanks to Dr. Sarah’s insights.

We talk about all things Social Media:

· Who’s on social media

· What kids are being exposed to

· How it affects them

· Risks & benefits

· Parenting

· Virtual citizenship

· What behaviors we model for our kids

· And how we can approach all of it as parents who want what’s best for our children

· And hope! This isn’t a doom and gloom episode! Tune in and get more comfortable and confident with how you approach social media in your parenting.

Dr. Sarah’s links: Website, Facebook, Instagram

Follow Elevating Motherhood on IG & FB! Like, comment, and share that you’re listening to the podcast!

Be sure to SUBSCRIBE so you never miss an episode!

Like the show? Leave me a review! Your feedback lets me know what you like, want, and need in your #momlife I’m here to serve you, open up conversations, tackle topics, and encourage connection. Reviews help me do that! Thank you so much!

A big thank you to Branch Basics for supporting the Elevating Motherhood Podcast! Check out why I love this educational cleaning company. They make it so easy to reduce my family’s toxic burden with their incredible products.

Links:

Love the Show? Leave a review on iTunes! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevating-motherhood/id1479731562)

Connect with LB on Instagram (www.instagram.com/elevatingmotherhood)

Connect with LB on Facebook (www.facebook.com/elevatingmotherhood)

Visit Today’s Sponsor: Branch Basics ( www.elevatingmotherhood.com/branchbasics)

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Trigger Warning.

Sonya Niess has returned to the show today. She was my first guest in Episode 2 when we talked about expectations and motherhood. If you haven’t tuned in to that episode, I highly recommend going back and listening to it. It really is the first part of a very powerful story. And one that contains transformative perspective for any mom.

At this point, the title has probably clued you in to what happened next on Sonya and Naia’s journey.

Please know that this is a trigger warning. It’s with a heavy heart that I tell you we will be talking about the loss of a child in today’s episode. Sonya will be sharing her story and opening up about her grieving process. She also generously offers ideas for us about how to be supportive during and after times of loss. Her ideas really resonate with me and I know they will for you, too. Many of us feel at a loss ourselves when we hear such stories. Our hearts and heads often struggle with what to do or say in those moments. Sonya gifts us with loving perspective and tangible ideas. For that I’m very grateful.

If you’re wondering whether to listen or not, please know that this episode is for all of us.

For moms who have also lost a child. My heart goes out to you and I hope you find comfort, support, and understanding through Sonya’s story.

For moms who know someone who has lost a child and long for insight into what to say or do to support a grieving family. Sonya offers ideas for us.

It’s also for moms who have experienced neither, but want to learn more for the sake of compassion and understanding.

There are a lot of deep breaths in this episode.

Tune in to hear brave, sweet Sonya talk about support, encourage understanding, and offer us gentle advice about how to be helpful during times of loss.

Sponsor:

A big thank you to Primally Pure for not only supporting the Elevating Motherhood Podcast but for offering our beloved listeners a discount code! Use the code: LORIBETH10 for 10% off your first order.

Links:

Love the Show? Leave a review on iTunes! (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevating-motherhood/id1479731562)

Connect with LB on Instagram (www.instagram.com/elevatingmotherhood)

Connect with LB on Facebook (www.facebook.com/elevatingmotherhood)

Visit Today’s Sponsor: Primally Pure (www.elevatingmotherhood.com/primallypure)

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Me time when you're married with kids? Yup. It's possible.

But how? How can there be any time for anything when everyone else's needs feel so important and our schedules are so busy? It's enough to leave any parent asking "what about me?"

This happened to my husband Chris & I. We felt like our needs weren't getting met, our schedule was a mess, and we'd get resentful if the other person got to go do something by themselves and we didn't.

And then things changed.

Not magically overnight, but there was a shift--one we initiated. We found what worked for us, got a calendar, and started to align our actions and values. Now we make space for an abundance of "me time" every single week for every person in our family. The resentment is gone, we're happier and more energized, our connections are deeper, and we're in a really good place. How did we do it? Tune in as we share what works for us in the hopes it will inspire you to find more time for connecting with yourself & your family.

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You know the jokes… how moms can’t go to the trampoline park or even sneeze without peeing a little? We’ve just come to accept it as annoying and kind of funny at the same time. What if I told you there is something that can be done about it? That bladder issues after baby are common but not normal?

It’s true! And today’s guest, Angie Peters, is here to share valuable insights about pelvic floor health and physical therapy with us. It turns out there are a LOT of options that don’t just involve elusive kegels. (I mean, are any of us actually doing them right!?) A well trained, compassionate physical therapist can help mamas so, so much.

Angie is a physical therapist on the island of Maui who specializes in pelvic floor rehab. I used her services during and after two of my three pregnancies (because with the first, I didn’t understand this was an option!) She offered me loving support, guidance, and care during those sensitive times to help me figure out what was going on with my body and what I could do about it.

In this episode, she shares with us insights on:

· What physical therapy (PT) is

· Common ailments mamas go to PT for

· Who can benefit from PT

· When you should seek out pelvic floor PT

· How you can get in to see a physical therapist

· Common hang ups moms have about going to PT

· How to prepare for your PT appointment

· What to expect in PT

· Tips for finding & interviewing a PT

· And tips for follow through + personal accountability once your PT appointment is over

I want relief for you, mama! I want you to know about and understand how PT is a valuable option for mamas who are experiencing pain, discomfort, incontinence, pain during sex, and other issue moms commonly experience during and after pregnancy. PT is a great way to take control of your health, understand your body, and take an active role in helping resolve these annoying issues.

Be sure to share this episode with other mamas who could benefit from information about Physical Therapy! Be sure to SUBSCRIBE so you never miss an episode!

Head to the show notes over at www.elevatingmotherhood.com for links to the resources Angie shares in this episode.

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Today’s episode is coming to you on a Friday instead of a Wednesday this week because a lot of us will be celebrating Christmas on the 25th and we’ll be more than a little distracted on that particular Wednesday…plus Hanukkah & Solstice begin on the 22nd and Kwanzaa & Boxing Day on the 26th and and and…the list of celebrations is huge in the month of December. And I thought it would be helpful during this busy time of year to do a mindset check. Yes, even this close to big holidays.

This is an insanely stressful time of year and it’s easy with all of the sales and shiny signs and glittery this that and the other thing to feel overwhelmed and grumpy and exhausted and burdened by a million obligations on top of our everyday busy-ness. Not to mention all of the people you suddenly have to interact with for various reasons.

We do have a choice to step out of the chaos and come back into ourselves, our family, our family’s values, and what really, truly means the most to our little family during the holidays we celebrate.

I thought about going over expectations, obligations, actions, scheduling, and all the things and try to offer you actionable points and ideas to combat stress, but…then a clear message came to me:

Be the light.

Be the light. That’s it. That is going to be my mantra for the rest of the year. When I get stressed or pressured or overwhelmed. Or my kids are overwhelmed. Or are losing it. Or the cashier is about to lose it. Or the people looking for the closest parking spot are about to lose it. Or angry words or fingers go flying. Or people are driving aggressively. Or things aren’t being delivered according to schedule. Or something gets lost in the mail. Or I burn the monkey bread on Christmas morning (again). Or the chickens get out as we’re trying to go to a holiday show. Or the toddler spills hot cocoa all over her dress before we get a decent picture. Or the holiday card company loses my order for the second time.

Whatever comes my way. I have a choice. I can be the light. I can offer the smile. I can listen. I can nod empathetically. I can crack a joke. Lighten the mood. I can serve up hot cocoa. I can serve up grace. I can be the light.

I can take commitments off the calendar. I can hug my kids. I can smile at everyone. I can be at peace with mix-ups (knowing they are inevitable). I can give that person the close parking spot (they’re going to take it anyway), but I can offer it with a happy heart and move on. I can thank the cashier. I can thank the customer service rep for trying (or forwarding me to a manager). I can laugh off the mishaps that are going to happen. I can try my best and make space for others to try their best, too.

Be the light. Be the face that lights up when your kids share their holiday crafts with you. Be the calm, understanding heart as often as you can. And when you get overwhelmed, know that you can come out of it. It’s not forever. You have the light inside of you, it just gets clouded over sometimes, and that’s okay. We can help ourselves (and each other) in those moments. More show notes over at: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

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Let me start off by saying this interview did NOT go in the direction I thought it would. Lisa blew my mind with her insights and loving suggestions. She is a true healer and helper and I could not be more excited to share her with you!

Back in 2014, Lisa had a blog post go viral: Raising Girls Who Are Includers Instead of Mean Girls (https://www.lisamccrohan.com/2014/09/raising-girls-who-are-includers-instead-of-mean-girls/) You’ve probably read it…it is still making the rounds on social media over 5 years later. Why? Because it’s an important topic that hits home for many of us.

In this episode, Lisa and I dive deep and discuss:

· What sparked Lisa to write this viral blog post

· Our own personal journeys with bullying

· How to parent through tough “mean kid” situations

· Parenting when we feel triggered from our own past hurts

· How not to raise mean kids

· How not to be “mean moms” ourselves

· How to raise kids who are includers

· Specifics on how to be an includer & what each of her suggestions look like:

o We hold

o We include

o We love

o We empower

o We regard

o We model how to treat others

Lisa holds nothing back in this episode! I knew this interview was going to be good, but Lisa took it to a whole new level just for us. She is passionate about compassion and it shines through big time! Tune in and prepare to have your mind (& heart!) blown in the best way possible!

More About Today’s Guest:Lisa McCrohan is a Somatic Experiencing Psychotherapist, Integrative Coach, and author of Gems of Delight. With an expertise in mind-body-spirit healing, Lisa works with men and women all over the world in their personal and professional development. Her life is about inspiring compassion to flourish in our hearts, homes, and world. Lisa lives with her husband, two young children, and dog Sherlock in Middletown, MD, with the mountains outside her back door. You can find more of her inspiration here: www.lisamccrohan.com

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What does it take to create a homeschool curriculum, turn it into a business, and homeschool your kids all at the same time? We’re about to find out!

Kristina Garner is an artist, a writer, and a homeschooling mom to her two young daughters. She creates secular, nature-based homeschool curriculum and writes regularly on her blog Blossom & Root about homeschooling with a focus on nature, STEM, and the arts. She also enjoys traveling, making a fantastic mess with paint, exploring the beautiful Colorado Rocky Mountains, rock climbing, and reading.

Kristina is the second mama to join me in the Called to Create series here on the podcast which will feature interviews with mothers who are also creatives & business owners. In this series you’ll hear inspiring stories about how these women got their start, created powerful products &/or businesses, how they balance work and motherhood, what they’ve learned along the way, and what they continue to learn. I want you to tune in and be encouraged to answer your own call to create!

I loved Kristina’s thoughtful, encouraging insights. She is a true artist, cheerleader, and brilliant mama! Whether you’re a homeschooler or not, this episode is worth a listen!

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Links:

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The topic of CBD is surprisingly one of the most requested from my listeners! Maybe you’ve heard moms talking about CBD in passing or have seen it mentioned online. Maybe you’re not 100% sure what CBD is, maybe you already know, maybe you use it, maybe you’ve thought about using it, or maybe you’re one of many who aren’t even sure if it’s legal or not? It doesn’t matter which of those describes you…this highly anticipated episode is for you! There are a lot of takeaways from today’s show as we pull back the curtain on CBD.

Will Kleidon is here to share with us not only what CBD is, but fascinating information about it's use, it’s history, and his incredible company Ojai Energetics.

Will Kleidon is an award-winning pioneer and futurist of the Cannabis industry. He is known for cracking the CBD code by creating the most effective and clean CBD rich hemp products on the planet.

Featured in Cheddar, Forbes, Money, Entrepreneur, and the LA Times, he is a regular keynote of the Cannabis Forum and Bevnet. Will is a subject matter expert when it comes to the art, science, and technology of the Cannabis business, history of hemp, and what it means to our future.

As early as 17 years old, Will organized and implemented a sustainability fair which drew over 25 organizations and 500 attendees. He studied permaculture in Australia and achieved the second highest nationally accredited certification in Permaculture Design.

After searching for a CBD rich hemp oil for a personal need in 2014, he couldn’t find one that was made without synthetic fillers, had third-party batch testing results, and used organic ingredients.

Not only did he set out to create the most effective and clean CBD rich hemp oil products, but he was also determined to align them with his love and care for the earth and all of its inhabitants. And so, Ojai Energetics was born, as the first Public Benefit Corporation in its industry.

Ojai Energetics is a triple bottom line driven cannabis technology company with a primary focus on the organic and science-driven nutraceutical and medical sectors.

They’re also one of my favorite brands…be sure to head over to elevatingmotherhood.com/cbd after the show for more information.

Will believes hemp is a catalyst for things getting better…and he’s walking the walk. He created

Ojai Energetics to help deliver goodness to the world.

And now he’s here to share with us in this information packed episode. Let’s welcome him to the show!

This interview spans a variety of topics:

· What CBD is

· The endocannabinoid system

· A bit about the history of hemp

· How people consume CBD

· How Ojai Energetics is different

· Reasons people choose CBD

· Resources (pubmed.gov)

· Educating yourself about CBD

· Oxidative stress

· Why I use CBD

· CBD and testing

· Modern uses of hemp

· The future of hemp

· And all the mom related lenses: pregnancy, postpartum, breastfeeding, children

· Plus listener questions answered!

This episode is not to be missed! Head over to www.elevatingmotherhood.com/cbd for even more info!

Links:

www.pubmed.gov

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12 Idea for Living in Gratitude

Aloha Mamas! At this point in the podcast, you’ve heard me mention a few times that I feel moms & families are suffering from disconnect (on a lot of levels) but especially when it comes to gratitude. We have intellectual gratitude--(I mean, of course we’re grateful for our family!)—we think it, but what about actual gratitude? And by “actual” I mean action based. What actions have we taken lately to express our gratitude to loved ones? It’s this disconnect between intellectual and actual gratitude that I want to address because I sense that it’s one of the causes of unhappiness for many mamas.

But I want to make sure that I’m not just talking about this observation of intellectual vs. actual. I want to give you easy to follow, actionable suggestions on how we can address this in our own lives. The “us” part…I want to be clear about that, too. I don’t have this whole intellectual vs. actual gratitude thing figured out 100% for myself and my own family. But I am aware of it. And awareness is step one. Step two is taking action. I want to move into step 2 alongside you by sharing ways that we can take action and express gratitude in our everyday lives more often, including what’s worked for me. And what better day to start than today…

What can we do in our lives to make room for more gratitude? In this episode, we'll talk about it! Including mindset & actionable ideas!

1. Wake up & pray or meditate

2. Journal

3. Write a letter, card, or love note

4. Spend quality time with friends or family

5. Meditation

6. Read books about gratitude

7. Prepare a meal with love

8. Give thanks before you eat

9. Notice nature

10. Read nature poetry (hear me out on this one...)

11. Pay attention to information & images that are coming in

12. Say thank you more

Notes & Quotes:

“Being satisfied and grateful with what we already have is a magical golden key to being alive in a full, unrestricted, and inspired way.” -Pema Chodron

"Appreciate everything, even the ordinary. Especially the ordinary.” -Pema Chodron

“Thank you is the best prayer that anyone could say. I say that one a lot. Thank you expresses extreme gratitude, humility, understanding.” -Alice Walker

“You simply will not be the same person two months from now after consciously giving thanks each day for the abundance that exists in your life. And you will have set in motion an ancient spiritual law: the more you have and are grateful for, the more will be given to you.” -Sarah Ban Breathnach

Sing a Song of Seasons: A Nature Poem for Each Day of the Year (book) by Fiona Waters

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Connection, slowing down, being more present, & returning to nature. These ideas keep presenting themselves over and over again here on the podcast in multiple episodes across a variety of topics.

Slowing down and being more present in our everyday lives—with ourselves, with our children, with the seasons—I know many mamas would like to do just that, but how? How can we take care of ourselves and be present as moms when we are so busy and fed constant contrary messages about #allthethings we need to buy, do, and be?

Maybe the answer is hidden inside of us…within our senses. And in our pantry, our kitchen, and our garden…with the natural foods and plants that are already there. Our guest today, Lily Diamond, is here to talk about idea s like these from her beautiful recipe book & blog that will encourage us to slow down, tune into our senses, and learn more about how plants can nourish us both inside and out.

More About Lily:

Lily is a writer, photographer, and creator of the site Kale & Caramel which seeks to democratize wellness through connection to nature and honest storytelling. She is the author of bestselling memoir-cookbook that’s the center of today’s conversation, Kale & Caramel: Recipes for Body, Heart, and Table which was lauded in publications from the New York Times to The Independent as one of the best vegetarian cookbooks of 2017. Alongside bestselling author and activist Rebecca Walker, Lily is the co-author of the forthcoming guided journal What's Your Story? (Sounds True, 2020), and co-host of the podcast by the same name. Lily was raised on Maui, educated at Yale University, and lives in California. But what a treat that she is here with me in person at my home on Maui for this interview. Let’s welcome her to the show!

In this episode Lily & I talk about:

· Biodynamic Nourishment: what it is & how it can serve us

· If aromatherapy really works

· DIY beauty products & recipes

· How to take care of ourselves as moms & women

· How to tap into what nature provides

· Trusting in & connecting with nature

· Honey face washing! (recipe linked below)

· Being present and slowing down

· Being in our heads vs. being in our bodies

· Our relationship with nature

· How to embrace the season shift from autumn to winter

· How to include our children in this sensory journey

· Examples of how to slow down

· Bringing more fun into our days through the senses & plants

Links Worth Mentioning:

Buy the Book: Kale & Caramel: Recipes for Body, Heart, & Table

Today’s Sponsor: Branch Basics

Lily’s Honey Fash Wash Recipe

Lily’s DIY Pumpkin Spice Antioxidant Scrub

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Episode 012 is the first in a series here on Elevating Motherhood titled “Called to Create”—which will feature interviews with mothers who are also creatives & business owners. In this series you’ll hear inspiring stories about how these women got their start, created powerful products &/or businesses, how they balance work & motherhood, what they’ve learned along the way, and what they continue to learn. I want you to tune in and be encouraged to answer your own call to create!

Our story today features Bethany McDaniel…Bethany is the heartbeat & brains behind Primally Pure, a natural skincare company that uses nature’s most precious elements to make non-toxic products that support radiant skin, a healthy body and a happy self. Having used all sorts of prescription creams and pills to treat her acne as a teenager, Bethany was blown away by the results she eventually experienced after ditching the harsh chemicals and replacing them with simple + natural ingredients. Today, Bethany shares her natural skincare knowledge with the world through Primally Pure’s line of perfectly formulated products. When Bethany isn’t at the PP workshop envisioning new business ideas or blending essential oils, you’ll find her roaming her family’s organic livestock farm with Baby June on her hip, sipping an iced matcha latte with macadamia milk or jet setting with her family for some much needed refreshment.

I’m so excited to have Bethany as the first guest in this series and really admire her products and vision. Tune in to hear her inspired start to creating Primally Pure!

Check out Primally Pure's Blog: https://blog.primallypure.com

Check out Primally Pure’s awesome products: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/primallypure

Use the code loribeth10 for 10% off your first purchase!

Mahalo to today’s sponsor: Blossom & Root

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Have you ever tried acupuncture? Do you use it and love it like I do? Are you too scared of what it might feel like & never tried it? What is acupuncture supposed to do anyway? Can it help you pre-pregnancy, during pregnancy, or even postpartum? Today we're diving into these questions and so much more with our amazing guest, Dr. Eva Ross. My goal with this episode is to take the mystery out of Acupuncture (& Chinese Medicine) in the hopes that it sheds some light as an option for mamas on their personal health journeys.

Dr. Ross received her Bachelor of Science degree in Botany from Humboldt State University and graduated with highest honors from Emperors College of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Santa Monica, California with a Masters degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine. She completed her doctorate degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine at her alma mater in 2015. Dr. Ross is the founder of Malibu Healing Center and now, Maui Healing Center where she proudly serves the beautiful community of Kula and island of Maui.

Dr. Ross has been combining the best of both Eastern and Western medicine since 2005 to provide the most advanced integrative care within a family practice setting. Her clinical strengths include metabolic testing and nutritional testing. She also has a passion for treating hormonal issues from fertility through postpartum recovery, as well as puberty through post menopause. She is a strong advocate of patient education in order to cultivate excellent and sustainable health. It's because of her advocacy for patient education and talent as a healer that I wanted to share her with you.

In this episode we talk about:

• The origins of acupuncture

• How acupuncture works

• How long treatment can take

• What acupuncture is used for

• Acupuncture + hormone balancing

• Acupuncture & pregnancy

• Acupuncture & postpartum

• Acupuncture after a c-section

• Acupuncture for breastfeeding & weaning support

• How I used acupuncture to flip my almost 10lb baby at 38 weeks

• Changes in due date guidelines

• The strengths of both Eastern & Western medicine

• A bit about Chinese Medicine

• Eastern medicine for adults & children

• Common concerns for people who haven’t tried acupuncture

• Myths of acupuncture

• How our modern world & age can affect us

• Pulse diagnosis & meridians

• Our connection to ourselves & the greater world

• The importance of learning more about your body, health, & whole self

• Doctor/Patient relationships

• Cupping & it’s connection to Chinese Medicine (+ what those crazy circles are!)

• Tips for getting started with acupuncture

• All this…and the importance of lifestyle choices

You guys. It’s hard to sum up acupuncture because it’s such a big topic and connected to so much, but we tackled it.

Acupuncture…here we go.

Side Bar:

The website Dr. Ross mentions in the episode to help find an acupuncturist in your area: www.acufinder.com

Reach out to Dr. Ross at www.mauihealingcenter.com

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Something’s wrong, something’s off. It can feel like that sometimes as a mother. Moms are busy, stressed, tired, don’t know how to slow down, doubt themselves… why? What’s causing all of these negative emotions? All of this disconnect? Too much on our plates? Expectations? Demands?

Well, honestly, there are probably more factors than I can list.

But the more important question: What are we going to do about it?

One of the puzzle pieces in this stressed-out bigger picture is that we’ve stopped creating for the sake of creating. We’ve lost touch with our creative side—the part of our life that requires us to slow down and honor our bodies & minds—and as a result, we’ve lost touch with ourselves. The whole woman has been replaced with titles and jobs and to-do lists that are a mile long and will literally never end.

So what do we do? What’s a action we can take to combat this negativity?

CREATE SOMETHING.

In this episode I go over the “how + why + what” of creating plus road blocks that keep us from creating and how to get past them. Hold on to your hats…this episode is about so much more than crafting.

Check out the Elevating Motherhood website for more: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

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Times are changing. The way we parent our kids at home and teach children in schools is shifting. There’s no denying these changes. It’s all part of education reform…and this isn’t your average conversation about it.

Join me for today’s incredibly insightful interview with Heather Baylosis, MSED--a passionate educator here on the island of Maui & mother of two.

What do we mean by education reform?

How we approach our children, their education, parenting, learning styles, and the 'whole self' is different. There’s more of a focus on values, character, collaboration, listening, respect, working together, & community…and Heather & I unpack it all. We talk about brick & mortar school. We talk about homeschool. We talk about modeling. We make observations. We talk about parenting + teaching (and how the two overlap).

Here are some of the shifts we discuss:

Outdated models of parenting & education

Values (including key ones missing from today’s college graduates!)

Life Long Learning

Community

Respect

Working Together

Importance of Movement

Mindset

Reflection

And then we take it a step further and talk about ways to approach these changes & be part of the reform in your own home and in your child’s school. And it turns out those approaches are parallel at home and in school:

Practice patience

Educate yourself on basic child development

Focus on values…and then align your actions & values

Keep practicing (life long learning)

Understand learning styles

Break through the myth that asking for help is a sign of weakness

Tune in and join the conversation! Then hop over to www.elevatingmotherhood.com for more great info!

Be sure to visit today’s Sponsor: Branch Basics! And take advantage of their October 2019 special offer for Elevating Motherhood listeners. Get 10% off your starter kit order this month only with the code: loribeth10 Branch Basics is an educational company that offers non-toxic, simple to use cleaning solutions for your home—using one powerful, plant & mineral based cleaning concentrate. You can literally use their one concentrate to clean everything…from bathrooms & windows to floors & laundry. Simply dilute their safe, effective cleaner into their refillable bottles. The instructions are right on the label. Branch Basics has been an amazing addition to our home. I’m always looking for ways to reduce my family’s toxic burden & Branch Basics fits the bill. Plus their goals align with mine...to make cleaning sustainable, affordable, and simple...all without the use of gmos or animal testing. I love their products and know you will, too!

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“Love, trust, respect, & grace.”

Monica Swanson is with us today! Sharing about her new book Boy Mom: What Your Son Needs Most from You and her new podcast The Boy Mom Podcast.

Monica is a wealth of information for not only boy moms, but all mamas. Her compassionate, value-driven approach to parenting is really powerful and transformative.

Listen in to this encouraging episode! It’s a girl mom of 3 + a boy mom of 4 sitting down and talking about gender, differences, similarities, equality, parenting approaches, and more!

This interview is just a taste of what she has to offer! Connect with Monica here: www.monicaswanson.com

Visit today’s sponsor: Blossom & Root! And take advantage of their discount code: loribeth10 for 10% off your purchase! It’s because of you + our generous sponsors that Elevating Motherhood is out in the world and gets to continue supporting mamas all over the world. Thank you!

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Visit the Show Notes homepage for this episode: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/episode8

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Episode 007. Universal Laws + Motherhood

An Interview with Nadia Bernardy of Work & Woo and the But First Woo Woo Podcast.

www.elevatingmotherhood.com/episode7

How “woo” are you? Doesn’t matter! You don't have to be woo to gain valuable, loving insight from tuning in...no matter how you describe yourself or what your beliefs, this episode is for YOU!

There are so many truths in this episode that just make sense. Want more peace in your everyday mothering? Maybe you’ll find some through the lens of Universal Law!

The 12 Universal Laws we’re talking about in Episode 7:

1. Abundance

2. Gratitude

3. Giving & Receiving

4. Compensation

5. Alignment

6. Co-Creation

7. Law of Attraction

8. Expansion

9. Divine Oneness

10. Vibration

11. Alchemy

12. Law of Action

Listen in and find out what these universal laws are and how they apply to mindset and motherhood! #mindblown

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Episode 006. Birth Workers: An Interview with Midwife Rachel Shapiro-Davis

Gosh, where do I even begin with show notes for Rachel’s interview? We talked about so many things in such a short amount of time! Here are some of the highlights from this magical interview.

Rachel Shapiro-Davis is a midwife from Israel, Spinning Babies Educator, mama of Noam Or Shalom, and creator of Equilibrio—a school in Israel that focuses on connecting birth work and body work. Rachel visited Maui to teach a Spinning Babies Workshop for birth workers on the island. We met at a Pacific Birth Collective meeting and knew I right away that I wanted to learn more and share her with you. She agreed to an interview and we made it happen!

In this episode, we talk about:

• Birth work + Body work

• Meeting women where they are

• Honoring the individual

• Improving birth on Earth

• Mindset shifts surrounding birth

• Trusting our bodies & our babies

• The importance of connection

• Balance in birth

• Reframing birth stories

• And so much more!

Know that there is some unexpected background music toward the end of this episode…that’s what happens when you take part in an impromptu, one take only, must do interview in an unknown location! But don’t worry, in true midwife fashion, Rachel handles the unexpected with grace and humor. The interview stays on track (and is amazing!). I know you’ll love it…extra music and all!

Here are a few links to birth workers Rachel mentions in the interview:

1. Spinning Babies (www.spinningbabies.org)

2. Jenny Blyth & Fiona Hallinan (www.birthwork.com)

3. Kelly Germaine (www.kellygermaine.com)

4. Carol Phillips (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWpbtW-pFL6PdV3uMXF2m-g)

If you'd like to reach out to Rachel, send her an email: rachelshapiro@spinningbabies.com

More over at: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/episode6

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Like the show? Leave me a review! Your feedback lets me know what you like, want, and need in your #momlife I’m here to serve you, open up conversations, tackle topics, and encourage connection. Reviews help me do that! Thank you so much!

Sponsor:

Thanks to Branch Basics for supporting today’s episode of Elevating Motherhood! Branch Basics is an educational company that offers non-toxic, simple to use cleaning solutions for your home—using one powerful, plant & mineral based cleaning concentrate. You can literally use their one concentrate to clean everything…from bathrooms & windows to floors & laundry. Simply dilute their safe, effective cleaner into their refillable bottles. The instructions are right on the label. Branch Basics has been an amazing addition to our home. I’m always looking for ways to reduce my family’s toxic burden & Branch Basics fits the bill. Plus their goals align with mine...to make cleaning sustainable, affordable, and simple...all without the use of gmos or animal testing. Branch Basics is offering a special discount code for Elevating Motherhood listeners—you can get 10% off your starter kit order…but only for the month of October (2019). Head over to www.elevatingmotherhood.com/branchbasics to grab the code & find out more!

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Episode 005. The Lie of Convenience

SHOW NOTES

www.elevatingmotherhood.com/episode5

Moms have a lot of things to work through…a lot of issues that come up…a lot of problems to solve in every season of motherhood.

And there is no one size fits all answer for any of these issues or problems.

But there is a problem with one of the common solutions and perspectives that are offered up by others…and that problem is “convenience.”

In fact, the notion of “convenience” is so common that moms have started to look through that lens of convenience FIRST when looking for help or offering advice. We’re suddenly spending our time searching for the most “convenient” answer over what’s most effective for us and our family.

Our society has sold us on the notion that our lives need to be convenient. Convenience is a shiny object, the thing we lust over in our busy, overwhelming days as moms. “Buy this product, do this thing and your life will be more convenient. We promise you convenience.”

But I’m finding this lens to be harmful.

An issue comes up in parenting…let’s say our kid won’t sleep through the night—and suddenly people are offering out “convenient” things to buy or do as solutions. Quick fixes like “Here…buy this blanket, buy this sleep course, buy this sound machine, buy melatonin, buy these “things” that will do the work for you.”

And while there are tools that can help us with sleep—and yes, some of them might be convenient—this mindset of convenience is having a huge negative effect on our mothering culture.

Because when those convenient things aren’t working, we’re left floundering and feeling like a failure. We’re not encouraged or motivated to dig deeper or look at the bigger picture.

These messages have trained our brains to think about our quality of life in terms of whether it’s convenient or inconvenient.

I mean, it sounds appealing, right? Who wouldn’t want a short cut now and then?

But “now and then” has turned into more and more often. We aren’t looking for short cuts or convenience every once in a while, we’re expecting it every moment of the day...

For the full script and more information about this episode, head over to www.elevatingmotherhood.com/episode5

Today’s episode is sponsored by Homeschool Explained -- more info at www.elevatingmotherhood.com/homeschool

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Show Notes

Episode 004. My Journey with Anxiety: Melissa’s Story

www.elevatingmotherhood.com/episode4

Here at Elevating Motherhood, we’re not going to shy away from the taboo topic of anxiety, but rather talk about it openly, hear personal stories from mamas who are living with it, and find more connection by being real about it.

In the first episode in our My Journey with Anxiety Series, Melissa Dyckman bravely talks about her first experiences with anxiety and panic attacks that didn’t present until after she became a mother. Melissa walks us through her experience, shares what worked for her (& what didn’t), opens up about hormones, and offers loving insight into how others can be supportive.

I learned a lot from this interview and walked away feeling more informed, compassionate, and understood. My hope is that you will, too.

Thank you for your support and kindness toward Melissa. It’s challenging for mamas to open up and be honest about what anxiety presents as, looks like, and feels like. Every mama’s journey is different. I’m 100% sure that her vulnerability will help other mamas who are on their own anxiety journey feel heard and understood. I’m also confident that mamas who hear this and don’t identify with anxiety will benefit, too. Just the practice of listening with an open heart and hearing another mama’s story could give you insight on how to be compassionate and supportive when the topic does cross your path.

Melissa will be returning for a second interview on beauty. She’s a talented and successful bridal team expert here on Maui. Her tips and insights on beauty will be loving and beneficial, too. Why a second interview? Because anxiety does not define us.Mothers can live with anxiety and still be professionals. We can have anxiety and still be interested in other topics. We can search for solutions for our anxiety ...while we search for beauty tips. I want to highlight that we don’t have to be known for one thing in our lives—ever. I want to honor the whole woman in each of us. Mothers are dynamic. Melissa is dynamic. I’m dynamic. You, mama, are dynamic. I see you and want to honor every side of you, every interest. We are not defined by one role, one interest, or one diagnosis. We are whole women. The whole woman in me honors the whole woman in you.

You can connect with Melissa and follow her journey over on IG: www.instagram.com/stillagoodmama

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Be sure to SUBSCRIBE so you never miss an episode!

Like the show? Leave me a review! Your feedback lets me know what you like, want, and need in your #momlife I’m here to serve you, open up conversations, tackle topics, and encourage connection. Reviews help me do that! Thank you so much!

Sponsor: Today's episode of Elevating Motherhood is sponsored by Primally Pure, a company that excels at creating safe, natural skin care products made with quality ingredients. Primally Pure has become my go-to brand for clean, non-toxic face cleaners, creams, and serums. They're also the makers of my favorite all-natural (& effective!) deodorant. (I love their blue tansy one). For my personal review of their products and a discount code for listeners, go to elevatingmotherhood.com/primallypure

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Episode 003. Balance + Motherhood

SHOW NOTES

www.elevatingmotherhoodcom/episode3

How do you find balance as a mom? How do you find a work/life balance? Is it even possible?

In this episode, I’ll be addressing the mysterious idea of “balance” in motherhood. What is it? And how the heck do you find it? Is it just an illusion? Let’s talk about.

Listen to the full episode for personal examples and insights. As promised, here is a re-cap of the main points and strategies that can get us closer to solving the mystery of “balance” in our life as a mom:

Recap Possible Solutions to “Finding Balance” in Motherhood:

1. Letting go of the idea that we need to find balance at all. Just literally kicking this notion to the curb, seeing it as something that isn’t real, and just letting go. You could tell yourself that even if you did find it, everything is going to change and you’re just going to have to go after it again anyway. So if balance feels like a vicious cycle to you, maybe just let it go and move on without it.

2. Thinking about balance differently. It’s like being an acrobat—give into the idea that while we’re spinning a lot of plates, there is no way that all the plates will spin perfectly at the same time. We can just give ourselves permission to move from plate to plate as it needs our attention + without guilt. I know I’ve found a lot of freedom in this notion and I hope it gives you a sense of freedom, too.

3. Understanding that we aren’t born knowing how to do everything (including how to parent at every stage) and then honoring that. We can give ourselves permission to seek out information or insight in any area of our life when we feel “out of balance.” This can look like researching child development stages, time management tips, or whatever you need. Whenever you feel like you need a “new strategy,” just dive in and research that topic. (Even if it’s a strategy for “How to tackle laundry”). If it feels like what you’re doing at the moment isn’t working, it’s okay to research and find more information or a different perspective that could give you peace of mind. We can choose to see this research as “one more thing” on our long list of things to do and get exasperated…or we can see it as an investment. Time put in now to help us solve a problem. Once we have the information we need, we can use it now and in the future. Investing in yourself, investing in your children, and investing in your sanity is worth the time it takes to research.

4. Asking for help. As women, as mothers, we don’t have to “do it all” or “be everything to everyone.” Let go of the notion that motherhood is a solo gig. Whether you’re parenting with a partner or solo, we are social beings meant to live in community. We don’t have to carry the entire load, nor should we try to. It’s time to start working on a new mindset as moms.

5. Aligning your actions and values. Figure out what is important to you and your family and then do what aligns with those values. Not what “everyone else is doing” not “what the Joneses are doing” but what is working for YOU and YOUR family.

I hope this is helpful to you, mama! I appreciate you listening and diving into this topic with me. More info & links are available on the episode's webpage over at www.elevatingmotherhood.com

With Aloha, Lori Beth

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Episode 002. Motherhood + Expectations

SHOW NOTES

www.elevatingmotherhood.com/episode2

“I think like any woman, I had visions of life as a mother as being what it was – both joyful and hard.”-Sonya Niess

Today’s guest is Sonya Niess, a professional doula and mother of two. Sonya opens up about her own journey with expectations and motherhood, sharing the story of her daughter Naia’s diagnosis with Migration Partial Seizures of Infancy. Sonya lovingly walks us through what processing this diagnosis looked like for her and her family.

She also offers a compassionate perspective for mamas. The grace she shares and offers is inspiring. This is a powerful episode for both mamas and mamas-to-be. Many of us enter into motherhood with expectations—both personal and societal—whether we acknowledge them or not. Hearing Sonya’s story led me to look at my own expectations, what they are, how they’ve changed, and how to move through them with more grace.

Connect with Sonya here: https://mahinamama.wordpress.com/about

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Be sure to SUBSCRIBE so you never miss an episode!

Like the show? Leave me a review on iTunes or wherever you like to listen! Your feedback lets me know what you like, want, and need in your #momlife I’m here to serve you, open up conversations, tackle topics, and encourage connection. Reviews help me do that! Thank you so much!

Links to snippets from our conversation:

The book Sonya mentions at the beginning: The Red Tent by Anita Diamont

Pacific Birth Collective: www.pacificbirthcollective.org

Sponsor: Blossom & Root, a homeschool curriculum company that has been serving family for years. It’s the curriculum my family uses (& loves!) For more information, including an exclusive discount code for listeners, visit www.elevatingmotherhood.com/homeschool

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Episode 001. Welcome to Elevating Motherhood

SHOW NOTES

www.elevatingmotherhood.com/episode1

Welcome to the first episode of the Elevating Motherhood Podcast! I’m so glad you’re here! I’m your host, Lori Beth Auldridge. I recorded this podcast on the island of Maui where I live a fairly untraditional life with my husband Chris and our 3 daughters ages 5, 4, and 2. I’m a work at home mom, wife, friend, sister, blogger, homeschooler, wanna be homesteader, business owner, podcaster, and so much more. I’m not defined by one role…and neither are you, mama!

This first episode is designed as an introduction so you can learn more about who I am, why I created this show, what to expect, what topics I’ll cover, and more! Be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Follow us onIG& FB! Like, comment, and share that you’re listening to the podcast!

Like the show? Leave me a review! Your feedback lets me know what you like, want, and need in your #momlife I’m here to serve you, open up conversations, tackle topics, and encourage connection. Reviews help me do that! Thank you so much!

Sponsor:

Today’s episode is sponsored by Beautiful & Simple. An online boutique filled with products that remind us to practice self-care and to put more good into the world. My favorite mug is the one that says “you cannot pour from an empty cup.” It’s my daily reminder to take care of myself so I can take care of my family. Go check out the collection of mugs & shirts currently available at www.beautifulandsimple.com

Links:

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More About Your Host: www.instagram.com/yayamamasblog

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Aloha, I’m Lori Beth Auldridge…Maui mama of 3 and creator & host of the Elevating Motherhood Podcast. I’m launching 4 episodes on September 18th, 2019! So you can dive right in and join me on this awesome journey!

Elevating Motherhood will be a weekly podcast covering topics related to modern motherhood. I’m going to interview some powerful women from around the world and dive deep into topics like pregnancy, birth, parenting, health, self-care, education, community, anxiety, perspective, and so much more!

I am so excited for the sisterhood and storytelling that has already come out of creating this incredible resource for you, mama. I’m proud to be doing this parenting gig beside you.

It’s other moms that have helped me the most…to not only grow as a mother but show up as a whole woman—through their willingness to share, listen, and understand. This podcast feels like a chance to give back to everyone who has helped me on my journey and to share with other mamas who need connection, too. Whether I’ve known you for a long time or we’re just getting to know each other. I see you, mama. And I appreciate you. This podcast is for you.

It’s been an absolute gift to open up this platform for moms to tell their stories and be heard. These conversations have shifted my heart and mind for the better. I know they’ll resonate with you, too.

Be sure to follow me on Instagram and Facebook for behind the scenes updates, special promo codes, and sneak peaks! There’s also a fun countdown at elevatingmotherhood.com – which will go live on launch day! I can’t wait for you to hear the first episodes and see the beautiful website!

Please mark your calendars and join me back here on Wednesday, September 18th where we’ll start this incredible adventure…together we are Elevating Motherhood.