Family Brand: Take Back Your Family

Welcome back, Family Brand community! Melissa here, and I’m thrilled to share this conversation with you featuring my amazing guest, Monica Swanson. Monica is the incredible creator behind the "Monica Swanson Blog" and the "Monica Swanson Podcast." With her deep wisdom in homeschooling and intentional parenting, I'm so excited to introduce her to you. Whether you've thought about homeschooling or are currently navigating it, there's something in this episode for everyone. In our chat, we delve into FAQs like balancing homeschooling with work, incorporating faith into education, and managing the social needs of homeschooled kids, plus so much more. We also cover practical tips for getting started, the benefits of homeschooling for family bonding, and how to handle the challenging days. If you’re curious about the real-life ups and downs of homeschooling and looking for encouragement or just want to hear from someone who’s been in the trenches, this episode is for you. Monica shares not only her experiences but also her strategies for success, making this a must-listen for any parent considering this path. Hit play now to hear the full episode and dive into our enriching discussion! Don’t miss out on this insightful conversation packed with practical advice and heartfelt stories from a veteran homeschooling mom. Hit play to hear the full episode! LINKS: All Links Family Brand! stan.store/familybrand Links For This Episode: https://monicaswanson.com/becominghomeschoolers https://www.amazon.com/Becoming-Homeschoolers-Education-Strong-Family Episode Minute By Minute:

Hey Family Brand community! Chris and Melissa here, and we're excited to share something we’ve been reflecting on since our amazing 4th of July weekend. This week, we dive into the "cool aunt and uncle effect," where we noticed our kids absorbing wisdom from adults other than us--maybe even more effectively! It's about recognizing that sometimes, the best lessons aren't taught by us but by the cool people we choose to surround our kids with. During our time in Utah with the Alexander family, we saw firsthand how other adults could positively impact our children. Their approach to interacting with our kids wasn't just welcoming; it was genuinely impactful, shaping conversations that mattered. Want to hear more about our experiences and insights on this topic? Hit play now to join the conversation! If this episode inspires you, or if you’ve experienced something similar, don’t hesitate to reach out! We’re eager to hear how you navigate parenting and the influential people you bring into your children's lives. Join us as we explore how meaningful interactions with trusted adults can enrich our children's lives and offer new perspectives. Let’s make every interaction count! PS: Don’t forget! Join us live or catch the recording! Register to attend or Get the Replay of Virtual Date Night On July 12th at 6p Pacific. CLICK HERE LINKS: All Links Family Brand! stan.store/familybrand Links For This Episode: https://christophercartersmith.activehosted.com/f/15 Episode Minute By Minute:

Hey Mama! Have you ever felt like you've kind of lost yourself in the whirlwind of motherhood? We’ve all been there, and that's exactly why I brought my friend Liz Norton onto our podcast. Liz has been right where you are, feeling like she's just 'Mom' and forgetting about the woman behind that title. Together, we dive into what it means to rediscover yourself while fully embracing the joys and challenges of being a mom. Liz shares her journey of balancing personal growth with parenting and how it’s okay to reclaim parts of yourself that you've set aside. This isn't just about finding yourself—it's about realizing you can be a great mom and still pursue the things that light you up. Liz gives us some real, practical tips that have worked for her, and I think they can help you too. So if you're ready for some real talk that hits right at the heart of motherhood and personal identity, hit play now! Let’s walk this path together. And hey, if this conversation strikes a chord with you, or if you’ve got your own story to share about balancing 'you' with 'Mom', reach out! Drop us a message or leave a comment. We’d love to hear how you're navigating this journey and how we can support you every step of the way! LINKS: All Links Family Brand! stan.store/familybrand Episode Minute By Minute:

Trigger Warning: Towards the end of this conversation, we talk openly about the loss of Liz and her husband's newborn baby. While the content is not graphic, we depict the raw moments and hospital visits that led up to the tragic event. If you are walking through a similar experience and are still in the healing process, we encourage you to enjoy our feed of 180+ other episodes if this content hits too content too close to home, or hit play now to hear this incredible story! Hey Family Brand community, Melissa here! Today, I’m super excited to bring you a conversation that’s both uplifting and deeply insightful. We're chatting with Liz Hartke, an extraordinary leader who seamlessly integrates deep family values into her bustling entrepreneurial life. Liz, the founder of Luminary Leadership Co., has built a career advising top entrepreneurs while also prioritizing her family, even through her personal hardships. In our chat, she opens up about how her roles as a business leader and a homeschooling mom intertwine, offering us a glimpse into her life of meaningful balance. We dive into how Liz uses her entrepreneurial spirit not only to lead in business but also to teach and connect with her children. She shares practical tips for other entrepreneurial parents on how to ensure their business enhances their family life rather than detracts from it. So, if you’re juggling family and business and wondering how to make it all work without compromising on either front, you’ll want to hear what Liz has to say. Hit play now to listen to the full episode! LINKS: All Links Family Brand! stan.store/familybrand Links For This Episode: https://www.instagram.com/elizhartke https://luminaryleadershipco.com Episode Minute By Minute:

Hey Family Brand community, Chris and Melissa here! We're so excited to reconnect with all of you and share what’s been happening in our world this so far this summer! We kicked off with an unforgettable trip across Europe, soaking in history and culture, which was a fantastic way for us all to grow and bond as a family. Back in Arizona, summer is in full swing with its fair share of sun and fun, but we’re also working hard to keep a balance between relaxation and structure. Our kids are really stepping up this year, tackling everything from sports to unique summer jobs, learning the value of hard work and entrepreneurship along the way. They've been selling everything from pecans to T-shirts, and it's a joy to see their creativity and perseverance in action. We also rely on our family vision board more than ever during these months. It’s a simple yet powerful tool that helps us align our daily activities with our broader goals for the summer. Whether it's learning new skills, saving up for a concert, or just making sure we have enough family downtime, that board keeps us all on track. Join us in this episode as we dive deeper into how we manage these dynamic summer days. We’ll share the successes, the learning moments, and how we're all growing together. So hit play now and let’s explore how to make the most of this fun season together! LINKS: All Links Family Brand! stan.store/familybrand Episode Minute By Minute:

Hey, Family Brand community! Melissa here, excited to introduce you to Tal Eyre, an extraordinary guest with a profound passion for fatherhood. As a senior captain of the Weber State University basketball team and a global business leader, Tal has combined his athletic, humanitarian, and business insights into a powerful approach to parenting. Living in the Swiss Alps with his wife Anita and daughter Annina, Tal has transformed his rich life experiences into a heartfelt mission to enhance family relationships. His book, "Dad Mode," explores these themes, aiming to equip fathers everywhere with the tools to deepen their connections with their children. During our podcast, Tal shared how his background as a father, athlete, and positive psychology expert influenced his parenting philosophy. He emphasized the importance of active engagement in children's lives, offering practical advice and personal anecdotes to inspire and guide other dads. We delved deep into the essence of "Dad Mode," discussing how fathers can use Tal's strategies to foster meaningful relationships within their families. His approach isn't just theoretical; it's a collection of actionable steps backed by his academic work and personal journey. To hear more about Tal's transformative parenting insights and how you can apply them in your own life, hit play now! Discover how to turn everyday challenges into opportunities for growth and connection. LINKS: All Links Family Brand! stan.store/familybrand Links For This Episode: https://www.taleyre.comhttps://amzn.to/3z3Smia Episode Minute By Minute:

Hey, Family Brand community! Chris and Melissa here. Today, we're thrilled to introduce you to an extraordinary guest, Ashley Borromeo, the vibrant force behind TapFitFam, who's transforming how families engage with dance and each other. Ashley, a homeschooling mom and seasoned dance instructor, believes passionately in the power of movement. With over 30 years of dancing experience, she's developed a unique approach that combines dance, fitness, and family time into a harmonious blend that enriches lives and fosters deep connections. In our conversation, Ashley shared her journey from professional dancer to creating TapFitFam, where she encourages families to "DANCE Through Life." Her philosophy isn't just about physical movement but embracing life with joy, purpose, and a bit of rhythm. TapFitFam is more than dance lessons; it's about integrating dance into everyday family life to enhance health, happiness, and togetherness. We dove deep into how integrating dance into daily routines can significantly benefit both the body and mind. Ashley highlighted the cognitive benefits of dance, like improving memory and coordination, which are particularly impactful for children as they develop. But it's not just for kids; adults too can rediscover their groove and perhaps even tap into their youthfulness. Hit play now to hear the full episode and learn how you can bring dance into your family's daily life for better health and more joyful moments together! LINKS: Links To This Episode: https://www.tapfitfam.com/ashley-borromeo-speaker-page Website: familybrand.com Social: www.instagram.com/ourfamilybrandwww.facebook.com/FamilyBrandOfficialwww.youtube.com/channel/UCGu-7odB6gkPbyXpUIQLkrghttps://twitter.com/OurFamilyBrand NEW: What Culture are You Creating In Your Family? Take the Quiz Now! https://familybrand.com/quiz Episode Minute By Minute:

Hello, Family Brand community! Chris and Melissa here, bringing you some timely insights as we dive into the sunny season. Today, we're exploring how setting "Summer Agreements" can transform the often daunting, unstructured weeks of summer into a period of growth and enjoyment for the whole family. Summertime brings a mix of freedom and challenge, especially when it comes to managing time without the school year's structure. A few years ago, Melissa introduced a fantastic concept to our summer planning that has significantly benefited our family life. Each summer, we encourage everyone in the family to pick something they want to improve on or achieve during these months. Whether it’s learning new skills, like Chris trying to throw left-handed, or setting personal fitness goals, these summer projects bring a sense of purpose and fun. We also love integrating ideas from inspiring reads into our summer plans. For instance, after reading "Way of the Warrior Kid" by Jocko Willink, our family discussions about summer goals have deepened. The book's themes about personal discipline and growth resonate with our aim to encourage both physical and mental development over the summer. However, it's not just about personal achievements. Setting clear agreements on how the summer will unfold is crucial. These agreements strike a balance between maintaining enough structure to prevent chaos and allowing enough freedom for spontaneous summer fun. For example, discussing and agreeing on curfews, daily routines, and family activities helps manage expectations and keeps everyone on the same page. This summer, we challenge each of you to think about what agreements would work best for your family. What do you want to achieve? How do you want to feel by the end of the summer? Engage your children in this conversation, let them set their goals, and discuss as a family how you can support each other in achieving these objectives. As we set these intentions and agreements, we also remember to model these behaviors ourselves. It's important for kids to see their parents embracing challenges and stepping out of their comfort zones. This summer, let's all strive to 'get that dog in us'—putting in the effort and showing up for ourselves and our family. Wishing you all a summer filled with growth, joy, and meaningful family moments. Go out there and make it amazing! LINKS: Website: familybrand.com Social: www.instagram.com/ourfamilybrandwww.facebook.com/FamilyBrandOfficialwww.youtube.com/channel/UCGu-7odB6gkPbyXpUIQLkrghttps://twitter.com/OurFamilyBrand NEW: What Culture are You Creating In Your Family? Take the Quiz Now! https://familybrand.com/quiz Episode Minute By Minute:

Hey, Chris and Melissa here! Today’s podcast episode is packed with insights and inspiring stories from the recent "Ignite Possibility Experience." This was Chris's first event since launching our new venture, www.psblty.co and what an incredible two days it was! We explored the transformative power of embracing our abilities with confidence and how this can unlock doors not just for ourselves but for people around us. The conference was a powerful mix of personal stories, practical advice, and powerful affirmations that left everyone, including us, energized and ready to tackle their own challenges with a renewed sense of possibility. That’s why we had to share with our podcast fam! You may be thinking, why focus on confidence? It’s simple. Because true confidence is more than just feeling good about yourself—it's about stepping into your role as a leader in your own life and inspiring others to do the same. During the event, we discussed how changing our narrative from doubt to belief has the power to transform our actions and, subsequently, our results. In this episode, we break down some of the key topics covered at the conference, such as the importance of making and keeping commitments to yourself, the impact of positive self-talk, and how to live boldly without fear of judgement. We also share actionable tips on how you can start applying these principles in your day-to-day life. Remember, every step you take in building your own confidence is also a step toward teaching your kids to be leaders who can make a real difference. Let's make this a week to remember by stepping boldly into our potential and lighting up the world with our newfound confidence. If we want to raise confident children who can change the world, it starts at home with our family "brand." Let’s lead by example and create a legacy of strength and possibility for our kids. LINKS: Website: familybrand.com Social: www.instagram.com/ourfamilybrandwww.facebook.com/FamilyBrandOfficialwww.youtube.com/channel/UCGu-7odB6gkPbyXpUIQLkrghttps://twitter.com/OurFamilyBrand NEW: What Culture are You Creating In Your Family? Take the Quiz Now! https://familybrand.com/quiz Episode Minute By Minute:

Hey Family Brand folks! This week we’re super excited because Hailey Reidhead, the voice behind the "She’s a Lady Podcast," is here with us. Hailey isn't just a podcast host; she’s a hairstylist, a mom of two wonderful girls, and a huge advocate for empowering women through the thick and thin of life's journey. Today, we’re diving into a topic that hits close to home for many of us: finding our identity in motherhood. It’s a journey that can feel like a rollercoaster at times, with its ups, downs, and unexpected turns. Hailey opens up about her personal experiences, sharing the real talk on how she navigates the shifting sands of identity that come with being a mom and a professional. We get into the nitty-gritty of what it means to balance personal aspirations with the demands of motherhood. Hailey shares her path to maintaining her individuality while embracing the roles of wife and mother. It’s not just about finding balance but also about thriving in each aspect of life and remembering who you are beyond your roles. Join us as we unpack these themes, offering insights and perhaps a bit of guidance for those of you wrestling with similar challenges. This conversation is for anyone looking to feel understood, inspired, or just a bit less alone in their journey. So grab a comfy seat, hit play, and let’s get into it together. LINKS: Link to the 'She's a Lady' Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/43TaLiQZz4T6biCuvLqfJq?si=8276867726c241d0 Website: familybrand.com Social: www.instagram.com/ourfamilybrandwww.facebook.com/FamilyBrandOfficialwww.youtube.com/channel/UCGu-7odB6gkPbyXpUIQLkrghttps://twitter.com/OurFamilyBrand NEW: What Culture are You Creating In Your Family? Take the Quiz Now! https://familybrand.com/quiz Episode Minute By Minute:

Hey Family Brand folks! Today, we're super excited to chat with Katie Kimball, who’s all about empowering kids through cooking and life skills. Katie, a mom of four and a wizard in the kitchen, has something really special lined up for us this summer—a Free Virtual Kids Summer Camp! Katie’s journey started with her passion for teaching her own kids to cook, which blossomed into helping other families do the same. This summer, she’s taking it up a notch by offering a camp that’s packed with fun and useful activities, from cooking to gardening to tech skills. The camp is not just about learning; it’s about growing confidence. Katie shares how gaining skills in one area can really boost a kid's confidence across the board. And let’s be real, who doesn’t want their kids to feel like they can take on the world? So, what’s in store at the camp? It’s a mix of everything! Whether your kids are into crafting delicious dishes, fixing cars, or even managing their screen time, there’s something for everyone. The best part? It’s all online, so your family can join from anywhere. Ready to sign up and make this summer a blast for your kids? Head over to the Kids Cook Real Food site and check out all the details. (Links Below!) Let’s make this a summer to remember by giving our kids the gift of learning and confidence! Remember, this isn’t just another activity to keep them busy—it’s about building skills that will last a lifetime. Join us and let's empower our kids together this summer! LINKS: Website: familybrand.com Social: www.instagram.com/ourfamilybrandwww.facebook.com/FamilyBrandOfficialwww.youtube.com/channel/UCGu-7odB6gkPbyXpUIQLkrghttps://twitter.com/OurFamilyBrand NEW: What Culture are You Creating In Your Family? Take the Quiz Now! https://familybrand.com/quiz Links For This Episode: Sign Up For The Free Summer Camp With Katie: https://kidscookrealfood.com/lifeskillsnow-season-three-online-summer-camp-registration/?cookieUUID=bbcafeb3-cfca-43b7-a926-1ce26cb74b39 Episode Minute By Minute:

Hey Family Brand community, Chris and Melissa here! Today’s not just any day—it’s Tripp’s ninth birthday, and while we're celebrating, we’ve got a topic that’s been pressing on our hearts. We’re talking about something that could change our kids’ lives: understanding and believing in their inherent worth. In our chat today, we dive deep into why kids today face more challenges than ever before—comparing themselves to a whole world online, not just their classmates. It’s tough, and it's why we think there's a real need to regularly affirm how much they matter. We explore the "cool aunt and uncle effect," which shows that sometimes, these important messages can be heard better from someone other than mom and dad. It's one of the reasons we created our Family Brand Academy, to help families communicate the crucial messages of self-worth and identity effectively. So, what can we do as families? It’s about more than just telling our kids they’re great; it’s about showing them they’re valued every single day. It's about being intentional in our conversations and actions, making sure our kids know they’re not just enough—they’re more than enough. Join us by hitting play now, as we dive deep into these ideas and share practical tips on nurturing a positive, strong sense of self in our kids. Let's empower them together to face anything with confidence. Ps, we would love to connect with you! Share how you’re reinforcing these values at home with us on Instagram at www.instagram.com/ourfamilybrand! Let’s keep this conversation going and build a community that lifts each other up. Here’s to a week of empowerment and celebrating the amazing potential of our families! LINKS: Website: familybrand.com Social: Instagram: www.instagram.com/ourfamilybrand Facebook: www.facebook.com/FamilyBrandOfficial YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCGu-7odB6gkPbyXpUIQLkrg Twitter: https://twitter.com/OurFamilyBrand NEW: What Culture are You Creating In Your Family? Take the Quiz Now! https://familybrand.com/quiz Episode Minute By Minute: 0:35 Happy Birthday Tripp’s! And what’s on our hearts today? 2:15 The challenges our kids are facing with their identities. 5:30 How does social media really affect our kids’ sense of worth? 8:20 What’s the 'Cool Aunt and Uncle Effect'? We’ll tell you all about it. 12:40 Simple, everyday ways to remind our kids how much they matter. 17:00 Why we started the Family Brand Academy and how it helps. 21:45 Your questions answered: How can we affirm our kids every day? 26:10 Wrapping up and how you can keep this conversation going with us on Instagram.

Hey there, Family Brand community! Chris and Melissa here, and we’re excited to bring you a topic that really hits home—commitment, particularly around managing and reclaiming our family time. In this episode, we share some personal stories and insights, like the saga of our matching white Toyotas and what they symbolize about our values and choices. We talk about the challenges and joys of balancing family life, work, and personal ambitions. We also introduce an incredible resource that Melissa has been pouring her heart into—our new guide, "Take Back Your Family’s Time." This guide is all about identifying where your time goes, categorizing its use, and learning to say no to the non-essentials so you can say yes to what truly matters. It’s designed to help families create more intentional, connected, and enjoyable time together. If you’ve ever felt like your family is being pulled in too many directions, this episode, and especially the guide, is for you. Ready to transform how your family spends time? Hit play now, and let’s explore together how we can reclaim and enrich our family time. Remember, it's about designing our time rather than letting it design us. Check out the guide in the show notes linked below or on our social media pages. Let's make the most out of every moment with our loved ones! LINKS: Take Back Your Family's Time with this Guide! Download Now: https://stan.store/FamilyBrand/p/take-back-your-familys-time Website: familybrand.com Social: www.instagram.com/ourfamilybrandwww.facebook.com/FamilyBrandOfficialwww.youtube.com/channel/UCGu-7odB6gkPbyXpUIQLkrghttps://twitter.com/OurFamilyBrand NEW: What Culture are You Creating In Your Family? Take the Quiz Now! https://familybrand.com/quiz Episode Minute By Minute:

Hey, Family Brand crew! It's just me today, Melissa, and I want to share an adventure that truly embodied our family's spirit of fun and spontaneity. Recently, I whisked away three of our kids on an impromptu road trip to catch the eclipse—a decision fueled by our family's motto of preferring experiences over things and embracing adventure. This escapade wasn't just about chasing the shadow of the moon; it was a testament to living out our values and showing that fun, in its most unbridled form, is at the heart of family life. Our journey, filled with last-minute plans, lost sleep, and a desperate hunt for eclipse glasses (which we triumphantly found), was a wild ride of making memories. Despite the challenges, it reminded us of the joy found in spontaneity and the shared experiences that bring us closer. Our mission with Family Brand is to inspire families to inject more fun, more play, and more connection into every day. Or whatever fits into their own “family brand” This trip, with its ups and downs, was a perfect example of seizing the moment to create joy and laughter, proving that the best family times often come from the simplest acts of playing together. So, let's take this as a nudge to find those moments of fun in our lives. Whether it's a spontaneous adventure or finding joy in the little things like a new family club, remember: family life is meant to be fun. Dive into this episode to hear all about our eclipse adventure and how we're finding fun in every corner of our lives. Hit play now and let's spread the joy of living adventurously together! P.S. We're excited to hear about your fun family adventures! Share with us your stories and how you're bringing more play into your life. Connect with us via the links below! LINKS: Website: familybrand.com Social: www.instagram.com/ourfamilybrandwww.facebook.com/FamilyBrandOfficialwww.youtube.com/channel/UCGu-7odB6gkPbyXpUIQLkrghttps://twitter.com/OurFamilyBrand NEW: What Culture are You Creating In Your Family? Take the Quiz Now! https://familybrand.com/quiz Episode Minute By Minute:

Hey, Family Brand listeners! Chris and Melissa here, and guess what? We're coming at you live from our car, from the excitement of date night. Haha Today's episode is all about date nights and their incredible power to strengthen our marriage, especially during times when it felt like we were drifting apart. We dive deep into how committing to a weekly date night became the cornerstone of rebuilding our connection. It’s a journey that began with awkward silences and has evolved into the most anticipated evenings of the week, filled with laughter, love, and everything in between. In this episode, we discuss how prioritizing our relationship through regular date nights has helped us navigate both good times and challenges. It's a simple yet powerful way we show our love and commitment, reminding us that keeping the spark alive needs a little effort and creativity. Ready to bring the spark back in your relationship or keep that flame burning even stronger? Hit play now and join us in the car! You’ll discover how dedicating time to your partner can transform your marriage, setting the foundation for a legacy of love and commitment. Make every moment count…together! P.S. Inspired to plan your own date night but need some creative ideas? Dive into this episode for our tips and share your stories with us on Instagram. Let's spread the love and keep the conversation going! (Links below! LINKS: Website: familybrand.com Social: www.instagram.com/ourfamilybrandwww.facebook.com/FamilyBrandOfficialwww.youtube.com/channel/UCGu-7odB6gkPbyXpUIQLkrghttps://twitter.com/OurFamilyBrand NEW: What Culture are You Creating In Your Family? Take the Quiz Now! https://familybrand.com/quiz Episode Minute By Minute:

Hey, there! Chris and Melissa here, and we’ve just returned from an unforgettable weekend in Cabo, where we co-hosted a couples retreat. It was our first time doing something like this, alongside our dear friends Dan Martell and Renee Warren. We dove deep into the power of intentional growth in marriages and came back with some incredible insights we're eager to share with you! One of the most inspiring takeaways was witnessing couples proactively investing in their relationships. It’s a stark reminder that to avoid drifting apart, we must grow together intentionally. In today's world, making proactive investments in our marriages and families is more crucial than ever. During the retreat, we also discussed the importance of surrounding ourselves with couples who inspire us and planning our lives with intentionality. From sharing an authentic conversations framework to adopting an "anchor word" for the year, these strategies can profoundly impact our relationships and personal growth. If you're intrigued by the idea of making intentional efforts to strengthen your marriage and family bonds, this episode is for you. Hit play now, and let's explore these transformative concepts together. Remember, it's about intentionally growing together and turning every opportunity into a step towards a stronger, more connected family. P.S. We're thrilled by the feedback and are planning the next couples retreat. If you're interested, reach out to us on Instagram to join the waitlist. Let’s continue to invest in our families, creating a legacy of love and commitment. LINKS: More episodes you’ll love! FINDING OUR WAY: THE EIGHT STEPS TO A BEAUTIFUL MARRIAGE: https://familybrand.com/finding-our-way-the-eight-steps-to-a-beautiful-marriage Website: familybrand.com Social: Instagram:www.instagram.com/ourfamilybrandFacebook:www.facebook.com/FamilyBrandOfficialYouTube:www.youtube.com/channel/UCGu-7odB6gkPbyXpUIQLkrgTwitter:https://twitter.com/OurFamilyBrand NEW: What Culture are You Creating In Your Family? Take the Quiz Now!https://familybrand.com/quiz Episode Minute By Minute:

Hey, there! Chris and Melissa here, and we’ve just returned from an unforgettable weekend in Cabo, where we co-hosted a couples retreat. It was our first time doing something like this, alongside our dear friends Dan Martell and Renee Warren. We dove deep into the power of intentional growth in marriages and came back with some incredible insights we're eager to share with you! One of the most inspiring takeaways was witnessing couples proactively investing in their relationships. It’s a stark reminder that to avoid drifting apart, we must grow together intentionally. In today's world, making proactive investments in our marriages and families is more crucial than ever. During the retreat, we also discussed the importance of surrounding ourselves with couples who inspire us and planning our lives with intentionality. From sharing an authentic conversations framework to adopting an "anchor word" for the year, these strategies can profoundly impact our relationships and personal growth. If you're intrigued by the idea of making intentional efforts to strengthen your marriage and family bonds, this episode is for you. Hit play now, and let's explore these transformative concepts together. Remember, it's about intentionally growing together and turning every opportunity into a step towards a stronger, more connected family. P.S. We're thrilled by the feedback and are planning the next couples retreat. If you're interested, reach out to us on Instagram to join the waitlist. Let’s continue to invest in our families, creating a legacy of love and commitment. LINKS: More episodes you’ll love! FINDING OUR WAY: THE EIGHT STEPS TO A BEAUTIFUL MARRIAGE: https://familybrand.com/finding-our-way-the-eight-steps-to-a-beautiful-marriage Website: familybrand.com Social: Instagram:www.instagram.com/ourfamilybrandFacebook:www.facebook.com/FamilyBrandOfficialYouTube:www.youtube.com/channel/UCGu-7odB6gkPbyXpUIQLkrgTwitter:https://twitter.com/OurFamilyBrand NEW: What Culture are You Creating In Your Family? Take the Quiz Now!https://familybrand.com/quiz Episode Minute By Minute:

Hey there, Family Brand community! It's Melissa, and today's episode is a bit of a heart-to-heart, as I share our journey and decision that's been deeply personal and transformative for our family: the leap into homeschooling our youngest, Trip and Indy. This journey isn't just about the choice to homeschool but delves into the broader theme of following what feels right for your family, even amid doubts and the unknown. We find ourselves in a season of decision-making, not just for the coming school year but in sculpting the life we envision for our family. It's about taking bold steps towards what calls to us, even when the path isn't clear. For us, this meant listening to our children's needs and desires, navigating through fears, and embracing change, despite the comfort of our established routines. In this episode, I share our personal story and the catalysts moment that nudged us toward homeschooling, and the reflections that guided our decision. It's a story of rediscovering childhood joys, fostering sibling bonds, and customizing our learning journey to fit our family's unique needs and goals. (Our family brand!) But more than that, it's a call to all families to listen to those whispers of desire for something more, something different, that might be waiting just outside your comfort zone. Whether it's about education, lifestyle changes, or any other aspect of family life, it's about daring to dream and then stepping into those dreams with conviction. So, if you're pondering a leap of your own, or simply curious about how to navigate the choices that shape your family's story, hit play now. Let's explore together how to embrace the changes that call to us, creating a legacy of love, learning, and living fully...together! And as always, we're excited to hear from you--share your stories, your leaps of faith, and the dreams you're chasing for your family. (Follow the links below to connect.) Here's to taking back your family, in all the beautifully unique ways that mean the most to you. LINKS: Website: familybrand.com Social: Instagram: www.instagram.com/ourfamilybrand Facebook: www.facebook.com/FamilyBrandOfficial YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCGu-7odB6gkPbyXpUIQLkrg Twitter: https://twitter.com/OurFamilyBrand NEW: What Culture are You Creating In Your Family? Take the Quiz Now! https://familybrand.com/quiz Episode Minute By Minute: 00:36 The new journey of homeschooling Trip and Indy, and the deeper reasons behind family decisions. 01:33 The timing of educational decisions and our personal homeschooling experiences with older kids. 03:04 The event that changed everything and why homeschooling just made sense. 06:47 Melissa's internal debate over homeschooling as a mom and how she got clarity. 09:50 The power of creative play and how homeschooling can strengthen family bonds. 11:34 You can take back your family and design the rhythm that works best for you!

Hello, Family Brand community! Melissa here. This week, we had the absolute pleasure of hosting Corrine Stokoe on our podcast—a remarkable woman who truly embodies the journey toward being 'Coda Free,' living a life free from codependency. Corrine's personal journey alongside her husband's recovery from addiction opened her eyes to the pervasive issue of codependency, prompting her to embrace and teach the transformative power of living Coda Free. Corrine's insights into recognizing and addressing codependency are invaluable. She emphasizes the importance of detaching with love, entrusting our burdens to God, and fostering a healthier, more free sense of self. Moreover, Corrine's discussion on integrating faith into everyday life and the significance of self-love, especially around Valentine's Day, offers a fresh and enlightening perspective. As we explored topics like marriage, identity, and balancing personal growth with family life, Corrine's wisdom resonated deeply. Her belief in empowering women to pursue their callings, whether at home, in the community, or the business world, underscores the importance of supporting one another in our diverse journeys. For families and moms tuning in, Corrine's message is clear: listen to your inner callings, align with what feels right for you and your family, and don't wait for the perfect time to pursue your passions. It's about following what you feel nudged to do and ensuring that alignment comes from a place of partnership with God, recognizing the divine potential within you. To dive deeper into Corrine Stokoe's transformative insights and learn more about living Coda Free, embracing self-love, and balancing family and personal aspirations, hit play on this episode. And don't forget to check out Corrine's resources at CodaFree.org and follow her journey for more inspiration. More links below! LINKS: Website: familybrand.com Social: www.instagram.com/ourfamilybrandwww.facebook.com/FamilyBrandOfficialwww.youtube.com/channel/UCGu-7odB6gkPbyXpUIQLkrghttps://twitter.com/OurFamilyBrand NEW: What Culture are You Creating In Your Family? Take the Quiz Now! https://familybrand.com/quiz Links From This Episode: https://www.instagram.com/corrinestokoe?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==https://codafree.org/https://www.instagram.com/mintarrowmessages/ Episode Minute By Minute:

Hey there, Family Brand community! Chris and Melissa here, and in today’s episode, we’re tackling a theme that’s been resonating deeply with us lately—commitment. It’s more than just a word; it’s a profound force that shapes our lives, relationships, and aspirations. We share personal insights on commitment's true essence, especially through the powerful lens of parenthood. Imagine the lengths you’d go to ensure your children never face hardship—that’s commitment in its purest form. This analogy sparks a broader conversation on how we approach our life’s goals and relationships. Is our commitment unwavering, or does it falter at the first sign of difficulty? Together, we delve into the societal tendency to treat commitment as a matter of convenience, easily discarded when the going gets tough. Yet, we explore the transformative impact of embracing commitment with the same vigor as we do for the well-being of our children. This mindset can revolutionize our approach to challenges, relationships, and personal growth. This episode is a call to reflect on the depth of our commitments and to consider the power of declaring, believing in, and nurturing our goals and relationships with unwavering dedication. Ready to dive deeper into the life-changing power of commitment? Hit play now, and let’s explore how declaring and pursuing our commitments can open up black holes of opportunity. Remember, it’s not about setting goals but committing to them with all we have. P.S. We love hearing your stories! After you listen, share your journey of commitment and the "black holes" you’re opening on Instagram at www.instagram.com/ourfamilybrand. Let’s embrace a week of purpose, commitment, and transformation together! LINKS: Website: familybrand.com Social: Instagram: www.instagram.com/ourfamilybrand Facebook: www.facebook.com/FamilyBrandOfficial YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCGu-7odB6gkPbyXpUIQLkrg Twitter: https://twitter.com/OurFamilyBrand NEW: What Culture are You Creating In Your Family? Take the Quiz Now! https://familybrand.com/quiz Episode Minute By Minute: 01:13 Understanding the Concept of Commitment 02:15 Demonstrating Commitment through a Personal Story 02:56 Commitment in the Context of Parenting 04:16 Commitment in the Modern World 04:49 Commitment and Divorce: A Research Perspective 05:44 Commitment in Marriage: A Personal Perspective 06:55 Commitment in Business: A Case Study 07:19 Redefining Commitment 07:46 The Power of Commitment 09:25 Commitment and the Universe 10:16 Commitment and Success: A Personal Story 17:25 The Process of Commitment 22:33 Commitment in Different Areas of Life 28:27 Commitment Exercise with Family 28:53 Conclusion: The Power of Commitment