The Connected Mom

In this episode of the Connected Mom podcast, host Becky Harling speaks with author Janel Breitenstein about the challenges of motherhood, particularly focusing on the theme of anger. They discuss the societal and religious pressures that lead mothers to feel guilty about their anger, and how understanding and managing this emotion can lead to healthier parenting. Janel shares practical tips for recognizing triggers, the importance of self-awareness, and how to approach anger in a way that reflects God's love and grace. The conversation emphasizes the need for mothers to be kind to themselves and to seek God's help in their parenting journey. Janel’s Book - How to Stop Yelling up the Stairs: Keeping Your Cool While Raising Your Kids

In this episode of the Connected Mom podcast, Becky Harling and Laine Lawson Craft discuss the significance of genuine friendships, especially during challenging times. They explore the transition from parenting to writing children's literature, emphasizing the foundational truths every child should hear. The conversation highlights the importance of prayer in parenting and the mission behind Laine's new book, 'The Beginning of You,' which aims to support mothers who choose life for their children. Laine’s Book: The Beginning of You

Many believers feel torn between loving others and protecting their hearts. We’re taught to include everyone, forgive quickly, and keep our doors open—but Scripture also calls us to wisdom and discernment in who we allow to shape our thinking, emotions, and spiritual direction. In this conversation, we explore the difference between loving people and trusting them equally—and why healthy boundaries aren’t unloving, but deeply biblical. Author Becky Harling joins us to unpack what emotionally healthy, Christ-centered friendships look like, how to recognize unsafe relational patterns, and how to heal when relationships wound us. Together, we examine how grounding our identity in Jesus frees us to love generously without becoming drained, resentful, or spiritually pulled off course. This episode provides clarity on: Resource referenced: Friend-Wise: Practical Ideas for Richer Relationships

In this episode of the Connected Mom Podcast, Becky Harling and Erin Davis engage in a heartfelt discussion about the concept of over-functioning in parenting and friendships. They explore the challenges of wanting to do too much for others, the importance of allowing children and friends to experience their own struggles, and the necessity of finding identity and affirmation in Christ rather than in performance. The conversation also touches on the biblical story of Joseph as a lens for understanding family dysfunction and the redemptive work of God in our lives. Erin's book: The Story of Joseph

In this episode of the Connected Mom Podcast, host Becky Harling and her friend Carol Kent discuss the vital role of friendship in our lives. They explore themes of intentionality, affirmation, and support in friendships, as well as the challenges of competition and comparison. Carol shares her insights on setting boundaries and the importance of prayer and connection, especially during difficult times. The conversation emphasizes the need for grace in relationships and the strength that comes from having a supportive community.

In this episode of the Connected Mom podcast, Becky Harling and her friend Judy Dunagan discuss the vital role of friendship in motherhood. They explore themes of intentionality, prayer, vulnerability, affirmation, and the challenges of competition and comparison among friends. Through their personal stories, they highlight how deep friendships can provide support, encouragement, and a sense of community, ultimately enriching the journey of motherhood. The conversation emphasizes the importance of nurturing friendships and being proactive in seeking connections with others.

In this episode of The Connected Mom podcast, host Becky Harling discusses the vital role of friendship in women's lives, particularly for mothers. She reflects on her personal journey through cancer, emphasizing the importance of nurturing relationships and being intentional in friendships. Harling warns against complacency and encourages listeners to treasure their friends, take initiative, and engage meaningfully in their lives. The episode sets the stage for a series focused on deepening friendships and supporting one another through life's challenges. Becky's book:Friend-wise: Practical Ideas for Richer Relationships

Get you copy of Cultivating a Deeper Connection in a Lonely World In this episode of The Connected Mom, Becky Harling and therapist Kenza Haddock delve into the complexities of mother wounds, particularly focusing on the impact of borderline personality disorder in mothers. They discuss the emotional turmoil faced by children of borderline mothers, the importance of setting boundaries, and the necessity of forgiveness in the healing process. The conversation emphasizes the significance of therapy, self-awareness, and the power of God's healing in overcoming generational patterns of emotional distress. Kenza's Book: Unmasking Narcissism: Exposing and Breaking Free From Hidden Patterns of Abuse Get you copy of Cultivating a Deeper Connection in a Lonely World

Get you copy of Cultivating a Deeper Connection in a Lonely World In this episode of the Connected Mom podcast, Becky Harling and therapist Kenza Haddock delve into the complex topic of mother wounds, particularly focusing on the impact of narcissistic mothers. They discuss the emotional scars left by such relationships, the difficulty of forgiveness, and the importance of setting boundaries for healing. Kenza emphasizes the need for self-compassion and the role of spiritual mothering in the healing process. The conversation also highlights the significance of prayer and seeking support from healthy relationships as part of the journey towards recovery. Kenza's book: Unmasking Narcissism: Exposing and Breaking Free From Hidden Patterns of Abuse Get you copy of Cultivating a Deeper Connection in a Lonely World

Get you copy of Cultivating a Deeper Connection in a Lonely World In this episode of the Connected Mom podcast, the host discusses the challenges of letting go as a parent, especially when children grow up and pursue their own paths. Featuring Jennifer Dukes Lee, the conversation explores themes of faith, the importance of prayer, and the emotional journey of parenting. Jennifer shares her experiences with her daughters, their educational pursuits, and the role of prayer in navigating the challenges of parenting. The episode emphasizes the significance of trusting God's plan for our children and the power of scripture in providing comfort and guidance. Jennifer’s book: It's All Under Control: Get you copy of Cultivating a Deeper Connection in a Lonely World

Get you copy of Cultivating a Deeper Connection in a Lonely World In this episode of the Connected Mom podcast, host Becky Harling and counselor Michelle Nietert discuss the emotional challenges of letting go as parents, particularly when sending children off to college. They explore the importance of understanding the Father heart of God, navigating the complexities of college life, and the dual responsibilities of caring for aging parents while raising children. Michelle shares practical tips for moms in the sandwich generation, emphasizing the need for community support, self-care, and the acceptance of grief during transitions. Michelle book: Strong and Secure Get you copy of Cultivating a Deeper Connection in a Lonely World

Get you copy of Cultivating a Deeper Connection in a Lonely World In this episode of the Connected Mom podcast, host Becky Harling and guest Peggy Sue Wells discuss the complexities of motherhood during the holiday season, particularly focusing on the challenges of navigating relationships with adult children. They explore the emotional dynamics of family gatherings, the impact of high conflict divorce on holiday celebrations, and the importance of clear communication. The conversation emphasizes the need for mothers to transition from traditional parenting roles to friendships with their adult children, while also highlighting the significance of gratitude and emotional health in maintaining these relationships. PeggySue Wells is an award-winning USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author, writing coach, and independent publishing strategist who inspires readers and writers alike with nearly 50 captivating books and practical guides. Peggys book: The Ten Best Decisions A Single Mom Can Make Get you copy of Cultivating a Deeper Connection in a Lonely World

Get you copy of Cultivating a Deeper Connection in a Lonely World In this episode of the Connected Mom Podcast, host Becky Harling welcomes actress and author Jen Lilley, who shares her journey of motherhood, faith, and her new devotional, 'Wake Up Your Faith.' Jen discusses the challenges of balancing her acting career with raising four children, the importance of prayer in decision-making, and her personal struggles with an eating disorder. The conversation emphasizes the need for daily encounters with Jesus and the role of faith in navigating life's challenges. In this conversation, Jen Lilley shares her personal journey of overcoming bulimia and the importance of trusting God in the healing process. She discusses the role of counseling, the balance between boldness and gentleness in faith, and the significance of living out love in daily life. Jen emphasizes the need for holistic approaches to health and the importance of support systems for those struggling with eating disorders. She encourages listeners to focus on Jesus as the standard for love and boldness in their lives. Jen’s book: Wake Up Your Faith Get you copy of Cultivating a Deeper Connection in a Lonely World

Get you copy of Cultivating a Deeper Connection in a Lonely World In this episode of the Connected Mom podcast, host Becky Harling welcomes author Julie Lavender to discuss her journey in writing children's books, including her latest works focused on Advent. Julie shares her experiences as a writer, the joy of collaborating with her husband, and the importance of creating meaningful connections through literature. The conversation highlights the significance of instilling a love for reading in children and the role of faith in their upbringing. Julie's books aim to engage young readers and encourage family traditions, making them valuable resources for parents. Julie’s Book: Children’s Advent Stories For Bedtime https://mitchelllanepub.com/ https://thecreativecompany.us/ Get you copy of Cultivating a Deeper Connection in a Lonely World

Get you copy of Cultivating a Deeper Connection in a Lonely World Becky and Amanda Cleary Eastep continue the series on children’s books. AMANDA CLEARY EASTEP is an award-winning children’s author and a book editor. She works in a cabin in the mountains of North Carolina, but she has lived most of her life in the suburbs of Chicago, the home of the Tree Street Kids. Amanda and her husband, together, have eight grown children and a border collie named Annie who wakes Amanda up early every morning to write. Tree Street Kids Set Get you copy of Cultivating a Deeper Connection in a Lonely World

Get you copy of Cultivating a Deeper Connection in a Lonely World In this episode of the Connected Mom podcast, host Becky Harling engages with Sue Schlesman, co-author of the Compassion Storybook Bible. They discuss the importance of teaching children about God's compassion, understanding sin and grace, and the role of empathy and peacemaking in family dynamics. The conversation emphasizes the need for intentional parenting and the significance of explaining spiritual concepts in a simple, relatable manner. They also touch on the idea of heaven and how to help children understand it without fear. The episode concludes with resources for parents to foster a compassionate and faith-filled environment for their children. Sue's book - The Compassion Storybook Bible Get you copy of Cultivating a Deeper Connection in a Lonely World

Get you copy of Cultivating a Deeper Connection in a Lonely World In this episode of the Connected Mom podcast, host Becky discusses the importance of cultivating a love of reading in children. Drawing from her own experiences, she shares strategies for parents and grandparents to encourage reading, including reading to children from a young age, understanding their interests, and modeling a love for books. The episode emphasizes the joy and connection that reading can bring to families, and invites listeners to join in the journey of fostering a love for reading in their children. Get you copy of Cultivating a Deeper Connection in a Lonely World

Get you copy of Cultivating a Deeper Connection in a Lonely World In this episode of the Connected Mom podcast, host discusses the often-taboo topics of mental health, particularly in the context of motherhood and the church. Guest Jennifer Renee Watson shares her personal journey with PTSD, self-advocacy, and the importance of emotional support. They explore the challenges of navigating toxic relationships, the impact of gaslighting, and the realities of seasonal depression. The conversation emphasizes the need for self-care, the role of counseling, and the importance of breaking the cycle of shame surrounding mental health issues. Her book - What If You're Doing Better Than You Think? Finding Courage and Confidence When Life Gets Messy Get you copy of Cultivating a Deeper Connection in a Lonely World

Get you copy of Cultivating a Deeper Connection in a Lonely World In this heartfelt episode of The Connected Mom, host Becky engages in a profound conversation with Ash Ruddy, a mother who shares her incredible journey of faith and resilience after giving birth to a premature baby. They discuss the challenges faced in the NICU, the power of worship in bonding with her child, and the miraculous experiences that shaped their lives. Ash emphasizes the importance of surrendering control to God and recognizing the supernatural in everyday life, offering encouragement to mothers navigating their own difficult journeys. Ash’s book: Twenty-Four + One: A Mother’s Story of Faith, Love, and Miracles Get you copy of Cultivating a Deeper Connection in a Lonely World