This Grit and Grace Life

We tackle many difficult subjects here at Grit and Grace Life, and often, they’re ones that have impacted us directly. In this episode, co-host Darlene Brock shares one of her own—losing her father to suicide. As with any tragedy, Darlene found herself navigating unexpected emotions, working to reconcile the choice of suicide with the father she loved, asking questions that could be answered and accepting those that could not. In sharing her story now, she hopes to impart an important lesson to those dealing with this unbearable pain: God can bring healing. It won’t be overnight, and it won’t be easy. But there is hope to be found. If you’ve also lost someone dear to you to suicide, we hope this episode brings you some comfort in hearing from someone who has also been through the same journey. This idea is what inspired our next endeavor here at Grit and Grace Life: creating and publishing a series of subject-specific guidebooks—written by our team of writers with direct experience in those subjects—that you can use to walk (and work) through your own challenges, at your own pace. Keep an eye out for this book and others in the “Smart Living In Small Bites” series, coming later this year. Quote of the episode: “Earth has no sorrow that Heaven cannot heal.” —Thomas Moore Resources Mentioned (in this episode and Darlene's book) Suicide Prevention Hotline Suicide Prevention for Family Members and Caregivers Testimonies from suicide survivors Focus on the Family suicide resources Grieving a Suicide: A Loved One's Search for Comfort, Answers and Hope Silent Grief: Living in the Wake of Suicide Shattered: From Grief to Joy After My Son's Suicide This Is How to Handle a Hard Relationship With Your Mom – 089 Related My Dad's Suicide and the Hole In My Heart When Desperation Comes, Why Choose Suicide? Suicide Isn't Easily Understood, But You Need to Know This Follow Us on Social Media! Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest

Later this month, the film "Unsung Hero" premieres in theaters across the nation. The movie chronicles one Australian mom's radical decision to move her family across the world in faith that they can find reprieve from their struggles. We don't want to spoil it for you, but this mother's decision pays off. If you've ever jammed out to FOR KING & COUNTRY or Rebecca St. James, you can thank Helen Smallbone—the determined mum from Down Under. Her unorthodox decision to pack up her family's belongings and shuttle herself, her husband and their six kids (with a seventh on the way!) was met with as much doubt as you might imagine. As a mom, it’s hard to filter out the opinions and recommendations from other people on how to raise your kids. This week, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender throw it back to a previous episode with Helen, who shared the good news: It's OK to be a different kind of mom! You know your kids better than anyone, and raising them the way you feel is best—no matter how it looks to those on the outside—will undoubtedly be what they need. We hope you feel encouraged that the path you have established for your family is the right one. And if you’re still on the fence, take a listen to this episode and see for yourself! Helen Smallbone is the co-founder of MUMlife Community and a podcast host with AccessMore. Her passion is encouraging mothers and families with the God-breathed wisdom she has gleaned over 32 years of being a mother. Born and raised in Australia, Helen dedicated her life to Christ as a young teen at the Billy Graham Crusade in Sydney. Now a mother to seven―five boys and two girls―and grandmother to thirteen, she currently lives outside of Nashville, Tennessee, with her husband, David, and a small menagerie of animals. You can follow Helen on Facebook @helenjsmallbone and on Instagram @helensmallbone. Quote of the episode: “For me as a parent, it's my job to encourage [my] child on their journey to seek out who God has made them to be.” —Helen Smallbone Resources Mentioned Check out information about "Unsung Hero" here Buy Helen's book, Behind the Lights here Read Peter's account of denying Jesus here Easter, the Best Love Story Ever Told 7 Lessons from Easter You Need All Year Long - 128 Related Forgiveness Is the Key to Living a Bitter-Free Life The Hope of Easter Restores All Things Follow Us on Social Media! Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest

Easter isn't all about Peeps and Cadbury eggs, although co-host Julie Bender wouldn't mind one or two! But is Easter the ultimate call to action? In this heartfelt podcast episode, Julie and Darlene Brock discuss the significance of Easter, which they recognize as the pinnacle of their faith. But what does it mean to truly observe the holiday? Here, they unpack the meaning of Jesus Christ's brutal death on the cross more than 2,000 years ago and why His suffering, while difficult to think on, is crucial to understanding the scope of His love for us and how we're supposed to live today. You'll see how Jesus' forgiveness even as he was dying models the way we should approach our relationship with others through sacrificial love and grace. The message of Easter is one of hope, today and for a lifetime. Want to chat with us about Easter or your faith? Send us a note here! Quote of the episode: “My relationship with Christ is secure because of what he did and [because] I've accepted it. And because of that, I have hope today. I have hope tomorrow. I have hope everyday of this life and for all of eternity." —Darlene Brock Resources Mentioned Read Peter's account of denying Jesus here Easter, the Best Love Story Ever Told 7 Lessons from Easter You Need All Year Long - 128 Related Forgiveness Is the Key to Living a Bitter-Free Life The Hope of Easter Restores All Things Follow Us on Social Media! Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest

Life feeling mundane? It doesn't have to! In fact, it's easier to see the adventure and joys in the everyday than you might think. In this episode of This Grit and Grace Life, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender emphasize the importance of making the most of life. They talk through ways to shift your mindset when it comes to your purpose, your relationships, your motherhood and your work so you can more clearly see the value each facet brings. When viewed through this new perspective, the things you may think are annoying and trivial might actually be part of a larger blessing. And when each day seems full of small blessings, it'll be impossible to deny just how special your everyday life really is. Quote of the episode: “If you can't see the bright side of life, polish the dull side." —Unknown Resources Mentioned Check out Julie's husband's business here Related The Joy Series: Feel Stuck In the Mundane? Unlock Joy In the Everyday A Strong Woman Has These 7 Things On Her Bucket List The Joy Series: Parenting a Teen Is Hard, But I've Found Gratitude Among the Grumbles Where Can I Find the Purpose of Life? Can You Really Enjoy the Little Things In Life? 17 Quotes to Create the Happy Moments Mindset Every Day – 130 Follow Us on Social Media! Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest

If you're living with anxiety, you know it can be debilitating. A sudden panic or anxiety attack can quickly ruin your day, and over time, it can keep you from pursuing your dreams. Caroline Beidler knows what that's like. The author, speaker and recovery advocate recalls bouts of anxiety as a child, which were exacerbated by her parents' divorce and sexual trauma. She began self-medicating with alcohol and drugs, and though she eventually became sober, she found herself still dealing with anxiety decades later and wondering what was wrong. In this episode, she sits down with Darlene Brock and Julie Bender to discuss how she learned to practically address anxiety as a woman of faith—and prayer and Scripture are just two parts of the larger picture. She highlights the importance of therapy, building up your circle of support, staying active and openly discussing anxiety and other mental health issues in the church. Caroline Beidler, BA, MSW is the author of Downstairs Church: Finding Hope in the Grit of Addiction and Trauma Recovery, and she is currently writing her next project, due 2024. A recovery advocate, and founder of the storytelling platform Circle of Chairs. with almost 20 years in leadership within social work and ministry Caroline is currently a consultant with JBS International, writing and creating content for several federal agencies. She is also the founder and host of the annual International Women’s Day Global Recovery Event. Caroline lives in Tennessee with her husband and twins where she enjoys hiking in the mountains and building up her community’s local recovery ministry. Quote of the episode: “Being human is about recognizing and acknowledging our weakness. But what's beautiful is that God works in that place." —Caroline Beidler Resources Mentioned Downstairs Church: Finding Hope in the Grit of Addiction and Trauma Recovery Self-Care Is an Act of Radical Love for Mommas How to Use 4-7-8 Breathing for Anxiety Related Ask Dr. Zoe – Coping With Anxiety Biblically Drinking Excessively? Here Are 8 Healthier Coping Strategies for Women A Breath Prayer to Calm Your Mind and Body Can Faith Bring Hope to Everything—Even Anxiety? Ask Dr. Zoe – What Is Normal Anxiety & When Should I Seek Help? Follow Us on Social Media! Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest

Love is in the air! Maybe you're in a loving relationship and feel giddy at the mere mention of love, or maybe you're on the hunt for that special someone. No matter your relationship status, one thing is certain: Don't settle for less! In this podcast episode, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender discuss how our expectations for love compare to our current relationships or what we want in a man. They explain why you should trust the process (and your gut!) and not rush anything, and how to celebrate and honor a healthy relationship. They also share their favorite relationships advice and 14 quick ways to tell if your man is worthy of your love, so you never settle again! Quote of the episode: “When you're dating someone, go to [1 Corinthians 13:4-7] and put their name in. 'Is Bob kind? Is Bob loving? Is Bob patient?' That's going to be very telling." —Darlene Brock Resources Mentioned Is Your Man a Keeper? Here’s How to Be Sure – 214 I Thought He’d Propose on Valentine’s Day—He Broke Up Instead My Boyfriend Brings Me Flowers, Is That Enough? Related How to Avoid the Wrong Guy: A Checklist for Strong Women Is It Time to Break Up With Your Guy? This Is How to Do It Follow Us on Social Media! Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest

Want a good laugh? Well, you're in for a treat! In this lighthearted episode of This Grit and Grace Life, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender bring back an older episode where they discuss the importance of finding humor in life—and they do it by sharing several listener-submitted memes and funny phrases on topics like relationships and motherhood that will make you chuckle. And more likely than not, you'll relate to many of them. Quote of the episode: “You never realize how many people you don't like until it's time to name your baby." Resources Mentioned When to Leave an Unhealthy Relationship with Your Man with Dr. Zoe Shaw – 024 Dating? What to Look for in a Man - 073 Follow Us on Social Media! Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest

"Is my teen out of control, or is this normal behavior? At one point do I need to begin enforcing changes?" These questions often consume moms of teens and preteens, and on this throwback episode, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender ask psychotherapist and relationship coach Dr. Zoe Shaw for advice. Dr. Zoe discusses how to approach privacy and your teen's internet and social media use; how to recognize which moments you should step aside and allow your teen to make mistakes, and when it's time for you to intervene; and If you have a teen (or will soon), this episode is filled with the answers to some your most pressing motherhood questions. Dr. Zoe Shaw is a passionate practitioner in the field of clinical psychology. She is licensed as a psychotherapist and divides her time between her family life, clinical practice, virtual life, and relationship coaching, speaking, writing and hosting her podcast. You can follow Dr. Zoe by visiting her site, or finding her on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter as well as her podcast, Stronger in the Difficult Places. Submit a question to our free Ask Dr. Zoe column. Quote of the episode: “We take it personally when it's not personal; it's their development.” —Dr. Zoe Shaw Resources Related The Joy Series: Parenting a Teen Is Hard, But I've Found Gratitude Among the Grumbles 5 Verses to Help You Survive the Teenage Years It Feels Like My Teen Is Rejecting Me, But I Know It's Something Else Check out these other podcast episodes with Dr. Zoe Why Hasn't Your Boyfriend Proposed or Set the Date? - 180 How to Find Peace and Purpose In an Out-of-Control World - 164 How to Make Self-Care Part of Your Life - 155 Follow Us on Social Media! Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest

Want to make a change in 2024? No matter what it may be, you need a path to get there. In this episode of This Grit and Grace Life, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender break down the differences between a reset, a redo, and a restart—and how to outline a plan for each—so you can chart the appropriate course for the change you want to implement. Making a change can be nerve-wracking, but the steps shared here will set you on a clear path to your goals with little room for error. And if you being to doubt your decision along the way, Julie shares some words of wisdom to help you get back on track. Quote of the episode: “There's a reason your windshield is bigger than your rearview mirror: Where you're headed is more important than what you left behind.” —Unknown Resources I Changed My Mind; Change Can Be the Right Thing to Do Want to Change Your Life? Start Building Something New How Brain Science Restored My Hope for Change Follow Us on Social Media! Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest

It's the most wonderful time of the year—or is it? We believe it is, but we know that stress and hardships can sometimes surface and crowd out those merry feelings. Rather than feeling swayed by the weight of those challenges, we want to help you find the good. In this episode, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender share an assortment of quotes that remind us of our ability to make the most of every day, cultivate that happy moments mindset and lead the life we want by shifting our perspective. What are you spending time thinking about? Are you focusing on the good deeds you witness, the blessings you have at home? The kindness of others, the beauty of nature? All those little happy moments? They are there—you just have to train your brain to see them for what they are! Quote of the episode: “If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.” —Wayne Dyer Resources Mentioned Click HERE for a PDF of all the quotes shared in this episode. Print them out or send them to a friend! Related Life Changes When You Flip Your Perspective—Here's How Can You Really Enjoy the Little Things In Life? Finding Happiness In an Unhappy World - 210 Follow Us on Social Media! Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest

This week, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender discuss what faith, hope, and love should look like when played out in our lives. You'll learn how they each decided to pursue faith; how we should pour out love and gratitude back to God through the work we do and how we carry ourselves; how faith fulfills our ability to hope, which sustains us during hard times and reminds us of what’s good in a world that feels scary and messy; why we're called to love others (even those who don't love us back) and how to show it. Any one of these tenets—or perhaps all three—may feel complicated or even a bit foreign to you. This episode is a helpful guide to understanding what they look like and how they all work together to resemble a fulfilling life that looks like Christ's. Quote of the episode: “We, at times, may be put right in the position to show love in a very tangible, real way to someone who desperately needs it." —Julie Bender Resources Related Building Faith: Growing In Your Relationship with God 5 Ways to Hold Onto Hope in Radical Uncertainty You Are Loved More than You Know A Simple Straw, a Homeless Man, and an Impacted Life Follow Us on Social Media! Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest

Did you know that this podcast and its adjoining website, Grit and Grace Life, are run entirely by donations? That's right—we're not your typical media outlet! The Grit and Grace Project is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit funded by generous individuals who believe in our mission to inform and encourage women in their life journey. We believe women can prepare for every facet of life—from motherhood, work and health to purpose, relationships, and faith—by learning from those who have walked those paths before them. The articles on our site are a treasure trove of wisdom from our global collective of writers who want to give other women a leg up by sharing their experiences, both challenging and joyful. After all, strong women are stronger together! This has been at the core of our mission since 2015, and we don't plan to slow down. In fact, in this episode, Managing Editor Ashley Johnson reveals The Grit and Grace Project's next big undertaking, which will come to fruition in 2024. We're passionate about helping women and getting these resources out to as many of them as possible. With your help, our reach will expand even further. Quote of the episode: “You learn the best things in life from people who have lived it." —Darlene Brock Please consider a tax-deductible donation to The Grit and Grace Project. You can mail it to P.O. Box 247, Estero, FL 33929, or by using the link below from now until Christmas Day, and your gift will be matched:  Follow Us on Social Media! Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest

We've all heard the adage "Beauty is more than skin deep," but do you believe it? It doesn't take more than five minutes scrolling Instagram or wandering the magazine newsstands to realize that the media—and, by extension, our culture—is saturated with images depicting luscious hair, dewy skin and trim figures. We live in a society that clamors for beauty, and because of that, it's hard to escape our own concerns over our self-image. In this episode, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender sit down with Grit and Grace Life's Managing Editor, Ashley Johnson, to talk about real beauty. Over a decade ago, Ashley was diagnosed with alopecia areata, a disease resulting in hair loss. She discusses how she discovered she had alopecia, her emotional response, the treatments she's pursued and how she's ultimately come to terms with living with a disease that doesn't offer many answers. Despite feeling vulnerable and at one point grappling with the loss of her identity, Ashley shares how her faith helped restore her perception of herself, and how we can avoid disrupting the balance between caring about aesthetics to being obsessed with our image. Hint: It has to a lot to do with searching for the real beauty below the surface—both in ourselves and in others. Don’t be fooled by Ashley Johnson’s quiet presence. She’s an internal processor who just might overthink from time to time. When she’s not caught up in her thoughts, she’s usually writing them or enjoying the thoughts of others. She’s a wife, new mom, and lover of all things pretty. Quote of the episode: “If you look at our world, God created it with beauty. Obviously he cares about aesthetics. I think it's only natural for people who are made like him to care about beauty. But I think, like anything, we can become obsessed with it." —Ashley Johnson Resources Related How to Age Gracefully in a Culture Obsessed with Beauty True Beauty Is Found in a Woman's Strength Just Because She's Pretty Doesn't Mean You're Not Follow Us on Social Media! Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest

It's officially the holiday season, and we already know what's lingering in the back of your mind—shopping for gifts. Gift-giving can be such a joyful exchange when your loved one has been casually dropping hints all year long, but what about the folks who keep mum? This is where Darlene Brock and Julie Bender come in to save the (holi-) day. In this episode, the Grit and Grace Life co-hosts present a robust Christmas gift guide with more than 25 fresh ideas for every person on your list. Submitted by the team of writers at Grit and Grace Life, the items in this gift guide are perfect (affordable!) stocking stuffers or under-the-tree presents for the gym-goer, newlywed, gardener, mom on the go, bookworm, college student, man or child in your life. All of these products are linked below, and most of them can be added to your Amazon cart with a simple click. Now you can knock out your Christmas shopping and spend the rest of the time you saved decorating, baking or just basking in the glow of the Christmas lights with a hot chocolate in hand. Quote of the episode: “Do to others as you would like them to do to you." —Luke 6:31 Gift Guide Product Links For Women —Customizable Bobbleheads —14-in-1 Multitool Hammer —Vooray 23L Burner Gym Duffel Bag —EAONE Garden Kneeler and Seat —ProsourceFit Acupressure Mat and Pillow —CAKES Body Nipple Covers —Personalized Initial Necklace —Apple Watch —Dressy Apple Watch Bands —Fun/Variety Apple Watch Bands —Sporty Apple Watch Bands —GCI Outdoor Rocking Camper Chair —Mkono Plant Propagation Wall Hanging Terrarium —BOGG Bag —Loop Wifi Digital Picture Frame —Stuff I'd Only Tell God Guided Journal —Christmas Memories Keepsake Journal —Used Books Monthly Subscription —Beautyrest Reversible Faux Sherpa Electric Wrap Poncho —Yarn Bowl for Crochet by Laborwood For Men —Ooni Koda Gas Pizza Oven —Sharper Image Powerboost Deep Tissue Massager —Miracle Made NASA-Inspired Sheets —Wireless Charging Valet Tray For Kids —Waterproof Digital Camera —MAGBLOCK 176-piece Marble Run Magnetic Tiles Sets —ThinkFun Gravity Maze Marble Run Brain Game —Hapinest Find and Seek Scavenger Hunt Indoor/Outdoor Game Follow Us on Social Media! Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest

Every couple that says "I do" desires—and anticipates—a marriage bursting at the seams with love, respect and friendship. But that only happens when each partner is willing to put in the work to get there. In this episode of This Grit and Grace Life, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender unpack 9 guidelines that every couple can use to build a strong marriage, whether they've been together for decades or just recently exchanged vows. Darlene and Julie share common marital misconceptions; the actions and behaviors that contributed to the longevity of their personal partnerships; how to have healthy arguments and disagreements; and other tips for blending two imperfect humans who want a happy, healthy lifetime together. Quote of the episode: “What greater thing is there for two human souls than to feel that they are joined for life—to strengthen each other in all labor, to rest on each other in all sorrow, to minister to each other in silent, unspeakable memories at the moment of the last parting." —George Eliot Resources Mentioned: —Julie Graham’s Untold Story of Heartbreak, Healing and Hope – 101 Related Content: —Differing Sex Drives in Marriage: When He Wants More and You Don’t —The 3-Day Rule: My Mother-in-Law’s Secret to a Happy Marriage —Strength Under Fire: 5 Marriage Lessons from a Firefighter’s Wife —How Can We Have Teamwork in Marriage When We’re So Different? —Ready to Unpack the Baggage in Your Marriage? with Rachel Hagstrom – 213 —Infidelity Isn’t the End—You Can Save Your Marriage with Cindy Beall – 198 Follow Us on Social Media! Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest

It seems as though 2020 was the impetus for division and global tensions: racial, political, health-related and more. We were faced with an unprecedented virus, and a reckoning with racial injustices that paved the way for more open-minded discussions and understanding. And yet, the uncomfortable weight of not knowing the right thing to say—or saying the wrong thing—hasn't quite lifted. Political correctness reigns supreme and cancel culture is still a very real threat. So what do we do when we're afraid to speak up? Darlene Brock and Julie Bender unpack this worry and how to overcome the paralysis as women of faith. They also offer practical mindset tips for being vocal about what you believe in a world that believes the contrary. Quote of the episode: “Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak. Courage is also what it takes to sit down and listen." —Winston Churchill Resources Related Content: —How Do We Embrace Truth in a Radically Shifting Culture? – 215 —Our Duty to Celebrate Racial Diversity as Women of Faith – 207 —Finding Happiness with a Scary Future Ahead – 190 —How Do I Raise My Kids when the Culture and Bible Collide? with Dr. Jim Denison – 177 Follow Us on Social Media! Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest

Wish you could go back in time and do something differently? We all do! Unfortunately, until time machines are manufactured, we can't do anything about the past but reflect—and that's often where we learn the most about who we are and where we want to go from here. This week, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender reunite after several months apart to catch up, swap stories about life behind the mic, and share wisdom they've gleaned over the last few years. In an inspiring display of vulnerability, the duo look back at moments in their lives that they wish they'd approached differently: everything from fashion choices and what they spent their money on to establishing better boundaries and fighting for failed friendships. Take a note from Darlene and Julie and think about what the past has taught you—and how you can use that knowledge and wisdom to inform you in your next season. BetterHelp sponsor, courtesy of Julie Bender Quote of the episode: “I could look through all of my life mistakes and insecurities and areas where I still need healing and recognize God knows all of it. ... And he still has a plan for where I'm going to go in spite of and because of those things." —Julie Bender Resources Mentions: —This Is a Window Into My Widowhood Related Content: —5 Steps for Remaining Hopeful in Seasons of Change —Busyness: Is It Really Your Badge of Honor? —Establishing Healthy Boundaries in the Grit and Grace Life Follow Us on Social Media! Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest

Want to become a strong woman? It may come as a surprise that embarking on this path has more to do with leaning into your vulnerabilities and weaknesses—not the areas you excel in. In this episode, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender discuss 8 ways that you can begin your journey to becoming a strong woman, even as life's challenges continue. Among these, you'll learn the importance of talking less; why lowering the bar for yourself and others can actually be a good thing; and why choosing to become a strong woman is a decision that must be made daily. Quote of the episode: “Ultimately, strength comes from two major sources: one is your life experience; the other, of course, is a dependence on the God we serve." —Darlene Brock Resources Related Content: — How Breaking Up Made Me a Strong Woman — Anatomy of a Strong Woman — When a Strong Woman is Quitting but Not Failing — What I Wish I Had Known: The Hard Years Make You Strong — Women’s History Month: Be Inspired By Strong Women of the Past Follow Us on Social Media! Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest

Being a single mom is challenging, and many times, moms enter this season of life unexpectedly. This was the case for Grit and Grace Life writer Kim Breuninger, who struggled with feeling responsible for her first husband's happiness as a young married couple with three children. Disagreements weren't uncommon as Kim tried to find a balance between being an honorable wife and making sacrifices she never expected. Then, during dinner on the night of their 10th anniversary, her husband dropped a bomb that shattered their marriage and suddenly left Kim a single mom. In this podcast episode, Kim sits down with Darlene Brock and Julie Bender to share the challenges she faced raising her three boys in the years after her marriage fell apart. Now, decades later and remarried, Kim is able to look back on that season of life and offer hope and sage advice for those who feel alone as a single mom, including how to surround yourself with a helpful, loving support group; the importance of implementing and keeping a structure for your kids; the promise of "waiting well" before pursuing a new relationship; and more. She also offers advice for friends and family of single moms, from what not to say to the best ways to be a safe place and listening ear. Kim Breuninger believes everyone has a story, we’re all looking for something more, and we all need help to get there. She’s a personal growth enthusiast who journeys with others as they move toward spiritual and emotional character development. Recently retired from 30 years of full-time ministry to women, her story continues in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. Kim loves to write, teach, and speak. She’s also a volunteer counselor for Respero.org and a qualified Townsend Leadership Coach. Kim’s husband and best friend Dave is also retired from full-time ministry. They've joyfully raised their blended family of five and are overly attached to their nine exceptional grandchildren. They enjoy all the biking, hiking, and year-round sports the outdoors offers. Quote of the episode: “Do what you need to do to keep yourself together. A child that has a mom who is composed has a treasure." —Kim Breuninger Resources Related Content: —5 Tips for Grit and Grace as a Single Mom —Dear Single Mom, This Is Why You Inspire Me —Trapped in a Past Relationship? Here’s the Best Way to Move On —After Losing My Husband To Suicide, One Good Man Restored Our Family —5 Tips for When You Want to Re-Enter the Dating World —Encouragement and Hope for a Single Mom Follow Us on Social Media! Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest

Would you say you're confident? Or would it be more accurate to say that you experience flickers of self-doubt now and again? If you said the latter, you're not alone. This week, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender discuss the plague of self-doubt and shame we face as women, and how we get caught in the trap of comparison. They break down the most common areas we struggle with, including feeling too old; feeling too young; wondering if we're good enough; feeling burdened by our pasts; and more, and share ways to identify your strengths (rather than focus on your perceived weaknesses). If you're looking to break free of self-doubt, embarrassment and shame, this is the right place to find hope. Quote of the episode: “We love to tell other people they're equal and valuable, but what about us?" —Darlene Brock Resources Mentions: —Ask Dr. Zoe – 6 Steps to Transform Your Self-Talk —From Living on the Streets to Finding Redemption with Laila Schell – 218 —My Parents’ Murder-Suicide and the Road to Forgiveness with Tracy Brandt – 208 Related Content: —This Is What I Would Say to the Man Who Raped Me —How Do I Know What Defines Me? —Advice for the Woman Who’s Not Happy in Front of the Mirror —To the Mom Lacking Self-Confidence: Do This Follow Us on Social Media! Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest