Unlikely Housewives

How We Made This Year Harder Than It Had to Be: 5 Transition Mistakes Christian Moms Overlook

In this cozy season finale, Tracy and Tori take listeners back to where it all began—recording from the sauna that sparked the Unlikely Housewives podcast four years ago. Between the sweat, the laughter, and some real talk, they look back on a year marked by big transitions, parenting milestones, travel, and learning to stay obedient when life feels completely unsettled.

Tracy shares the story of her family’s unexpected move: downsizing, letting go of the pool and the “dream house,” and discovering that less house and more time can actually be the greatest gift. Tori opens up about how walking through Tracy’s moving season has impacted her own heart and conversations at home, especially with a husband who feels restless and kids who are racing toward new stages.

They also reflect on:

• What it’s like raising teens and near-adults in a post-Covid world.
  
  
• The tension between wanting to plan everything and realizing that God doesn’t do “conference calls.”
  
  
• How motherhood and marriage look from the eyes of their kids—and the surprising answer when they ask, “Do we make this look fun?”

From college decisions and menopause to cross-country road-trip dreams and learning to travel solo without guilt, this episode is a warm, honest reminder that God is present in the waiting, the moving, and the everyday carpool chaos.​

In This Episode, We Talk About

• Recording the season finale back in the sauna and celebrating four years of the Unlikely Housewives podcast.
  
  
• Why Tracy’s family chose to move, downsize, and say goodbye to the pool—and what that taught her about time, stress, and contentment.
• The emotional and spiritual side of feeling “unsettled” for an entire year and still trusting God’s timing.
  
  
• Parenting teens and soon-to-be college students in a post-Covid world, from increasing independence to the “Let me ask my mom” culture.
• Honest conversations about menopause, aging, and making motherhood and marriage look appealing (or not!) to the next generation.
  
  
• Why experiences and travel (including solo trips and mom–dad getaways) matter more than more “stuff” or bigger homes
  
  
• Looking ahead to 2026 with hopes of feeling more rooted, more confident as moms, and more intentional with the time that’s left at home with their kids.
  
  

Links & Mentions

• Sunlighten Amplify II Sauna – the at-home sauna Tracy is adding to her new space; great for joint support, thyroid support, stress relief, and overall wellness. (Tell them “Tori Shirah” sent you for current discounts.)
  
  
• Glow Tanning membership and spa services that offer saunas and spa beds as a budget-friendly way to invest in health and relaxation.
  
  

Connect with Tracy & Tori

• Follow the Unlikely Housewives on Instagram
  
  
• Share this episode with a friend who is in a moving, waiting, or “unsettled” season
  
  
• Leave a rating and review to help more housewives find authentic encouragement and faith-filled real talk

 

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

For the One...Who is Suffering

What happens when your world is literally turned upside down? In this deeply moving episode, the Unlikely Housewives sit down with Lara to hear her incredible story of navigating chronic vertigo. For three years, Lara was mostly bedridden, her life derailed by a condition that resisted over 150 different therapies.

Join us for a raw and honest conversation about wrestling with faith when healing doesn't come, questioning the promises of God, and ultimately finding a profound peace that transcends physical circumstances. Lara shares how she moved from desperation to acceptance, offering a powerful perspective on what it means to find purpose and hope in the midst of suffering.

This isn't just a story about illness; it's a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the surprising ways God meets us in our darkest moments.

Key Takeaways from This Episode:

• The Reality of Chronic Illness: Lara details the isolating and debilitating experience of being bedridden with vertigo for three years, a period that reshaped her identity, family life, and faith.
• The Exhausting Search for a Cure: Hear about the emotional and financial toll of trying 150 different therapies in a desperate search for healing, and the moment she realized she had to stop fighting.
• Wrestling with Faith: Lara speaks candidly about her struggle with scripture, particularly Romans 8:28 ("And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him"). She shares her journey from feeling abandoned by God to discovering a deeper, more authentic faith.
• Finding Joy in Acceptance: Discover how Lara shifted her focus from seeking a cure to embracing her new reality, learning to find joy, purpose, and a new way of life within her limitations.
• A Message of Hope: Lara’s story is a powerful reminder that even when life doesn't go as planned, it's possible to find strength, peace, and an unshakable hope that isn't dependent on our circumstances.

Ready to be inspired? Lara’s story will challenge your perspective on faith, suffering, and what it truly means to live a full life.

Article Lara referenced: https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/matrimony-no-more

 

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Support the Unlikely Housewives!  Represent with our UH Merch!
bit.ly/unlikelymerch  

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Join our community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram! 

Write an apple review and YOUR review could be read on our next episode! 

Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

Want to be a guest on Unlikely Housewives? Send Tori Shirah a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/unlikelyhousewives

For the One...Who Needs A Spiritual Rebranding

In this episode of the Unlikely Housewives, Tracy and Tori sit down with award‑winning author and Exodus Women’s Retreats founder, Robin Gerblick, to talk about her journey from multiple abortions, broken relationships, and deep spiritual lostness to encountering Jesus in a supernatural “five senses” moment by a river. Robin shares how God met her in her most desperate plea for help, rewrote the trajectory of her life, and led her into a 32‑year Christ‑centered marriage, late‑in‑life motherhood through adoption at 48, and a calling to minister to other women through her book, Giving Up Grace: A Spiritual Rebranding of the Soul.​​

You’ll hear Robin unpack what it really means to “give up grace” you never knew—laying down the counterfeit stories, self‑protection, and secret shame—in order to receive the true Grace your soul has been starving for. Tracy and Tori lean all the way into the hard topics: abortion’s lifelong impact, spiritual warfare around telling your story, bringing baggage into marriage, and how Jesus can do a complete “rebrand” of your heart, mind, and identity.​​

What You’ll Hear

• How Robin describes her 40‑year “wandering in the desert,” looking for love in all the wrong places and repeating a heartbreaking pattern of abortions and broken relationships.​​
• The powerful river encounter where God met her in a vivid, five‑senses experience and opened her eyes—literally and spiritually—to His presence and love.​
• Why she titled her book Giving Up Grace and what it means to surrender the “grace” you withheld from your unborn child in order to receive the life‑changing grace of Jesus.​​
• How God orchestrated her relationship with her husband, from unexpected “friends first” boundaries to a marriage conference first date and a Christ‑anchored 32‑year marriage.​
• The emotional and spiritual layers of infertility after multiple abortions and how God surprised them with adoption and motherhood at 48.​​
• Robin’s heart behind Exodus Women’s Retreats and why wellness of spirit, soul, and body has become central to her ministry with women.​​
• Encouragement for the woman who feels too far gone, too old, or too broken for God to use her story for His glory.​​

Who This Episode Is For

• The woman carrying abortion grief, shame, or secrecy who wonders if she’s disqualified from God’s love.​​
• Wives navigating marriage with “baggage” from their past and longing for deeper emotional and spiritual intimacy.​​
• Moms and spiritual moms who became mothers later in life or through adoption and need reassurance that God’s timing is not late—it’s intentional.​​
• Christian women craving an honest, hope‑saturated conversation about spiritual warfare, redemption, and identity in Christ.​​

Links Mentioned

• Unlikely Housewives of JoCo – Podcast & Community: UnlikelyHousewivesofJoCo.com​
• Book – Giving Up Grace: A Spiritual Rebranding of the Soul by Robin Gerblick​
• Exodus Women’s Retreats – Robin’s retreat ministry for spirit, soul, and body wellness​
• Book - "No Longer Hidden: You Cannot Resist What You Do Not Recognize." By Athena Dean Holtz.

If this conversation with Robin stirred something in you, share this episode with a friend who needs to know she is not alone and that her story is not over. Leave a review for the Unlikely Housewives and tell Tracy and Tori what part of Robin’s story most resonated with your own.​​

Support the Unlikely Housewives!  Represent with our UH Merch!
bit.ly/unlikelymerch  

Sunlighten Sauna Sponsor: https://get.sunlighten.com/unlikely  Save up to $1700!

Join our community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram! 

Write an apple review and YOUR review could be read on our next episode! 

Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

Want to be a guest on Unlikely Housewives? Send Tori Shirah a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/unlikelyhousewives

For the One...Who Spends Money

In this heartfelt and transformative episode, Tracy and Tori, your favorite Unlikely Housewives, sit down with Heather Day—author, ministry leader, and marketing expert—to discuss her book Money and Spirit: Surrendering Our Finances to the Work of the Holy Spirit. Heather shares her personal journey of financial struggles, the weight of debt, and how a prayer in an Applebee's parking lot led to a life-changing shift in her family's approach to money.

This isn’t your typical financial advice episode. Heather dives deep into the spiritual roots of financial decisions, exploring how the fruits of the Spirit—love, peace, self-control, and joy—can transform not just your bank account but your heart. Whether you're navigating debt, learning to trust God with your finances, or simply seeking a fresh perspective, this episode is packed with wisdom, humor, and practical takeaways.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How to invite God into your financial decisions.
• The importance of heart posture over budgeting tactics.
• Heather’s personal story of surrendering debt and finding peace.
• Why saying “no” to your kids (and yourself) can be a spiritual discipline.
• How to use money as a tool for God’s purpose, not a source of stress.

Links & Resources Mentioned:

• Heather Day’s book: Money and Spirit: Surrendering Our Finances to the Work of the Holy Spirit
• Connect with Heather: heatherday.net
• Learn more about Barnabas Foundation: barnabasfoundation.org
• Join the Unlikely Housewives community on Facebook (link in show notes).

If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to leave a review and share it with a friend. Your support helps more housewives find this community and know they’re not alone. Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast and follow us on Instagram @unlikelyhousewives for more inspiration and laughs!

 

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Support the Unlikely Housewives!  Represent with our UH Merch!
bit.ly/unlikelymerch  

Sunlighten Sauna Sponsor: https://get.sunlighten.com/unlikely  Save up to $1700!

Join our community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram! 

Write an apple review and YOUR review could be read on our next episode! 

Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

Want to be a guest on Unlikely Housewives? Send Tori Shirah a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/unlikelyhousewives

For the One...Who Feels Shame

Chapters

(00:00) - Understanding Shame and Overcoming It

(10:33) - Breaking Free From Overwhelming Shame

(16:09) - The Destructive Power of Shame

(29:52) - Navigating the Layers of Shame

(37:10) - Navigating Parenting Through Shame

(44:03) - Empowering All Housewives With Confidence

Podcast Summary

Imagine a world where shame no longer dictates your life. Join us as we peel back the the intricate layers of shame and its impact on identity, alongside the brilliant Dr. Zoe Shaw, licensed psychotherapist and author of "Stronger in the Difficult Places." With her unique blend of insights rooted in psychology and faith, Dr. Shaw guides us through understanding how shame can lead to isolation and affect our relationships. Her story, which has also been highlighted in a docuseries on the OWN Network, offers a fresh and hopeful perspective on building authentic connections.

In a deeply personal narrative, we confront the shadows of past experiences and the isolation they breed. From the struggles of being a pregnant teenager in a conservative family to raising a child with a rare genetic disorder, these challenges sparked a journey of healing and growth. Discover how creating a language for complex shame not only facilitated personal recovery but also offered guidance to others grappling with similar burdens. This episode is a testament to the power of shedding shame and embracing authenticity for a truly fulfilling life.

As we peel back the layers of shame, we look into how it manifests in parenting and social interactions. Our conversation with Dr. Shaw emphasizes the importance of teaching children to recognize and respond constructively to shame, highlighting the need for compassion and understanding in both words and actions. We also discuss the transformative journey of overcoming both simple and complex shame and how it empowers individuals to live freely and intentionally. Join our online community to continue this important conversation, and don't forget to subscribe and share your thoughts on this enlightening episode.

https://drzoeshaw.com/

https://www.instagram.com/drzoeshaw/

 Order Dr. Zoe's book here! "Stronger in the Difficult Places"

 

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Support the Unlikely Housewives!  Represent with our UH Merch!
bit.ly/unlikelymerch  

Sunlighten Sauna Sponsor: https://get.sunlighten.com/unlikely  Save up to $1700!

Join our community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram! 

Write an apple review and YOUR review could be read on our next episode! 

Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

 

Want to be a guest on Unlikely Housewives? Send Tori Shirah a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/unlikelyhousewives

For the One...Who God's Not Done with Yet!

Chapters

(06:18) - Bringing Hope and Humor to Motherhood

(19:59) - Unwavering Faith in God's Timing

(20:24) - 26-Year Journey to Publishing Dream

(25:13) - Empowering Women in Pregnancy Centers

(28:45) - The Power of Books and Podcasting

(36:11) - Pursuing Dreams

Podcast Summary

Ever find yourself laughing at life's little mishaps, like realizing your shoes don't match just as you're about to step out the door? Our guest, Jennifer Bosma, sure has, and she's here to remind us how laughter can be a powerful ally in navigating the unpredictable landscape of motherhood and marriage. Jennifer, a former teacher turned podcaster and children’s author, brings her unique perspective on embracing imperfections and celebrating the joyful chaos that defines family life. Through her witty stories and hard-earned wisdom, you will find encouragement to let go of perfection and revel in the delightful unpredictability of daily life.

Jennifer's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the unexpected paths our dreams can take. From reviving a children's book project 26 years in the making to connecting with mothers through podcasting, her story underscores the importance of faith and patience. We discuss how dreams, no matter how long they might take to materialize, are worth pursuing, and how trusting in God's perfect timing can lead to outcomes beyond our wildest expectations. Jennifer's experiences highlight the enduring impact of children's literature and the crucial role it plays in forging connections across generations.

We wrap up our conversation by reflecting on personal growth and the courage to chase dreams beyond traditional roles. Jennifer's adventures, from completing transformational courses to auditioning for Survivor, embody the spirit of stepping out of comfort zones and setting bold examples for our children. These stories remind us of the significance of empowering ourselves and others in everyday life. Subscribe and connect with us to keep the conversation going!

https://jenniferbosma.com/

https://www.instagram.com/frontparkingspot/

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Support the Unlikely Housewives!  Represent with our UH Merch!
bit.ly/unlikelymerch  

Sunlighten Sauna Sponsor: https://get.sunlighten.com/unlikely  Save up to $1700!

Join our community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram! 

Write an apple review and YOUR review could be read on our next episode! 

Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

For the One...Who is Standing By Her Man

Chapters

(00:41) - Standing by Her Man

(05:28) - From Incarceration to Marriage

(14:41) - Prison, Redemption, and Relapse

(28:55) - Facing Addiction and Surrendering Control

(36:37) - Empowering Women Through Coaching and Faith

(47:01) - Navigating Addiction and Finding Healing

Podcast Summary

How can vulnerability and grace transform our most challenging relationships? Join us as we explore this question through the incredible journey of Jennifer Shook, an inner healing mentor and Christian life coach. Jennifer's story is a testament to finding hope and healing amidst the trials of addiction, betrayal, and family crises. She shares her experiences of standing by her husband, Scotty, during his battle with addiction and incarceration, and how this journey led to unexpected growth and redemption. Her candid insights reveal the power of breaking the silence on these often-avoided topics in church communities, offering a safe haven for those in need of encouragement and understanding.

Jennifer takes us through her personal journey, from facing the stigma and skepticism surrounding her relationship with Scotty to embracing the surprising paths of love and faith. She speaks about the transformative bond they formed through letters while he was in prison, and the profound lesson they learned about grace, acceptance, and letting go of past mistakes. We uncover the misconceptions about grace and performance in faith, exploring how a deeper understanding of God's love can foster healing and connection. Her narrative is a powerful reminder that life can take unexpected turns when we allow ourselves to be seen and supported by others.

Through heartfelt stories and insightful reflections, we tackle the complexities of living with a partner struggling with addiction and the importance of seeking help for oneself. Jennifer's journey highlights the necessity of setting boundaries, trusting God, and embracing resilience in the face of uncertainty. Her story serves as a beacon of hope for those navigating similar challenges, reminding us that faith and community can guide us through the darkest times. Whether you're facing struggles with addiction or seeking inner healing, Jennifer's inspiring journey offers valuable lessons on grace, vulnerability, and the incredible strength found in trusting the process.

Jennifer Shook Instagram

Becoming Together community on Facebook

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Support the Unlikely Housewives!  Represent with our UH Merch!
bit.ly/unlikelymerch  

Sunlighten Sauna Sponsor: https://get.sunlighten.com/unlikely  Save up to $1700!

Join our community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram! 

Write an apple review and YOUR review could be read on our next episode! 

Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

For the One…Who Needs Help With Parenting

Chapters

(04:25) - Parenting With Purpose and Faith

(10:28) - Navigating Spiritual Attacks and Divine Guidance

(19:09) - Parenting With Humility and Grace

(22:46) - Equipping Parents for Discipleship

(27:56) - Prioritizing Intentionality and Family Time

(36:47) - Setting Boundaries for Technology and Discipleship

(45:22) - Embracing Imperfection in Parenting

Podcast Summary

Ever find yourself riding the waves of parenting, wondering how to swim against the cultural currents? Join us and our special guest, Josh Poteet, lead pastor of 180 Life Church and author of "Parenting Against the Current," as we explore the beautiful chaos of parenting with purpose and faith. Through Josh's journey from EMS to ministry, discover how God’s guidance can illuminate your true calling. We break down all the complexities of raising children who love Jesus amidst a sea of cultural challenges, offering listeners practical wisdom and heartwarming stories to inspire intentional parenting.

Josh shares the power of testimony in our spiritual journeys, showing us how leaning into authentic relationships and challenging cultural norms can empower parents. With humor and humility, he guides us through the significance of setting boundaries, embracing imperfections, and the transformative power of mentorship. Together, we reflect on the spiritual dynamics of marriage and the balance that differing perspectives can bring, all while highlighting the importance of seeking peace and authenticity in our family lives.

As we navigate through topics like technology, discipleship, and the often bumpy ride of parenting teens, we invite you to join us in embracing imperfection with grace. Our conversation emphasizes the joy that comes with failing forward, owning our weaknesses, and shepherding our children’s hearts closer to Jesus. Whether you're a seasoned parent or new to the journey, this episode offers a treasure trove of insights and encouragement to help you lead your family with faith, love, and purpose.

https://parentingagainstthecurrent.com/

https://www.facebook.com/ParentingAgainstTheCurrent

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Support the Unlikely Housewives!  Represent with our UH Merch!
bit.ly/unlikelymerch  

Sunlighten Sauna Sponsor: https://get.sunlighten.com/unlikely  Save up to $1700!

Join our community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram! 

Write an apple review and YOUR review could be read on our next episode! 

Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

For the One...Who God is Calling

Chapters

(04:38) - God's Call to Run for Governor

(15:59) - Challenges Facing Kansas Growth and Business

(30:00) - Stepping Out in Faith and Trust

(34:42) - Preparing for Spiritual Battles in Public

(44:16) - Courage, Sacrifice, and American History

Podcast Summary

What if stepping out of your comfort zone could lead to a life driven by faith and purpose? Join us as we uncover the remarkable story of Philip Sarnecki, a Kansas businessman who left behind a thriving career to answer a higher calling—running for governor. With ventures spanning industries from entrepreneurship to movie production, Philip's journey into politics is a testament to courage, faith, and a business-minded approach to governance. His inspiring leap from humble beginnings to the political stage serves as a reminder of the powerful transformation that can occur when you trust in a greater plan.

Guided by God, Phillip and his wife, Heidi, have embarked on this new path as a family. We dive into Philip's admiration for leaders like Ronald Reagan and the impact of formative experiences such as the National Youth Leadership Conference. As he shares his frustrations with the current political landscape and his transition from business to politics, Philip emphasizes the importance of faith, prayer, and family support. This candid conversation reveals the deep-rooted motivations and the significant role of faith in Philip's decision to enter the gubernatorial race.

Kansas faces unique challenges, from population retention to bureaucratic barriers hindering small businesses. Together, we explore these issues and the opportunities they present for growth, especially in a post-pandemic world. Personal anecdotes highlight Kansas's potential as a family-friendly state, while insights from John Maxwell's leadership principles underscore the value of stepping out and trusting in a higher calling. Through themes of courage, sacrifice, and the influence of American history, this episode encourages listeners to embrace their faith-driven journeys and pursue impactful change.

https://philipsarnecki.org/

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Support the Unlikely Housewives!  Represent with our UH Merch!
bit.ly/unlikelymerch  

Sunlighten Sauna Sponsor: https://get.sunlighten.com/unlikely  Save up to $1700!

Join our community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram! 

Write an apple review and YOUR review could be read on our next episode! 

Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com

For the one...Who is Longing to Be Seen

Chapters

(03:27) - Navigating Anxiety With Amber Lia

(08:57) - Parental Support for Social Media Transparency 

(13:55) - Navigating Social Media Boundaries for Kids

(22:53) - Building Confidence in Teenagers Through Scripture

(30:52) You Are Seen Book Overview

(33:08) - Overcoming Triggers and Parenting Challenges

Podcast Summary

Join us in this enriching conversation as we welcome author Amber Lia, who, alongside her son Ollie, has penned a powerful new book aimed at addressing the challenges teenagers face today. Amber shares how their collaborative effort serves as a vital resource for parents to better understand their teens' needs to be seen, heard, known, and loved, all through a relationship with God. We share practical ways to incorporate this devotional into daily life, such as reading it during breakfast, and emphasize the importance of fostering authentic relationships with your teens.

Listen in as Amber opens up about her journey from being a high school literature teacher with dreams of writing the great American novel to becoming a non-fiction author with impactful works like "You Are Seen" and "Triggers." Together, we explore the intricacies of parenting and the complexities of guiding children through anxiety and depression. Amber shares how her son Ollie's openness about his struggles and his initiative to reach out through social media were pivotal in shaping their book, highlighting the widespread need for these essential conversations and resources.

In this episode, we also tackle the pressures of social media on mental health, particularly for children and teenagers. We stress the importance of processing emotions healthily and discuss the dangers of comparison on social media. By instilling a strong sense of self-worth in young people, grounded in biblical teachings, and modeling healthy digital behaviors, we aim to equip parents and teens with the tools to navigate these challenges positively. We also highlight the significance of overcoming parenting triggers, managing emotions like anger, and creating systems to minimize chaos, offering a heartfelt reflection on the journey of seeking patience and grace in parenting.

https://amberlia.com/

https://www.instagram.com/walkin.with.ollie/

https://www.instagram.com/therealamberlia/

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Support the Unlikely Housewives!  Represent with our UH Merch!
bit.ly/unlikelymerch  

Sunlighten Sauna Sponsor: https://get.sunlighten.com/unlikely  Save up to $1700!

Join our community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram! 

Write an apple review and YOUR review could be read on our next episode! 

Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com