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Are you tired of feeling disconnected in a world that is more connected than ever? Are you sick of the comparison and constant busyness? Do you wish you could be your true self without judgement? Do you want more quality family time? How about addressing those secret addictions and creating some wellness boundaries? In this podcast you will find realness and laughter from a recovering people pleaser and a straight shooter... our mission is to help you become intentional, free, and confident in the world that is addicted to comparison, busyness, and “the hustle”. If you are ready to laugh with us, break through some emotional baggage and rise to the occasion which you were created for, then welcome to the club!! We are Tracy and Tori, two moms who met and discovered we shared the same feelings of discontentment and loneliness after moving our families across the country. Stepping out in faith and believing that God calls the UNLIKELY, we created this podcast to share our personal stories and encourage women to step out of their funk, not allow culture issues to hold them back and to walk with the Lord into who God created them to be…. together in community. If you are ready to put on your big girl panties and acknowledge reality, it’s time to ditch the self-care for soul-care! Get ready for 1 small change to have a ripple effect across your marriage, your kids and your purpose. When you are set free from cultural lies and other’s opinions, you have the freedom to move beyond the status quo and into who you were called to be. Pull up those high waisted yoga pants, tighten your top knot, reheat your coffee for the 3rd time, turn up the volume and let’s go! Connect ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com Instagram ➡️ UnlikelyHousewives Facebook ➡️ https://www.facebook.com/groups/1216668055475274/
Episodes
2 days ago
2 days ago
Chapters
(00:04) - Birth Order Stereotypes
(11:40) - Sibling Stereotypes and Personalities
(18:32) - Childhood Camp Memories and Parental Influence
(28:25) - Family Dynamics and Parenting Perspectives
Podcast Summary
Growing up as an only child, Tori often wondered what it would be like to have siblings, yet grew fond of her independence. Meanwhile, Tracy, a mother of four, navigates the bustling world of sibling dynamics firsthand. This episode invites you into our personal stories as we explore the stereotypes tied to birth order and their impact on personalities and family roles. Whether you're the responsible firstborn, the social middle child, or the carefree youngest, we unpack these labels and share insights on how they manifest in our own lives and potentially in yours.
Join us as we unravel the cherished yet often pigeonholed roles of siblings and how these roles differ across families. We share stories that illustrate the leadership tendencies of firstborns and the free-spirited nature of the youngest siblings, considering how parenting styles and upbringing play a significant role in shaping these characteristics. Our conversation touches on the unique dynamics of being an only child versus being part of a larger family, and how expectations can shift with each new addition to the family unit.
Reflecting on the journey from childhood to parenthood, Tori shares her evolution from a reluctant camper to an independent adventurer and how her children experience their own paths to independence. We discuss the challenges and joys of raising multiple children, where surprises and sleepless nights abound. Through personal stories and shared experiences, we offer a candid glimpse into the multifaceted nature of family life and the enduring impact of early experiences on personality development.
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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
Tuesday Apr 15, 2025
Tuesday Apr 15, 2025
Chapters
(00:10) - Return to Jesus
(14:45) - Letting Go and Embracing Change
(20:00) - Navigating Teen Years and Isolation
(29:40) - Navigating Teen Years and Motherhood
(44:57) - Finding Rhythm in Parenting Chaos
(56:50) - Navigating Teenage Isolation in Parenthood
Podcast Summary
Picture this: you're frazzled from juggling life as a parent when you suddenly realize you're out and about... in your bedroom slippers. We've all been there, right? Join us as we sit down with the delightful Jen Thompson, the mom behind the popular blog Truly Yours, Jen, who shares her own tales of motherhood chaos and hilarity. Jen opens up about the beautiful mess that is family life with her husband, Patrick, and their four kids. We laugh together about the moments that remind us we’re all in this together, from wardrobe malfunctions to the universal challenge of keeping track of everything and everyone.
Our conversation turns to the art of letting go, using a metaphor that will tug at your heartstrings: a child trading a cherished small teddy bear for a larger one. It's about the courage to step into the unknown for greater growth, whether that means moving cities or navigating the rocky path of parenting teenagers. We discuss with Jen the often-lonely realm of raising teens, the unexpected joys of this stage, and the importance of finding your village — those trusted confidants who get you through the thick and thin of teenage angst and joy.
Finally, we reflect on the whirlwind of transitioning from childhood to teenage years, and the bittersweet reality of watching our children grow up. With humor and heart, we touch on everything from potty-training mishaps to the daunting digital landscape, and the importance of faith and community in this journey. Amidst the chaos, we discover moments of joy and connection, whether that's in the small victories or the shared struggles. So, grab your favorite slippers (or shoes) and join us for an episode filled with laughter, love, and a reminder that none of us are alone on this incredible journey of parenthood.
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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
Tuesday Apr 08, 2025
Tuesday Apr 08, 2025
Chapters
(00:19) - Exploring Concepts of Freedom and Faith
(16:05) - Understanding Freedom in Christ
(23:26) - Finding Freedom in Faith and Healing
(34:23) - Discovering True Freedom in Christ
Podcast Summary
Join us as we embark on a lively and unscripted exploration of freedom, both culturally and personally. With a humorous nod to the American flag sweater one of us happened to wear, we kick off the conversation by pondering the various dimensions of freedom. From the political and constitutional angles to the spiritual liberation found in our faith journeys, we invite you to reflect on whether we truly live in a democracy or under more authoritarian influences. Embracing authenticity, validation, and wellness, we encourage you to navigate these complex topics with sincerity and humor, reminding you that you're not alone in this journey.
Our conversation then transitions into understanding freedom through the lens of faith, particularly focusing on freedom in Christ. We discuss the historical sacrifices made for freedom in America and the continuous struggle to maintain it. Comparing popular definitions of freedom with the biblical perspective, we highlight the distinction between a self-centered and a Christ-centered life. In a world that often promotes inward focus, we emphasize that true freedom in Christ is about loving and serving others, trusting in God's plan beyond personal circumstances.
In the final segment, we tackle the challenges and uncertainties of life, from health issues like Hashimoto's and perimenopause to financial struggles. Sharing personal experiences, we illustrate how faith plays a crucial role in navigating these trials, offering peace and understanding that God’s plan is at work. Reflecting on biblical stories, we highlight the importance of selflessness and trust in faith as sources of strength. We also address fears about the future, particularly when considering bringing children into a challenging world, and emphasize overcoming fear to recognize life's blessings.
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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
Monday Mar 31, 2025
Monday Mar 31, 2025
Chapters
(01:57) Exploring Love Languages
(12:00) Exploring Love Languages Through Online Test
(14:58) Love Language and Relationship Fulfillment
(28:42) Gift of Answered Prayer
(31:05) Understanding Love Languages for Better Relationships
(37:47) Unconditional, Meaningful Love in Relationships
Podcast Summary
Remember the first time you realized your spouse just didn't get you? That aha moment when you discovered love languages could have been the game-changer for your relationship. In our latest episode, we share the laughter and lessons we've learned from trying to involve our husbands in this journey of understanding and communication. Initially, our focus was on being understood, but this adventure has taught us the power of loving better by recognizing others' needs. Listen as we navigate through personal stories, filled with humorous attempts to engage our spouses and the valuable insights gained on setting realistic expectations in relationships.
Our conversation takes an intriguing turn as we additionally discuss the Enneagram, a tool that uncovers personality traits and enhances personal growth. It's fascinating how our personality types impact our relationships, especially marriage, and we share this using light-hearted cooking analogies that are sure to tickle your funny bone. From words of affirmation shifting to acts of service, the episode highlights how our love languages evolves with life's stages. We also emphasize the importance of not letting these tools box us in or excuse behavior, but rather using them as a way to deepen our connections.
In our final segment, we broach the profound intersection of love languages and biblical teachings. We share how our desire for affirmation is reframed through the lens of divine love and grace. We remind ourselves and our listeners that while love languages are a great guide, true fulfillment comes from our Heavenly Father. The conversation encourages an outward-focused approach to love, urging us to fill others' "love tanks" while acknowledging that only through God's love can we find complete satisfaction. Join us for a heartfelt discussion on embracing love languages with a selfless mindset, and walk away inspired to nurture more meaningful and spiritually guided relationships.
Love Languages book: https://a.co/d/0loqMNd
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Support the Unlikely Housewives! Represent with our UH Merch!
bit.ly/unlikelymerch
Midwest Parent Educators: https://bit.ly/mpeuh25 If you are a first-time conference attendee, you qualify for their First-Time Family discount code. Even better - if you’re parents of preschoolers, you can get FREE conference admission by applying for the Parents of Preschoolers discount code. More details are on the webpage link.
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
Tuesday Mar 25, 2025
Tuesday Mar 25, 2025
We are thrilled to welcome back our special guest, Ken Valentine, a retired Secret Service agent and author of his 2nd book. Ken shares fascinating insights from his distinguished career on the presidential protective division, serving Presidents Clinton, Bush, and Obama. We highlight Ken's new book, “Staying Sharp,” which celebrates themes of faith, family, and service.
We reintroduce you to “Cheating Death” which was Ken’s first book about transforming his personal letters which blends life advice from a Christian perspective with stories from his 24-year career in the Secret Service. His most recent book, "Staying Sharp," is structured around support and challenge, drawing from leadership concepts that emphasize the balance of encouragement and truth-telling. We discuss the importance of finding people who can support and challenge you, particularly in spiritual contexts, as a way to ensure personal and professional growth.
Finally, we explore the dynamic nature of Jesus Christ, highlighting his embodiment of grace, mercy, justice, and righteous anger. We reflect on how engaging with scripture personally can enrich one's spiritual life, sharing practices like marking up a Bible and journaling. As we wrap up, we touch on the pressures faced by public figures like presidents and the importance of staying sharp and purposeful. We conclude with a call to action for Christians to engage more deeply in their faith and communities, urging believers to actively participate and make a difference in the world. Join us for this thought-provoking episode filled with inspiring stories and practical insights.
Order Ken’s books here:
Staying Sharp https://a.co/d/59BtIu6
Cheating Death https://a.co/d/8gP2W9B
Chapters
(07:01) - Legacy of Life Advice
(17:36) - Lessons From the Bold Jesus
(24:12) - Going Deeper With Bible Reading
(31:09) - Privacy and Pressure of the Presidency
(45:04) - The Call to Action in Church
*********************
Support the Unlikely Housewives! Represent with our UH Merch!
bit.ly/unlikelymerch
Midwest Parent Educators: https://bit.ly/mpeuh25 If you are a first-time conference attendee, you qualify for their First-Time Family discount code. Even better - if you’re parents of preschoolers, you can get FREE conference admission by applying for the Parents of Preschoolers discount code. More details are on the webpage link.
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
Tuesday Mar 18, 2025
Tuesday Mar 18, 2025
Chapters
(00:04) - Uncovering our Spiritual Gifts
(11:36) - Identifying Spiritual Gifts Through Conversation
(36:11) - Discovering Spiritual Gifts Through Everyday Interactions
(42:42) - Guidance in Spiritual Gifts
(47:30) - Deepening Faith Through Challenging Conversations
(01:01:48) - Navigating Spiritual Gifts and Callings
Podcast Summary
Join us as we explore the often overlooked yet essential topic of spiritual gifts among believers. In our conversation, we share personal stories of discovering our own spiritual gifts, initially through church activities such as marriage retreats and Bible studies. We discuss the importance of approaching these gifts with a God-centered mindset, guided by scripture, prayer, and teachings like those of Jack Hibbs. Our discussion highlights how spiritual gifts are a value to the Christian faith, as emphasized in 1 Corinthians 12, and how they are meant to glorify God, not ourselves.
Listen in as we embark on a journey to identify and understand our spiritual gifts through both structured tests and everyday interactions. We explore the differences between natural talents and supernatural abilities, sharing insights from online tests and biblical teachings. Through personal anecdotes, we highlight how these gifts manifest in daily life, offering moments of connection, wisdom, and support that are often attributed to divine promptings.
We share stories of spontaneous moments where spiritual gifts have played a crucial role, whether through sensing others' needs or offering guidance and support. This episode encourages listeners to be open to challenge teachings, and engage in meaningful dialogues that can lead to spiritual growth. As we navigate the journey of recognizing and applying our gifts, we remind ourselves and our listeners that God equips those He calls, and even long-awaited promises can unfold in unexpected ways.
One Life to Live Sermon with Jack Hibbs (Feb. 16, 2025)
https://5lovelanguages.com/quizzes
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Support the Unlikely Housewives! Represent with our UH Merch!
bit.ly/unlikelymerch
Midwest Parent Educators: https://bit.ly/mpeuh25 If you are a first-time conference attendee, you qualify for their First-Time Family discount code. Even better - if you’re parents of preschoolers, you can get FREE conference admission by applying for the Parents of Preschoolers discount code. More details are on the webpage link.
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
Tuesday Mar 11, 2025
Tuesday Mar 11, 2025
Chapters
(00:02) - Snow Day Chaos and Survival
(14:44) - Family Vacation Planning Philosophies
(22:25) - A Mother's Political Sightseeing Vacation
(35:17) - Vacation Planning and Self-Awareness
Podcast Summary
Join us friends, as we share the crazy world of snow days and family vacations in this hilariously relatable episode. Picture this: it's a frosty winter morning, snowflakes are piling up, schools are closed, and parents are frantically trying to keep their sanity intact. We explore the chaotic beauty of snow days, where routines are thrown out the window, and creativity is put to the ultimate test. Whether you're a stay-at-home parent or part of a double-income family, you'll find yourself nodding along to the logistical juggling and unexpected joys of these winter wonderland adventures.
But fear not, as we shift gears from snowy escapades to the sunlit horizons of family vacations. Whether you're a meticulous planner or a spontaneous spirit, family trips demand a delicate balance between structure and freedom. Tori’s journey to Washington DC becomes a tale within a tale, complete with planned tours and impromptu adventures that make for unforgettable family memories.
As we navigate through educational travels and tight schedules, we sprinkle humor and warmth throughout, sharing amusing anecdotes about our kids, pets, and the occasional parental quirks. Before signing off, we remind you of the beauty in life's unpredictability and the power of laughter to guide us through the ups and downs. So grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and enjoy this rollercoaster of snowy mishaps and vacation joys—because, let's face it, everything is figureoutable.
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Support the Unlikely Housewives! Represent with our UH Merch!
bit.ly/unlikelymerch
Midwest Parent Educators: https://bit.ly/mpeuh25 If you are a first-time conference attendee, you qualify for their First-Time Family discount code. Even better - if you’re parents of preschoolers, you can get FREE conference admission by applying for the Parents of Preschoolers discount code. More details are on the webpage link.
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
Tuesday Mar 04, 2025
Tuesday Mar 04, 2025
Chapters
(00:21) - Phones and Social Media Impact
(11:18) - Evolution of Communication Technology
(18:20) - Generational Differences in Phone Usage
(27:52) - Parenting in the Digital Age
(37:38) - Navigating Parenting Challenges With Grace
(41:22) - Screen Time and Phone Impact
Podcast Summary
What if the very devices meant to connect us are the ones driving us apart? Join us as we explore the ever-evolving landscape of phones and social media, guided by insights from the popular book "The Anxious Generation" by John Haidt. (https://a.co/d/9P1UuX8) Reminisce with us about the days of landlines and memorized phone numbers, and consider the balanced perspective we offer on the mental health implications of constant connectivity. We openly share personal stories of managing technology use, like removing social media apps from our phones, and offer real-world examples of the benefits and drawbacks these steps bring.
We navigate the digital age's unique challenges, reflecting on generational differences in adapting to technology. Laugh along with our tales of helping parents with tech while being outpaced by our children. The nuances of social media privacy, the complexities of apps like Snapchat, and the urgent connectivity of modern communication habits are all up for discussion. We emphasize the importance of fostering healthy tech habits and setting boundaries for future generations, seeking to inspire informed decisions about technology use within families.
Parenting in the digital age is no small feat, and we don't shy away from the hurdles it presents. From discussing the emotional and physiological attachments to our phones to sharing the impact of phones in educational settings, this episode is a call to action for setting and reassessing family goals. Among the pressures of constant connectivity, we stress the significance of open communication and realistic expectations within the family. By focusing on self-awareness and intentional phone use, we aim to foster supportive environments for both parents and children. Join us for an episode that not only reflects on the past but also offers hope and actionable steps for a balanced digital future.
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Support the Unlikely Housewives! Represent with our UH Merch!
bit.ly/unlikelymerch
Midwest Parent Educators: https://bit.ly/mpeuh25 If you are a first-time conference attendee, you qualify for their First-Time Family discount code. Even better - if you’re parents of preschoolers, you can get FREE conference admission by applying for the Parents of Preschoolers discount code. More details are on the webpage link.
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
Tuesday Feb 25, 2025
Tuesday Feb 25, 2025
Are we crazy or just normal pet parents? Join us for a laughter-filled episode as we recount the delightful and sometimes absurd adventures of pet ownership. From dressing our dogs in sweaters to giving our cats their own narrators, we share the quirky stories that make life with pets an unforgettable experience. Whether it's growing up on a farm or welcoming pets into our marriages, we explore how our pasts shaped our enduring love for furry companions.
Real and hilarious, yet our conversations take an emotional turn as we discuss the trials and triumphs of caring for pets with serious health issues. Meet Quasi, the brave pup who faced two major surgeries, and hear the bittersweet tales of Gunther and Samantha, whose health battles taught us about unconditional love and saying goodbye. These stories reveal the profound impact pets have on our families and the resilience required to navigate their care.
In a shift towards holistic well-being, we explore the world of anxiety management and dietary changes for pets. Yes, one of us makes our own homemade dog food, and it’s helped with anxious behavior. We also highlight the joys of outdoor adventures at the dog park. As we share the emotional conversations about pet loss with children, we emphasize the invaluable role pets play in our lives. Whether you're a seasoned pet parent or just beginning your journey, this episode offers a heartfelt celebration of the love and laughter pets bring into our homes.
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Support the Unlikely Housewives! Represent with our UH Merch!
bit.ly/unlikelymerch
Midwest Parent Educators: https://bit.ly/mpeuh25 If you are a first-time conference attendee, you qualify for their First-Time Family discount code. Even better - if you’re parents of preschoolers, you can get FREE conference admission by applying for the Parents of Preschoolers discount code. More details are on the webpage link.
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
Chapters
(00:04) - Pet-Loving Housewives Chat About Crazy Stories
(09:34) - Heartbreaking Loss Leads to New Puppies
(22:43) - Loss and Grief After Pet Passing
(35:16) Family Dynamics and Pets
(37:00) - Holistic Dog Care and Anxiety Management
Tuesday Feb 18, 2025
Tuesday Feb 18, 2025
Chapters
(00:13) - Navigating Friendship Dynamics
(16:30) - Social Media Impact on Relationships
(28:33) - Navigating Private Family Challenges
Podcast Summary
Can friendships survive the digital age, or are we losing genuine connection in favor of likes and comments? Join us for a heartwarming and humorous conversation of how meaningful connections shape personal growth. We share similar yet differing perspectives with the scripture of "iron sharpening iron," examining how diverse personalities approach relationships, and we uncover the unique ways everyone seeks validation and support. Learn how love languages color our interactions and why finding the right friends to challenge and encourage us is more crucial than ever.
Social media may have revolutionized communication, but what does it mean for lasting friendships? We share personal stories about stepping back from the digital realm and the surprising impact this has on our real, in-person relationships. Listen as we discuss the quest for wisdom from older, seasoned women while managing the delicate balance between personal comfort and growth, especially when parenting teens or preparing for life's transitions. Through candid conversations, we highlight the importance of companionship with those who have walked the path before us, offering insights into maintaining genuine connections in a world dominated by virtual interactions.
You can order “Cheating Death” book here: https://a.co/d/jax2cD7
*********************
Support the Unlikely Housewives! Represent with our UH Merch!
bit.ly/unlikelymerch
Sunlighten Sauna Sponsor: https://get.sunlighten.com/unlikely Save up to $1400!
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