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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
7 days ago
7 days ago
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
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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.
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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
Tuesday Feb 11, 2025
Tuesday Feb 11, 2025
Chapters
(00:00) - DC Adventure and Inauguration Recap
(16:35) - Navigating Trump Rally Chaos
(25:21) - More DC Adventures and Conference Recap
(38:29) - Nonprofit Collaboration Challenges and Transition
(43:28) - Faith, Obedience, and Adventure
Podcast Summary
Join us for an exciting episode as Tori shares the thrilling adventures and unique experiences from a spontaneous trip to Washington, DC. Tori takes us through her solo journey, originally centered around attending the Life or Death conference hosted by the White Rose organization. Coinciding with the presidential inauguration, she shares her unexpected success in securing a ticket to the 60th Presidential Inauguration. Not only was this trip exciting, but it also came with a lot of emotions. Tori shares her memorable moments of traveling alone, navigating personal commitments, and following her passions during this eventful trip.
Listen in as we recount the chaotic atmosphere surrounding a Trump rally at Capitol One Arena. With plans to attend but faced with long lines and harsh weather, Tori opted for some sightseeing, including a visit to the National Postal Museum and a few other incredible experiences.
We round out this episode with a reflective journey on faith, obedience, and adventure, sharing insights on following God's will and understanding how these experiences weave into a greater purpose.
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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 $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
Tuesday Feb 04, 2025
Tuesday Feb 04, 2025
Chapters
(03:21) Snoring Woes and Pet Noises
(14:30) Modern Distractions and Exhaustion
(21:49) Rest and Intentionality in Daily Life
Podcast Summary
What happens when life's little interruptions, like a sick child or a surprise snow day, throw off your podcasting groove? Tune in as we share a candid, light-hearted chat about these chaotic moments and more. Amidst the snores of pets and partners, we find humor in the unpredictability of daily life, discovering joy in the disarray. Our conversation then takes a thoughtful turn as we ponder the concept of rest, inspired by a sermon from Pastor Jon Tyson. Together, we explore how to find peace even during our busiest times, all while enjoying the camaraderie of matching robes and under-eye patches.
Ever wondered why true rest feels so elusive in today's hustle culture? We explore this timely issue, discussing the impact of social media and streaming on our abilities to genuinely connect and rejuvenate. With rising rates of burnout, especially in ministry, we emphasize balancing work with intentional rest, sharing personal tips for managing intense periods without losing sight of what's important. We also spotlight the empowering idea of women proactively planning vacations, whether with a partner or solo, offering practical advice for housewives eager to embrace the world on their own terms. Join us for a blend of laughs, insights, and inspiration to carve out your own peace amidst life's inherent chaos.
Sermon Link: https://youtu.be/WtlCRF92SG8
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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 $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
Tuesday Jan 28, 2025
Tuesday Jan 28, 2025
Chapters
(00:03) - Snow Day Adventures With Kids
(09:16) - Winter Weather Chaos and Preparation
(20:53) - Winter Storm Commiseration and Plans
Podcast Summary
Who knew a snow day could be so full of chaos and comedy? Picture this: a Jeep helplessly stuck in a snowy Kansas City blizzard while kids turn a snow-covered backyard into a playground and our pets snore by the fireplace. Our past snowy escapades in Dallas, Baltimore, and Chicago fuel our laughter as we reminisce about our own childhood snow days contrasted with today’s tech-loving kids yearning for social interactions even amidst the snowmageddon. The unpredictable challenges of snowy terrains bring humor and warmth, celebrating the joys of embracing winter’s whims with family.
Embrace the unpredictability of winter with us, sharing in the warmth and laughter amidst the storm.
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Support the Unlikely Housewives! Represent with our UH Merch!
bit.ly/unlikelymerch
Follow
Sunlighten Sauna Sponsor: https://get.sunlighten.com/unlikely Save up to $600!
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 Jan 21, 2025
Tuesday Jan 21, 2025
Chapters
(00:04) - Journey to Finding Peace
(04:46) - Embracing Grace Through Life's Challenges
(19:59) - Navigating Marriage Through Communication
Podcast Summary
Join us on an enlightening journey as we explore the profound differences between contentment and peace, and how they show up in our lives. We share personal reflections on how peace, despite life's inevitable challenges, can bring about a deeper sense of joy and fulfillment. Tracy opens up about her past year, marked by family trials and health issues, yet discovers an unprecedented peace through a closer relationship with God. We hope this would encourage you to embrace your current state as part of the journey, acknowledging the growth and understanding that comes from these experiences without guilt or shame.
As we navigate through life's challenges, we reflect on the balance between hardships and blessings, emphasizing how personal trials can strengthen one's faith. We touch on the feelings of unworthiness that can accompany blessings and the anticipation of future trials. This chapter is a testament to the peace and closeness found in God, even amidst surgeries, financial strains, and accidents. We also confront the underlying expectation of looming adversity, challenging the acceptance of grace and the understanding of blessings without preconditions.
We also explore the dynamics of marriage, focusing on the importance of communication and understanding each other's spiritual and emotional journeys. By sharing experiences and thoughts, like feelings of peace or anxiety, couples can support each other more effectively. We share how differing perspectives can impact decision-making and emphasize the value of transparency and mutual understanding. Join us for this deep, heart-felt conversation.
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Want to support the Unlikely Housewives? Buy some of our UH Merch!
bit.ly/unlikelymerch
Follow
Sunlighten Sauna Sponsor: https://get.sunlighten.com/unlikely Save up to $600!
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