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Feeling like a frazzled, coffee-reheating, “I’ve got this” mom who’s actually barely holding it together? You’re not alone. Welcome to Unlikely Housewives — the Christian mom podcast where two real women (and moms) trade people-pleasing for freedom, self-care for soul-care, and “the hustle” for a life of purpose.
Tracy and Tori are Christian moms who met after moving their families across the country and realized they were both faking it, lonely, and tired of comparison. We’re recovering people-pleasers and straight shooters who believe God calls the unlikely — and that you were made for more than just surviving motherhood, marriage, and the daily grind.
On this show, we talk real about:
- Christian parenting with purpose (and the mess that comes with it)
- Marriage, faith, and the hard conversations no one wants to have
- Women’s health, emotional baggage, and ditching cultural lies
- How to stop pretending and start living with hope as a Christian mom
If you’re a busy, isolated Christian mom looking for encouragement, laughter, and a reminder that you’re not alone — this is your tribe. Pull up those high-waisted yoga pants, tighten your top knot, reheat your coffee (again), and let’s rise together in faith, motherhood, and marriage.
Want to be a guest on Unlikely Housewives? Send Tori Shirah a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/unlikelyhousewives
Episodes
Tuesday Dec 10, 2024
Tuesday Dec 10, 2024
Chapters
(00:15) - Understanding Anxiety in Children
(06:29) - Recognizing Anxiety in Children
(14:04) - Navigating Childhood Anxiety and Parental Guilt
(21:20) - Parental Self-Care and Child Therapy
(28:33) - Supporting Childhood Anxiety Through Therapy
(39:23) - Parenting, Emotions, and Therapies
Podcast Summary
Join us in an engaging conversation with Bryce Hamilton, a licensed specialist clinical social worker and child and family therapist, as we explore the intricacies of anxiety in children. Bryce shares her journey of co-creating the "Accidental Experts" podcast with her best friend, a pediatrician, aiming to provide parents with strategies to navigate family life. From the humorous realities of podcasting from home to addressing serious topics like anxiety, ADHD, and autism, this episode offers a rich resource for families seeking guidance and support.
Listen in as we uncover the challenges parents face in recognizing and addressing anxiety in children. Bryce helps us understand the different manifestations of anxiety, including OCD and PTSD, and the importance of identifying symptoms like procrastination and physical discomfort. She explains the role of the amygdala in triggering false alarms and highlights the need for parents to validate their child's emotions while encouraging growth beyond comfort zones. We also tackle the issue of parental guilt, emphasizing that genetic predispositions play a significant role in anxiety, reminding parents that they're not alone in this journey.
This episode also focuses on the emotional aspects of parenting, the significance of self-care, and how parents can model healthy emotional expression for their children. We explore therapeutic approaches such as play therapy, CBT, and EMDR, emphasizing their role in helping children manage anxiety. Bryce introduces us to SPACE training, a program designed to help parents support their children without enabling avoidance. Throughout our conversation, we stress the importance of creating a nurturing and communicative environment, offering parents the tools and insights they need to support their families effectively.
You can find Bryce’s podcast on all podcast platforms. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/accidental-experts-with-bryce-hamilton/id1733294868
Here are also the links to connect with Bryce and her office:
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/k-bryce-hamilton-overland-park-ks/82059
https://www.goodtherapy.org/therapists/profile/bryce-hamilton-20100817
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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine
Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com
Tuesday Dec 03, 2024
Tuesday Dec 03, 2024
Chapters
(00:00) - Boys' Fight Club Support Group
(11:19) - Teen Boys Support Group Format
(16:53) - Building Trust Through Boys' Support Group
(25:45) - Youth Support Group Discussion Format
(29:58) - Youth Support Group Expansion Plans
(37:13) - Father-Son Spiritual Connection and Growth
(47:10) - Social Media and Teen Mental Health
Podcast Summary
Join us as we explore the powerful and transformative concept of the Fight Club, a peer support group created for young men to navigate the spiritual and social challenges they face in today's world. This unique initiative, led by Ryan Bevins and supported by JP Claxton, provides a confidential space for boys to step away from digital distractions and engage in real-life relationships. Through open and honest discussions, the club encourages vulnerability and brotherhood, aiming to help boys build trust and express their struggles in a safe environment.
Our discussion covers the innovative structure of the Fight Club meetings, where boys participate in meaningful high-low sharing exercises that foster trust and emotional support. As the boys grow more comfortable, they open up about deeper emotional issues, creating a supportive atmosphere where they can truly be themselves. Additionally, the sessions feature topical discussions on themes like gratitude and are often tied to relevant scriptures, encouraging self-reflection and appreciation for loved ones. These peer-led conversations are conducted in small groups to ensure continuity and trust among participants, creating a sense of belonging.
We also explore the future expansion plans for the Fight Club, including the development of a girls' support group set to launch in 2025. This initiative seeks to create a supportive space for young girls, led by relatable peer leaders, to engage in discussions that resonate with their personal experiences. Our discussion focuses on the involvement of fathers and the importance of nurturing positive peer interactions from a young age. Through emotional intimate stories, we highlight the impact of social media on teen mental health and the crucial role of real-life connections and spiritual mentorship in combating the challenges faced by today's youth.
Update from Fight Club: In this first year, Fight Club has been able to start up 4 new groups at 3 new schools this Fall with a few more getting ready to launch in the coming months… including our first GIRLS group which we’ve very excited about!! This will give us a total of 10 Fight Club groups across 6 different high schools listed below. And we’re just getting started!
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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine
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Tuesday Nov 26, 2024
Tuesday Nov 26, 2024
Join us as we welcome Ken Valentine, a retired Secret Service agent, who shares his remarkable journey and insights from his book, "Cheating Death." Ken offers a glimpse into his extraordinary life, having protected Presidents of the United States and high-profile dignitaries while maintaining a steadfast dedication to his faith and family. Through his heartfelt stories, listeners will discover the serendipitous events that led to his connection with us and learn about the impactful letters he wrote to his children during his extensive travels, emphasizing the importance of faith and legacy.
Chapters
(01:58) Cheating Death Book Recommendation
(05:38) Advice and Legacy Through Scripture
(10:39) Family First
(16:59) Finding Support and Challenge in Relationships
(23:08) Importance of Intentionality in Fitness
(26:51) Faith, Resilience, and Perspective
(40:15) Scariest Moment - 9/11 Experience
(52:04) Imagined Scenario of White House Attack
Episode Summary
We explore the identity challenges faced by Secret Service agents, particularly when transitioning into retirement. This episode sheds light on the struggle to balance a demanding career with family responsibilities, especially when societal expectations come into play. Ken shares a personal story about the impact of an article from Focus on the Family that prompted introspection about career choices. By highlighting these experiences, we offer listeners a perspective on managing professional duties without sacrificing familial roles, emphasizing the value of prioritizing family while navigating career decisions.
Throughout our conversation, Ken reflects on some of his most significant moments, including working closely with presidents like George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, and Barack Obama. His anecdotes, ranging from running with President Bush to a harrowing night during 9/11, provide a compelling and intimate look into the life of someone who has served in high-stakes environments. Listen in as Ken recounts these personal and professional experiences, offering both inspiration and insight into navigating life's difficult decisions with faith and courage.
You can order Ken’s book here: Book
You also can connect with Ken here: Ken on Instagram
Keywords
Secret Service, Presidential Protection, Retirement, Faith, Family, Identity, Career Choices, Focus on the Family, God's Plan, Life Decisions, Running, Physical Fitness, President Obama, Professionalism, 9/11, Washington D.C., White House, Military Security, Evacuation Protocols, Crisis
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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine
Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com
Tuesday Nov 19, 2024
Tuesday Nov 19, 2024
Join us as we welcome Elizabeth Urbanowicz, an inspiring advocate for instilling a biblical worldview in children. Elizabeth shares her remarkable journey from teaching in a Christian school to founding Foundation Worldview, an organization dedicated to equipping children with critical thinking skills grounded in Christian teachings. Through her experience, Elizabeth noticed a gap between children's knowledge of Bible stories and their real-world application. Her solution? An after-school class designed to help young students critically evaluate ideas through a biblical lens, sparking curiosity and engagement that even caught the attention of parents eager for guidance on nurturing similar discussions at home.
Chapters
(03:22) Teaching Critical Thinking to Young Children
(13:28) Reframing Sexuality
(20:14) Basic Sex and Reproduction Explanation
(25:47) Teaching Biblical Literacy and Worldview
(30:43) Bible Reading Skills Curriculum for All
(38:50) Understanding Compassion Versus Empathy
(43:41) Curriculum Flexibility and Independence
Episode Summary
We explore the crucial topic of early conversations about sexuality with children. It's vital for parents to be the primary source of this information, ensuring that children view sex as a positive and natural aspect of life. We discuss practical methods, such as using anatomically correct terms and utilizing resources like the "Birds and the Bees" course, to foster an open and honest environment. By doing so, children feel empowered to ask questions, and parents can confidently guide these important discussions, helping children understand sexuality in a healthy, christian-aligned context.
In our final segment, Elizabeth emphasizes the integration of video-based teaching in biblical literacy curriculums, which benefits both children and their parents. This approach not only enriches a family's understanding of the Bible's narrative but also equips them to engage critically with modern issues through a biblical framework. We look into the distinct roles of compassion and empathy within this worldview, encouraging families to align with truth. Elizabeth's work illustrates how a comprehensive grasp of scripture and its principles can prepare the next generation to navigate today's world with confidence and clarity.
You can learn more at https://foundationworldview.com/ and use code: housewives10 to receive $10 off a family license of any of the foundation worldview curricula.
Keywords
Biblical Worldview, Children, Critical Thinking, Sexuality, Parents, Education, Anatomically Correct Terms, Birds and the Bees, Video-based Teaching, Biblical Literacy, Empowerment, Truth, Compassion, Empathy, Love, Tolerance, Justice, Reproductive Justice, Abortion, Mothers, Children
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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine
Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com
Tuesday Nov 12, 2024
Tuesday Nov 12, 2024
Remember the days when political talk was taboo at the dinner table? Now, we're changing the game by engaging our kids in these crucial discussions, fostering civic-mindedness from an early age. Join us as we discuss with the whirlwind of emotions following Donald Trump's recent electoral victory. Whether you're celebrating or grieving, we focus on the enduring power of faith and the comfort it brings, reminding ourselves that God, the Alpha and Omega, has a hand in all things. In this episode, we explore how spirituality can be a guiding light through personal and political turmoils, urging you to lean into your beliefs when the world feels uncertain.
In a time where issues like border security and voting rights are taking center stage, we share our excitement over the progress being made and emphasize the importance of civic engagement beyond just casting a ballot. Our episode unpacks how critical thinking and a thirst for diverse perspectives can equip us—and our children—for meaningful participation in the democratic process. We challenge the narratives fed by mainstream media, advocating for a truth-seeking approach that goes beyond headlines. Let's work together to stay informed, involved, and hopeful for a unified future, all while trusting in God's sovereignty.
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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine
Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com
Tuesday Nov 05, 2024
Tuesday Nov 05, 2024
Our friend, Kori, has navigated through her own journey of co-parenting post-divorce, and she is willing to share the emotional challenges and unexpected hurdles that arise in this new territory. In our latest episode, Kori, who is also a renowned parent consultant and podcaster, shares her personal experiences and invaluable insights into co-parenting dynamics. Together, we confront the stereotype of contentious breakups and highlight the profound impact of empathy, patience, and understanding in fostering a healthier environment for both parents and children.
Throughout our conversation, we explore with Kori the delicate balance of setting boundaries while maintaining civility, particularly when children are involved. We discuss how imposing boundaries, while sometimes unpopular, is a crucial aspect of providing children with security and structure. Kori offers practical advice on communication tools. Our discussion serves as a reminder that the well-being of children should always take precedence over personal conflicts, paving the way for more effective co-parenting.
Towards the end of the episode, we shift focus to the complexities of relationships post-divorce, especially within blended families. Kori navigates the delicate process of introducing new partners to children and managing relationships with ex-spouses, emphasizing the importance of communication and clear boundaries.
You can connect with Kori here
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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine
Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com
Tuesday Oct 29, 2024
Tuesday Oct 29, 2024
Join us as we welcome Danny Zeck, a respected community member and public servant from Leavenworth, Kansas who shares his wealth of experience on the local and state level school boards. Together, we explore Danny's background, his journey with the Leavenworth Unified School District, and his current role on the Kansas State Board of Education. Listen in as we navigate the wavering of trust within our local school systems, particularly focusing on changes in curriculum oversight and the rise of social-emotional learning since 2012. We also reflect on the shift in parental trust in education around 2020, as eyes were opened to parents during remote learning. Danny shares invaluable advice for families considering new school districts, emphasizing the need for informed decisions and curriculum verification.
Our conversation highlights the critical role of spiritual leadership and the power of faith-driven decisions. We discuss the courage needed to stand for truth, empowering both men and women to influence their communities, especially within the education system. With a focus on generational impact, we emphasize the responsibility of parents and grandparents in shaping a positive future.
We discuss school choice, government control in education, and the implications of taxpayer-funded vouchers. We address concerns about educational policies, early childhood standards, and the recent decline of parental influence. As we discuss the complexities of digital footprints, professionalism, and personal responsibility, we highlight the importance of listening to educators and fostering critical thinking in students. We also touch on the impact of cell phone policies and the significance of parental involvement in local governance. Our episode encourages community engagement, transparency, and the need for intentional living to prioritize family values and model healthy habits for future generations.
You can connect with Danny at dzeck@ksde.org
Want to support the Unlikely Housewives? buymeacoffee.com/UnlikelyHousewives
Sunlighten Sauna Sponsor: https://get.sunlighten.com/unlikely Save up to $600!
Seven Weeks Coffee: sevenweekscoffee.com Use promo code: UNLIKELYHOUSEWIVES for 10% off your first order
StoryButton use promo code FRIENDS10 to save 10%
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 Oct 22, 2024
Tuesday Oct 22, 2024
How does one untangle the web of narcissistic traits and break free from their often unseen grip? Join us as Barbara Beck, an experienced therapist and counselor, sheds light on the complexities of narcissism. Barbara, drawing from her personal encounters with narcissism in her own life, provides invaluable insights into recognizing these behaviors without prematurely labeling individuals. Her journey offers a unique lens on the importance of empathy and understanding in navigating such challenging dynamics.
The psychological and physical toll of living with a narcissistic partner can be overwhelming, yet escaping this toxic cycle is possible. We address the profound impacts on mental health, discussing how vital validation and support are for those caught in these relationships. By exploring therapeutic techniques like EMDR and accelerated resolution therapy, Barbara emphasizes the power of processing trauma and reclaiming personal strength. Healing is a crucial step before embarking on new relationships, ensuring that past patterns do not repeat and that one can thrive in healthier environments.
Humor, though a double-edged sword, can become a powerful tool for joy and healing in relationships. We explore how sarcasm and wit, when balanced with understanding and clear boundaries, can enrich family bonds. However, missteps can lead to misunderstandings, especially when communication styles clash. This episode celebrates the courage to live authentically, advocating for therapy and support groups as safe havens for sharing experiences and learning.
You can connect with Barbara at her email Barbbecktherapy@gmail.com or through the Psychology Today site here: Barbara Beck
Want to support the Unlikely Housewives? buymeacoffee.com/UnlikelyHousewives
Sunlighten Sauna Sponsor: https://get.sunlighten.com/unlikely Save up to $600!
Seven Weeks Coffee: sevenweekscoffee.com Use promo code: UNLIKELYHOUSEWIVES for 10% off your first order
StoryButton use promo code FRIENDS10 to save 10%
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 Oct 15, 2024
Tuesday Oct 15, 2024
As the co-hosts of Unlikely Housewives, we decided to wade into some uncharted waters that we find ourselves navigating through today. Opening in prayer, we set the stage for a candid discussion about the weight of our roles as citizens and believers in a world that often feels unsettling. Our dear friend Suzanne joins us to reflect on how recent years, particularly the recent pandemic, have shifted our perspectives. We acknowledge the importance of being vigilant and responsive to the spiritual unease we sometimes feel, encouraging our listeners to question how their hearts align with the Lord amidst the chaos.
Listen in as we address the complexities of teaching compassion versus empathy, especially within a Christian context. We explore the challenge of distinguishing feelings from facts, highlighting the concept of "toxic empathy," where emotions can cloud judgment. Through personal anecdotes, we discuss the importance of teaching children to appreciate different perspectives and emphasize discernment in an era of biased narratives and algorithms. We also examine the struggle of feeling disconnected from foundational values during times of misinformation and societal pressure, urging our listeners to stay informed and engaged, particularly when it comes to civic duties like voting.
While acknowledging the importance of God's love, we emphasize the need for teachings on sin, repentance, and transformation through Christ. The conversation touches on the financial and social impacts of illegal immigration, highlighting the importance of enforcing immigration laws to maintain order. As we seek facts and unity in political discourse, we encourage listeners to evaluate candidates based on their policies and track records, empowering them to make informed choices that align with their values. Throughout, we emphasize the importance of grounding beliefs in biblical truth and staying engaged in meaningful conversations about faith and politics. And most importantly…we encourage and invite you to VOTE this election!
SHOW RESOURCES:
Link to register to vote: https://vote.gov/
Relatable podcast with Allie Beth Stuckey: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/relatable-with-allie-beth-stuckey/id1359249098
Allie Beth Stuckey’s new book: Toxic Empathy: How Progressives Exploit Christian Compassion https://a.co/d/aseU1Kh
Glenn Beck show (includes Christians voting statistics): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-glenn-beck-program/id620967489
https://ptv.org/nna/how-a-christian-should-vote-by-dr-robert-jeffress/
https://downloads.frc.org/EF/EF15K70.pdf
Book: The Pursuit of God by AW Tozer https://a.co/d/8yeP0AM
less than 1% is due to rape and incest;
Abortion Pill has more complications than surgical abortions
Medication accounted for 63% of all US abortions
Late-term Abortions Happen Every Day
Calling Republican Candidates Hitler is NOT new
Additional information:
https://www.newsweek.com/mifepristone-scotus-ruling-science-abortion-drug-1795947
https://www.cdc.gov/reproductive-health/data-statistics/abortion-surveillance-findings-reports.html
https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2024/03/25/what-the-data-says-about-abortion-in-the-us/
Want to support the Unlikely Housewives? buymeacoffee.com/UnlikelyHousewives
Sunlighten Sauna Sponsor: https://get.sunlighten.com/unlikely Save up to $600!
Seven Weeks Coffee: sevenweekscoffee.com Use promo code: UNLIKELYHOUSEWIVES for 10% off your first order
StoryButton use promo code FRIENDS10 to save 10%
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 Oct 08, 2024
Tuesday Oct 08, 2024
Join us on an inspiring journey with Joe Evermore, a passionate climbing enthusiast and father of an adventurous family. In our conversation, Joe shares the meaningful middle names of his children—Sam Adventure, Sylvan Lightyear, and Joey Danger—revealing the profound stories and faith behind each choice. We also learn about the family's decision to change their last name from Baker to Evermore, and the heart-wrenching yet deeply moving story of their daughter Ember Moonlight, whose brief life taught them about love and resilience in the face of adversity.
Listen in as we discuss the unique approach Joe's family takes towards goal-setting with the concept of Masagi goals, which encourages each member to pursue ambitious yet safe challenges every year. From the inspiring story of Sam, who climbed El Capitan at the tender age of eight, to the significance of celebrating personal achievements beyond traditional milestones, this episode offers a refreshing perspective on nurturing ambition and resilience in children. The conversation highlights how these practices not only build self-confidence but also strengthen the family bond through shared adventures and accomplishments.
We also explore modern parenting challenges, balancing personal and family goals, and the importance of intentional decision-making in education and career paths. Joe shares his insights on preparing children for a rapidly changing world, emphasizing skills like personal branding, salesmanship, and adaptability. As we wrap up, we touch on the lighter side of parenting, underscoring the value of nurturing a sense of humor in children to help them navigate life's ups and downs with grace and confidence. Join us in this enriching episode as we share laughter, wisdom, and the courage to embrace life's adventures together.
The Evermore’s on Instagram:
Samuel’s Instagram:
Joe Evermore’s Facebook:
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