Let's get 2025 started! I know ya'll have hopes, dreams, and goals for this year.  You don't have to have a business to sit down and write down your goals and dreams...so, take a minute and write them down and take them before the Lord.

We're starting this year off by reflecting on the past four years of podcasting, but also looking forward to what the Lord has in store!

xx, michelle

☕️ If the Consider Jesus podcast is blessing you in any way, would you consider partnering with me?  You can do it right here - buymeacoffee.com/itsmemichellecastro 

📣 Today's episode is sponsored by Budget Besties.  If you've tried all the things and can't wrap your head around the "B" word, then I invite you to check out my favorite Simplified Budget System with the Budget Besties!  

💰SAVE 10% when you use get started here - budgetbesties.com/michelle or use the code MICHELLE at checkout!!

🔥 Interested in SPONSORING THE PODCAST?  email me at [email protected]

I'm BACK with Jen & Staci!  You loved our episode about friendship (ep 313), so I've convinced them to come back and talk about Christmas!

In this lively conversation we explore the themes of friendship, Christmas traditions, and the complexities of gift-giving. We share personal anecdotes from our childhood experiences with Santa Claus, the Elf on the Shelf, and the various ways we celebrate Christmas with our families. The discussion highlights the importance of creating magical moments for children while navigating the realities of parenting and holiday expectations. In this engaging conversation, Jen, Staci, and I explore the multifaceted aspects of Christmas, from navigating holiday shopping and the importance of self-control to the cherished traditions that shape our family celebrations. We discuss the evolving dynamics of family traditions, the significance of flexibility during the holidays, and the challenge of materialism. A central theme is the importance of bringing Jesus back into the Christmas narrative, emphasizing the deeper meaning of the holiday beyond gifts and festivities. The conversation also touches on the practice of Advent and how families can incorporate faith into their celebrations, ultimately highlighting the joy and significance of Christmas as a time of reflection and gratitude.

Have a blessed and very Merry Christmas!!

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00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage

In this engaging conversation, Michelle Castro speaks with Vanessa and Shana from the Budget Besties about the importance of financial literacy, the challenges many face with budgeting, and the unique approach they take to empower individuals in their financial journeys. They discuss the significance of community, accountability, and the role of faith in managing finances, while sharing personal stories of transformation and the need for a supportive budgeting system. In this conversation, Michelle Castro and the Budget Besties discuss the importance of financial literacy, the need for a structured budgeting system, and the emotional aspects of managing money. They emphasize the significance of open discussions about finances, the role of support from partners, and the journey towards financial confidence. The Budget Besties share their approach to budgeting, highlighting the importance of creating a system that works for individuals and families, and the resources available for those looking to improve their financial situation.

You will absolutely LOVE Shana & Vanessa!  They are sweet, friendly, and here to help!  The encourage women (and men) to take hold of their finances in a simple, nonjudgmental, and PRETTY way!

SAVE 10%

Connect with Shana & Vanessa:

00:00 Introduction to Budgeting Conversations

In this episode of the Consider Jesus podcast, I'm sharing an email I received from a listener.  I know she's not alone in feeling distant in her marriage. She emphasizes the importance of honest conversations, the power of prayer, and practical steps to strengthen marital relationships. Michelle shares her personal experiences and encourages listeners to prioritize prayer and communication in their marriages, offering hope and practical advice for those facing similar challenges.

Are you struggling with something in your marriage?

Hey there friends!

CONNECT WITH JOY:

Have an idea, question, or episode suggestion?  Contact us at [email protected]

Welcome to “8 DAYS OF GRATITUDE, THANKING THE LORD FOR WHO HE IS” a series from the Consider Jesus Podcast.  Each day will be a short little power shot of scripture pointing you and reminding you WHO OUR GOD is.  I encourage you to download the meditate, pray, journal workbook where you can follow along each day and then spend more time meditating upon each scripture and really thanking the Lord for WHO HE IS!

FOLLOW ALONG WITH THE FREE GRATITUDE WORKBOOK - a place where you can meditate, pray, and journal about each attribute of God.

Let's become women who are in love with our Savior!  I promise, the more you know WHO your God is, the more you will love him, and the more contagious your love for Him will be to those around you!

I'm so thankful for you and excited to do this with you!

xx, Michelle

HAVE A QUESTION OR PODCAST SUGGESTION?

Welcome to “8 DAYS OF GRATITUDE, THANKING THE LORD FOR WHO HE IS” a series from the Consider Jesus Podcast.  Each day will be a short little power shot of scripture pointing you and reminding you WHO OUR GOD is.  I encourage you to download the meditate, pray, journal workbook where you can follow along each day and then spend more time meditating upon each scripture and really thanking the Lord for WHO HE IS!

FOLLOW ALONG WITH THE FREE GRATITUDE WORKBOOK - a place where you can meditate, pray, and journal about each attribute of God.

Let's become women who are in love with our Savior!  I promise, the more you know WHO your God is, the more you will love him, and the more contagious your love for Him will be to those around you!

I'm so thankful for you and excited to do this with you!

xx, Michelle

HAVE A QUESTION OR PODCAST SUGGESTION?

Welcome to “8 DAYS OF GRATITUDE, THANKING THE LORD FOR WHO HE IS” a series from the Consider Jesus Podcast.  Each day will be a short little power shot of scripture pointing you and reminding you WHO OUR GOD is.  I encourage you to download the meditate, pray, journal workbook where you can follow along each day and then spend more time meditating upon each scripture and really thanking the Lord for WHO HE IS!

FOLLOW ALONG WITH THE FREE GRATITUDE WORKBOOK - a place where you can meditate, pray, and journal about each attribute of God.

Let's become women who are in love with our Savior!  I promise, the more you know WHO your God is, the more you will love him, and the more contagious your love for Him will be to those around you!

I'm so thankful for you and excited to do this with you!

xx, Michelle

HAVE A QUESTION OR PODCAST SUGGESTION?

Welcome to “8 DAYS OF GRATITUDE, THANKING THE LORD FOR WHO HE IS” a series from the Consider Jesus Podcast.  Each day will be a short little power shot of scripture pointing you and reminding you WHO OUR GOD is.  I encourage you to download the meditate, pray, journal workbook where you can follow along each day and then spend more time meditating upon each scripture and really thanking the Lord for WHO HE IS!

FOLLOW ALONG WITH THE FREE GRATITUDE WORKBOOK - a place where you can meditate, pray, and journal about each attribute of God.

Let's become women who are in love with our Savior!  I promise, the more you know WHO your God is, the more you will love him, and the more contagious your love for Him will be to those around you!

I'm so thankful for you and excited to do this with you!

xx, Michelle

HAVE A QUESTION OR PODCAST SUGGESTION?

Welcome to “8 DAYS OF GRATITUDE, THANKING THE LORD FOR WHO HE IS” a series from the Consider Jesus Podcast.  Each day will be a short little power shot of scripture pointing you and reminding you WHO OUR GOD is.  I encourage you to download the meditate, pray, journal workbook where you can follow along each day and then spend more time meditating upon each scripture and really thanking the Lord for WHO HE IS!

FOLLOW ALONG WITH THE FREE GRATITUDE WORKBOOK - a place where you can meditate, pray, and journal about each attribute of God.

Let's become women who are in love with our Savior!  I promise, the more you know WHO your God is, the more you will love him, and the more contagious your love for Him will be to those around you!

I'm so thankful for you and excited to do this with you!

xx, Michelle

HAVE A QUESTION OR PODCAST SUGGESTION?