Today’s topic is a bit emotionally heavy and difficult, but it’s nonetheless incredibly important. I am joined by Jodi Snowdon, author of Depth: Growing Through Heartbreak to Strength, and she joins me for a very vulnerable conversation to reflect on how grief shows up in many forms of life - miscarriage, divorce, loss of loved ones - and how often people feel unsure of how to support someone in those moments. Listen in as she shares her own experiences of devastating loss and how they helped reshape her faith, emotional resilience, and understanding of God’s presence in suffering. Together, the two of us discuss the importance of allowing space for grief instead of avoiding it and how honest emotional processing, support from your community, and spiritual struggle can become a part of healing over time.

Jodi also explains the STRENGTH acrostic from her book and offers some practical ways to walk through heartbreak by seeking God in the middle of pain, allowing yourself to fully grieve, and resisting the urge to numb or suppress emotions. She speaks openly about how healing is not linear and how counseling, community, and even simple daily practices such as prayer and journaling helped her begin to heal. We also discuss how suffering can shape character in unexpected ways, deepening empathy and even becoming a place where purpose can grow.

A big part of our conversation focuses on how to support others who are grieving, especially in moments when people often feel afraid to say or do the wrong thing. Jodi and I talk through miscarriage, divorce, and other griefs, highlighting the importance of directly acknowledging loss, avoiding well meaning but ultimately minimizing and unhelpful language, and showing up with acts of care rather than silence. We also touch upon the power of remembering important dates, checking in long after the initial loss, and recognizing that grief doesn’t follow a timeline that others can see or understand, especially since everyone grieves differently.

By the end of my conversation with Jodi, I truly hope that listeners will walk away after listening with both compassion for those in pain as well as a clearer sense of how to show up in small, meaningful ways that remind someone that they are not forgotten. I hope that you enjoy and get some insight from my conversation with Jodi, and, as always, please feel free to reach out with your thoughts! I would love to hear from you!

In This Episode

[0:35] - Welcome Jodi Snowdon to the podcast!

[2:08] - Through some truly devastating losses, Jodi discovered healing, deeper faith, and purpose in helping others.

[4:32] - Jodi believes that suffering can deepen faith when people honestly seek God instead of withdrawing from Him.

[6:40] - Jodi explains grieving honestly, seeking God, and processing emotions instead of numbing pain.

[9:08] - Learn how support groups can transform pain into meaningful purpose and connection.

[11:08] - Jodi has come to believe that heartbreak can build empathy, self-awareness, and freedom from shame.

[13:36] - Hear how gratitude, forgiveness, and sharing personal pain can help others heal through their own grief.

[16:01] - Hear how supporting miscarriage grief requires validating the loss and offering compassionate, thoughtful, and practical care.

[19:13] - Jodi explains how compassion, acknowledgment, and presence help validate miscarriage grief and prevent isolation.

[22:03] - Memorializing miscarriage through rituals and naming can help parents process enduring grief and loss.

[24:40] - Jodi asserts that nonjudgmental support and inclusion reduce divorce-related shame, rejection, and loneliness.

[27:11] - Jodi believes that intentional boundaries, support, and truth help divorced parents deal with loneliness and family transitions.

[30:48] - I point out that clear, specific offers of help make it easier for grieving people to accept support.

[31:51] - We talk about how divorce brings layered grief, rejection, and ongoing emotional triggers that support can help ease.

[34:26] Listening and practical ideas empower better support for people experiencing grief!

[36:13] - Jodi and I discuss how consistent support and remembering anniversaries can help grieving people feel seen, loved, and not forgotten.

[38:15] - God redeems heartbreak, using grief to grow and equip people with empathy.

Links & Resources

Crystal Paine

Jodi Snowdon

Casting Crowns - “Praise You in the Storm”

Depth Podcast Episode 53: Hopelifter - Kathe Wunnenberg

Watermark - “Glory Baby”

Books

Depth: Growing Through Heartbreak to Strength by Jodi Snowdon & Kathe Wunneberg

Grieving the Child I Never Knew: A Devotional Companion for Comfort in the Loss of Your Unborn or Newly Born Child by Kathe Wunnenberg

Social Media

Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)

Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)

Crystal Paine on LinkedIn

Crystal Paine on Twitter

Crystal Paine on Goodreads

Money Saving Mom

Money Saving Mom on Facebook

Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group

[email protected]

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Jesse and I welcome you this week as we reflect on our recent glamping trip, an anniversary trip that Jesse had secretly planned and that nearly didn’t happen! Hear all about how, after finally figuring out childcare for the kids, we were ready to leave when everything unraveled all at once: sore throats, emergency doctor appointments, positive strep tests, and even an unexpected COVID diagnosis.

We suddenly found ourselves trying to decide whether to cancel a trip we had been looking forward to for months while also making sure everyone at home would be okay. Thankfully, the Airbnb hosts were unbelievably kind and let us reschedule which turned out to be the best thing that could’ve happened!

What waited for us a few months later was truly one of the most unique places I have ever stayed. Jesse booked this incredible glamping dome tucked into the Tennessee hills overlooking Center Hill Lake, and the entire place felt almost unreal, with clear curved walls open to the sky, decks hanging over the hillside, a hot tub in the middle of nature, and a shower that somehow made me feel like I was outside while still enjoying modern comforts.

Listen in as we talk about the hilariously overheated first hour after arriving, the clever sprinkler system that cooled the dome down, and why we immediately understood why people become obsessed with glamping. We also share the quieter parts of the trip that ended up meaning the most: playing Scrabble, watching the sunrise over the water, hiking down to the lake, sitting around the fire with nowhere else to be, and realizing how rare it is to experience true quiet. There was no packed itinerary, no distractions - just space to talk, laugh, process life, and reconnect after years of constant responsibilities.

Also, because apparently every memorable trip needs at least one disaster, we also tell the story of how Jesse managed to put a massive scrape down the side of my car while leaving the property, something that I will probably reference forever considering my long history of being the one who usually hits things. Enjoy our conversation all about this truly unforgettable trip, and, as always, please feel free to reach out! Maybe you have your own glamping story to share?

In This Episode

[0:36] - Jesse and I are finally sharing the story of our recent glamping trip!

[2:53] - Unsure whether to cancel or not with kids being sick, we debated traveling while juggling sick kids and mysterious packing instructions.

[4:49] - Hear how, after rescheduling, I was amazed by the surreal glamping dome overlooking the Tennessee hillside!

[7:31] - Hear about how our unique glamping dome offered stunning lake views, outdoor luxury, and an unexpectedly hot interior.

[9:51] - Jesse shares having discovered the dome’s greenhouse-like heat required sprinklers and repairs to cool the interior.

[11:16] - Once the high temperatures dropped, we fully embraced the peaceful hot tub retreat and unplugged outdoor atmosphere.

[13:38] - Hear how, between stargazing, Scrabble, and luxurious showers, we officially became devoted glamping fans!

[16:35] - Surrounded by silence and nature, we reconnected without distractions and embraced the slower pace.

[18:51] - I share how our peaceful getaway ended abruptly when Jesse scraped the car pulling out of the property.

[21:04] - Despite my dented car, the relaxing overnight escape still felt restorative and memorable.

[23:19] - Jesse and I reflect on our restorative glamping getaway and invite listeners to share future trip recommendations!

Links & Resources

Crystal Paine

Social Media

Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)

Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)

Crystal Paine on LinkedIn

Crystal Paine on Twitter

Crystal Paine on Goodreads

Money Saving Mom

Money Saving Mom on Facebook

Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group

[email protected]

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

This episode's guests might take the cake for most frequent guests on the podcasts – Sissy Goff and David Thomas! Throughout this insightful conversation with them, there is a question that I keep coming back to - are we protecting our kids or are we accidentally preventing them from becoming capable? That is the primary focus of not only our conversation today but also of their book – Capable: How to Teach Your Kids the Strengths, Skills, and Strategies to Build Resilience!

Listen in as we unpack why so many loving, thoughtful parents are exhausted from carrying responsibilities their children are actually ready to begin taking on themselves. From chores and homework to conflict resolution, independence, and even sleeping in their own beds, we talk honestly about how resilience is built, and it is not through perfection or pressure but instead through practice, discomfort, and trust.

One of the most eye-opening parts of this conversation is our discussion around “coddling.” We don't talk about it in a judgmental way but in the very real sense that fear can quietly shape our parenting more than we realize. We talk about why boundaries do not damage attachment, why kids need opportunities to safely take on challenges, and how confidence grows when children are allowed to solve problems instead of being rescued from every single difficult moment.

We also get practical, with Sissy and David sharing some simple, age-appropriate ways that parents can begin shifting responsibility to their children, whether they’re toddlers, elementary-aged kids, teenagers, or even young adults. We discuss natural consequences, teaching children to ask for help, encouraging self-advocacy, and how overmonitoring can unintentionally communicate, “I don’t think you can handle this.”

This episode is all about becoming a steadier parent, and we discuss the importance of modeling courage ourselves, letting our kids see us try new things, fail, recover, and grow. If you’re listening as a parent thinking, “I didn’t do this soon enough,” I think you’ll find a lot of hope in this conversation too. I hope that you enjoy this conversation with Sissy and David, and, as always, please feel free to reach out to me with your own thoughts!

In This Episode

[0:35] - Welcome Sissy Goff and David Thomas back to the podcast!

[1:43] - Resilience grows when children face manageable challenges instead of parents constantly preventing discomfort.

[4:06] - Sissy and David point out that healthy boundaries and accountability build secure attachment without coddling.

[7:39] - Sissy asserts that overprotection based on fear can unintentionally limit children’s confidence, independence, and emotional growth.

[10:08] - Parents should gradually shift everyday responsibilities onto their children that they're already close to being able to do on their own.

[13:38] - It's important for parents to manage their own anxieties as a model for their kids.

[15:08] - Hear David exemplify how trying unfamiliar things helps parents model resilience, perseverance, and empathy for struggling children.

[18:34] - Simple everyday responsibilities help young children discover their abilities and build lasting confidence.

[20:02] - David argues for the importance of honoring each child’s developmental pace and trusting that they will grow into capabilities in their own time.

[22:35] - I discuss how teaching children to communicate needs and ask for help builds lifelong emotional and problem-solving skills.

[24:01] - David and Sissy believe that children build confidence and resilience via independence, responsibilities, and experiences outside of their comfort zones.

[26:11] - I add that encouraging self-advocacy helps children build confidence and handle challenges independently.

[29:37] - It's important to remember that each parent-child relationship carries unique dynamics that impact expectations, behavior, and emotional growth.

[32:01] - Sissy explains how kids benefit from experiencing natural consequences alongside empathy, encouragement, and supportive guidance.

[33:44] - Small, gradual lessons in responsibility help children become confident, capable, and adaptable adults.

[37:04] - Children ultimately thrive when parents nurture their existing strengths instead of putting extra pressure on them.

[38:36] - David reminds us that growth happens at different paces and that it’s never too late to encourage independence.

Links & Resources

Crystal Paine

Books

Capable: How to Teach Your Kids the Strengths, Skills, and Strategies to Build Resilience by Sissy Goff & David Thomas

Social Media

Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)

Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)

Crystal Paine on LinkedIn

Crystal Paine on Twitter

Crystal Paine on Goodreads

Money Saving Mom

Money Saving Mom on Facebook

Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group

[email protected]

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Funnily enough, this episode of The Crystal Paine Show was originally supposed to be about my 22-hour getaway with Jesse and then naturally became much more an episode about running and how I have been training for a 10k! Listen in as Jesse and I share how a two-week break from the podcast turned into a reflection on just how full life has been lately! From the chaos of baseball season to the unexpected intensity of my 10K training, things have truly been hectic. Between juggling travel ball schedules and long practices with Jesse and Silas, I have also been dealing with a completely new challenge for myself: running longer distances than I ever thought I could! What began as a simple goal has turned into a deep learning experience around pacing, breathing, fueling, and even rethinking how I understand my own body, and I talk openly in this episode of the show about how I’ve had to slow down, correct my breathing habits, and even explore things such as mouth taping after dealing with laryngitis and realizing how much my old habits were holding me back from my full potential.

I share how, as I have trained, I have been so surprised by how much running has changed not just my fitness but also my mindset. I am really learning that endurance is just as mental as it is physical and that sometimes finishing a run is less about speed and more about choosing to keep going one small step at a time. I also share how tools such as the RUNA app and Strava have helped me structure my training and actually understand what it means to train smart instead of just hard. It has been such a fascinating journey discovering firsthand how much strategy goes into something as simple as going for a run!

Beyond the physical side, I also reflect on what it means to take on something new in my forties and how running has unexpectedly opened up new ways of seeing my neighborhood, my routines, and even my own limits. From exploring unfamiliar streets to learning how to manage discomfort, this journey has become about more than just race day. It’s about growth, curiosity, and learning to trust myself in the process. Jesse and I also discuss how this experience connects to bigger life themes such as stepping into new and even initially uncomfortable challenges, embracing uncertainty, and letting our kids see us do hard things. I hope that you enjoy this episode, and, as always, please feel free to reach out with your thoughts! We would love to hear from you!

In This Episode

[0:35] - Baseball season overwhelmed our schedule, pausing the podcast temporarily.

[3:37] - Hear how training for a 10k has been exhausting but also has taught me pacing and breathing.

[6:02] - I talk about how running has also exposed poor breathing habits, leading to Laryngitis and a shift toward nasal breathing and better pacing.

[9:39] - I explain how mouth-taping has helped me retrain nasal breathing and has improved sleep and morning symptoms.

[12:01] - Jesse and I discuss how conscious nasal breathing improves congestion, sleep quality, and overall stress regulation.

[15:38] - I enthuse about how running has become transformative for me via consistency, endurance building, and mindful pacing over speed.

[18:09] - I reveal how the Runna app creates personalized training plans that highlight structured pacing and prevention of injury.

[19:32] - For me, running has become a deeply mental challenge where fueling, hydration, and self-talk determine whether I finish strong!

[22:07] - Jesse and I talk about how training beyond race distance helps build endurance, confidence, and better performance on the day of the race.

[25:12] - Hear how post-race plans will be decided later on but will focus on growth, exploration, and flexible running goals!

[28:11] - I reflect on how what began as a casual activity has turned into a truly meaningful way to explore surroundings and daily life more intentionally.

[30:28] - Jesse remarks that embracing uncertainty in challenges can be motivating, but lack of preparation can also cause setbacks.

[33:32] - Hear how race strategy focuses on maintaining a steady personal pace using training data and body awareness instead of competition.

[36:28] - My running journey has truly grown into a broader reflection on self-growth, balance, and learning to “run your own race.”

Links & Resources

Crystal Paine

Runna App

Fartlek App (Apple)

Fartlek App (Google)

Strava App

Books

Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art by James Nestor

Social Media

Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)

Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)

Crystal Paine on LinkedIn

Crystal Paine on Twitter

Crystal Paine on Goodreads

Money Saving Mom

Money Saving Mom on Facebook

Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group

[email protected]

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

I am truly so excited for this episode because, honestly, it felt like a little therapy session for me, and I really hope that it gives you some aha moments too! I am talking with Jason VanRuler about his book Discovering Your Communication Type: The Five Paths to Deeper Connections and Stronger Relationships, and right from the start as I read it, I was hooked. I could see how the insights would help me with my husband, my kids, and my friendships because it’s practical, relatable, and so surprisingly accessible - like someone finally saying, “Here’s how this actually works,” without all the jargon!

Jason walks us through the five communication styles that make up his PATHS model - Peacemaker, Advocate, Thinker, Harbor, and Spark - and he explains how our words are driven by different motivations: maintaining peace, standing up for what’s right, being logically correct, protecting feelings, or bringing energy and momentum. He and I get into how knowing your style (as well as the styles of those around you) can truly change your conversations, especially when conflict or stress shows up. I had one of those aha moments when I realized that I have been showing up in relationships in ways I think are expected of me, instead of who I am actually wired to be, and yes, that includes my husband and me missing each other mid-conversation more than I’d like to admit.

We also discuss how these patterns can also have strong impacts on parenting, friendships, and even self-care, and one story that hit me hard was realizing that holding out my “I got this, let me help you” sign often keeps people at arm’s length because vulnerability feels too risky. Learning to express my needs without fear has been such a huge game-changer. Listen as Jason shares some practical tips for seeing differences as gifts, understanding where misunderstandings come from, and how intentional awareness can make every conversation more meaningful. By the end, I felt so inspired to rethink how I show up, listen, and allow people in without expecting them to mirror me exactly. If you have ever wanted a roadmap for connecting more authentically with the people in your life (family, friends, colleagues, or even yourself), then this episode is full of insights that really stick, and be sure to grab a copy of Discovering Your Communication Type!

In This Episode

[0:35] - Today’s conversation is with Jason VanRuler, author of Discovering Your Communication Type.

[2;28] - I open up and admit that Jesse and I sometimes misunderstand one another mid-conversation.

[3:47] - Jason explains his five paths.

[5:19] - I reflect on having realized that I balance advocacy with a learned harboring to meet others’ expectations.

[7:49] - Early-life communication patterns often resurface during stress, helping to explain misunderstandings in adult interactions.

[9:14] - Jason notes that awareness of our communication style allows us to give and receive meaningfully.

[11:58] - Hear how I have recognized that accepting care for myself felt as vulnerable as asking for it.

[14:07] - Hear how Jason realized expressing needs clearly allows others to love and support more fully.

[17:02] - Sharing vulnerability with multiple people enriches life and strengthens relationships.

[19:43] - Jason and I talk about how understanding and valuing different communication styles strengthens relationships and lessens conflict.

[22:02] - Effective communication requires listening, understanding others’ perspectives, and adjusting your approach for each situation!

[25:45] - Jason reflects that healthy relationships require patience, mutual effort, and embracing others’ timelines.

[29:08] - Hear how writing prompted Jason to recognize the value of outside perspectives for self-awareness.

Links & Resources

Crystal Paine

Books

Discovering Your Communication Type: The 5 Paths to Deeper Connections and Stronger Relationships by Jason VanRuler

Social Media

Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)

Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)

Crystal Paine on LinkedIn

Crystal Paine on Twitter

Crystal Paine on Goodreads

Money Saving Mom

Money Saving Mom on Facebook

Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group

[email protected]

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Listen in this week as Jesse and I share five exciting updates from the Paine house as of late! Some of our updates are more practical, some are deeply personal, and a few honestly caught me completely off guard, and Jesse comes into the conversation without knowing what I am going to share, which makes it even more fun as we walk through what’s been happening behind the scenes in our world!

I start off with something that might sound minor but honestly felt pretty significant to me - a recent dentist visit that went surprisingly well after years of being told something was wrong with my teeth. After working with a functional medicine doctor and trying oil pulling (something that I was very skeptical about), I had a completely different experience at my last appointment. It made me think more about the connection between oral health and overall health and whether some of the small habits that I have added might actually be making a difference.

From there, we share an update about our son David as he prepares to start kindergarten this fall. If you have been following our story, then you know how remarkable that moment feels for our family. David's team has been working closely with us to create a plan that supports his unique needs, and hearing the goals that they have set for him is both exciting and emotional. David continues to surprise everyone with his determination and personality, and we talk about some of the ways that he’s already showing just how capable that he is!

Another unexpected development is that I agreed to run a 10K with our daughter. That decision has launched me into a whole new world of running, training, and learning far more about shoes and socks than I ever expected. I also share how an unexpected invitation is taking me to Guatemala this summer, something that’s been on my heart since we adopted David, and finally, the biggest update of all: I finished writing my next book! I reveal the title, share the story behind how it came together, and explain why this project feels especially meaningful to me. I hope that you enjoy this episode, and please feel free to reach out with your thoughts!

In This Episode

[0:35] - Jesse and I are sharing five recent updates from our home!

[2:30] - Hear how, despite brushing obsessively, discussing my dental history revealed more serious oral health concerns.

[3:52] - I share how, after months of oil pulling, my dentist visit finally showed unexpectedly healthy teeth.

[7:26] - Realizing oral health affects overall health, I have begun flossing far more often.

[8:28] - David will start kindergarten with extensive support, continually surprising everyone with his determination!

[11:57] - Although full days can be tiring, we are so excited for David’s growth and the support surrounding him!

[13:58] - Hear how I impulsively agreed to run a 10K and am now learning how to train.

[16:37] - I discuss how a salesperson encouraged me to try specialty socks, and I loved them so much that I bought two pairs!

[18:14] - Hear how new running shoes improved my comfort and endurance, helping me run three miles without stopping.

[20:59] - Unexpectedly invited on a church trip, I’m finally visiting Guatemala, a longtime personal dream!

[23:46] - I reveal that, after nearly two years of work, I finally completed the manuscript for my upcoming book.

[26:43] - I also reveal the title of my new book – The 7 Habits of Financially Healthy Women.

[29:22] - Early preorders of the upcoming book include access to a live Q&A call with me!

Links & Resources

Crystal Paine

Books

The 7 Habits of Financially Healthy Women: How to Stop Stressing, Begin Where You Are, and Build the Future You Want by Crystal Paine

Sign up for the free live Q&A call with Crystal when you pre-order!

Social Media

Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)

Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)

Crystal Paine on Goodreads

Money Saving Mom

Money Saving Mom on Facebook

Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group

[email protected]

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

I am so thrilled to have today’s guest on the show because not only does she have brilliant insights to share, she is also a very dear friend as well as my acquisitions editor! Jennifer Dukes Lee is the author of the book How to Love Your Morning: Faith-Filled Habits to Build a Life of Joy and Purpose One Day at a Time, and she joins me for this episode to talk about just that - how to love your morning!

Jennifer offers a truly refreshing perspective that mornings aren’t about the time on the clock but are rather about the mindset that you bring into the day. You don’t have to wake up at 5 a.m. or have two hours of quiet to start well. It’s about the little intentional choices that you make such as greeting God in prayer, practicing gratitude, or reflecting on scripture. She reframes mornings as sacred opportunities even on the hardest days and gives practical ways to create rhythms that fit your life, whether you’re caring for kids, grieving, exhausted from night shifts, or just overwhelmed.

We talk about how small, realistic habits such as setting out clothes the night before, keeping a prayer list by the coffee (or, in my opinion, espresso) maker, or even just stepping outside for a moment of sunlight can truly change your day by setting it on the right track. Listen in as Jennifer shares stories from women across different life stages, as well as historical and everyday figures, showing that there’s no one “perfect” morning routine. I especially love how her book makes it so accessible; it’s permission-giving, practical, and so encouraging!

We also discuss the accompanying six-session Bible study that helps you explore mornings in scripture, offering a chance to go deeper, alone or with friends. Jennifer’s insights reminded me why approaching the day with intention, hope, and God at the center can reshape not just your mornings but your overall life! If you have ever wished that mornings felt less stressful, more meaningful, or simply more joyful, then this episode is definitely for you! Tune in, and please, as always, feel free to reach out to me with your thoughts!

In This Episode

[0:35] - I welcome my good friend Jennifer Dukes Lee to the show to talk about her book How to Love Your Morning!

[1:52] - Jennifer explains how being a morning person is mindset-focused, not defined by the hour you wake.

[4:05] - Jennifer encourages shifting stressful routines into meaningful rituals such as prayer, gratitude, or scripture reflection.

[6:23] - Even during grief or sleepless nights, morning rituals can help you face the day with presence and strength.

[9:52] - I point out that impactful mornings rely on small, realistic habits, not two-hour perfect routines.

[11:13] - Simple, sacred practices like prayer and stepping outside invite God into the start of each day.

[14:49] - I reflect on how stacking small, accessible habits onto daily tasks helps create meaningful morning rhythms.

[17:39] - I also reflect on how giving up coffee was initially difficult because it felt like giving up part of my morning ritual.

[19:00] - Jennifer encourages listeners to begin their mornings with meaningful habits, movement, nourishment, and healthy sleep routines.

[22:55] - Preparing for my morning the night before has been a big gamechanger.

[25:16] - Jennifer highlights how even just one intentional habit can create calmness and inspiration for the whole morning.

[28:28] - Mornings don’t need to be the same for everyone; effectiveness depends on what fits your life.

[31:19] - Scripture reveals mornings to be spiritually important; starting the day with hope aligns us with God’s design.

[34:54] - Doing morning practices with friends can help strengthen accountability and boost everyday joy.

Links & Resources

Crystal Paine

Books

How to Love Your Morning: Faith-Filled Habits to Build a Life of Joy and Purpose One Day at a Time by Jennifer Dukes Lee

How to Love Your Morning Bible Study: 6-Session Guided Journey to Build a Life of Joy and Purpose One Day at a Time (Devotional Study to Start Your Day and Wake Up Thanking God for Every Sunrise by Jennifer Dukes Lee

Social Media

Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)

Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)

Crystal Paine on LinkedIn

Crystal Paine on Twitter

Crystal Paine on Goodreads

Money Saving Mom

Money Saving Mom on Facebook

Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group

[email protected]

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Although we inadvertently took a few weeks off from the podcast, we are back, and overall, the most accurate way to describe life lately is “full.” Between spring breaks, kids popping in and out of the house, and multiple trips layered on top of one another, quiet moments have been pretty rare around here.

Listen in this week as Jesse and I do something we hadn’t actually had time to do yet: sit down and process everything that’s happened over the past few weeks. We talk about the whirlwind of travel – his father-son ski trip to Utah with Silas, my church retreat, and, of course, the titular school trip to Denver that Jesse chaperoned, which he describes as “the most servant-oriented trip I’ve been on.”

Of course, though, life did not slow down when the trips ended. In fact, we walked straight from the airport into a memorial service for three young men whose lives were tragically cut short. One of them had been very close to our family, and the loss really hit our girls – and all of us – deeply.

A big part of this episode, however, as previously mentioned, focuses on Jesse’s time serving alongside students at the Denver Dream Center. Hear how they spent their days hiking in the mountains and their evenings working in inner-city Denver, sharing meals with people experiencing homelessness and connecting with people who were rebuilding their lives after incarceration. Listen as Jesse shares and reflects on some stories about the conversations that happened there such as moments where the goal wasn’t to “fix” anyone but simply to listen, learn names, and recognize the humanity in front of you!

Jesse and I also discuss how even just small choices can shape the direction of a life (for better or worse) and how courage often looks like doing something that feels strange, risky, or unsupported. Sometimes, the most meaningful moments come when we step outside the safe little spaces we’ve built for ourselves and choose to do the thing that scares us most. I hope that you enjoy this heartfelt conversation with Jesse!

In This Episode

[0:35] - We have been absent for a few weeks because of a lot of chaos!

[3:45] - Jesse notes how we haven’t recorded since the trips, which became a major part of his story.

[4:00] - I reflect on how, after returning home, we attended a tragic memorial before juggling several trips and retreats.

[7:26] - Hear how Silas chose a Denver school trip where students hiked Colorado and served the homeless.

[10:24] - What is the ultimate goal of the Denver Dream Center?

[13:24] - Jesse and I talk about how serving others begins with seeing their humanity, learning their stories, and offering dignity and hope!

[16:35] - Serving others ultimately means seeing people’s humanity, learning from them, and connecting without superiority or judgment.

[19:33] - I express my belief that experiences such as Silas’s trip help young people rethink priorities and what's truly important.

[20:16] - Even small choices and courageous ones can reshape the direction of someone's life.

Links & Resources

Crystal Paine

Social Media

Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)

Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)

Crystal Paine on LinkedIn

Crystal Paine on Twitter

Crystal Paine on Goodreads

Money Saving Mom

Money Saving Mom on Facebook

Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group

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I am so excited to be bringing this conversation with repeat guest Addison Bevere to you! Addison is the author of the book Words with God: Trading Boring, Empty Prayer for Real Connection, and his work has really stayed with me since our last discussion. I have, in fact, told so many people about how his heart for faith feels grounded, honest, and alive, and, in this new episode, we talk about his new prayer journal that accompanies his book which is designed as a 40-day invitation to build a more real rhythm with God rather than trying to achieve perfect performance. After all, prayer should not be performative!

One of the themes that keeps coming up throughout our conversation is the idea that prayer isn’t about getting the words right, and I reflect a bit about my own experience learning to slow down and practice rest as a spiritual discipline, something I never really thought much about before. Addison explains how many people feel they are “bad at prayer” because they approach it through shame or expectation rather than connection, and, instead, he frames prayer as simply showing up honestly and paying attention.

We also unpack how quickly our mornings can be hijacked by screens, anxiety, or the pressure to immediately start producing, with Addison sharing a simple but powerful practice: when you wake up, breathe, rest in the moment, and allow your mind and heart to settle before grabbing your phone. He explains how early morning brain states may be uniquely open to reflection, creativity, and spiritual awareness, and I also reflect on how this practice has helped me move from feeling overwhelmed by life’s demands to seeing them as opportunities to respond with love and intention. Addison highlights the importance of writing down fears, burdens, or questions that can help name what we are carrying and create space for clarity.

If you have ever felt unsure how to pray, struggled with slowing down, or longed for a deeper sense of closeness with God, this conversation offers a gentle, practical framework for beginning. I hope that you enjoy this conversation with Addison, and, as always, I would love for you to reach out with your thoughts!

In This Episode

[0:35] - Welcome Addison Bevere back to the show!

[2:07] - Addison believes that prayer thrives on relationship, not performance, and frees us from shame.

[5:48] - Showing up honestly before God each morning is more important than fighting distraction or cultural pressure.

[8:16] - Addison asserts that morning openness invites rest and awareness, while phone use often replaces calm with anxiety.

[11:02] - Listeners are encouraged to breathe, rest, and avoid phones after waking to help nurture creativity.

[13:24] - Surrendering control each day leads to clarity, compassion, and wisdom.

[16:57] - Addison reminds us that remembering answered prayers and embracing limits helps foster humility, trust, and deeper spiritual growth.

[19:39] - I describe relying on the Holy Spirit to guide parenting and daily conversations for me.

[21:58] - Hear how morning listening helps Addison speak compassionately rather than react from a place of insecurity.

[24:49] - I reflect on how starting the day slowly helps me reflect and reconnect with God and my body.

[25:51] - According to Addison, writing fears or pain gives language to emotions, helping awareness and release.

[27:22] - Hear how anxiety can help signal inner needs, helping discern God’s guidance vs. condemning voices.

[30:44] - True prayer invites closeness with God and others, avoiding religious rigidity.

Links & Resources

Crystal Paine

The Crystal Paine Show - 211. Trading Boring, Empty Prayer for Real Connection (with Addison Bevere)

Books

Words with God: Trading Boring, Empty Prayer for Real Connection by Addison D. Bevere

Words with God Prayer Journal: 40 Days of Getting Real with God by Addison D. Bevere

Social Media

Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)

Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)

Crystal Paine on LinkedIn

Crystal Paine on Twitter

Crystal Paine on Goodreads

Money Saving Mom

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Just as a forewarning, this week's episode might be a little bit TMI, but I did mention it coming up in a recent episode – my recent colonoscopy! While I don't get into the especially gritty details, I talk openly with Jesse about my experience because I really wanted to share the full story. I kept hearing from people who were scared of the procedure or avoided it because of what they’d heard about the prep, and I was nervous too, especially after reading all the horror stories online, but I found that preparation and good guidance made a bigger difference than I had expected!

Listen in as I walk you through why I had the procedures in the first place, including my long history with chronic anemia and how my doctors wanted to look for possible root causes rather than just treat symptoms. A big part of the episode is the prep experience because honestly, that’s what people tend to dread the most. However, I talk about starting a low-residue diet days early, sticking to very bland foods, and what it actually felt like to move into the clear-liquids phase. I share how hunger, brain fog, and low energy showed up for me and how surprisingly manageable the laxative process was compared to what I feared. I also mention small practical things that helped such as choosing certain drinks and realizing that some flavors quickly became unappealing once prep started.

I then walk you through the procedure day itself - checking in, getting an IV, anesthesia, and what it felt like waking up after sedation. The sedation was so strong and peaceful that I can understand why people describe it as a really good nap. In fact, I kind of didn't want to wake up! I also reflect on how disorienting that it felt trying to talk afterward when my brain wasn’t putting words together correctly.

I also, of course, touch upon recovery, what my results looked like so far, and why I truly believe that these screenings are worth it, so if you have been afraid of getting a colonoscopy, I really hope that this episode with Jesse makes it feel a lot more approachable!

As always, please feel free to reach out! I would love to hear your thoughts!

In This Episode

[0:35] - This episode shares my colonoscopy and endoscopy experience, addressing fear, prep, and cancer detection.

[4:44] - Hear how I underwent procedures mainly because chronic anemia persisted since childhood and pregnancy complications occurred.

[7:16] - Hear how low hemoglobin and ferritin levels led my doctor to recommend colonoscopy and endoscopy for diagnosis.

[10:42] - I reflect on how I began a strict low-residue diet early, avoiding fiber, fruit, vegetables, and acidic foods.

[13:52] - Hear how the clear-liquid phase felt surprisingly difficult, causing intense hunger, weight loss, and constant emptiness.

[16:36] - I share how clear-liquid days drained my energy.

[18:39] - I avoided mixing Miralax with my favorite drinks because prep may have made those drinks unappealing later.

[20:32] - Preparing for laxatives, I found the worst fears exaggerated; one nauseous hour passed and then relief.

[23:49] - Hear how mixing Miralax with Gatorade surprisingly tasted fine, and calories plus electrolytes improved my energy.

[26:00] - I share how I chugged 36 ounces of prep fluid over two hours, experienced mild thirst, and slept mostly well.

[29:43] - I describe how the anesthesiologist warned of a “spicy” feeling before sedation, and I instantly lost consciousness.

[32:47] - Hear how I was completely out under propofol sedation, awakening groggy but unaware of the procedure.

[34:56] - Waking from propofol felt hypnotically peaceful, and my body stayed unusually difficult to rouse.

[37:18] - Hear how I wanted more sleep after waking, felt groggy, spoke coherently, but couldn’t fully process conversation.

[39:27] - Hear how, post-procedure, I was so disoriented that I dropped food in the car but still ate it!

[42:22] - Recovery was quick, and results looked good, although biopsies and stool tests are still pending.

Links & Resources

Crystal Paine

Crystal’s Colonoscopy Instagram Highlights

Social Media

Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)

Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)

Crystal Paine on LinkedIn

Crystal Paine on Twitter

Crystal Paine on Goodreads

Money Saving Mom

Money Saving Mom on Facebook

Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group

[email protected]

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