Michelle Hieb, Beth Sanders, and Laura Fricke talk about The Invitation Project and what hospitality looks like during military deployments and other difficult seasons. They share personal deployment stories, practical ways other people showed up for them, and advice for military spouses and uniformed women who are preparing for or walking through separation.

• The group focuses on hospitality as more than dinner invitations. It can be mowing a lawn, dropping off meals, walking together, praying, or helping with childcare
• Beth shares that her first year of marriage and a later season ten years into marriage both included deployments
• Laura describes meeting her husband while he was already mid deployment to Syria, then marrying and later experiencing her own deployment as a spouse
• Beth recalls deploying at the same time as her husband, but in a different unit, which created a unique strain because she knew when he was heading out into danger
• The women talk about gratitude as a survival tool during hard seasons, including journaling, prayer, and deliberately looking for small signs of God’s care
• Laura explains how some of the people she expected most to show up did not, while others she never expected became consistent support
• Michelle describes a church family that quietly helped her through deployment by mowing grass, adding Christmas lights for her children, and offering steady care

• The conversation ends with practical deployment prep ideas like praying together, using devotionals, recording voices for children, making playlists, finding chaplains, and seeking community early

• Small, practical help often matters more than grand gestures
• Gratitude, prayer, and community are repeated anchors.
• Military women need both spiritual tools and real-world support
• Connection can come from local churches, remote friends, apps, and intentional invitations

01:51 - Deployment histories from the panel, including multiple one-year deployments03:07 - Beth’s experience deploying while her spouse deployed too04:53 - Why being the one who knows the danger can feel harder05:28 - Different deployment seasons with and without children06:27 - Redefining hospitality beyond meals and dinner tables07:12 - A church women’s group adopts Beth’s deployed unit08:18 - Sending practical care items for women downrange09:24 - Laura’s favorite hospitality moments: walks, prayer, and being included11:03 - A church family shows up with Christmas lights and small acts of care12:58 - When expected support does not show up14:57 - Gratitude journaling and retraining the mind in hard seasons16:37 - Finding positive, faith-filled community instead of complaint circles16:56 - Laura discovers Planting Roots while looking for somewhere to serve18:58 - Advice for preparing before deployment begins19:55 - Praying together and using shared devotionals as a couple20:25 - Helping children understand deployment with stories, countdowns, and faith21:07 - Using maps, recorded voices, and books to stay connected with kids22:42 - Laura’s advice for guard and reserve spouses finding community early24:29 - Using an app to answer daily questions and stay emotionally connected25:31 - Why church community can become a steady support system26:51 - Learning to accept help instead of carrying everything alone28:36 - Advice for uniformed women preparing to deploy29:06 - Bible apps, chaplains, and women’s studies downrange30:04 - Ways military mothers can stay connected to children during deployment31:22 - Music, instruments, and worship in deployment settings32:50 - Building playlists and sharing songs during difficult seasons34:16 - The emotional distance that can show up before deployment35:54 - Giving grace because every deployment and every person is different36:24 - Beth’s reminder to take deployment one bite at a time37:38 - The Invitation Project as a resource for women in hard seasons

Most of us associate hospitality with perfection — the spotless tables, Pinterest-worthy decor, flawless hosting. But what if I told you hospitality isn’t about aesthetics or personality traits? It’s a reflection of God's heart — an act of obedience, invitations that echo Scripture’s generosity and love, reaching beyond surface appearances to create genuine belonging, even in chaos.Brenda Pace, Director of Leadership Development at Planting Roots, shares powerful stories from military life — boxes, PCS moves, fleeting friendships — yet she reveals bold truths about how to practice hospitality anywhere, anytime. She debunks myths that hospitality is optional or only for extroverts, showing it’s rooted in God's character, not our skills. You'll discover how embracing imperfection opens up space for real connection, how faithfulness trumps duration, and how fleeting seasons can deepen lifelong bonds.This episode is a lifeline for military spouses, busy moms, and believers craving authentic community. Brenda’s insights will shift how you see your invitation to love and serve — not as a task to perfect, but as a divine opportunity to reflect God's invitation to us all.Perfect if you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by chaos, underestimated your ability, or hesitated to connect. Whether you’re in the military or just longing for deeper community, this is your call to practice, not perfect — to invite, listen, and love with boldness because that’s where God's presence dwells.After all, real hospitality is theological before it’s practical, and it transforms lives one genuine invitation at a time. Are you ready to step into this divine calling? Hit play and discover the power of messy, beautiful, God-driven hospitality.

How Serving Side by Side Transforms Lives and RelationshipsDive into a heartfelt conversation that challenges our views on community, service, and ownership of hospitality. Kasey Reyes Stout shares intimate stories from her life, her military journey, and her faith, inspiring us to love without hesitation and serve without grumbling.In this episode:How meaningful hospitality is modeled through family and ministry examplesThe importance of offering hospitality without grumbling and pure motives (1 Peter 4:9-10, Philippians 2:3-4)Navigating the season of life with children and feeling seen as a guestThe beauty of differences in serving alongside a spouse or friendHow one night of overwhelm can turn into a powerful life lessonPractical ways to serve with heart and intention in your current seasonBuilding community within military and faith-based circlesThe transformative power of one day at a time’ in trusting God’s planHow to get involved and volunteer with Planting Roots and other ministries

Most women in uniform will tell you—building community while serving is one of the toughest challenges we face. But what if those small, simple invites—sharing a meal, a prayer, a coffee—are the real keys to transforming loneliness into strength? This episode unleashes powerful stories of courage, vulnerability, and divine timing in military sisterhood.From a West Point freshman’s spiritual breakthrough sparked by a simple breakfast invite to a deployed woman’s life-changing connection with a Christian sister—these moments prove that community is a divine invitation, not a perfect plan. You’ll discover: how to extend authentic invitations even in chaos, how small acts of vulnerability build lasting bonds, and why intentionality with your time creates a rhythm of faith everywhere you go.We break down practical ways to find your people in every season and how to say yes and no with wisdom. These stories highlight the importance of community rooted in Jesus, showing us that even a shared prayer or a cup of coffee can ripple into lifelong faith friendships.If you’ve ever felt isolated, overwhelmed, or just not sure where you belong, this episode is your bold reminder: God is weaving your story with others. You don’t have to do this alone—there’s a divine purpose in every connection, every invitation, every moment of vulnerability.Perfect for military women craving authentic community, busy moms seeking deep roots, or anyone needing a fresh perspective on the power of simple acts of faith—hit play now and step into the community God is already creating around you.Why this works: This episode hits an immediate emotional chord with a compelling story of divine invitations, addresses real struggles with vulnerability and community, and offers clear, doable steps to build meaningful relationships. It’s authentic, relatable, and invites action—perfect to turn browsers into listeners ready to grow in faith and sisterhood.In this episode:How a simple FCA breakfast changed one woman’s spiritual journeyThe importance of small, consistent invitations in building communityCourage needed to extend invitations across seasons of move and changeNavigating the challenges of overcommitment and rejectionPractical ways to find and nurture faith-based relationships wherever you serveHow Paul’s missionary journeys inspire our approach to community on the moveThe role of transparency, vulnerability, and prayer in accepting and offering invitationsEncouragement for introverts and extroverts alike to step into spaces where God is workingTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction: Why invitations matter in military community02:15 – Sharing personal stories of meaningful invitations03:36 – How God’s biblical invitation has shaped our faith journeys06:46 – Stories of life-changing community moments in deployment08:46 – Small steps that lead to deep relationships12:36 – Challenges in accepting invitations: Overcommitment and vulnerability14:03 – How to wisely choose what to say yes or no to15:57 – Building ongoing community: The power of routine and consistency18:01 – Navigating logistical challenges, especially with family and moves22:48 – Overcoming feelings of not belonging in faith communities27:25 – Practical advice for newcomers and seasoned military women31:17 – Turning everyday moments into faith-sharing opportunities33:35 – Creative ways to build community: Meetups, home groups, and spontaneous gatherings37:52 – The importance of mutual connections and trusting God’s network41:23 – Finding community in unique and unexpected places44:43 – Encouragement always to start where you are — God's faithfulness in remembering faces and stories48:08 – The importance of intentionality in building community, even in a busy military schedule55:54 – The ripple effect of one invitation — how building relationships impacts generations58:52 – A prayer for courage, community, and faithfulness in all seasons

Turning Military Life into a Mission Field: Embracing the InvitationThis episode dives deep into the extraordinary value of embracing change, building intentional community, and viewing each duty station as a divine mission. With guest Kori Yates, we explore how military families can turn constant movement into a powerful witness for Christ — one invitation at a time.In this episode:The power of unifying themes for the year and how they guide ministry effortsMoving as a constant—how family and faith adapt in new communitiesThe significance of intentionality in community building, even for introvertsLessons from biblical exile—living on mission wherever God places usHow military families are modern-day missionaries, shaping a global movementPractical ways to foster belonging quickly after a moveThe importance of boundaries to avoid exhaustion and stay spiritually energizedUsing small groups and church communities as launch pads for impactHonoring grief during transitions —why it's vital for health and purposeCreating "Moving Scrapbooks" to remember God's faithfulness across placesThe role of local churches in recognizing, welcoming, and sending military familiesTimestamps:00:00 - The invitation project as a unifying theme for 202602:23 - Family as odd ducks, navigating community in new places04:47 - The heart of biblical living in exile & God's purpose in displacement09:12 - Embracing introversion while building community11:30 - Transitioning from belonging to being sent as missionaries15:42 - Managing grief and expectations during frequent moves22:18 - Creating tools like "Moving Scrapbooks" to remember God's faithfulness27:05 - The importance of setting boundaries to prevent burnout35:19 - Why living intentionally in your current location is a powerful ministry42:33 - Quick community-building tips post-move49:01 - Validating grief and normalizing weariness in transition55:35 - Remembering people over possessions, building lifelong connections60:27 - How churches can recognize and activate military families as missionaries62:55 - Embracing your season and finishing strong in every assignmentWhat is God calling you to in this season? Embrace it fiercely. Serve intentionally. Let each move be a mission, each community a classroom, and each goodbye an invitation to trust in God's bigger plan. Your next chapter is already being written — step into it boldly, knowing you're part of a divine movement.

The Power of Invitation and Mentorship in Military LifeThis episode dives deep into the authentic, relational nature of mentorship within the military community — and how it transforms lives, bonds, and faith. Whether you're a seasoned mentor or just starting to extend your hand, discover how simple, intentional invitations can create lifelong impact.In this episode:How military life shapes our view and experience of mentorship

Relational mentorship vs formal mentoring — why both matter

The role of community, hospitality, and authenticity in nurturing relationships

Examples of informal mentoring moments that changed lives

The importance of vulnerability, intentionality, and grace in mentorship

Navigating generational differences in the way we connect and invite

Learning and teaching through diverse perspectives and experiences

How seasons of life influence our mentoring needs and opportunities

Timestamps:⁠

00:00⁠ - Welcome and episode overview: the significance of invitation in mentorship⁠

2:36⁠ - Exploring how military life influences mentorship perceptions⁠

04:09⁠ - Heidi shares her long-standing mentorship journey⁠

05:05⁠ - The power of open homes and welcoming community⁠

06:50⁠ - Heidi’s experience with biblical and relational mentorship

⁠08:36⁠ - Rachel’s story of creating meaningful community in new settings⁠

10:40⁠ - The importance of having others outside your immediate family⁠

12:19⁠ - Recognizing relational mentorship beyond formal structures⁠

13:01⁠ - Military culture’s impact on mentoring language and practices⁠

14:44⁠ - Biblical foundations: Timothy and Paul as models for relational mentorship⁠

16:42⁠ - Extending invitations and creating relational spaces⁠

18:36⁠ - Moving from formal to relational mentorship — how authentic connection happens⁠

20:18⁠ - Reflecting on intentionality in relationships across seasons⁠

22:37⁠ - Small moments of acknowledgment and their profound impact⁠

23:37⁠ - Generational shifts in how we receive and extend invitations⁠

26:33⁠ - Adapting to technology and cultural changes in connecting with others

⁠30:23⁠ - Grace-filled modeling of relationships and understanding different life stages⁠

33:16⁠ - Learning from others' behaviors, modeling authentic mentorship⁠

36:34⁠ - Navigating the unique challenges of parenting adults and seeking growth⁠

39:30⁠ - The importance of intentionality and vulnerability in mentorship⁠

42:01⁠ - Maintaining connection and wisdom through life transitions⁠

44:21⁠ - Broadening perspectives: mentoring those with different experiences⁠

46:32⁠ - The value of authentic relationships that thrive in messiness⁠

48:25⁠ - Embracing seasons: short-term drippers versus lifelong bonds

49:27 - Closing thoughts and encouragement to extend God's invitation

Most of us associate hospitality with perfection — the spotless tables, Pinterest-worthy decor, flawless hosting. But what if I told you hospitality isn't about aesthetics or personality traits? It's a reflection of God's heart — an act of obedience, invitations that echo Scripture's generosity and love, reaching beyond surface appearances to create genuine belonging, even in chaos. Brenda Pace, Director of Leadership Development at Planting Roots, shares powerful stories from military life — boxes, PCS moves, fleeting friendships — yet she reveals bold truths about how to practice hospitality anywhere, anytime. She debunks myths that hospitality is optional or only for extroverts, showing it's rooted in God's character, not our skills. You'll discover how embracing imperfection opens up space for real connection, how faithfulness trumps duration, and how fleeting seasons can deepen lifelong bonds. This episode is a lifeline for military spouses, busy moms, and believers craving authentic community. Brenda's insights will shift how you see your invitation to love and serve — not as a task to perfect, but as a divine opportunity to reflect God's invitation to us all. Perfect if you've ever felt overwhelmed by chaos, underestimated your ability, or hesitated to connect. Whether you're in the military or just longing for deeper community, this is your call to practice, not perfect — to invite, listen, and love with boldness because that's where God's presence dwells. After all, real hospitality is theological before it's practical, and it transforms lives one genuine invitation at a time. Are you ready to step into this divine calling? Hit play and discover the power of messy, beautiful, God-driven hospitality.

In this episode of the Planting Roots podcast, Ashleigh Monk interviews Kim Chatto, a former Air Force officer and current Deputy Director of Marketing for Planting Roots. Kim shares her unique journey from military life to civilian life, discussing her experiences with marriage, motherhood, and her transition out of the military. She emphasizes the importance of faith, community, and personal growth, particularly through her involvement in pageantry. Kim's story resonates with many military women and wives, offering insights into navigating challenges and finding purpose in life's transitions.

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Website: https://plantingroots.net/

 "They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit." -Jeremiah 17:8

In this episode of Deeply Rooted, Liz interviews Marissa Cina, an O5 in the Army and publishing director at Planting Roots. They discuss Marissa's journey into the military, her motivations, and the challenges of maintaining identity and faith in a demanding environment. Marissa shares her transformative experiences, the importance of community among military women, and her passion for encouraging creativity and faith through her work with Planting Roots. The conversation highlights the significance of building supportive networks and the role of faith in navigating military life. Instagram: / plantingroots1 Facebook: / plantingroots1 YouTube: / @plantingroots1 Website: https://plantingroots.net/ "They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit." -Jeremiah 17:8