How Christian moms can slow down, simplify, and savor what truly matters this Christmas.

Thriving This Holiday Season: Calling, Purpose, Work, and a Peaceful December

In this final episode of Season 1, we’re wrapping up the year with a conversation that feels like a deep breath. I’m diving into three themes that have shaped this entire season and will continue to shape this community as we head into a new year:

1. A Heartfelt Recap of Season 1
We’ll look back at the journey we’ve taken together—from the early stories of calling and transition, to healing, motherhood, identity, and intentional living. I’ll share the biggest lessons God has highlighted through this first season of the Discovering Home podcast.

2. Calling, Purpose, and Work
We’ll talk honestly about what calling actually is (and what it isn’t), and how so many of the roles God entrusts to us—marriage, motherhood, caring for family—are not “achievements,” but assignments from Him. I’ll share the mindset shifts I had to make after leaving a busy career, why humble work matters, and how to view your job and your home through the lens of obedience and purpose.

3. Thriving This Holiday Season as a Mom
Whether you’re excited for the holidays or feeling the pressure rising, this section is your invitation to choose peace over performative perfection. We’ll talk about materialism, traditions that matter, simple hospitality, debt-free gifting, Mary vs. Martha, and how to focus on connection over consumption—all while keeping Jesus at the center.

As we close out the year, this episode will help you breathe, release pressure, and step into the holidays (and the new year ahead) with clarity, confidence, and Christ-centered peace.

If this season has blessed you, make sure to subscribe to the email list so you don’t miss updates while the show is on break. 

Support the show

Become a monthly supporter of the show:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2498555/support

Shop gifts for moms at my online store:
www.karlabmonterrosa.com/store

Interested in 1:1 Coaching, click here to learn more:
www.karlabmonterrosa.com/work-with-me

If you're exploring becoming a stay-at-home mom, I created this FREE resource just for you:

🎧 Start Your Journey Home
Take the free quiz → Is God Calling You Into a New Season of Motherhood?

www.karlabmonterrosa.com/quiz

💌 Stay Encouraged

Join my email list for updates and encouragement directly to your inbox: www.karlabmonterrosa.com/subscribe

Do you have a question or comment for me?
I'd love to hear from you.
Email me at: [email protected]

For speaking events, interview inquiries, or collaboration, email:
www.karlabmonterrosa.com/speaking

Discover a grace-filled way to set goals that honor your season, your family, and God’s purpose for your life.

Do you ever feel like you’re doing everything but not moving in the direction you want to go? In this episode, I share how intentional goal setting changed my life—from exhausted and overwhelmed in a busy career in public service to living a slower, more peaceful, and faith-centered life at home.

I’ll also share a few updates about what’s ahead for Discovering Home and what you can expect during the upcoming holiday break and next season of the show.

You’ll learn how to set goals that fit your current season, reflect on what truly matters, and take practical steps forward with grace—not guilt.

Whether you’re a working mom dreaming of more time at home or simply craving clarity for the year ahead, this conversation will help you shift from feeling overwhelmed to feeling intentional and trusting God with your next chapter.

To learn more about the resource I shared in the episode, visit www.writingoffsocial.com

Support the show

Become a monthly supporter of the show:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2498555/support

Shop gifts for moms at my online store:
www.karlabmonterrosa.com/store

Interested in 1:1 Coaching, click here to learn more:
www.karlabmonterrosa.com/work-with-me

If you're exploring becoming a stay-at-home mom, I created this FREE resource just for you:

🎧 Start Your Journey Home
Take the free quiz → Is God Calling You Into a New Season of Motherhood?

www.karlabmonterrosa.com/quiz

💌 Stay Encouraged

Join my email list for updates and encouragement directly to your inbox: www.karlabmonterrosa.com/subscribe

Do you have a question or comment for me?
I'd love to hear from you.
Email me at: [email protected]

For speaking events, interview inquiries, or collaboration, email:
www.karlabmonterrosa.com/speaking

Discover how the Holy Spirit leads, comforts, and strengthens you as a mom called to create a Christ-centered home.

In this episode of Discovering Home, Karla B. Monterrosa—author, speaker, and Christian coach for moms—shares how you can walk daily with the Holy Spirit and experience His peace in your home and family life.

Through her personal journey from a busy city career to a slower, faith-filled season of motherhood, Karla unpacks what Scripture teaches about the Holy Spirit’s role as our Helper, Advocate, and Counselor. You’ll learn:

• Who the Holy Spirit is and why His presence is essential for believers
• How He provides wisdom for everyday decisions in your home and motherhood
• What it looks like to invite His peace into your routines and relationships
• How surrendering your plans can open the door to deeper purpose and rest

If you’re a mom longing for clarity, calm, and spiritual renewal, this episode will help you recognize how God’s Spirit is already at work in your life—leading you toward peace, faith, and freedom.

✨ Motherhood was never meant to be done alone. The Holy Spirit is your daily companion, guide, and source of strength.

Support the show

Become a monthly supporter of the show:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2498555/support

Shop gifts for moms at my online store:
www.karlabmonterrosa.com/store

Interested in 1:1 Coaching, click here to learn more:
www.karlabmonterrosa.com/work-with-me

If you're exploring becoming a stay-at-home mom, I created this FREE resource just for you:

🎧 Start Your Journey Home
Take the free quiz → Is God Calling You Into a New Season of Motherhood?

www.karlabmonterrosa.com/quiz

💌 Stay Encouraged

Join my email list for updates and encouragement directly to your inbox: www.karlabmonterrosa.com/subscribe

Do you have a question or comment for me?
I'd love to hear from you.
Email me at: [email protected]

For speaking events, interview inquiries, or collaboration, email:
www.karlabmonterrosa.com/speaking

Biblical encouragement and practical steps to help Christian moms feel confident starting homeschooling — even if you’ve never taught before.

Are you wondering if your kids will have friends if you homeschool… how to juggle different ages and needs… or if you’re even capable of doing this?

In today’s episode, I'll share our family’s honest homeschool journey along with the top 10 questions we asked early on. Get ready for the truth about how you can make homeschooling work for you and your family, along with faith-filled encouragement and practical strategies you can use right away.

The Top 10 Questions Christian Moms Ask When Considering Homeschooling:

1. What is homeschooling? 
2. Is homeschooling legal?
3. How can I make sure I am complying with the law in my state?
4. Will my child have friends? 
5. Practically speaking, how does this work on a day-to-day basis?
6. How do I juggle different ages and abilities?
7. I just don't have the patience. How could I possibly make this work?
8. I'm not a trained teacher. How could I possibly take this on?
9. What if I don’t feel I can teach certain subjects?
10. Can I do this?

We cover:

• Socialization reality: Do homeschooled kids have friends? (Spoiler: yes—church, co-ops, field trips, extended community)
• Daily rhythms: What a homeschool day actually looks like (blocks, group vs. independent work)
• Multiple ages & abilities: Family-style curriculum, adapting expectations, and grace for real life
• Legal basics (U.S.): Homeschool is legal in all 50 states + where to check your state’s requirements
• When you’re not a teacher: Why you can do this—and what to outsource if you need support (tutors, online classes, co-ops)
• Confidence & calling: Moving from fear to faithful next steps with God’s help

Resources mentioned:

• HSLDA – Homeschool Legal Defense Association (link to state laws + guidance)
• Family-style curriculum we love (Apologia)

Connect with me:
Website: KarlaBMonterrosa.com
Explore if coaching might be the next right step for you. Book a free 20-minute clarity call with me: KarlaBMonterrosa.com/work-wit

Support the show

Become a monthly supporter of the show:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2498555/support

Shop gifts for moms at my online store:
www.karlabmonterrosa.com/store

Interested in 1:1 Coaching, click here to learn more:
www.karlabmonterrosa.com/work-with-me

If you're exploring becoming a stay-at-home mom, I created this FREE resource just for you:

🎧 Start Your Journey Home
Take the free quiz → Is God Calling You Into a New Season of Motherhood?

www.karlabmonterrosa.com/quiz

💌 Stay Encouraged

Join my email list for updates and encouragement directly to your inbox: www.karlabmonterrosa.com/subscribe

Do you have a question or comment for me?
I'd love to hear from you.
Email me at: [email protected]

For speaking events, interview inquiries, or collaboration, email:
www.karlabmonterrosa.com/speaking

Biblical encouragement for Christian moms considering homeschooling as a step of faith.

Are you feeling God tugging at your heart to homeschool, but aren’t sure if it’s the right step for your family?

In this episode, I’m sharing our homeschool story — why we left traditional school and how God led us to a new rhythm of learning centered on faith, family, and freedom.

You’ll hear about the fears we faced, the lessons we’ve learned, and the incredible peace that came from trusting God’s direction for our children’s education.

Whether you’re already homeschooling or just beginning to consider it, this episode will provide you with biblical encouragement and practical insights to help you take your next step in faith.

Because home is holy work — and raising children in the Lord is a ministry worthy of your time, energy, and effort. 

You’re not alone. God’s grace is sufficient for you. He is faithful and has promised to guide you every step of the way. 🌿

To check the homeschooling laws in your state and other homeschooling resources, visit www.hslda.org

Tune in next time for part 2 of this important conversation. I'll walk you through some of the big questions I wrestled with as a Christian mom and how we were able to make homeschooling work for our family.

✨ New episodes released every Wednesday

💻 Learn more at karlabmonterrosa.com

Support the show

Become a monthly supporter of the show:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2498555/support

Shop gifts for moms at my online store:
www.karlabmonterrosa.com/store

Interested in 1:1 Coaching, click here to learn more:
www.karlabmonterrosa.com/work-with-me

If you're exploring becoming a stay-at-home mom, I created this FREE resource just for you:

🎧 Start Your Journey Home
Take the free quiz → Is God Calling You Into a New Season of Motherhood?

www.karlabmonterrosa.com/quiz

💌 Stay Encouraged

Join my email list for updates and encouragement directly to your inbox: www.karlabmonterrosa.com/subscribe

Do you have a question or comment for me?
I'd love to hear from you.
Email me at: [email protected]

For speaking events, interview inquiries, or collaboration, email:
www.karlabmonterrosa.com/speaking

If you’ve ever wondered how your family could make it work on one income, this episode is for you. On this episode, I share my personal story of transitioning from a two-income household to a home-centered life — and the practical steps, mindset shifts, and faith lessons that made it possible.

You’ll learn how to:

💡 Identify the true financial and emotional cost of working outside your home

📝 Build or review your family budget with prayer and purpose

🏡 Spend smarter and stretch your resources through simple habits

❤️ Communicate with your husband and find unity in financial decisions

🙏 View your finances through the lens of Biblical stewardship and trust in God's  provision

Whether you’re preparing to step away from full-time work, already navigating life and motherhood on one income, or simply learning to steward well what you've been given, this conversation will help you take your next step with confidence and faith.

💕 Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

🕊️ Download my free guide: Start Your Journey Home

Support the show

Become a monthly supporter of the show:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2498555/support

Shop gifts for moms at my online store:
www.karlabmonterrosa.com/store

Interested in 1:1 Coaching, click here to learn more:
www.karlabmonterrosa.com/work-with-me

If you're exploring becoming a stay-at-home mom, I created this FREE resource just for you:

🎧 Start Your Journey Home
Take the free quiz → Is God Calling You Into a New Season of Motherhood?

www.karlabmonterrosa.com/quiz

💌 Stay Encouraged

Join my email list for updates and encouragement directly to your inbox: www.karlabmonterrosa.com/subscribe

Do you have a question or comment for me?
I'd love to hear from you.
Email me at: [email protected]

For speaking events, interview inquiries, or collaboration, email:
www.karlabmonterrosa.com/speaking

Biblical Mindset Shifts That Help Christian Moms Overcome Negative Thoughts and Cultivate Harmony at Home

What you think shapes how you live, love, and lead in your home. In this episode of Discovering Home, I’m sharing my own journey of healing from childhood trauma, breaking free from destructive thought patterns, and learning to renew my mind through God’s Word.

You’ll hear how writing my book Unbraided became the path God used to bring deep healing, and how Scripture shows us that our minds are a spiritual battlefield—but one where Christ has already given us victory. Together we’ll explore:

• Why taking your thoughts captive is essential for peace in your home and marriage
  
  
• How lies from the enemy take root and become mental strongholds
  
  
• Practical and biblical steps to renew your mind and transform your life
  
  
• The importance of unity with your husband when stepping into a new season at home
  
  

If you’re longing for a more peaceful heart, a stronger marriage, and a Christ-centered home, this episode will encourage you to fight for freedom in your thoughts and step into the abundant life God has for you.

Support the show

Become a monthly supporter of the show:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2498555/support

Shop gifts for moms at my online store:
www.karlabmonterrosa.com/store

Interested in 1:1 Coaching, click here to learn more:
www.karlabmonterrosa.com/work-with-me

If you're exploring becoming a stay-at-home mom, I created this FREE resource just for you:

🎧 Start Your Journey Home
Take the free quiz → Is God Calling You Into a New Season of Motherhood?

www.karlabmonterrosa.com/quiz

💌 Stay Encouraged

Join my email list for updates and encouragement directly to your inbox: www.karlabmonterrosa.com/subscribe

Do you have a question or comment for me?
I'd love to hear from you.
Email me at: [email protected]

For speaking events, interview inquiries, or collaboration, email:
www.karlabmonterrosa.com/speaking

Have you ever wondered what God really wants for your next season of life — especially when you’re feeling the pull to slow down, step away from your career, and be more present at home? In this episode of Discovering Home, I’m sharing 7 practical, biblical steps to help you discern God’s will for your life with confidence and peace.

You’ll learn how to:

• Deepen your prayer life and listen for God’s voice
• Recognize how Scripture confirms His direction
• Pay attention to the desires and burdens He places on your heart
• Seek wise counsel and test what you’re sensing
• Walk forward in faith — even when the path feels uncertain

If you’re a Christian mom who longs for more time with your family but wonders if leaving work is the right move, this conversation will guide you toward clarity and trust in God’s plan.

Support the show

Become a monthly supporter of the show:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2498555/support

Shop gifts for moms at my online store:
www.karlabmonterrosa.com/store

Interested in 1:1 Coaching, click here to learn more:
www.karlabmonterrosa.com/work-with-me

If you're exploring becoming a stay-at-home mom, I created this FREE resource just for you:

🎧 Start Your Journey Home
Take the free quiz → Is God Calling You Into a New Season of Motherhood?

www.karlabmonterrosa.com/quiz

💌 Stay Encouraged

Join my email list for updates and encouragement directly to your inbox: www.karlabmonterrosa.com/subscribe

Do you have a question or comment for me?
I'd love to hear from you.
Email me at: [email protected]

For speaking events, interview inquiries, or collaboration, email:
www.karlabmonterrosa.com/speaking

Stay-at-Home Mom Life: Work, Seasons, and the Proverbs 31 Woman.
In this episode, we’re breaking down the myth that stay-at-home moms don’t work. Motherhood is work—holy, purposeful work—and how it looks will shift depending on your season, your children’s ages, and your family’s needs. That’s the beauty of being home: you can adapt your rhythms according to the values and priorities God has placed in your care.

Drawing from the example of the Proverbs 31 woman, we’ll explore how God designed our work to change across the seasons of life. Whether you’re working outside the home, discipling children within it, or walking somewhere in between, your quiet efforts have eternal impact.

Mama, don’t rush. You have time. God has given you a long runway for growth, sanctification, and purpose. He is sovereign over every season, and your daily choices—how you spend your time, where you place your energy, and the way you love your family—are a powerful testimony of His goodness.

If you sense that God is leading you to shift from a career to a home-centered life, could it be that He has a special plan for you there? To deepen your faith, to live out His Word, and to quietly build His kingdom, starting with those He’s entrusted to you?

Be faithful with whatever He’s placed in your hands to steward. Remember: home is holy work, and motherhood is a ministry worth pursuing.

Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode, and share it with another mama. You never know who may need this encouragement today.

Support the show

Become a monthly supporter of the show:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2498555/support

Shop gifts for moms at my online store:
www.karlabmonterrosa.com/store

Interested in 1:1 Coaching, click here to learn more:
www.karlabmonterrosa.com/work-with-me

If you're exploring becoming a stay-at-home mom, I created this FREE resource just for you:

🎧 Start Your Journey Home
Take the free quiz → Is God Calling You Into a New Season of Motherhood?

www.karlabmonterrosa.com/quiz

💌 Stay Encouraged

Join my email list for updates and encouragement directly to your inbox: www.karlabmonterrosa.com/subscribe

Do you have a question or comment for me?
I'd love to hear from you.
Email me at: [email protected]

For speaking events, interview inquiries, or collaboration, email:
www.karlabmonterrosa.com/speaking

My Story and Why This Matters
In this very first episode of Discovering Home, I’m sharing the heart behind the podcast and the journey that brought me here. Before I became a stay-at-home mom, I spent nearly 20 years in a demanding career—chasing titles, striving to “do it all,” and quietly wondering if this was really the life God had called me to.

When I finally took a leap of faith and followed God’s call home, He not only redefined my identity; He transformed my life and gave me a new purpose. 

In this episode, I open up about:

• My personal story of leaving the full-time hustle to embrace life at home
• The three big questions: Why this? Why now? Why does it matter?
• The truth I’ve discovered about motherhood, identity, and living with purpose
• Why I believe home is holy work and motherhood a ministry worth pursuing

Whether you’re a working mom dreaming of more time with your family or a stay-at-home mom needing encouragement in your calling, this episode will remind you that motherhood is valuable, powerful, and beautiful. 

You are not alone. 

I'm praying for you.

Support the show

Become a monthly supporter of the show:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2498555/support

Shop gifts for moms at my online store:
www.karlabmonterrosa.com/store

Interested in 1:1 Coaching, click here to learn more:
www.karlabmonterrosa.com/work-with-me

If you're exploring becoming a stay-at-home mom, I created this FREE resource just for you:

🎧 Start Your Journey Home
Take the free quiz → Is God Calling You Into a New Season of Motherhood?

www.karlabmonterrosa.com/quiz

💌 Stay Encouraged

Join my email list for updates and encouragement directly to your inbox: www.karlabmonterrosa.com/subscribe

Do you have a question or comment for me?
I'd love to hear from you.
Email me at: [email protected]

For speaking events, interview inquiries, or collaboration, email:
www.karlabmonterrosa.com/speaking