Jim Burns is back for round two on Messmerized! If you missed last week’s episode, stop what you’re doing (unless you’re driving or getting a colonoscopy) and go listen—we talked all about raising kids with sexual integrity, which, let’s be honest, is not the easiest thing in today’s world.

This week, we’re shifting gears and talking about what happens when those kids actually grow up and start leaving—which is equal parts freeing and terrifying. Jim and I dive into the emotional rollercoaster of empty nesting, why it can feel like an identity crisis (especially for moms), and how to reinvent ourselves when our house suddenly gets a little too quiet. 

We also cover the tricky art of parenting adult children—supporting them while letting them live their own lives. And yes, we discuss the very important truth that we cannot, in fact, pick their partners for them, no matter how many “I told you so” moments we see coming.

If you’re anywhere on the parenting journey—knee-deep in school drop-offs, staring down an empty nest, or already there wondering what to do next—this episode is for you. And please share this with your friends who need reminders that God is in the details, even when those details involve hard goodbyes, big life transitions, and resisting the urge to correct our adult children’s life choices. 

Can’t wait for you to listen!

All things Cynthia

Doing Life with Adult Children by Jim Burns

A Student’s Guide to Sexual Integrity by Jim Burns

Let’s be real—there’s a long list of things I’d rather do than have “the talk” with my kids. Root canal? Yes. DMV with a missing document? Absolutely. 

But since it’s apparently poor form to let TikTok raise our children, I guess it’s time to step up. Enter Jim Burns, who has spent years helping parents navigate the minefield of talking to their kids about relationships, faith and—brace yourself—sex. He’s here to tell us why we need to make these conversations less awkward and more ongoing, why a relaxed approach is better than a full-blown TED Talk, and how to teach kids to guard their hearts without scarring them with the purity culture we grew up with. 

Jim reminds us that parenting in the digital age is next-level complicated, and the internet is shaping kids’ views on sex way before we even think to address it. The good news? We can be the safe place they come to with their questions. We’ll talk about the importance of sexual integrity, biblical wisdom, and even touch on dating relationships. 

So, if you’ve been dreading these conversations, take a deep breath—we’ve got this. And as Jim says, sometimes “No” is the most loving word we can say.

P.S. If you could leave a review here to help others find us, we would SO appreciate that!!

A Student’s Guide to Sexual Integrity by Jim Burns 

HomeWord and all things Jim Burns

Dr. Mikala Albertson is back, and we’re diving into all the fun midlife surprises—stress, anxiety, preventative health, and why our bodies suddenly have a mind of their own. We’re breaking down the difference between normal stress and full-blown anxiety, and whether medication is the right move. If you’ve ever found yourself Googling “Am I dying, or is this just midlife?”—this episode is for you.

We also get into the stuff we love to avoid: preventive health. Turns out, regular check-ups and blood work actually matter (who knew?!). Mikala shares what we need to be monitoring and why taking care of ourselves now saves a lot of stress later. Plus, we talk about the midlife body—how it’s changing, why that’s okay, and how to shift our focus from unrealistic expectations to real health and self-acceptance.

And because no midlife conversation is complete without discussing food and sleep, we unpack intuitive eating, the dangers of disordered eating, and why freedom in our choices matters. Plus, if your sleep is suddenly a disaster, you’re not alone—tune in for ideas on what might help.

This episode is full of laughs, real talk, and practical advice to help us navigate midlife without losing our minds (or at least, not completely). So grab your coffee, your reading glasses and let’s figure this out together. 

All things Cynthia Yanof

Everything I Wish I Could Tell You About Midlife by Mikala Albertson, MD

MESSmerized with Mikala Albertson Episode 76

Dr. Albertson’s Website

 In today’s episode, I chat with Dr. Mikala Albertson about menopause, hormone therapy, and all the things we need to know to feel better in midlife. We kick things off by debunking some common myths around hormone replacement therapy and why it's not as scary as we once thought. Mikala explains how estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone affect our bodies and what happens when we lose them. And as a girl who is fighting some serious night sweats, you better believe I was tuned in. 

We also dive into supplements, with Mikala sharing the four key ones she recommends. (I take the sum total of zero supplements, so this part was particularly interesting to me.) We discuss how to navigate the overwhelming supplement market and what to avoid. Spoiler: Not all supplements are created equal!

Then, we talk about ADHD in adults—the struggle is real. Dr. Mikala breaks down how many women might mistake stress for ADHD and how to figure out what’s really going on. We also touch on the decision fatigue we face as we juggle midlife responsibilities.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the changes happening in your body and mind, this episode is for you. It’s full of practical tips, real talk, and a little humor to help you manage the chaos of midlife. 

Don’t forget to tune in next week as we continue talking to Dr. Mikala about stress vs. anxiety, preventative care, and loving our bodies in midlife.

Thanks for listening!

All things Cynthia Yanof

Everything I Wish I Could Tell You About Midlife by Mikala Albertson, MD

MESSmerized with Mikala Albertson Episode 76

Dr. Albertson’s Website

Hey Friends!

Today we kick-off week number two with Kari Kampakis, and if you missed last week, you’ll definitely want to go back and listen. Today, Kari and I dive into everything from teenage relationships to exploring how crucial it is for our kids to know who they are before stepping into college life.

Kari also shares a much-needed reminder about how social media, friendships, and even a dash of loneliness can fuel resilience—all wrapped up in the broader mission of instilling strong faith, family values, and personal growth.

So whether you’re the household cop for a little one, playing coach to a high schooler, or even wearing the consultant hat for a college kid, remember: our commitment to raising healthy, compassionate, and resilient kids is at the heart of it all.

I can’t wait for you to listen!

All things Cynthia 

Yours Not Hers: 40 Devotions to Stop Comparison and Love Your Life by Kari Kampakis 

I’m so excited to kick off a two-week series with Kari Kampakis on raising girls! We dive into everything from the drama of friendship struggles and those classic mean girl moments to the surprisingly powerful role that loneliness plays in building resilience. These topics are just a few highlights from her new girls’ devotional, Yours Not Hers—an absolute must-have for girls from junior high through college!

I couldn’t help but laugh (and sometimes cringe) as we unpacked how social media has turned even the simplest interactions into epic battlegrounds of comparison and envy. I shared my own struggles with setting boundaries—not just for our kids, but for myself—and we both agreed that teaching our daughters to be kind, resilient, and open about their feelings is more crucial now than ever.

Today’s conversation with Kari is equal parts funny, heartfelt, and downright honest—reminding us that while the digital age may complicate parenting, our commitment to nurturing strong, compassionate girls remains timeless. Enjoy the episode!

All things Cynthia

Yours Not Hers: 40 Devotions to Stop Comparison and Love Your Life by Kari Kampakis

Happy Valentine’s Week! 💗💗💗💗💗

First, I want to say thank you for the kind words and incredible response to last week’s episode, where I went rogue with a solo show. I’m so glad it encouraged you! Yes, I’m hoping to do more episodes like this after I finish the book I’m currently working on. 

I’m excited for our show today, because I’m chatting with Jess Johnston and Amy Weatherly about a topic that hits home for so many of us—perfectionism, vulnerability, and the beauty of authentic friendships. We talk about the impossible standards we set for ourselves, the way societal expectations can warp our self-worth, and how true growth happens when we stop pretending and start being real. 

Jess and Amy open up about their own struggles with perfectionism and how learning to embrace imperfection has led to deeper, more meaningful relationships. We dive into the importance of community and why letting people in—even when it feels messy—can be the most freeing thing we do. If you've ever found yourself exhausted from trying to have it all together, this episode is for you. 

So, take a deep breath, let go of the need to be perfect, and join us for a conversation that just might change the way you approach your friendships, identity, and lots more! 

All things Cynthia 

Perfect is Boring (And it Tastes Like Kale) by Jess Johnston 

Amy Weatherly’s books: I’ll Be There and Here for It 

Follow Amy on Facebook at Sister I am With You and @Amy Weatherly  

Hey Friends,

It’s February, which means Valentine’s Day is upon us—but more importantly, it marks the one-year anniversary of my first book, Life is Messy, God is Good!

Looking back over the past year, I’m overwhelmed with gratitude for the friends and family who have walked this journey with me. Whether you bought the book, shared it with a friend, left a review, hosted a book launch party, or prayed for my words to make an impact—you’ve been part of this crazy adventure, and I couldn’t be more thankful.

Maybe it’s the nostalgia of this milestone, or maybe it’s just menopause brain fog (let’s be honest, probably both), but I’m feeling all the feels. So, this week on MESSmerized, I’m doing something a little different—no guest, just me and the mic! That’s right, I’ll be having a conversation (with myself, as one does) about three key areas where I believe we need to give ourselves permission to pivot.

These thoughts stem from a women’s leadership conference where I recently spoke about the importance of:

✅ Redefining success
✅ Reprioritizing our days
✅ Doing things that don’t always make sense

And since we’re celebrating my book’s anniversary, I’ll also share a few stories straight from its pages—because what better time to reflect on this wild ride?

So, tune in, laugh with me, and let’s get personal. And if this episode speaks to you, I’d love for you to share it with a friend.

Thanks for showing up each week and walking this road with me. I’m in it with you!

All things Cynthia Yanof

Grab your copy of Life is Messy, God is Good!

Happy Wednesday!

Is it just me, or did January last six months? I cannot handle one more school holiday, winter illness, or ¼ inch of snow canceling school. But I digress.

I’m thrilled to round out this month with an amazing conversation featuring Melanie Shankle. And yes, Amy Weatherly is still co-hosting with me, and I couldn’t be more grateful!

To know me is to know that I’ve been a huge fan of Melanie’s books for years. I was so excited to hear she has a new one coming out, and—spoiler alert—it might just be my favorite yet! Today, we’re covering topics like parenting teenage daughters, the insights we gain through years of motherhood, and the importance of teaching our kids resilience. Melanie also opens up about her strained relationship with her mother and her decision to end generational trauma.

Melanie’s book releases on February 18th, and now is the perfect time to pre-order it. I’ve read it cover to cover, and trust me—there’s something for everyone in this book.

I can’t wait for you to hear this conversation... and I really can’t wait for January to finally end. 😂😂😂

All things Cynthia Yanof

Amy Weatherly’s books: I’ll Be There and Here for It 

Follow Amy on Facebook at Sister I am With You and @Amy Weatherly  

Here be Dragons by Melanie Shankel 

I’m thrilled to have Amy Weatherly back co-hosting MESSmerized with me for this exciting episode, because we’re chatting with the incredible Annie F. Downs!

Annie is living the dream (and the hustle) part-time in New York City, and let me tell you, she’s not just surviving; she’s thriving. For those of us who’ve dreamed of moving to NYC but stayed safely tucked away in places like North Dallas (okay, maybe that's just me), Annie made it happen. And I’m so excited to share her journey with you!

On a more serious note, we dive into body image, health, and unresolutions. Annie shares how her perspective on health shifted from trying to shrink her body to focusing on living a long, full life. We also talk about her deeply personal new book, Where Did TJ Go?, co-written with her sister. This book is a beautiful resource for families grieving the loss of a child. Inspired by the life and passing of her nephew TJ, it offers gentle hope and reminds us of the faith we hold onto, even in our hardest moments. Raw, redemptive, and a testament to God’s goodness in every circumstance.

If there’s one takeaway from Annie’s journey, it’s this: Don’t shy away from doing the big, scary, or hard things. Whether it’s moving to a new city, embracing your body as it is, or walking through grief, the Lord shows up every step of the way. Annie is living proof that even in the hardest moments, there’s beauty and joy in the unexpected.

Can’t wait for you to listen! 💕

All things Cynthia Yanof

Amy Weatherly’s books: I’ll Be There and Here for It 

Follow Amy on Facebook at Sister I am With You and @Amy Weatherly 

All things Annie F. Downs 

Where did TJ Go? A book for kids on grief and loss (By Annie F. Downs and Tatum Green)