In this episode of the Sendy Mom podcast, Becky Brouwer explores the life and contributions of Aurelia Spencer Rogers, a pioneer in children's education and the founder of the Primary organization for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The conversation delves into Aurelia's early life, her challenges, and her unwavering commitment to the spiritual welfare of children. Becky emphasizes the importance of positive thinking, overcoming imposter syndrome, and being a deliberate parent, encouraging listeners to find joy and purpose in their parenting journey.

Takeaways:

• Aurelia Spencer Rogers was a pioneer in children's education.
• She founded the Primary organization to support children's spiritual welfare.
• Positive thinking can lead to longevity and happiness.
• Imposter syndrome is a common experience that can keep us humble.
• Being a deliberate parent means making intentional choices for your children.
• Aurelia faced many challenges but remained optimistic and happy.
• Finding a life task can bring fulfillment and purpose.
• It's important to cultivate cheerfulness and pleasant thoughts.
• Parents should create opportunities for their children to learn and grow.
• Hope and positivity are essential in parenting and life.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Aurelia Spencer Rogers

02:33 Aurelia's Early Life and Trials

04:08 The Birth of the Primary Organization

05:59 Finding Purpose and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

08:39 The Power of Cheerfulness and Positive Thinking

11:13 Creating Opportunities for Children

12:27 Being a Deliberate Parent

Mentioned in the Show:

Find all links here: https://sendymom.com/2025/02/11/aurelia-spencer-rogers-pioneer-of-faith-and-education/

Life Sketches of Orson Spencer and Others, and History of Primary Work

Episode #14 - Angela Johnson: Sculpting a Life of Purpose

Episode #1 - Radical Acceptance with Miriam

Odyssey of the Mind

Eliza R Snow as Relief Society President

In this episode, Becky Brouwer talks with Angela Johnson — sculptor, former opera singer, and artist of faith — about self-discovery, overcoming fear, and following a divine creative calling. Angela shares her journey from the opera stage to sculpting the Tree of Life Garden at Thanksgiving Point, her experiences with anxiety and rejection, and why kindness may be the most powerful life strategy of all.

Meet Angela Johnson: Angela Johnson pivoted from opera to become one of Utah's most prolific sculptors. Her life's work, the Tree of Life Garden at Thanksgiving Point, contains over 200 life-sized sculptures depicting scenes from the life of Christ. She is a mother of 4 and grandmother to 20. Her depth of knowledge and spirituality will leave you thinking for days.

What You'll Hear:

• Courage and vulnerability go hand in hand
• Challenging yourself is a key to happiness
• We all want to feel like we are contributing
• God speaks to each of His children uniquely
• Kindness is one of the most powerful life strategies
• Rejection is part of every artistic journey
• Art can powerfully express faith and connection

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction

06:25 Discovering Personal Gifts and Talents

10:11 Overcoming Fear with Faith

15:21 Opera to Sculptor

20:05 Navigating Rejection in the Arts

28:32 Sculpting and Spiritual Inspiration

30:06 Creating a Sculpture Garden

35:16 Art as a Medium for Connection

39:16 The Power of Kindness

42:06 New Projects and Future Aspirations

45:13 Rapid Fire Questions

Resources Found Here: 14. From Opera to Sculpture: Overcoming Fear on Stage and in Art

If You Loved This Episode, Try: 13. Aging Sendy: Lessons from a WWII Survivor at 81 20. Art After Motherhood: Creating Without Guilt 44. From Nepal at 15 to Launching An Art Business: Leslie Morley on Faith, Fear, and Creative Calling

Free Coaching & Subscribe: 👉 Subscribe: sendymom.com 👉 Email Becky: [email protected] Becky's Free Coaching Calendar

In this episode of the Sendy Mom Podcast, Becky Brouwer highlights the extraordinary bravery of three young women from the Dutch resistance during World War II. She explores their courageous actions against the Nazi regime, emphasizing the importance of standing up for one's values and recognizing oppression. The conversation delves into various forms of resistance, the significance of integrity, and practical ways to advocate for justice in everyday life. Ultimately, it serves as a call to action for listeners to identify their values and respond with courage in the face of injustice.

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Takeaways:

• The story of Dutch resistance fighters inspires us to stand up for our values.
• Bravery can manifest in many forms, not just in loud actions.
• Understanding oppression is crucial to fighting against it.
• Small acts of defiance can lead to significant change.
• Identifying core values is essential for personal integrity.
• Teaching children about values shapes future generations.
• Using unique skills can contribute to the greater good.
• Cognitive dissonance can guide us to align actions with beliefs.
• Building a supportive community amplifies our impact.
• Living boldly in alignment with beliefs is a powerful choice.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Dutch Resistance Heroes
02:57 The Courage of Young Women in War
05:23 Acts of Defiance and Resistance
08:31 Understanding and Upholding Values
11:06 Practical Ways to Stand Up for Beliefs
12:55 Conclusion

Mentioned in the Show:

Find all links here: https://sendymom.com/2025/01/28/sendy-spotlight-on-hannie-schaft-truus-and-freddie-oversteegen/

To Die Beautiful - Buzzy Jackson (novel)

Seducing and Killing Nazis - Sophie Poldermann (non-fiction)

Three Ordinary Girls - Tim Brady (non-fiction)

Episode #9 - Tales from a Sendy Survivor: Faith Robles

Bonus Episode #10 - Maria Montessori

https://nypost.com/2019/12/14/meet-the-dutch-girls-who-seduced-nazis-and-lured-them-to-their-deaths/

In this episode of the Sendy Mom podcast, Becky Brouwer interviews Ans Brouwer — an extraordinary 81-year-old who reflects on her childhood in the Netherlands during World War II, her years at a music conservatory, and a life shaped by faith, family, and courageous choices. Ans inspires listeners to live purposefully, embrace challenges, and surround themselves with good influences.

Meet Ans Brouwer: Ans Brouwer is 81 years old but doesn't look a day over 65 — and acts like she's about 25. She was born in the Netherlands during World War II, the oldest grandchild of a large family who made sure the baby never went hungry, even during the devastating Hunger Winter. She later studied at a music conservatory, moved to Australia, and eventually made her way to America — a life full of bold choices made for family, faith, and personal growth.

Ans is spunky, positive, unapologetically herself, and full of surprises. She says what she means and means what she says. I know Ans well — we met in person the day before I got married, and she became my mother-in-law. I am lucky. This is what a real Sendy woman looks like.

What You'll Hear:

• Growing up in war-torn Netherlands shaped Ans's character
• Family dynamics play a crucial role in personal development
• Taking risks is essential for growth and self-discovery
• Faith provides strength during difficult times
• Community support is vital for overcoming challenges
• Surrounding yourself with positive influences changes everything
• Aging gracefully means staying active and engaged

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction of Ans Brouwer

03:30 Childhood in the Netherlands During WWII

05:14 Family Dynamics and Resilience

06:58 Dad's Escape from a Nazi Work Camp

09:14 Adventures and Risks in Youth

11:26 Riding the Barges to School

15:01 Falling in the Ice

19:46 Be a Coffee Bean

23:40 Moving to Australia and New Beginnings

25:27 Self Advocacy at the Conservatory of Music

34:10 The Cold War and a Fresh Start

43:26 Faith, Community, and When Your Child Chooses a Different Path

50:38 The Journey to America

53:08 Staying Active and Engaged at 81

55:55 Rapid Fire Questions

Find all the Resources Here:

13. Creating a Legacy of Love

Keep Listening:

1. Planting Positivity: Growing Kids, Gardens, and Relationships

17. The Joy of Motherhood and Hyde Park Academy

26. Teaching Children to Work, Love, and Be Bored with Dorothy Scoresby

"Composing gives me great pleasure... there is nothing that surpasses the joy of creation, if only because through it one wins hours of self-forgetfulness, when one lives in a world of sound." ~ Clara Schumann

Get some great ideas for how to teach your children to be more creative and how to find joy in creating more!

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Mentioned on the show:

Find all links here: https://sendymom.com/2025/01/12/discovering-joy-creativity-lessons-from-clara-schumann/
Play Dough Recipe
Things to do when you are bored, can’t play screens and need something fun to do…
Odyssey of the Mind

Music used:
Soirées musicales, Op. 6: IV. Ballade, Clara Schumann, Claudio Colombo
Soirées musicales, Op. 6: III. Mazurka in G Minor, Clara Schumann, Claudio Colombo
Soirées musicales Op. 6: II. Notturno, Clara Schumann/Mika Sasaki (Obsidian) 

Every day we show up and perform in life. Do you want to know the secret to performing with joy and fulfillment? Listen to this episode to find out the secrets! Amazing insights from my friend and mentor Dr. Christie Sowby. Subscribe to the channel for more insights from women who have lived a generous life!

Meet my Guest:
Dr. Christie Sowby is an accomplished pianist, teacher, and leader in the world of music education. She is also my good friend and mentor. She has won awards for her teaching and performing and has even played in Carnegie Hall in New York. She also is a mother of an amazing special needs daughter. She contributes so much to the world of music and is a light to everyone around her. Her desire to just make the world a little better is a true testament to her goodness.

What You'll Hear:
• Christie's belief in the power of support and encouragement from family.
• The importance of pursuing one's passions despite challenges.
• Resilience is key when facing life's unexpected trials.
• Education and continuous learning are vital for personal growth.
• The role of mindset in performance and achieving goals.
• Finding joy in serving others and contributing to their lives.
• The significance of accepting people for who they are.
• Overcoming obstacles can lead to unexpected blessings.
• The impact of a supportive community during difficult times.
• Music can be a powerful tool for connection and expression.

Chapters:
00:00 Intro to Sendy Mom Podcast
00:46 Introducing Dr. Christie Sowby
06:07 The Impact of Supportive Influences
09:16 Learning the Piano
12:53 Seeing Others Deeply
15:04 The Role of Family in Personal Growth
17:41 Taking Risks in Pursuit of Passion
20:08 The Importance of Mentorship
22:33 Enjoying Serving Those who Can't Help Themselves
26:02 Navigating the Challenges of Parenting a Child with Disabilities
34:02 Transformative Life Changes and Resilience
37:50 High Performance Techniques and Mindset
44:29 The Journey of Education and Personal Growth
46:26 Rapid Fire Questions
52:33 Sendy Mom Outro.mp4

Resources here: Music, Disability Parenting, and Playing for the Love of It

Sendy Spotlight on:
"Yeonmi Park: A voice of resilience, transforming unimaginable hardship into a mission for freedom and human rights."

Enjoy my brief overview of Yeonmi Park who escaped North Korea and has become an advocate for human rights in the world.

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☘️Mentioned in the Show:
In Order to Live - Yeonmi Park

firstanswers.com - Lynn Scoresby

Yeonmi Park Instagram

Liberty in North Korea

Struggling with ADHD as an adult? My guest and sister, Emily McKinney shares her journey through childhood, education, and the impact of ADHD on her learning and teaching methods. We talk about family values, personal growth, and the unique path Emily has taken, culminating in Emily's current work in Theatre fitness. Emily shares her journey of finding community, overcoming insecurities, and reinventing her fitness programs after moving to Indiana. She discusses the emotional toll of isolation and how creativity emerged from adversity, leading her to teach and impact youth through theatre fitness. Emily emphasizes the importance of resilience in entrepreneurship and the need for healthy learning environments for kids.

What you’ll Hear:

• Resilience is key to overcoming life's challenges.
• Family support plays a crucial role in personal development.
• Service to others can help overcome feelings of isolation.
• Education can be a struggle, but hard work pays off.
• ADHD can be managed through understanding and support.
• It's important to recognize and harness one's strengths.
• Dreams may change, but the journey is valuable.
• Teaching children principles of service fosters empathy.
• Personal growth often comes from difficult experiences.
• Embracing one's unique qualities leads to success. Community helped me overcome insecurities.
• Reinventing fitness programs was a necessity.
• Isolation took an emotional toll on me.
• Creativity emerged from adversity.
• Teaching youth is my passion.
• Resilience is key in entrepreneurship.
• Healthy learning environments are crucial for kids.
• I want theater fitness to be globally accessible.
• Letting go of insecurities is essential.
• Personal growth comes from overcoming challenges.

Chapters:

00:00 Sisterly Bonds and Backgrounds

05:34 Resilience and Overcoming Challenges

11:54 Tools to Help Children with ADHD

15:44 Teaching Principles of Service

22:47 ADHD and Personal Growth

31:54 Dreams, Aspirations, and Life Choices

35:30 Finding Community and Overcoming Insecurities

36:52 Reinventing Fitness Programs

38:31 The Emotional Toll of Isolation

40:41 Creativity Born from Adversity

42:03 Transitioning to Teaching and New Opportunities

43:25 Resilience in Entrepreneurship

45:06 Impacting Youth Through Fitness and Theater

49:24 Building Resilience in Kids

51:48 The Future of Theater Fitness

54:45 Rapid Fire Questions and Personal Insights

01:03:13 Outro words and music.mp3

Find resources here: ADHD, Theatre Fitness, and Using Your Energy as a Superpower

Where to go next:

Radical Acceptance with Miriam Wood

Faith, Courage, Hope: A Story of Addiction Recovery

The Truth About Parenting Neurodivergent Kids (And Why You’re Not Alone)

From Opera to Sculpture: Overcoming Fear on Stage and in Art

The Sendy Spotlight this week is on Maria Montessori, an influential figure in education known for her innovative approach that emphasizes independence, creativity, and hands-on learning. I highlight her journey as a pioneering woman in medicine and education, her establishment of the Montessori method, and include practical tools for parents to foster these values in their children.

Takeaways:

• Maria Montessori was one of Italy's first female doctors.
• She developed the Montessori method through observation of children's learning.
• Montessori believed in the power of a supportive environment for learning.
• Her first school, Casa de Bombini, opened in 1907.
• Montessori education prioritizes independence and creativity.
• Children learn best when they can choose their activities.
• Practical life skills are essential in Montessori education.
• Encouraging independence builds confidence in children.
• Creativity flourishes in a supportive environment.
• Persistence and resilience are key traits to model for children.

Mentioned in this Bonus Episode:
https://montessori-ami.org/resource-library/facts/biography-maria-montessori

“The Parenting Breakthrough” by Merrilee Browne Boyack
sendymom.com 

Learn about the importance of teaching children independence and a strong work ethic. We discuss the challenges of fostering and adopting children, the impact of childhood experiences on personal growth, and the significance of creativity in building relationships. Lani shares her journey of self-discovery and the lessons learned through navigating trauma and parenting challenges, emphasizing the importance of being real and supportive in the lives of children.

What you’ll Hear:

• Being a 'Sendy Mom' involves teaching children essential life skills.
• Work ethic is instilled through hands-on family experiences.
• Family traditions create lasting memories and connections.
• Creativity is essential for personal growth and expression.
• Starting a business can stem from a passion for creativity.
• It's important to embrace discomfort in the learning process.
• Teaching children to do hard things prepares them for life. There's a learning curve in trying new things.
• Ceramics can be a fun family activity.
• Adoption can be a challenging but rewarding journey.
• Reactive attachment disorder affects children's ability to connect.
• It's important to be real about struggles to help others.
• Love alone may not be enough for children with trauma.
• Personal growth often comes from facing adversity.
• Exploring new hobbies can lead to personal fulfillment.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to the Sendy Mom Podcast

00:54 Lani working with her Dad in Construction as a Child

03:05 Teaching Your Children to Work

07:04 Do or Do Not. There is No Try. Whiteboard Messages

08:37 Family Traditions and Memories

13:59 High School Experiences and Self-Confidence

17:30 Teach Children to Have a Full Life through Creativity

23:03 Starting a Ceramics Business

28:17 The Journey of Ceramics and Community

30:16 The Art of Ceramics and Family Engagement

34:42 Navigating the Journey of Adoption

35:03 The Challenges of Fostering and Adoption

38:34 Understanding Reactive Attachment Disorder

44:42 The Impact of Trauma on Family Dynamics

49:51 Growth Through Adversity and Life Lessons

53:39 Rapid Fire Questions

56:21 Exploring New Interests and Hobbies

Find resources here: https://sendymom.com/2024/12/13/fostering-growth-creativity-and-courage-with-lani-adamson/

Sendy Spotlight:
Maria Montessori:
"The greatest sign of success for a teacher is to be able to say, 'The children are now working as if I did not exist.'"
 "Never help a child with a task at which he feels he can succeed."

If you loved this episode, try:

Sendy Bucket Lists with Jeanetta Robinson

Seizing Opportunities: Adoption, PhD, and Saying Yes

Teaching Children to Work, Love, and Be Bored with Dorothy Scoresby

From $80 to an eBay Business: Sendy Entrepreneurship