Silly Sheep

Silly Sheep

By Amanda Skinner & Ashley Skinner HasselReligion & SpiritualityChristianityParentingKids & Family
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Silly Sheep episodes

  • Self Esteem & The Freedom of Self-Forgetfullness

    What if the answer to insecurity isn’t thinking more about yourself… or even better about yourself—but actually thinking about yourself less?


    In this episode, we unpack a powerful, countercultural truth: both low self-esteem and high self-esteem keep us stuck in the same cycle—constant self-focus. True freedom isn’t found in boosting your confidence, but in releasing the pressure to evaluate yourself at all.


    Rooted in biblical truth, this conversation invites moms to step off the exhausting treadmill of comparison, approval, and self-criticism—and into the peace that comes from anchoring your identity in Christ.


    In This Episode…

    • Why low self-esteem and pride are actually two sides of the same coin  
    • The hidden burden of constantly thinking about yourself
    • What it really means to live with “self-forgetfulness”
    • How the gospel frees you from needing others’ approval
    • Why God’s verdict matters more than your own (or anyone else’s)


    What You’ll Learn…

    • How to stop the cycle of overthinking your worth
    • A healthier, biblical alternative to self-esteem
    • How to handle criticism without being crushed by it
    • What true humility actually looks like (and why it’s freeing)
    • How to walk in confidence without striving or comparison


    Key Truth…

    You don’t need to think more highly of yourself…

    or more negatively of yourself…


    You simply need to think of yourself less.


    That’s where freedom begins.


    - -

    Resources/ Links: 

    The Freedom of Self Forgetfulness-book by Tim Keller 

    Biblical Truths to Encourage You

    1. You Are Wonderfully Made

    📖 Psalm 139:14 –
    “I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”

    Truth: God made you wonderfully on purpose.

    2. You Are Deeply Loved

    📖 Jeremiah 31:3 –
    “I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness.”

    Truth: God’s love for you never changes.

    3. God Chose You

    📖 Ephesians 1:4 –
    “For He chose us in Him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in His sight.”

    Truth: You are chosen and deeply wanted by God.

    4. You Are Not a Mistake

    📖 Ephesians 2:10 –
    “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things He planned for us long ago.”

    Truth: You are a masterpiece, not a mistake.

    5. Your Mistakes Don’t Define You

    📖 Romans 8:1 –
    “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”

    Truth: Mistakes don’t make you ‘bad’—God’s love for you is bigger than any mistake.

    6. You Are Strong & Capable

    📖 Philippians 4:13 –
    “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

    Truth: You are strong, and God helps you do hard things.

    7. You Are Not Alone

    📖 Deuteronomy 31:8 –
    “The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”

    Truth: You are never alone—God is always with you.

    8. God’s Plans for You Are Good

    📖 Jeremiah 29:11 –
    “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

    Truth: God has a good plan for your life, even when it feels rough.

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    Connect with us through instagram @sillysheeppodcast

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    Reach out with any questions or topic suggestions by email [email protected]. 

    38 min
  • Navigating Transitions in Motherhood

    Motherhood is full of transitions—some joyful, some unexpected, and some that stretch us in ways we never anticipated. In this episode, we talk about how to walk through seasons of change with grace, faith, and a steady anchor in God.


    Whether you’re entering a new stage with your kids, facing a shift in identity, or feeling the weight of the unknown, this conversation will encourage you to trust that God is present in every transition.


     In This Episode, We Discuss…

    • Why transitions in motherhood can feel so overwhelming
    • The emotional and spiritual challenges of changing seasons
    • Letting go of control and embracing the unknown
    • How to stay grounded when life feels unstable
    • Trusting God’s purpose in every season


     You Will Learn…

    • How to navigate change without losing your peace
    • Practical ways to stay rooted in your faith during transitions
    • Encouragement for when you feel uncertain or stretched
    • How to release fear and step into what God is doing next


     Key Encouragement…

    God does not rush transitions—He uses them. Even when things feel unclear, He is shaping you, strengthening you, and preparing you for what’s ahead.



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    Connect with us through instagram @sillysheeppodcast

    _ _

    Reach out with any questions or topic suggestions by email [email protected]. 

    32 min
  • Summer Grace: Expectations & Encouragement

    Summer often brings a mix of excitement… and pressure. From Pinterest-perfect plans to trying to “make it magical” for our families, expectations can quietly steal our joy.


    In this episode, we’re talking about what it looks like to release unrealistic expectations and instead embrace grace-filled motherhood during the summer season. You’ll be encouraged to slow down, reset your mindset, and focus on what truly matters—connection over perfection.


    In This Episode, We Talk About…

    • The hidden pressure moms feel during summer
    • How expectations can lead to overwhelm and disappointment
    • The difference between intentionality and perfectionism
    • Why giving yourself grace changes everything
    • Practical ways to create a life-giving summer rhythm


    You’ll Learn…

    • How to let go of unrealistic summer expectations
    • Simple mindset shifts to reduce stress and comparison
    • Ways to be more present with your kids (without doing it all)
    • How to define a “successful” summer for your family
    • Encouragement to embrace flexibility and grace


    Encouragement for Moms…

    You don’t have to create a perfect summer to create meaningful moments.

    Your presence matters more than your plans.


    — —

    Resources: Links: 

    When you are not enough song lyrics-

    https://codeshimmer.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/When-You-Are-Not-Enough-G.pdf


    Scripture mentioned-

    Ecclesiastes 3:1

    Matthew 11:28

    John 15:5


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    Connect with us through instagram @sillysheeppodcast

    _ _

    Reach out with any questions or topic suggestions by email [email protected]. 

    29 min
  • Navigating Sickness with Kids

    When sickness hits your home, it can feel overwhelming, exhausting, and never-ending—especially as a mom. In this episode, we talk about how to navigate sick days with your kids while holding onto peace, grace, and perspective.


    Whether you’re wiping noses, managing fevers, or running on little sleep, this conversation will encourage you to slow down, release unrealistic expectations, and lean into God’s strength in the middle of it all.


    You are not alone in the hard, messy moments of motherhood—God meets you there too.


    In This Episode, We Discuss…

    •The emotional and physical toll of caring for sick kids

    •Letting go of productivity and embracing rest

    •How to respond with patience instead of frustration

    •Finding God’s presence in the interruptions

    •Practical ways to care for your kids and yourself


    You’ll Learn…

    •How to shift your mindset during stressful sick days

    •Simple ways to stay calm when everything feels chaotic

    •Why it’s okay to slow down and not “do it all”

    •Encouragement for showing yourself grace as a mom

    •How faith can anchor you in exhausting seasons


    Encouragement for Moms…

    Sickness has a way of stripping everything back to what really matters. The to-do list can wait. The house doesn’t have to be perfect. Your presence, love, and care are more than enough.


    Give yourself permission to rest, to reset, and to lean on God moment by moment.


    Scripture to Reflect On…


    “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” — Matthew 11:28


    _ _ 

    Links/ Resources: 


    Bible references- 

    Psalm 127:3 "Sons (and daughters) are a gift from the Lord and entrusted in our care"

    Ecclesiastes 3:1-9 " There is a time for everything under the sun"

    Isaiah 40:29 " He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak"

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    Connect with us through instagram @sillysheeppodcast

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    Reach out with any questions or topic suggestions by email [email protected]. 

    29 min
  • Guarding our Thoughts as Moms

    Motherhood is beautiful—but it can also be mentally overwhelming. In this episode, we dive into the power of our thought life and why guarding our minds is essential as moms. Our thoughts shape how we respond, how we see ourselves, and how we walk with God in the middle of everyday chaos. 


    If you’ve ever felt stuck in negative spirals, comparison, or discouragement, this episode will encourage you to realign your thinking with truth and take your thoughts captive.


     In This Episode, We Discuss…

    • Why your thought life matters more than you think
    • Common negative thought patterns moms experience
    • The spiritual battle happening in our minds
    • How your thoughts impact your parenting and identity
    • The connection between truth, peace, and perspective


    What You’ll Learn…

    • How to recognize and interrupt negative thought spirals
    • Practical ways to replace lies with God’s truth
    • What it means to take every thought captive (2 Corinthians 10:5)
    • How to focus your mind on what is true, lovely, and praiseworthy (Philippians 4:8)
    • Simple rhythms to invite the Holy Spirit into your daily thinking
    • The importance of surrounding yourself with life-giving influences



    _ _ _


    Links/ Sources/ Notes:

    Guarding our thoughts as moms….

    1. Be aware of the battle

    2. Speak God’s truth over the lies

    3. Dwell on what is true and noble

    4. Invite the Holy Spirit to Guide your thoughts 

    5. Take every thought captive immediately 

    6. Surround Yourself with Life- Giving Inputs 


    Scripture mentioned: 

    Philippians 4:8 “ Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, and whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things.” 

    2 Corinthians 10:5 “We take captive energy thought to make it obedient to Christ.”

    Ephesians 6:12 “ Our struggle is now against flesh and blood…”

    John 14:26 “ The Holy Spirit … will remind you of everything i have said to you.”

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    Connect with us through instagram @sillysheeppodcast

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    Reach out with any questions or topic suggestions by email [email protected]. 

    36 min
  • Preaching the Gospel to Ourselves & Our Kids!

    As moms, we spend so much time correcting, teaching, and guiding our children—but what if one of the most powerful things we can do is preach the gospel to ourselves first?


    In this episode, we talk about how the gospel isn’t just something we teach our kids—it’s something we desperately need daily. When we remind our hearts of truth, grace, and our identity in Christ, it transforms not only us—but the way we parent.


     In This Episode, We Discuss…

    •What it means to “preach the gospel to yourself”

    •Why moms need the gospel just as much as their kids

    •How our reactions often reveal what we’re believing

    •Modeling repentance, grace, and forgiveness in real time

    •How everyday moments become gospel-teaching opportunities


     What You’ll Learn…

    •How to shift from guilt and frustration to grace-filled parenting

    •Simple ways to remind yourself of truth in hard moments

    •Why your identity in Christ changes how you respond to your kids

    •How to intentionally point your children to Jesus through your own life

    •Practical ways to bring the gospel into everyday conversations


    Key Encouragement…


    You don’t have to be a perfect mom to point your kids to Jesus.

    In fact, it’s often in your weakness, repentance, and dependence on Him that they see the gospel most clearly.


    When you preach the gospel to your own heart—

    you’ll naturally begin to live it out in your home.


    - -

    Links/ Sources: 

    Quote by Charles Spurgeon- " A child's soul is in danger if he expresses confidence in Christ but isn't also learning to name his sins, confess them, and turn to Christ for forgiveness."


    Scripture references: 

    Romans 8:1

    Job 19:25

    Psalm 23:1

    Galatians 2:20

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    Connect with us through instagram @sillysheeppodcast

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    Reach out with any questions or topic suggestions by email [email protected]. 

    49 min
  • Spiritual Growth in the Little Years

    Motherhood in the early years can feel repetitive, exhausting, and even spiritually dry—but what if this season is actually rich with opportunity for deep growth?


    In this episode, we talk about how God is at work in the unseen, ordinary moments of motherhood. True spiritual growth isn’t always found in big breakthroughs, but often in the quiet, daily faithfulness of raising little ones. Like anything meaningful, growth is usually slow, steady, and formed over time—not instant or flashy. 


    If you’ve ever felt stuck, unseen, or like you’re “not growing,” this episode will gently reframe your perspective and encourage your heart.


     In This Episode…

    • Why the “little years” are not a pause in your spiritual growth
    • How God uses mundane, everyday moments to shape your heart
    • The lie that you need more time, space, or perfection to grow spiritually
    • What faithfulness looks like in the middle of diapers, dishes, and distractions
    • How to shift your mindset from frustration to formation


    You’ll Learn…

    • How to recognize spiritual growth in ordinary motherhood moments
    • Simple ways to stay connected to God in a busy season
    • Why slow growth is still real growth
    • Encouragement for when you feel unseen or spiritually stagnant
    • How God is forming you just as much as you are raising your children


     Encouragement for Moms…

    Spiritual growth in motherhood often looks small—but it is not insignificant. Every act of patience, every whispered prayer, and every moment of surrender is shaping your heart in lasting ways.


    You may not see it now, but God is doing deep work in you—right in the middle of these little years.


    _ _ 

    Resources/ Links:

    Domestic Monastery - book

    Liturgy of the Ordinary- book


    Scripture mentioned: 

    Matthew 25:40

    Colossians 3:23-24

    Psalm 127:3-4

    Isaiah 40:11

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    Connect with us through instagram @sillysheeppodcast

    _ _

    Reach out with any questions or topic suggestions by email [email protected]. 

    39 min
  • The Top 5 Things the Lord has Taught Me Through Motherhood with Ali Parsons!


    In this uplifting kickoff to our new series, Amanda and Ashley sit down with Ali Parsons — wife, mom of two, local podcaster, and church leader — for a heart‑to‑heart conversation about what motherhood has taught her about faith, grace, and God’s goodness. Ali shares the top five lessons she’s learned through the everyday joys and challenges of raising her children, bringing truth, hope, and a whole lot of sunshine to the conversation. Whether you’re in the trenches of toddlerhood or walking through a season of waiting, you’ll be encouraged to see how the Lord shows up in the mess, the milestones, and every moment in between. 


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    Connect with us through instagram @sillysheeppodcast

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    Reach out with any questions or topic suggestions by email [email protected]. 

    47 min
  • Marriage Part Two ft. The Husbands!

    In Marriage Part Two ft. The Husbands!, Amanda and Ashley continue their heartfelt conversation on marriage — this time with the husbands joining in! 🎙️ Tune in as the “silly dads” offer their perspectives on marital life, parenting, and what really matters in a relationship. You’ll hear honest insights, laughter, and Gospel‑centered discussion that brings both the joys and challenges of marriage into focus. Whether you’re married, preparing to be, or just love learning from others’ experiences, this episode blends truth with real‑life stories in a fun and encouraging way. 


    _ _ 

    Links/ Resources: 

    * Urgency Matrix Diagram:

    https://www.forbes.com/sites/hillennevins/2023/01/05/how-to-get-stuff-done-the-eisenhower-matrix-aka-the-urgent-vs-the-important/

    The Power of Moments- book

    The Five Love languages- book


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    Connect with us through instagram @sillysheeppodcast

    _ _

    Reach out with any questions or topic suggestions by email [email protected]. 

    49 min
  • Marriage & Motherhood

    Motherhood can easily take center stage, leaving marriage on the back burner—but God designed both relationships to thrive together, not compete. In this episode, we talk about how to intentionally care for your marriage in the midst of busy motherhood, without guilt or overwhelm.


    If you’ve ever felt torn between being a present mom and a connected wife, this conversation will encourage you to realign your heart, your priorities, and your daily rhythms.


    In This Episode…

    •Why marriage often gets neglected in motherhood

    •The tension between caring for your kids and investing in your spouse

    •How small, intentional choices can strengthen your marriage

    •Letting go of guilt when prioritizing your relationship

    •What it looks like to build a Christ-centered home


    You’ll Learn…

    •How to shift your mindset about marriage and motherhood

    •Practical ways to connect with your spouse in busy seasons

    •Why a healthy marriage blesses your children

    •Simple rhythms to stay emotionally and spiritually connected

    •Encouragement to pursue unity, not perfection


    A Gentle Reminder…

    You don’t have to choose between being a good mom and a good wife. When your marriage is nurtured, your whole family benefits. Small steps of intentionality can lead to deep, lasting connection.


    _ _ 

    Resources/ links:

    John Mark Comer- The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry - "We feel distant from ourselves. We lose sight of our identities and callings. We get sucked into the tyranny of the urgent, not the important."


    5 Ways to reconnect with your spouse/ Scripture References:

    1. Greet lovingly- 2 Corinthians 13:12

    2. Speak kindly- Proverbs 15:1

    3. Touch purposefully- Song of Solomon 3:4

    4. Listen Intently- James 1:19

    5. Thank frequently

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    Connect with us through instagram @sillysheeppodcast

    _ _

    Reach out with any questions or topic suggestions by email [email protected]. 

    51 min

About Silly Sheep

From the publisher's feed

A podcast meant to encourage moms with Gospel truths in every season. Come dive in with Amanda and Ashley, friends, sisters (in law), and two silly sheep at heart as we seek to follow the Shepherd…