In this episode of The Connected Mom podcast, host Becky Harling discusses the vital role of friendship in women's lives, particularly for mothers. She reflects on her personal journey through cancer, emphasizing the importance of nurturing relationships and being intentional in friendships. Harling warns against complacency and encourages listeners to treasure their friends, take initiative, and engage meaningfully in their lives. The episode sets the stage for a series focused on deepening friendships and supporting one another through life's challenges.

Becky's book:Friend-wise: Practical Ideas for Richer Relationships

In this episode of The Connected Mom, Becky Harling and therapist Kenza Haddock delve into the complexities of mother wounds, particularly focusing on the impact of borderline personality disorder in mothers. They discuss the emotional turmoil faced by children of borderline mothers, the importance of setting boundaries, and the necessity of forgiveness in the healing process. The conversation emphasizes the significance of therapy, self-awareness, and the power of God's healing in overcoming generational patterns of emotional distress.

Kenza's Book: Unmasking Narcissism: Exposing and Breaking Free From Hidden Patterns of Abuse

In this episode of the Connected Mom podcast, Becky Harling and therapist Kenza Haddock delve into the complex topic of mother wounds, particularly focusing on the impact of narcissistic mothers. They discuss the emotional scars left by such relationships, the difficulty of forgiveness, and the importance of setting boundaries for healing. Kenza emphasizes the need for self-compassion and the role of spiritual mothering in the healing process. The conversation also highlights the significance of prayer and seeking support from healthy relationships as part of the journey towards recovery.

Kenza's book: Unmasking Narcissism: Exposing and Breaking Free From Hidden Patterns of Abuse

In this episode of the Connected Mom podcast, the host discusses the challenges of letting go as a parent, especially when children grow up and pursue their own paths. Featuring Jennifer Dukes Lee, the conversation explores themes of faith, the importance of prayer, and the emotional journey of parenting. Jennifer shares her experiences with her daughters, their educational pursuits, and the role of prayer in navigating the challenges of parenting. The episode emphasizes the significance of trusting God's plan for our children and the power of scripture in providing comfort and guidance.

Jennifer’s book: It's All Under Control:

In this episode of the Connected Mom podcast, host Becky Harling and counselor Michelle Nietert discuss the emotional challenges of letting go as parents, particularly when sending children off to college. They explore the importance of understanding the Father heart of God, navigating the complexities of college life, and the dual responsibilities of caring for aging parents while raising children. Michelle shares practical tips for moms in the sandwich generation, emphasizing the need for community support, self-care, and the acceptance of grief during transitions.

Michelle book: Strong and Secure

In this episode of the Connected Mom podcast, host Becky Harling and guest Peggy Sue Wells discuss the complexities of motherhood during the holiday season, particularly focusing on the challenges of navigating relationships with adult children. They explore the emotional dynamics of family gatherings, the impact of high conflict divorce on holiday celebrations, and the importance of clear communication. The conversation emphasizes the need for mothers to transition from traditional parenting roles to friendships with their adult children, while also highlighting the significance of gratitude and emotional health in maintaining these relationships.

PeggySue Wells is an award-winning USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author, writing coach, and independent publishing strategist who inspires readers and writers alike with nearly 50 captivating books and practical guides.

Peggys book: The Ten Best Decisions A Single Mom Can Make

In this episode of the Connected Mom Podcast, host Becky Harling welcomes actress and author Jen Lilley, who shares her journey of motherhood, faith, and her new devotional, 'Wake Up Your Faith.' Jen discusses the challenges of balancing her acting career with raising four children, the importance of prayer in decision-making, and her personal struggles with an eating disorder. The conversation emphasizes the need for daily encounters with Jesus and the role of faith in navigating life's challenges. In this conversation, Jen Lilley shares her personal journey of overcoming bulimia and the importance of trusting God in the healing process. She discusses the role of counseling, the balance between boldness and gentleness in faith, and the significance of living out love in daily life. Jen emphasizes the need for holistic approaches to health and the importance of support systems for those struggling with eating disorders. She encourages listeners to focus on Jesus as the standard for love and boldness in their lives.

Jen’s book: Wake Up Your Faith

In this episode of the Connected Mom podcast, host Becky Harling welcomes author Julie Lavender to discuss her journey in writing children's books, including her latest works focused on Advent. Julie shares her experiences as a writer, the joy of collaborating with her husband, and the importance of creating meaningful connections through literature. The conversation highlights the significance of instilling a love for reading in children and the role of faith in their upbringing. Julie's books aim to engage young readers and encourage family traditions, making them valuable resources for parents.

Julie’s Book: Children’s Advent Stories For Bedtime

https://mitchelllanepub.com/

https://thecreativecompany.us/

Becky and Amanda Cleary Eastep continue the series on children’s books. 

AMANDA CLEARY EASTEP is an award-winning children’s author and a book editor. She works in a cabin in the mountains of North Carolina, but she has lived most of her life in the suburbs of Chicago, the home of the Tree Street Kids. Amanda and her husband, together, have eight grown children and a border collie named Annie who wakes Amanda up early every morning to write.

Tree Street Kids Set