Thriving with 8 Podcast

Rachel Bonner and her husband wanted to teach kids about different aspects of life that we may never experience, but would be helpful to understand, in order to show increased kindness and love to others. They were inspired to write A Cultivate Series, which consists of 3 wonderful children's books with alternate endings to help kids develop more awareness and compassion for others. 

 

As an inter-racial family, the Bonners have experienced first hand what it feels like not to be understood. As Rachel points out, "we only know what we know". Rachel shares her wisdom on teaching kids how to thrive through kindness including setting the example first as the adult, role playing, and having open and honest conversations with your family.  

Do you ever wonder why you think, feel or respond to the challenges and joys of motherhood the way that you do? Why don't others around you, including your kids, always see things the way you do? 

 

In this conversation with Beth McCord, the Enneagram Coach, we discuss the importance of understanding our personalities and the core motivations within us. When we understand our "why" we are better able to view both ourselves and others with compassion and grace. As we become good, curious students of our children they will feel seen and valued. As you get to know your true internal self and dismiss the "head trash",  you will thrive in the "beautiful messiness" of motherhood. 

Have you ever considered that moms need an "elevator pitch"? This is an intentional way of introducing ourselves to others. The purpose is not to impress, but to share and connect with someone.    As licensed health educator Stacy Goulding points out, at times it’s easy for us to say “nothing” when someone asks “What’s new?”. But we need to be confident in sharing what we are doing right now, whether it’s potty-training our toddler, reading a good book, or navigating baseball season.   As we use our elevator pitch to connect with other moms we learn to appreciate others. We begin to recognize that although we may do motherhood differently, we have so much to gain as we collaborate and learn from one another.

Jodi Orgill Brown prayed that her children would learn to serve others, see people at their heart for who they are, and have compassion. But she had no idea how those prayers would be answered.    Jodi and her family have learned on a very personal level what it means to be served, as well as the joy that comes from serving others. What makes the journey worth it is doing it together and knowing you are not alone.    In this part 2 episode with Jodi, she shares beautiful examples of how she has been the recipient of service from family and friends over the years. She also teaches how we can bring light to others by serving in meaningful, heartfelt ways. We can do something to make the sun shine in someone else's life.

Jodi Orgill Brown was living the perfect "white picket fence life" when the dizziness and headaches first began. Life quickly changed when she was diagnosed with a brain tumor. 

Jodi has learned through many hard trials including multiple surgeries, hospital stays, and a variety of health challenges that thriving looks different at different stages in your life. Even if you can't always be the mom you thought you would be, you are enough for your kids.

Learning to thrive is a process. But no matter what is happening in your life, the sun still shines! You get to choose everyday if you will see the light. 

 

After listening to this episode, check out Jodi's eye-opening, inspirational book "The Sun Still Shines" to learn more about her incredible journey! And stay tuned for Thriving With 8 Episode 92 for more with Jodi!

 

 

 

 

A thriving marriage doesn't just magically happen! Just like motherhood, marriage is an arena for growth. We must be intentional if we want to become the best spouse we can be. It is a process of becoming. Perfection is the lie that can discourage us from trying. 

 

In this conversation with couples coach and podcaster, Julia Woods, she teaches 5 tips to develop and maintain a thriving marriage. You are probably already doing some of them, but there's always room for improvement as you partner together with your spouse. Listen as she explains the importance of growing through tension, negotiating, weekly partnering, playing and chatting with your spouse. Even better, listen together! And then commit to starting small steps to improving your marriage relationship. 

 

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What motivates you to be the best mom possible?   Listen to Regan Barnes, Chairmom of the nonprofit Momivate, to learn more about what it means for moms to RAISE UP society and her vision to empower and support moms.   Being a full-time mom encompasses SO much so give yourself a pat on the back for all you are doing! You’re developing relationships, creating a wonderful atmosphere in your home, managing schedules, pursuing personal pursuits… the list could go on and on!!   Also... Momivate is hosting their Enrich Motherhood Convention March 9, 2024. Hope you can come join the connect with others moms and leave feeling nourished and empowered.  Use discount code: THRIVING to save some money :)

Happy New Year! Do you have a word or phrase for the year? What will you focus on? Are you going to let the year happen to you or are you going to be intentional in your thriving? 

 

The choice is up to you! First of all, give yourself credit for the progress you have made this past year. Second, set yourself up for success, even if your progression comes through baby steps. Thriving has nothing to do with perfection. There is no "perfect mom". Thriving comes by not giving up, being steadfast, and striving for impovement. It's all about progression, not perfection!

 

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Motherhood is not a solo job. We need Christ by our side in our motherhood journey. It's our ressponsibility to seek Him. As we courageously lean into this relationship and partnership with God, we will receive spiritual guidance that blesses us and our children. 

 

Listen to Neill Marriott, mother of 11 and spiritual giant, as she shares stories and ideas of how she sought Jesus as she raised her wonderful family. 

Neill is also the author of "Seek This Jesus", a book I highly recommend. 

The holiday season is such a joyful time...for most people. But for many the holidays are a time of grief and loss. They can trigger memories of losing a loved one. They can be a hard time for single parents or for those without funds to provide Christmas for their children. 

In this short bonus episode, Tiffany Papageorge, our guest from Thriving With 8 episode 86, reminds us to be aware of those around us who are grieving this holiday season.