Unlikely Housewives: Real Talk For Worn Out Christian Women

What happens when your world is literally turned upside down? In this deeply moving episode, the Unlikely Housewives sit down with Lara to hear her incredible story of navigating chronic vertigo. For three years, Lara was mostly bedridden, her life derailed by a condition that resisted over 150 different therapies.

Join us for a raw and honest conversation about wrestling with faith when healing doesn't come, questioning the promises of God, and ultimately finding a profound peace that transcends physical circumstances. Lara shares how she moved from desperation to acceptance, offering a powerful perspective on what it means to find purpose and hope in the midst of suffering.

This isn't just a story about illness; it's a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the surprising ways God meets us in our darkest moments.

Ready to be inspired? Lara’s story will challenge your perspective on faith, suffering, and what it truly means to live a full life.

Article Lara referenced: https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/matrimony-no-more

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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ [email protected]

Want to be a guest on Unlikely Housewives? Send Tori Shirah a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/unlikelyhousewives

In this episode of the Unlikely Housewives, Tracy and Tori sit down with award‑winning author and Exodus Women’s Retreats founder, Robin Gerblick, to talk about her journey from multiple abortions, broken relationships, and deep spiritual lostness to encountering Jesus in a supernatural “five senses” moment by a river. Robin shares how God met her in her most desperate plea for help, rewrote the trajectory of her life, and led her into a 32‑year Christ‑centered marriage, late‑in‑life motherhood through adoption at 48, and a calling to minister to other women through her book, Giving Up Grace: A Spiritual Rebranding of the Soul.​​

You’ll hear Robin unpack what it really means to “give up grace” you never knew—laying down the counterfeit stories, self‑protection, and secret shame—in order to receive the true Grace your soul has been starving for. Tracy and Tori lean all the way into the hard topics: abortion’s lifelong impact, spiritual warfare around telling your story, bringing baggage into marriage, and how Jesus can do a complete “rebrand” of your heart, mind, and identity.​​

If this conversation with Robin stirred something in you, share this episode with a friend who needs to know she is not alone and that her story is not over. Leave a review for the Unlikely Housewives and tell Tracy and Tori what part of Robin’s story most resonated with your own.​​

Support the Unlikely Housewives!  Represent with our UH Merch!

Sunlighten Sauna Sponsor: https://get.sunlighten.com/unlikely  Save up to $1700!

Join our community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram! 

Write an apple review and YOUR review could be read on our next episode! 

Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ [email protected]

Want to be a guest on Unlikely Housewives? Send Tori Shirah a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/unlikelyhousewives

In this heartfelt and transformative episode, Tracy and Tori, your favorite Unlikely Housewives, sit down with Heather Day—author, ministry leader, and marketing expert—to discuss her book Money and Spirit: Surrendering Our Finances to the Work of the Holy Spirit. Heather shares her personal journey of financial struggles, the weight of debt, and how a prayer in an Applebee's parking lot led to a life-changing shift in her family's approach to money.

This isn’t your typical financial advice episode. Heather dives deep into the spiritual roots of financial decisions, exploring how the fruits of the Spirit—love, peace, self-control, and joy—can transform not just your bank account but your heart. Whether you're navigating debt, learning to trust God with your finances, or simply seeking a fresh perspective, this episode is packed with wisdom, humor, and practical takeaways.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Links & Resources Mentioned:

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Support the Unlikely Housewives!  Represent with our UH Merch!

Sunlighten Sauna Sponsor: https://get.sunlighten.com/unlikely  Save up to $1700!

Join our community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram! 

Write an apple review and YOUR review could be read on our next episode! 

Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ [email protected]

Want to be a guest on Unlikely Housewives? Send Tori Shirah a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/unlikelyhousewives

(00:00) - Understanding Shame and Overcoming It

(10:33) - Breaking Free From Overwhelming Shame

(16:09) - The Destructive Power of Shame

(29:52) - Navigating the Layers of Shame

(37:10) - Navigating Parenting Through Shame

(44:03) - Empowering All Housewives With Confidence

Imagine a world where shame no longer dictates your life. Join us as we peel back the the intricate layers of shame and its impact on identity, alongside the brilliant Dr. Zoe Shaw, licensed psychotherapist and author of "Stronger in the Difficult Places." With her unique blend of insights rooted in psychology and faith, Dr. Shaw guides us through understanding how shame can lead to isolation and affect our relationships. Her story, which has also been highlighted in a docuseries on the OWN Network, offers a fresh and hopeful perspective on building authentic connections.

In a deeply personal narrative, we confront the shadows of past experiences and the isolation they breed. From the struggles of being a pregnant teenager in a conservative family to raising a child with a rare genetic disorder, these challenges sparked a journey of healing and growth. Discover how creating a language for complex shame not only facilitated personal recovery but also offered guidance to others grappling with similar burdens. This episode is a testament to the power of shedding shame and embracing authenticity for a truly fulfilling life.

As we peel back the layers of shame, we look into how it manifests in parenting and social interactions. Our conversation with Dr. Shaw emphasizes the importance of teaching children to recognize and respond constructively to shame, highlighting the need for compassion and understanding in both words and actions. We also discuss the transformative journey of overcoming both simple and complex shame and how it empowers individuals to live freely and intentionally. Join our online community to continue this important conversation, and don't forget to subscribe and share your thoughts on this enlightening episode.

https://drzoeshaw.com/

https://www.instagram.com/drzoeshaw/

 Order Dr. Zoe's book here! "Stronger in the Difficult Places"

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Support the Unlikely Housewives!  Represent with our UH Merch!

Sunlighten Sauna Sponsor: https://get.sunlighten.com/unlikely  Save up to $1700!

Join our community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram! 

Write an apple review and YOUR review could be read on our next episode! 

Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ [email protected]

Want to be a guest on Unlikely Housewives? Send Tori Shirah a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/unlikelyhousewives

(06:18) - Bringing Hope and Humor to Motherhood

(19:59) - Unwavering Faith in God's Timing

(20:24) - 26-Year Journey to Publishing Dream

(25:13) - Empowering Women in Pregnancy Centers

(28:45) - The Power of Books and Podcasting

(36:11) - Pursuing Dreams

Ever find yourself laughing at life's little mishaps, like realizing your shoes don't match just as you're about to step out the door? Our guest, Jennifer Bosma, sure has, and she's here to remind us how laughter can be a powerful ally in navigating the unpredictable landscape of motherhood and marriage. Jennifer, a former teacher turned podcaster and children’s author, brings her unique perspective on embracing imperfections and celebrating the joyful chaos that defines family life. Through her witty stories and hard-earned wisdom, you will find encouragement to let go of perfection and revel in the delightful unpredictability of daily life.

Jennifer's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the unexpected paths our dreams can take. From reviving a children's book project 26 years in the making to connecting with mothers through podcasting, her story underscores the importance of faith and patience. We discuss how dreams, no matter how long they might take to materialize, are worth pursuing, and how trusting in God's perfect timing can lead to outcomes beyond our wildest expectations. Jennifer's experiences highlight the enduring impact of children's literature and the crucial role it plays in forging connections across generations.

We wrap up our conversation by reflecting on personal growth and the courage to chase dreams beyond traditional roles. Jennifer's adventures, from completing transformational courses to auditioning for Survivor, embody the spirit of stepping out of comfort zones and setting bold examples for our children. These stories remind us of the significance of empowering ourselves and others in everyday life. Subscribe and connect with us to keep the conversation going!

https://jenniferbosma.com/

https://www.instagram.com/frontparkingspot/

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Support the Unlikely Housewives!  Represent with our UH Merch!

Sunlighten Sauna Sponsor: https://get.sunlighten.com/unlikely  Save up to $1700!

Join our community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram! 

Write an apple review and YOUR review could be read on our next episode! 

Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ [email protected]

How can vulnerability and grace transform our most challenging relationships? Join us as we explore this question through the incredible journey of Jennifer Shook, an inner healing mentor and Christian life coach. Jennifer's story is a testament to finding hope and healing amidst the trials of addiction, betrayal, and family crises. She shares her experiences of standing by her husband, Scotty, during his battle with addiction and incarceration, and how this journey led to unexpected growth and redemption. Her candid insights reveal the power of breaking the silence on these often-avoided topics in church communities, offering a safe haven for those in need of encouragement and understanding.

Jennifer takes us through her personal journey, from facing the stigma and skepticism surrounding her relationship with Scotty to embracing the surprising paths of love and faith. She speaks about the transformative bond they formed through letters while he was in prison, and the profound lesson they learned about grace, acceptance, and letting go of past mistakes. We uncover the misconceptions about grace and performance in faith, exploring how a deeper understanding of God's love can foster healing and connection. Her narrative is a powerful reminder that life can take unexpected turns when we allow ourselves to be seen and supported by others.

Through heartfelt stories and insightful reflections, we tackle the complexities of living with a partner struggling with addiction and the importance of seeking help for oneself. Jennifer's journey highlights the necessity of setting boundaries, trusting God, and embracing resilience in the face of uncertainty. Her story serves as a beacon of hope for those navigating similar challenges, reminding us that faith and community can guide us through the darkest times. Whether you're facing struggles with addiction or seeking inner healing, Jennifer's inspiring journey offers valuable lessons on grace, vulnerability, and the incredible strength found in trusting the process.

Jennifer Shook Instagram

Becoming Together community on Facebook

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Support the Unlikely Housewives!  Represent with our UH Merch!

Sunlighten Sauna Sponsor: https://get.sunlighten.com/unlikely  Save up to $1700!

Join our community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram! 

Write an apple review and YOUR review could be read on our next episode! 

Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ [email protected]

Ever find yourself riding the waves of parenting, wondering how to swim against the cultural currents? Join us and our special guest, Josh Poteet, lead pastor of 180 Life Church and author of "Parenting Against the Current," as we explore the beautiful chaos of parenting with purpose and faith. Through Josh's journey from EMS to ministry, discover how God’s guidance can illuminate your true calling. We break down all the complexities of raising children who love Jesus amidst a sea of cultural challenges, offering listeners practical wisdom and heartwarming stories to inspire intentional parenting.

Josh shares the power of testimony in our spiritual journeys, showing us how leaning into authentic relationships and challenging cultural norms can empower parents. With humor and humility, he guides us through the significance of setting boundaries, embracing imperfections, and the transformative power of mentorship. Together, we reflect on the spiritual dynamics of marriage and the balance that differing perspectives can bring, all while highlighting the importance of seeking peace and authenticity in our family lives.

As we navigate through topics like technology, discipleship, and the often bumpy ride of parenting teens, we invite you to join us in embracing imperfection with grace. Our conversation emphasizes the joy that comes with failing forward, owning our weaknesses, and shepherding our children’s hearts closer to Jesus. Whether you're a seasoned parent or new to the journey, this episode offers a treasure trove of insights and encouragement to help you lead your family with faith, love, and purpose.

https://parentingagainstthecurrent.com/

https://www.facebook.com/ParentingAgainstTheCurrent

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Support the Unlikely Housewives!  Represent with our UH Merch!

Sunlighten Sauna Sponsor: https://get.sunlighten.com/unlikely  Save up to $1700!

Join our community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram! 

Write an apple review and YOUR review could be read on our next episode! 

Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ [email protected]

(04:38) - God's Call to Run for Governor

(15:59) - Challenges Facing Kansas Growth and Business

(30:00) - Stepping Out in Faith and Trust

(34:42) - Preparing for Spiritual Battles in Public

(44:16) - Courage, Sacrifice, and American History

What if stepping out of your comfort zone could lead to a life driven by faith and purpose? Join us as we uncover the remarkable story of Philip Sarnecki, a Kansas businessman who left behind a thriving career to answer a higher calling—running for governor. With ventures spanning industries from entrepreneurship to movie production, Philip's journey into politics is a testament to courage, faith, and a business-minded approach to governance. His inspiring leap from humble beginnings to the political stage serves as a reminder of the powerful transformation that can occur when you trust in a greater plan.

Guided by God, Phillip and his wife, Heidi, have embarked on this new path as a family. We dive into Philip's admiration for leaders like Ronald Reagan and the impact of formative experiences such as the National Youth Leadership Conference. As he shares his frustrations with the current political landscape and his transition from business to politics, Philip emphasizes the importance of faith, prayer, and family support. This candid conversation reveals the deep-rooted motivations and the significant role of faith in Philip's decision to enter the gubernatorial race.

Kansas faces unique challenges, from population retention to bureaucratic barriers hindering small businesses. Together, we explore these issues and the opportunities they present for growth, especially in a post-pandemic world. Personal anecdotes highlight Kansas's potential as a family-friendly state, while insights from John Maxwell's leadership principles underscore the value of stepping out and trusting in a higher calling. Through themes of courage, sacrifice, and the influence of American history, this episode encourages listeners to embrace their faith-driven journeys and pursue impactful change.

https://philipsarnecki.org/

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Support the Unlikely Housewives!  Represent with our UH Merch!

Sunlighten Sauna Sponsor: https://get.sunlighten.com/unlikely  Save up to $1700!

Join our community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram! 

Write an apple review and YOUR review could be read on our next episode! 

Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ [email protected]

(03:27) - Navigating Anxiety With Amber Lia

(08:57) - Parental Support for Social Media Transparency 

(13:55) - Navigating Social Media Boundaries for Kids

(22:53) - Building Confidence in Teenagers Through Scripture

(30:52) You Are Seen Book Overview

(33:08) - Overcoming Triggers and Parenting Challenges

Join us in this enriching conversation as we welcome author Amber Lia, who, alongside her son Ollie, has penned a powerful new book aimed at addressing the challenges teenagers face today. Amber shares how their collaborative effort serves as a vital resource for parents to better understand their teens' needs to be seen, heard, known, and loved, all through a relationship with God. We share practical ways to incorporate this devotional into daily life, such as reading it during breakfast, and emphasize the importance of fostering authentic relationships with your teens.

Listen in as Amber opens up about her journey from being a high school literature teacher with dreams of writing the great American novel to becoming a non-fiction author with impactful works like "You Are Seen" and "Triggers." Together, we explore the intricacies of parenting and the complexities of guiding children through anxiety and depression. Amber shares how her son Ollie's openness about his struggles and his initiative to reach out through social media were pivotal in shaping their book, highlighting the widespread need for these essential conversations and resources.

In this episode, we also tackle the pressures of social media on mental health, particularly for children and teenagers. We stress the importance of processing emotions healthily and discuss the dangers of comparison on social media. By instilling a strong sense of self-worth in young people, grounded in biblical teachings, and modeling healthy digital behaviors, we aim to equip parents and teens with the tools to navigate these challenges positively. We also highlight the significance of overcoming parenting triggers, managing emotions like anger, and creating systems to minimize chaos, offering a heartfelt reflection on the journey of seeking patience and grace in parenting.

https://amberlia.com/

https://www.instagram.com/walkin.with.ollie/

https://www.instagram.com/therealamberlia/

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Support the Unlikely Housewives!  Represent with our UH Merch!

Sunlighten Sauna Sponsor: https://get.sunlighten.com/unlikely  Save up to $1700!

Join our community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram! 

Write an apple review and YOUR review could be read on our next episode! 

Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ [email protected]

(01:33) - Inspirational Perspective on Marriage

(04:10) - The Resilient Journey of Stephanie Jordan

(09:18) - The Power of Marriage Restoration

(26:16) - Protecting Your Marriage Through Challenges

(42:16) Defining Domestic Abuse and Marriage

(55:01) - Heeding God's Voice in Marriage

(56:47) Divine Guidance in Relationship Choices

Resilient women are inspiring; that includes Stephanie Jordan who shares her journey through faith, marriage, and life's unexpected challenges! Stephanie opens up her heart and life to explore the trials and triumphs she has faced. From domestic abuse and widowhood to the vibrant spirit of a punk rocker single mom, this conversation shines a light on the power of faith and humor in overcoming hardships. 

Step into the world of marriage restoration and divine intervention as we examine relationships tested by addiction, severe health issues, and unexpected pregnancies. Learn how spiritual guidance can transform a relationship on the brink of collapse into one of renewed strength and connection. We also address the realities of marital challenges, emphasizing that love requires effort and spirituality can be a vital support. Together, we uncover the importance of respecting each other as partners, acknowledging that marriages with children add unique layers of complexity and shared responsibility.

Recognizing the fine line between healthy marriages and abusive relationships is crucial. This episode challenges cultural definitions and encourages a deeper understanding. We explore how discerning God’s voice can offer clarity and perspective, helping couples navigate minor grievances and embrace the bigger picture.

You can connect with Stephanie at https://www.thestephaniejordan.com/

https://www.facebook.com/authorstephaniejordan/

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Support the Unlikely Housewives!  Represent with our UH Merch!

Sunlighten Sauna Sponsor: https://get.sunlighten.com/unlikely  Save up to $1700!

Join our community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram! 

Write an apple review and YOUR review could be read on our next episode! 

Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine

Contact us ➡️ [email protected]