11 | Wild and Free: Embracing Nature-Filled Motherhood with Rachel Olmstead

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when a childhood dream of motherhood is threatened by a medical diagnosis? How does healing our past shape the way we parent? And what does it mean to create a home where barefoot adventure and deep faith intertwine?Rachel Olmstead's journey into motherhood began with an unexpected challenge - diagnosed with pre-cervical cancer at 17, doctors warned that having children might be difficult. Years later, she and her husband navigated a year of trying to conceive, a period that stretched her faith while drawing her closer to God in profound ways. Today, she's mother to three beautiful children, each with their own vibrant personality, living a lifestyle she describes as "barefoot and nature-filled."This conversation explores how motherhood becomes transformative when approached with intention and grace. Rachel shares how coming from a broken home where she often felt unseen has shaped her commitment to creating space where her children feel heard and valued. She describes motherhood as a healing journey - not just for her children, but for her younger self.Rachel's approach to balancing homeschooling, photography work, and family life centers on being "fully where your feet are" rather than seeking perfect equilibrium. She embraces "grace over guilt," acknowledging that sometimes the dishes wait because connection takes priority. Her relationship with God serves as the foundation for everything, reminding her that she's not just raising children but discipling hearts.The most touching revelation? Each night, her children ask, "Mama, where are we going tomorrow?" - testament to the sense of adventure and wonder she's cultivated. Beyond muddy feet and creek explorations, Rachel hopes her children remember growing up where curiosity was welcomed, their voices mattered, and love remained the constant thread weaving through everyday chaos.Join us for this heartfelt conversation about finding joy in the wild journey of motherhood and creating a home where faith and freedom flourish together.Follow Rachel on FB, instagram and check out her photography!  https://www.facebook.com/share/1BMHy7TbQq/?mibextid=LQQJ4dhttps://www.instagram.com/rachelolmsteadphoto_?igsh=MWphY3J2Njg4eHZxcg%3D%3D&utm_source=qrhttps://rachelolmsteadphoto.mypixieset.comIt would mean the world to me if you would like, subscribe leave a review and/or share with a friend if you enjoyed this episode! Please find me on Instagram, tag me, comment, or DM me. Let me know what you enjoyed and what you’d like to hear next. I love hearing from you!✨FOLLOW MAMA OF THE WILD CREW ON INSTAGRAM ⬇️https://www.instagram.com/mamaofthewildcrew_podcast?igsh=dGd1Z2dkZnBneHhj&utm_source=qrXO, Alexis SchmokerMama of the Wild Crew 📸: A heartfelt thank you to Jordan Allen of Cr00ked Teeth Photography for capturing this stunning cover photo.