Elevating Motherhood

Teaching Textbooks Free Trial: HEREToday’s topic is a little bit different but I’m very excited to share this conversation I had with Danielle Zierkelbach because Danielle and I share a Hawaiʻi connection. I spent nearly 20 years on Maui, and Danielle lives on Oahu and is a professional surfer and three-time Hawaiʻi State Champion who grew up in the world of surfing.But this conversation isn’t really about surfing. It is…but it isn’t. Danielle became a mother while pursuing her athletic career and quickly realized that there was almost no roadmap for women trying to navigate motherhood and high-level sport. So instead of waiting for someone else to create what she needed, she built it herself.Danielle founded Imua Moms and created the first surf competition specifically honoring mothers, while also spending six years documenting her own journey through pregnancy, postpartum, and returning to the ocean.In this conversation, we talk about motherhood, ambition, faith, generational cycles, and what it looks like to follow anassignment from God when there really isn’t a roadmap for where you’re going.And as someone who loves talking with other moms from Hawaiʻi, I especially loved hearing Danielle’s perspective and getting a glimpse into her story.I think you’re going to find there’s a lot more here than surfing.Danielle’s Links:  Website: www.imuamoms.com Instagram: @imuamoms Lori Beth’s Links: Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com Lori Beth’s IG: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhood  Please Visit Our Sponsors: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/sponsors  Teaching Textbooks Free Trial: https://www.teachingtextbooks.com/?cid=LORIBETH  We completely switched up the way we’re doing math in our homeschool this year…we are using Teaching Textbooks—and it has been a game changer. It has freed up so much time in our homeschool day, and honestly, it has helped me overcome some of my own insecurities as a homeschool mom when it comes to teaching math. My kids are learning at a much faster pace and our homeschool and my relationships with my kids are better for it. I love that my kids can work independently, get immediate feedback, and still have a highly effective math education without me feeling like I have to carry the entire weight of teaching everything. If you’re looking for a stress-free, effective math solution for your homeschool, I highly recommend trying Teaching Textbooks. They offer a free trial, and you can access thatfree trial using the link in the show notes.

Buy Rachel’s Book Here: https://amzn.to/4dgzkX5 If you’ve ever wondered whether homeschooling can really work through the high school years, this conversation is for you.Today I’m talking with Rachel Kovac, a homeschooling mother of six and author of Their Future Is Shining Bright: AGuide to Homeschooling in High School. And I have to tell you—this conversation is about so much more than transcripts, college applications, and checking boxes. (Although she provides incredible detailed lists for all ofthose things!) We’re talking about commitment, family relationships, friendships, careers, college, and what it looks like toeducate the whole person during those pivotal teenage years.Rachel shows up with so much hope and encouragement, helping us to understand that the high school years aren’tthe years we need to survive—but they are some of the very best years of our homeschool.Thanks for being here as Rachel and I talk about homeschooling high school with joy and purpose. Please Visit Our Sponsors: I have to tell you about the homeschool planner I keep coming back to year after year: Sparrow HomeschoolPlanner.I’ve used a LOT of homeschool planners over the last 20 years, and this is the only one I’ve actually used multiple years in a row—and written in every single day. It’s full color,beautifully designed, has plenty of space to actually plan your days, meal plan, budget, and even plan your field trips and travels. I especially love the perforated lists. You can write out your to do lists, shopping lists, packing lists, cleaning lists--whatever you want!--then tear them out, and take them with you.It’s one of those homeschool tools that makes planning feel easier instead of adding another thing to your plate.If you’re looking for a homeschool planner you’ll actuallyuse, check out Sparrow Homeschool Planner and use my code LORIBETH for 10% off. Sparrow Homeschool Planner: www.sparrowhomeschool.com Use the Code: LORIBETH for 10% off your planner!Podcast Edited & Mixed By: Jordan Tallon

Today I’m talking with Kim, a mom of five, faith-rooted encourager, and the woman behind Ellie & the Boys and the Moms Collective Journal.Kim has walked through some incredibly hard seasons of motherhood—including single parenting and remarriageafter losing a spouse—and she brings a beautiful perspective to what it means to show up intentionally, not perfectly, in the everyday work of making a house a home.She started a life long dream of creating a magazine for moms and we’re talking about her fall issue of Moms Collective Journal, but really, we’re talking about something much deeper: the stories and hard-wonwisdom we carry as mothers, the rhythms that bring warmth back into our homes, and what motherhood is actually doing in us. She welcomes us to make a shift ifwe need to...right as we are shifting into fall. The timing of this conversation is truly *chef's kiss.*Please join me in welcoming Kim Walker Kerkvliet to the show. Kim Walker Kerkvliet’s Links: Website: https://www.ellieandtheboys.co/ Instagram: @ellieandtheboys.co Elevating Motherhood Links: Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com Instagram: @loribethauldridge Please Visit Todays Sponsor:  It’s back to school season and I want to take a minute to tell you about my favorite planner from Sparrow Homeschool. It's the only planner I've used multiple years in a row.  It helps me organize my homeschool schedule, keep records, make book lists, budget, meal plan, organize travel plans, track personal goals…all while feeding me constant drips of scripture along the way.  Did I mention it has a bookmark AND perforated lists?  The Sparrow Homeschool Planner just gets better and better every year. And to make it even sweeter for you, the code LORIBETH will get you 10% off this year's planner! It's available in a full color printed (that I think is totally worth it for the perforated lists alone) or as digital download.  Go to www.sparrowhomeschool.com to get yours and usethe code LORIBETH at checkout for 10% off your order.  

Click Here for Your Teaching Textbooks Free Trial What do you do when your teenager wants to start dating?What if they’re already dating—and you’re not sure you love the relationship they’re in?What if you have preteens? How do you talk to your kids about attraction, boundaries, healthy relationships, heartbreak, and ultimately marriage without making them feel like you’re completely out of touch with their world?These are conversations so many parents find themselves navigating, and honestly, they aren’t always easy.Today I’m talking with someone I’m especially excited to have back on the show: Monica Swanson. Monica is the author of Boy Mom, Raising Amazing, and Becoming Homeschoolers, and she hosts the Monica Swanson Podcast. She and her husband, Dr. Dave, have raised their four sons on the North Shore of Oahu in Hawaii, so we have that fun Hawaii connection as well.Monica is passionate about helping parents apply biblical wisdom to family life and encouraging moms to live whole and healthy lives. She is an author and podcaster after my own heart. This is actually Monica’s second time on Elevating Motherhood. Monica was one of my very first author interviews when this podcast was just getting started. So it was really special to reconnect with her for this conversation.Today we’re getting practical about helping our kids navigate dating from a biblical perspective—how to guide them toward healthy friendships and relationships, how to communicate with them, what to do when you have concerns about someone they’re dating, and how to help them understand dating as something we pursue when we’re ready to find a spouse.And if your kids aren’t dating yet, don’t tune this one out. The conversations you have before they start dating can make a tremendous difference in how they navigate relationships when the time comes.God’s ways are always best. And helping our kids understand that—while also giving them practical wisdom for navigating real relationships—is one of the most important conversations we can have with them.Monica also has a character training course coming out this Fall! I trust Monica’s parenting wisdom so much and am really looking forward to the course for my own family. Be sure to check today’s show notes for the link to that course (which includes even more dating insights!). Please Visit Today’s Sponsor: Teaching TextbooksWe completely switched up the way we’re doing math, and we’re now using Teaching Textbooks—and it has been a game changer. It has freed up so much time in our homeschool day, and honestly, it has helped me overcome some of my own insecurities as a homeschool mom when it comes to teaching math. My kids are learning at a much faster pace and our homeschool and my relationships with my kids are better for it. I love that my kids can work independently, get immediate feedback, and still have a highly effective math education without me feeling like I have to carry the entire weight of teaching everything. If you’re looking for a stress-free, effective math solution for your homeschool, I highly recommend trying Teaching Textbooks. They offer a free trial, and you can access that free trial using the link in the show notes. Full Show Notes at: www.elevatingmotherhood.comPlease Visit Today’s Sponsors: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/sponsorsLori Beth’s IG: @loribethauldridgeMonica’s IG: @monicaswanson_ Monica’s Website: www.monicaswanson.comEdited & Mixed by: Jordan Tallon

Teaching Textbooks Free Trial: https://www.teachingtextbooks.com/?cid=LORIBETHTeens Cook Real Food Link: https://sl290.isrefer.com/go/teenscook/loribeth/What does it actually look like to raise kids who are confident, capable, and ready for the world?As parents, we spend so much time protecting our children, helping them, and making life run smoothly for them—but sometimes the very things we do out of love can unintentionally keep them from developing the skills and confidence they need to thrive.Today, I’m excited to welcome Katie Kimball back to Elevating Motherhood for the second time. Katie is the founder of Kids Cook Real Food and creator of Teens Cook Real Food, and she has a passion for helping families raise healthy, independent adults.But this conversation goes far beyond cooking.We’re talking about what it means to empower our kids at every age, how to give them opportunities to grow, and why independence isn’t something we suddenly hand over when they turn 18—it’s something we cultivate throughout childhood.Katie shares some hilarious stories, including the story of her daughter’s college orientation, the infamous knucklehead and the steak story, and some moments that perfectly illustrate what happens when we let our kids practice, fail, learn, and become more capable.Whether you have toddlers, elementary-aged kids, teenagers, or kids who are already preparing to launch, this conversation is full of wisdom and encouragement for any parent who wants to raise children who are confident in who they are and capable of caring for themselves and others.I always appreciate Katie’s practical, grounded approach, and I know this conversation is going to give you plenty to thinkabout. More on Today's Sponsor: We completely switched up the way we’re doing math, and we’re now using Teaching Textbooks—and it has been agame changer. It has freed up so much time in our homeschool day, and honestly, it has helped me overcome some of my own insecurities as a homeschool mom whenit comes to teaching math.I love that my kids can work independently, get immediate feedback, and still have a highly effective math education without me feeling like I have to carry the entire weight of teaching it.If you’re looking for a stress-free, effective math solution for your homeschool, I highly recommend trying Teaching Textbooks. They offer a free trial, and you can access thatfree trial using the link in the show notes.Love the show? Leave me a review! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟Join my email list: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Homeschool Mega Bundle Here: https://www.fortheloveofhomeschooling.com/?ref=loribeth Marci's Book Here: https://amzn.to/4xvVHQ9 I think we’ve misunderstood homemaking. I do. Because the best homemakers I know aren’t just creating beautiful homes. They’re creating environments where people feel known, loved, and deeply cared for.Today’s conversation is one I have been so excited to share with you. I’m talking with Marci Ferrell, author of Homemaking Matters—a book that has landed in my top two favorite books I’ve read this year.And I have to tell you… this book is about so much more than homemaking.Yes, we talk about creating a home. But what I love most about Marci’s message is that she gets to the heart behind it all: our mindset, our attitudes, our priorities, and the posture of our hearts as we move through everyday life.This conversation is filled with wisdom that reaches far beyond homemaking. It’s about becoming the kind of woman who intentionally creates beauty, connection, and meaning in the spaces God has placed her.Marci is one of those people whose wisdom feels both grounding and encouraging. I walked away from thisconversation with so many things to think about, and I truly believe you will too.So whether you consider yourself a homemaker, or you’re simply a woman who wants to live with more intention and purpose, I think this conversation is going to encourage youdeeply.The For the Love of Homeschooling Back-to-School Mega Bundle, Volume 6 is officially here, and if you're looking for fresh inspiration for the school year ahead, you're going to love this.For just $25, you'll get over 100 digital homeschool resources covering everything from language arts and math to history, science, nature study, geography, art, planners, encouragement for moms, and so much more. Altogether,these resources are valued at more than $799, but they're only available at this price through August 10th.I've actually been purchasing these bundles for years because they're such an incredible value. But this year is extra special because I'm one of the contributors!When you purchase Volume 6, you'll also receive my homeschool planning workshop—the same planning process Iteach at my homeschool retreats, use in private coaching sessions, and rely on every year to plan my own homeschool. I truly hope it helps you create a peaceful, purposeful school year.You'll find the link to the bundle in today's show notes. Don't wait--the bundle disappears after August 10th, and once it's gone, it's gone.Love the podcast? Please leave a 5 star review!

Get the Homeschool Bundle Here: https://www.fortheloveofhomeschooling.com/?ref=loribethIf you've ever felt like your kids are happier, calmer, and more engaged after spending time outside, you're not imagining it. There is something incredibly life-giving about learning inGod's creation. The beautiful part is that outdoor learning doesn't have to be a special event or an elaborate field trip. It can become a natural extension of your homeschool day.Today's guest is Rachel Tidd, author of Wild Learning, Wild Math®, and Wild Reading™. Rachel is passionate about helping families and educators use the outdoors as aclassroom, showing us that subjects like reading and math don't have to stay at the kitchen table. Instead, nature can become one of our greatest teaching tools.In this episode, Rachel shares practical, simple ways to weave outdoor learning into your everyday homeschool, along with the many benefits children experience when they're given theopportunity to explore, move, observe, and learn outside. Whether you're homeschooling preschoolers, elementary-aged children, or simply looking for fresh inspiration, I think you'll come away with ideas you can put into practice right away.So grab your favorite drink, head outside if you can, andjoin me for this encouraging conversation with Rachel Tidd. Please Visit Today's Sponsor:  The For the Love of Homeschooling Back-to-School Mega Bundle, Volume 6 is officially here, and if you're looking for fresh inspiration for the school year ahead, you're going to love this.For just $25, you'll get over 100 digital homeschoolresources covering everything from language arts and math to history, science, nature study, geography, art, planners, encouragement for moms, and so much more. Altogether,these resources are valued at more than $799, but they're only available at this price through August 10th.I've actually been purchasing these bundles for years because they're such an incredible value. But this year is extra special because I'm one of the contributors!When you purchase Volume 6, you'll also receive my homeschool planning workshop—the same planning process I teach at my homeschool retreats, use in private coaching sessions, and rely on every year to plan my own homeschool. I truly hope it helps you create a peaceful, purposeful school year.You'll find the link to the bundle in today's show notes. Don't wait--the bundle disappears after August 10th, and onceit's gone, it's gone.Full Show Notes at: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

WOW! 200!From the bottom of my heart...thank you.Thank you, friends, for showing up week after week and supporting the Elevating Motherhood Podcast for nearly six years. Whether you've been listening since Episode 1 or you just recently found this little corner of the internet, I want you to know how grateful I am that you're here.This podcast has always been for you.It's been an incredible privilege to have conversations with authors, educators, experts, and fellow moms who have encouraged us to become more intentional in our motherhood, homeschooling, parenting, and faith. Together, we've explored everything from raising confident children and creating meaningful family culture to finding joy, purpose, and peace in the everyday work of motherhood.Reaching 200 episodes feels like more than a milestone, it feels like the beginning of a whole new chapter. Over the next few months, I'm opening my heart in a way I never have before here on the show. This is Part 1 of a new series where I'll be sharing the years-long journey that led me to what I now call calm, confident motherhood. I'll be sharing the stories, mindset shifts, lessons, and convictions that transformed the way I approach motherhood and, ultimately, the way I experience it.My hope is that these episodes don't simply encourage you, but that they help you see what's possible. That motherhood doesn't have to feel like something to survive. That peace isn't reserved for a select few. That confidence can be cultivated. And that, little by little, we can become the mothers we hope our children remember.Thank you for allowing me to be a small part of your motherhood journey. It is a responsibility I don't take lightly, and I pray these conversations continue to encourage and equip you for years to come.If the Elevating Motherhood Podcast has encouraged you over the years, would you help me celebrate 200 episodes by leaving a rating and written review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify? Reviews help more moms discover the show, and they truly mean more than you know.Thank you for listening, for sharing episodes with friends, for sending thoughtful messages, and for being part of this wonderful community.Here's to the next chapter. I'm so glad you're here.

The WhatWell, in recent days, podcaster Jennifer Welch and her co-host, Angie Sullivan, shared their colorful thoughtson homeschooling after a caller expressed frustration that stupid people she went to school with were choosing to homeschool their children.What followed wasn't simply a disagreement with homeschooling. It was a stream of insults. Homeschooling wascalled "the worst, worst, worst." Christian parents were portrayed as people who fear critical thinking. Homeschooling was described as selfish, andraising children with a Christian worldview was likened to child abuse. Parents were called "dumbasses," plenty of f-bombs were dropped, and the following day Jennifer doubled down on her view of homeschooling.What struck me wasn't simply that they disagreed with homeschooling. People are free to have different opinionsand make different educational choices for their families. What struck me was the confidence with which they spoke about a community they seemed to know very little about.Their comments reflected a picture of homeschooling that simply doesn't resemble what modern homeschooling lookslike in America today. And judging by the response online, I wasn't the only homeschool parent who noticed.I think many of us in the homeschool community were genuinely gob smacked. Wondering how someone couldspeak with such certainty and such contempt about something they clearly didn't understand. And when I say "ignorant," I mean it in the truest sense of the word: not knowing.I wanted to talk about it almost immediately. Not because I wanted to keep an internet argument going, but because I needed to process what I had just heard. There wasn't really time to sit down with friends and think through it together. It was one of those moments where you hear something and your mind just starts turning.I felt shock. Then disappointment. Then anger.But if I'm honest, the emotion I kept coming back to was sadness.Sadness that millions of homeschool families are still viewed through stereotypes that are decades out of date. Sadness that children who are being lovingly educated at home could someday hear adults describe families like theirs with such contempt. And sadness that so many people listening probably assumed those caricatures were true.Because words matter.When someone with a platform reaches millions of people, those words shape opinions. Opinions shape culture.Culture influences policy. And policy affects the freedoms families have for generations to come.That's why I felt compelled to respond.I posted an open letter, not because I needed Jennifer & Angie to agree with me, and not because I felt insecure about my decision to homeschool, but because I believe homeschool families deserve to be represented truthfully.But here's the thing: this episode isn't really about Jennifer Welch.Long after this particular controversy is forgotten, homeschool families will still encounter the same questions, the same assumptions, and the same misconceptions. So today, I don't want to spend our time dissecting one person's comments.Instead, I want to talk about why homeschooling is worthdefending, not because every family should homeschool, but because every family deserves the freedom to thoughtfully choose the educational path they believe is best for their children.Link to IG Open Letter: https://www.instagram.com/p/Da4hZvRFGfa/FULL SHOW NOTES AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COMPlease visit our sponsors: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/sponsors

Buy Jennifer’s Book Here: https://amzn.to/4wiwDLS Today I’m so glad to welcome Jennifer Pepito backto the show.Jennifer is the host of the Restoration Home podcast, bestselling author of Habits for a Sacred Home, andfounder of The Peaceful Press, a homeschool curriculum provider many of us know and love. Her writing has been featured in Wild + Free, Commonplace Quarterly, and HomeEducating Family, and she’s been a guest on 1000 Hours Outside, At Home with Sally, and The Read Aloud Revival. Shelives in the mountains with her family, where her days are shaped by reading aloud, tending the garden, and building a home life rooted in rhythm and beauty.And if you’re a mom who has ever felt the tension between what homeschool “should” look like and what your child actually needs… if you’ve wondered whether there’s a more peaceful, more meaningful way to educate without losing depth or vision—this conversation is for you.Today we’re talking about her newest book, The Inspired Homeschool: How History’s Heroes Light a Path Toward Joyful, Confident Learning. In her book, Jennifer pulls from the lives of historical figures, along with research and biblical wisdom, to help us reimagine education through literature, nature, work, and story—so we can raise children who are curious, grounded, and confident in who they are becoming.Here are some of my favorite quotes fromJennifer’s book (& the interview): “Raising my hand too often and too excitedly to answerquestions was met with frustration from teachers.” - page 27 “My personal ideals for our homeschool don’t have to be yours, but if you don’t know your why, you will continually bow to outside pressures and create stress for your children in the process.” – page 29 Not wanting our kids to learn from a system that is hostiletoward our faith.  “Young children are great imitators, and if we haven’t yetcrushed their natural desire to help by setting unreasonable standards or expressing disappointment in them, they can be great helpers.” – page 47 “The atmosphere is you.” – page 49 Beauty: Effortlessly incorporate beauty…such intentionality. “Mason particularly emphasized the habits of attention,obedience, right thinking, and right acting.” – page 63 Habits: You’re the one who showed me that virtues andhabits are interconnected.  “Homeschooling in the modern age requires tremendous powers of attention, as we must forcibly tear ourselves away from a highly distracting culture and learn to settle into the beautiful and short season of homeschooling our children.” – page 74 “I wanted to give my children the world, so I gave theminspiring books.” – page 79 “It’s hard to understand why traditional schools keeppushing the factory model, and why they’ve replaced classic literature with hopeless victim narratives.” – page 126FULL SHOW NOTES AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COMFollow LB on IG: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhoodPlease visit our sponsors: www.elevatinghomeschool.com/sponsors

Whether your baby is still in diapers, you’re in the middle of the school years, your teenager just got their driver's license, or you've recently become an empty nester, the relationship you hope to have with your children when they leave home doesn't begin the day they pack their bags.It begins today.It begins with the culture you're creating in your home, the words you speak, the trust you're building, the way you respond to change, and the example you're setting.In this conversation, we talk about what it really feels like when your children begin leaving the nest—not just for them, but for you and even for the siblings they leave behind. We discuss the grief that can catch you off guard, the joy of watching your children become independent, and the mindset shifts that help us parent with open hands instead of clenched fists.You'll hear us talk about becoming an "open nester" instead of an "empty nester," why it's so important not to keep our kids small, how to prepare them with the life skills and confidence they'll need to launch well, and why it's never too late to change the patterns in our homes.One of my favorite reminders from this conversation is something Amy says: "You can't talk to your kids enough." And Jennifer's encouragement not to keep our kids small has stayed with me ever since.If you've ever wondered how to prepare your children to leave home while also preparing your own heart, I think you'll find so much encouragement here.And if your kids are still little, don't skip this episode thinking it's for someone else. The foundation for launching our children well is laid years before they ever leave. The attitudes, habits, and relationships we cultivate now matter more than we realize.So grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and enjoy this conversation with my sweet friends, Jennifer Ford Berry and Amy Debrucque. In this episode we talk about:  Open nester vs. empty nesterThe transition from needing you all the time The change that happens when kids get their driver’s licenseDaily independence vs. financial independenceDifferences based on boys vs. girls leaving the nestDifferences with number of kidsGrieving unexpected things with their departureSong: Crowded Table by Highway WomenEvery flight is differentMindset through our whole motherhood journeyThe parallel between school breaks and when your kids fly the nestThe selfless nature of motherhoodKids still at home with their siblings leave homeLife 360 AppGiving them messages of security and encouragementMaking sure we lay a secure foundation and not one of nagging and mistrustLearning from our realizations and taking action from therePivoting and adaptingWE NEED TO MODEL FOR OUR KIDSIt’s never to late to changeHow moms change when kids leave the nestMistakes they made when their kids first left the nestBeing more awareFigure our what draws your kids in and what drives them awayTaking up hobbies as a mom in this season for rejuvenation Talking with moms who have gone before you in this seasonAcknowledging the griefPreparing your child to launch – was there a list of skills you want them to have before they leave home? Open communication within a familyBecoming less offended“You can’t talk to your kids enough.” -Amy DebrucqueRealistic expectationsTalking through how to navigate situationsBuilding up their courageDealing with homesickness“Don’t keep your kids small.” – JFBAnd so much more...full show notes at: www.elevatingmotherhood.com  Link to Jennifer’s Podcast: The Make Room Show https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/make-room-show/id1664260193  Link to Amy’s Podcast: Life on Purpose Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/life-on-purpose-podcast-with-amy-debrucque/id1498212623 Elevating Motherhood Links: Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.comInstagram: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhood Please Visit Our Sponsors: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/sponsors

You don't have to be a politician to change your community.Back before 2020, when we were still living on Maui, my friend Katie and I lobbied for a new playground to be built upcountry at Kula Park…and it happened! There is a small, but mighty playground with bicoastal ocean views and lots of opportunity for vestibular and proprioceptive input (want to know what that is? Find out in Episode 196!)Most parents assume playgrounds simply appear because a city decides to build one. They don't realize that many parks, trails, splash pads, and playgrounds exist because one persistent citizen cared enough to ask.Have you ever driven past an empty field and thought, 'This would be the perfect place for a playground'? Or watched your kids struggle on outdated equipment and wondered why nobody does anything about it? What if I told you that 'somebody' could be you? Today I'm sharing how I helped advocate for a playground in our community on Maui and what I learned about working with city leaders, gathering support, and turning an idea into reality.Action Step 1: Research - Start With Curiosity, Not ComplaintsOne of the biggest mistakes people make is approaching leaders with frustration.Instead of:"Why hasn't anyone done this?"Try:"I noticed a need and would love to understand how decisions like this are made."People are far more willing to help when they feel respected rather than attacked.Questions to ask:Who oversees parks?How are projects prioritized?What funding sources exist?Is this already on a future plan?What would need to happen for it to become a reality?Your goal is to learn before you advocate. Action Step 2: A Conversation - Find Out Who Actually Makes Decisions & Talk to ThemMany people spend months talking to the wrong person.Potential decision-makers include:Parks and Recreation DepartmentCity CouncilCounty CommissionersPlanning DepartmentsSchool BoardsParks FoundationsCommunity Development OrganizationsLearn the process before trying to influence the outcome.A great question:"Who would I need to talk with to better understand how a playground project might move forward?" Action Step 3: Support - Bring Friends, Not Just OpinionsThis may be the most important lesson.Leaders need to know the need extends beyond one family.I want you to: Gather parentsCollect storiesCreate surveysBring neighborsAttend meetings togetherA room filled with supportive, respectful citizens communicates far more than one passionate person.People often underestimate how powerful it is to simply show up Action Step 4: Educate - Present Information, Not DemandsDecision-makers are constantly balancing:BudgetsSafetyMaintenanceStaffingCompeting prioritiesHelp them by doing some homework.Bring:PhotosCommunity surveysPopulation statisticsExamples from nearby communitiesPotential locationsGrant opportunitiesPlayground conceptsInstead of saying:"We need a playground."Say:"Our neighborhood has 600 children within a one-mile radius and no accessible play space. Here are examples of communities that successfully addressed a similar need."Help them solve a problem. Action Step 5: Consistency - Your Attitude Matters More Than You ThinkCommunity leaders hear complaints every day.The person they remember & want to work with is often the one who is:GratefulRespectfulPreparedPatientCollaborativeYou aren't trying to win an argument. You're trying to build a partnership. Advocate like a neighbor, not a customer.Communities thrive when citizens and leaders work together. Action Steps You Can Take This Week:Identify one community need.Find out who oversees that area.Schedule one conversation.Invite two friends to join you.Ask questions before making requests.Communities don't change because someone gets angry enough. They change because someone cares enough to stay involved.Elevating Motherhood Links: Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.comIG: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhood 

Why Does My Kid Always Want Me to Push Them on the Swing?Understanding Vestibular and Proprioceptive InputHave you ever wondered why your child begs for 'one more push' on the swing, spins until they're dizzy, hangs upside down from furniture, jumps off things that make you nervous, or crashes into the couch cushions over and over again? What if all of those behaviors are actually your child's body asking for something it needs? Today we're talking about two sensory systems that most parents have never heard of, but once you understand them, you'll see playgrounds, nature play, and your child's behavior in a completely different way. Kids are Designed to Seek MovementMost parents know about the five senses: sight, taste, touch, smell, hearing…but there are other sensory systems at work.Vestibular InputThe vestibular system lives in the inner ear and helps us understand: balance, movement, direction, and spatial orientationChildren seek vestibular input when they: swing, spin, roll, hang upside down, jump, and climbProprioceptive InputThis is our body's awareness of where we are in space.Children seek proprioceptive input through: pushing, pulling, carrying, climbing, wrestling, jumping, and heavy work (think "maximum effort")Many behaviors we label as "wild" are actually healthy sensory-seeking behaviors.The Playground Used to Be More ChallengingMany modern playgrounds prioritize safety and liability reduction.While safety matters, many playgrounds have lost: height, risk assessment opportunities, spinning equipment, climbing challenges, uneven surfaces, and natural obstaclesChildren often end up with: one slide, one climbing structure, rubber flooring, & limited opportunities for sensory-rich movement. The result? Kids leave the playground still seeking the input they need. Nature Is One of the Best Sensory GymsNature provides what many modern playgrounds can't.In nature children naturally: climb logs, balance on rocks, walk uneven terrain, pull branches, climbing hills, crawling under obstaclesEvery step provides vestibular and proprioceptive feedback. Unlike a manufactured playground, nature is constantly changing and requires the body and brain to adapt. Nature is one of the richest sensory experiences available to children. These Inputs Support More Than Physical DevelopmentVestibular and proprioceptive input don't just help kids burn energy. They support: attention, emotional regulation, body awareness, coordination, confidence, motor planning, and learning readiness.Many parents notice that after active outdoor play, children are calmer, more focused, and better able to sit and learn. We Can Create More Opportunities Without Expensive EquipmentParents don't need a giant backyard playground. Simple ways to provide vestibular input: swings, hammocks, rolling down hills, spinning games, wheelbarrow walks, obstacle courses, & hanging upside downSimple ways to provide proprioceptive input: carrying groceries, moving firewood, gardening, digging, pushing a loaded wagon, shoveling, helping move furniture, animal chores, & climbing treesMany homesteading activities naturally provide excellent sensory input. Challenge Yourself: "How can I give my child more movement instead of more entertainment?"More at: www.elevatingmotherhood.com Watch what movement theirchild naturally seeks.Children were designed tomove. Long before organized sports, screen time, and rubberized playgrounds,children spent their days climbing, carrying, balancing, digging, running, andexploring. When we understand vestibular and proprioceptive input, we stopseeing those behaviors as problems to manage and start seeing them as clues towhat our children's growing bodies need most.

Today's conversation is one I'm pulling from the archives. I recorded this interview with Alyssa Bethke quite a while ago, and as I was looking through past episodes, it felt especially worth bringing back. At the time, I had not yet read her book, When Doing It All Is Undoing You. But after revisiting this conversation, I've added it back to my summer readinglist because the message feels just as timely today as it did then.If you've ever felt the pressure to keep all the plates spinning, to do more, be more, achieve more, or somehow hold everything together, I think you'll appreciate Alyssa'sperspective. We talk about motherhood, identity, striving, rest, and the freedom that comes when we stop measuring our worth by our productivity.Whether you're folding laundry, driving kids to activities, working in the garden, or taking a quiet walk, I hope this conversation encourages you to slow down, breathe deeply, and remember that your value was never found in how much you accomplish.I hope you enjoy this conversation with Alyssa Bethke.Alyssa's Bio: Alyssa Joy Bethke loves Jesus, matcha, and the sun, and squeezes as much pickleball and reading into her week as possible. She is married to Jeff, the love of her life, and is mom to three of the greatest gifts: Kinsley, Kannon, and Lucy. The Bethke family recently moved from Maui to Tennessee and are embracing the wild adventure of a life surrendered to God. Alyssa and Jeff help reclaim God’s design for men, women, and families at Forming Men, Forming Women and Family Teams.Elevating Motherhood Links: Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.comIG: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhoodPlease Visit Our Sponsors: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/sponsors

Some conversations feel tender before they even begin...and divorce is one of them. Today, I’m joined by Alisha Roth, author of Courageous Divorce, to talk openly about a topic that touches more lives than we often acknowledge.Whether you’re personally facing divorce, have walked through it in the past, or want to be a steady, supportive presence for someone you care about, this episode is meantto give language, perspective, and a starting point for those conversations.Buy Alisha’s Book Here: https://amzn.to/4d6clhL   Alisha’s Links: Website: www.alisharoth.comInstagram: @littlewomenfarmhouse Elevating Motherhood Links: Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.comInstagram: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhoodPlease Visit Our Sponsors: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/sponsors

Motherhood has a way of stretching you in ways you never planned for—and sometimes, it asks more of you than you ever thought you could give.Today’s conversation is with Amy Suzanne Upchurch, founder and CEO of Pink Stork, a women-owned company supporting moms in every season of their journey. But beyond her work, Amy is a wife and a mother of six whose story includes infertility, severe morning sickness, a life-threatening health scare, military deployments, and now raising her youngest son, Maximilian, who has Down syndrome.This conversation is about resilience—but not in the polished, inspirational way you might expect. It’s about what it actually looks like to walk through hard seasons of motherhood and choose to keep showing up with strength, perspective, andpurpose.I recorded this interview many months ago, but God’s timingwith this one is great. This is the time I truly want to introduce you to Amy Suzanne and her company Pink Stork. She was just in conversations with a major retailer (you can go to her IG @amy.suzanne_ to find out who) who asked her to take the bible verse they have on the side of their package if they wanted to be on their shelves. Amy said no. And I’m so proud of her for that. Here she is...Amy Suzanne UpchurchFind Pink Stork Products Here: https://amzn.to/41WHOgi  Amy’s Links:Website: https://pinkstork.com Instagram: @amy.suzanne_ & @pinkstork Elevating Motherhood Links: Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com Instagram:@loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhoodPlease Visit Our Sponsors: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/sponsors

At one of my appointments, my OB told me placenta encapsulation wasn't "scientifically proven." Not long after that, I saw her share something on her social media page that felt very...dismissive. And I remember thinking, there has to be more to this conversation. Because I know thoughtful, intentional moms who are considering placenta encapsulation. And there are women who have already made this choice and don't feel silly or naive about it. So today we're opening up a conversation that feels more honest, a little more nuanced...and a lot more respectful. My guest today is Samantha Davis, the CEO of NuHeath Placenta, Inc. NuHealth Placenta, Inc. is a trusted leader in the postpartum wellness space, specializing in safe, professional placenta encapsulation services for new mothers across the U.S. With over 8 years of hands-on experience and more than 30,000 families supported, their mission is to provide education, care, and empowerment during one of life’s most transformative seasons: the fourth trimester.NuHealth's CEO, Samantha Davis, a mother and encapsulation specialist herself, grew NuHealth Placenta out of a deepunderstanding of how under-resourced and overwhelming the postpartum period can be. After experiencing the benefits of placenta encapsulation firsthand, Samantha made it her mission to modernize the process while honoring itstraditional roots.Today, NuHealth serves families both locally through direct pickup services in Southern California & Chicago as well asnationwide with our safe, easy-to-use shipping kits; making holistic postpartum recovery accessible no matter where you birth. Every placenta is processed with industry-leading sanitation standards using CDC-recommended guidelines to ensure the highest safety for both mom and baby.NuHealth is passionate about education, community care, and helping moms feel supported, informed, and empowered after birth. Check them out at: https://www.nuhealthplacenta.com/about-us/Elevating Motherhood Links: Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com Instagram: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhoodPlease Visit Our Sponsors: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/sponsors

If you’re trying to build a family culture where eating out feels peaceful, connected, and screen-free—but aren’t sure how to get there—this episode is for you. We’re a family of foodies…plus we travel a lot. Based on those two things alone, we end up eating out often. Almost every single time we eat out with our now 12, 10, 9, and 4 year old, we get complimented on the behavior of our children. I’m not saying that to brag. I’m saying it because it signaled something for me…according to many servers at these restaurants all across the country, our children are not the norm. They don’t often see kids off screens at the table or kids that order for themselves or kids that make eye contact. And that’s a shame. Those 3 things should be the bare minimum expectations that we have for children in restaurants in America. Bare minimum. Even our 4-year-old does these things.  Examples: *Airport in Denver. He couldn’t get over it. * The biscuit shop in Nashville. “How do you do it?” Have a realistic goal based on their age* The goal is not perfection. A successful dinner out is not a flawless dinner. Food is going to fly. Chairs are going to fall over. Silverware is going to be dropped. Drinks will spill (again and again and again). They are going to want to not be sitting the whole time. It is not going to be peaceful from day one. * And the one time it is peaceful? It does NOT mean you have arrived. This is years of training. (i.e. writing letters correctly)* Our attitude: You are not entitled to a peaceful meal out or even the opportunity to engage in an uninterrupted conversation with your spouse or friend or family member. You are training up your children well. They are part of the dinner and part of the equation.  Start when they are young* Take your babies and toddlers out to eat * This is not a date night, this is a family dinner and you are in a season where you have to teach your kids about restaurant manners and this lesson will take years of training and patience. * Kids mirror your behavior. If you are anxious, they will be anxious. If you keep getting up, they will keep getting up. * Give grace. Offer napkins and a sympathetic smile to other families. We can create a supportive culture. How to keep them “occupied”* Don’t make “entertainment” the goal. Your child does not need to be entertained. By all means, bring a restaurant activity bag with simple things like stickers and a notepad, but only bring it out as a secondary need. If the wheels start falling off, that’s when the bag comes out. * Tic tac toe is your new favorite game. So is would you rather. And I spy. * Keep them engaged. Here is a menu. We need to look at the menu first. We need to decide what we want to have to drink. Sportscast the meal for them. * Don’t drink alcohol while you’re out with your children and teaching them. Your wheels start to fall off. Lessons get blurred and unclear. Kids mirror us and it creates confusion.  Set up clear expectations...READ THE FULL SHOW NOTES AT: www.elevatingmotherhood.com This is actually all REALLY FUN.Dining out is FUN, not a pressure cooker experience. This isn’t a rigid activity with a set menu and harsh participants. Compassion as a first response “Is it good to be me with you right now?”  I think the thing that people are noticing is that we are having a pleasant, present time together. We’ve got a groove that doesn’t include screens and our kids are participating in the meal. They’re not in the way or bystanders.  Be patientBe presentBe logicalHold the spaceHold realistic expectationsSet your family up for successRemember the long gameBe a unified front in this experience. It’s about helping our kids feel confident in everyday situations. And remember…our kids mirror us. So when we’re confident, they are confident.   Please Visit Our Sponsors: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/sponsors

If you don’t tell your children who they are… the world will.Every day, our kids are absorbing messages about their worth, their identity, their value. And if we’re not intentional, those voices can get louder than the truth.Today on Elevating Motherhood, I’m joined by HosannaWong — international speaker, spoken word artist widely known for piece “I Have A New Name,” and bestselling author of How (Not) to Save the World , Uncomplicate It, and You Are More Than You’ve Been Told.We’re talking about her very first children’s book, What God Says About You, and how to teach our kids that their identity is rooted firmly in Christ.In this conversation, Hosanna shares why no one gets to define your child except the One who made them — and how we can equip our kids to know, deep in their bones, that they are loved and chosen.If you’ve ever wondered how to speak identity over your children in a way that sticks…If you want your kids to grow up grounded, secure, and confident in who God says they are…This episode is for you.Buy Hosanna’s Children’s Book Here: https://amzn.to/4r79ol9 Buy Uncomplicate It Here: https://amzn.to/3P7oXM2  Elevating Motherhood Links: Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com Instagram: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhoodPlease Visit Our Sponsors: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/sponsors  Hosanna’s Links: Website: https://www.hosannawong.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hosanna.wong TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hosannawongofficial Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/officialhosannawong YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeCZaE0vSMGzVRjcBrDWLlA

Get Chris’s Book Here: https://amzn.to/4skTgxs What if the most counter-cultural decision you make as a parent… has nothing to do with screen time or schooling and everything to do with alcohol?Today’s conversation is honest. It’s tender. And it’s needed.I’m joined by Chris Janssen to talk about her USA Today bestselling book, Grace Yourself...and about something many families quietly navigate but rarely discuss: hidden or silent struggles with alcohol.Chris shares her own story of recognizing alcohol’s hold on her life, attending her first support meeting, and coming to two powerful realizations — it wasn’t her fault, and she wasn’t alone.We talk about sobriety after relapse, the courage to create a dry house, recovering from perfectionism, and what it really means to show up for the sober life you want — not from a place of shame, but from grace.If you’ve ever wondered whether your relationship with alcohol is serving you…If you have an alcohol issue in your home or extended family…If you’re parenting in a culture where drinking is normalized…Or if you simply want to live more freely and intentionally…This episode is for you. Chris’s Bio: Chris Janssen, MA, BCC, is the author of Grace Yourself: How to Show Up for the Sober Life You Want and a leading results coach in performance and mindset. She has worked with hundreds of sought-after athletes, creatives, soldiers, entrepreneurs, and small businesses internationally, helping them to close the gap between where they are and where they want to be. In addition to her academic achievements, Chris trained with and worked on Tony Robbins’ team of results coaches at the #1 personal development and peak performance strategy company in the world.As a board-certified coach with a master’s in counseling psychology and over 25 years of experience, Chris excels in helping high-achieving perfectionists navigate performance pressure, overcome self-sabotage and rewrite narratives. Through her successful and sustainable Living All In methods, clients learn to attach meaning to life events and circumstances beyond their control.A California native, Chris and her husband, Scott have been married for nearly 30 years. Together, they raised threechildren, now thriving young adults. Chris and Scott live in Los Angeles and love to ski, golf, be with their horses and adventure outside. Elevating Motherhood Links: Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com Instagram: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhoodPlease Visit Our Sponsors: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/sponsors  Chris’s Links:Website: https://www.chrisjanssencoaching.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chrisjanssencoaching/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chris3janssen

When was the last time you received a handwritten letter?Not a text. Not an email. Not a quick DM.An actual letter. Written by hand. Just for you.There is something almost rebellious about that kind of connection now — slow, intentional, non-intrusive… and requiring just enough effort to mean something.Today on Elevating Motherhood, I’m joined by Amy Daughters — keynote speaker, sports journalist, satirist, and the award-winning author of Dear Dana: That Time I Went Crazy and Wrote All 580 of My Facebook Friends a Handwritten Letter and You Cannot Mess This Up: A True Story That Never Happened.Amy once wrote 580 handwritten letters to her Facebook friends. Yes — 580. And what she discovered in the process will make you rethink the power of pen and paper.In this conversation, we talk about the lost art of letter writing, what happens inside us when we take the time to write byhand, and why meaningful, sacrificial connection between two human beings is more powerful than we realize.If you’ve ever felt disconnected in a hyper-connected world…If you’ve ever wanted to reach out but didn’t know how…Or if you’ve forgotten just how impactful a simple letter can be ...this episode will stay with you. Amy’s Bio: Amy Weinland Daughters is a keynote speaker, letter writer, satirist, sports journalist, and the award-winning author of two books: Dear Dana: That time I went crazy and wrote all 580 of my Facebook friends a handwritten letter and You Cannot Mess This Up: A true story that never happened. She is absolutely convinced that when human beings connect individually in a meaningful way that nothing can separatethem.  Elevating Motherhood Links: Website:www.elevatingmotherhood.com Instagram:@loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhoodPlease Visit Our Sponsors: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/sponsors   Amy’s Links:Website: www.amydaughters.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amyweinlanddaughtersauthor Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smokinhotamys/ Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-w-daughters-16352a227/

Bestselling author Jennifer Dukes Lee joins me to talk about her new book How to Love Your Morning and how to create a faith-filled morning routine that actually works for real-life moms. If you long to wake up with hope, purpose, and rhythms rooted in God’s mercies, this conversation will change the way you start your day.Have you ever noticed how your entire day can beshaped before your feet even hit the floor?Mornings can feel rushed, chaotic, and chore heavy— especially in a full season of motherhood. But what if the first moments of your day could actually become your anchor instead of your stress point?Today on Elevating Motherhood, I’m joined for a second time by bestselling author, speaker, and self-proclaimed “morning evangelist,” Jennifer Dukes Lee. Jennifer is the author ofseveral incredible books, including Growing Slow and It's AllUnder Control. Jennifer lives on a fifth-generation family farm in Iowa where she and her husband are raising crops, pigs, two beautiful humans, and an enduring faith.We’re talking about her brand-new book, How to Love Your Morning— and I’ll just tell you right now, it has completelychanged the way I start my day. It is officially my favorite read of 2026 so far.In this conversation, we explore how to build a life you love one morning at a time — how to wake up with hope instead ofheaviness, how to discover your unique “morning archetype,” and how to create simple, personalized rhythms that actually fit your real life. This book is not a one size fits all type of book. Jennifer studied every single morning mentioned in Scripture — over 200 mentions—and what she found might surpriseyou.If you’ve ever longed to believe that God’s mercies really are new every morning — but you’re not quite sure how to live that out — this episode is for you. Jennifer’s Bio: Jennifer Dukes Lee is a bestselling author, speaker, and morning evangelist from Iowa. She is the author of several books, including How to Love Your Morning, Growing Slow, and It’s All Under Control. She’s a fan of queso, bright lipstick, and singing too loudly to songs with great harmony. She lives on a fifth-generation family farm, where she and her husband have made a life of growing crops, pigs, two beautiful humans, and an enduring faith. Buy Jennifer’s Book Here: https://amzn.to/4cRjyCJ Elevating Motherhood Links: Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com Instagram: @loribethauldridge@elevatingmotherhood Please Visit Our Sponsors: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/sponsors  Jennifer’s Links: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JenniferDukesLee Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenniferdukeslee/

If you’ve ever wanted to read the Bible more consistently but struggled to stay focused — or if you have a child who getsfrustrated, distracted, or overwhelmed by reading — today’s episode is especially for you.In our last conversation, we talked about dyslexia for the first time on the show. And one of the questions that came up again and again was, What does support actually look like in everyday life? Not just in schoolwork — but in faith, too.Today, we’re continuing that conversation in an interview with Laura Bartlett, Associate Publisher for ZondervanBibles, about a Bible designed specifically for readers withdyslexia and ADHD: the Clear Focus Bible.This Bible uses Bionic Reading typography — a research-based layout that highlights parts of words to help the brain recognize them more easily, guiding the eyes across the page and improving focus and comprehension. For many readers, this removes the constant friction that makes reading feelexhausting or discouraging.The Clear Focus Bible is being released throughZondervan, and it represents something really important to me: the idea that struggling to read doesn’t mean someone is less spiritual, less disciplined, or less capable of connecting with God’s Word.This isn’t about shortcuts. It’s about accessibility. It’s about removing unnecessary barriers so more people — kids and adults alike — can engage with Scripture with confidence instead of frustration.This episode is part of an ongoing commitment on this podcast to talk honestly about learning differences, faith, and motherhood — and while this conversation started with dyslexia, it certainly won’t end there.Buy the Clear Focus Bible for Kids Here: https://amzn.to/3ZGgPEsBuy the Clear Focus Bible for Adults Here:https://amzn.to/40apTlcElevating Motherhood Links:Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.comInstagram: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhoodSponsors: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/sponsors

Dyslexia touches so many families. And so many of us quietly wonder if our own child might have dyslexia. My kid wrote a letter backwards…now what?For the first time on the Elevating Motherhood Podcast, we’re having a dedicated conversation about dyslexia — and while this is our first episode on the topic, it definitely won’t be the last. This is a conversation many moms are already having in their heads, often without clear answers or support.I’m joined today by Jen Parra, who brings clarity, experience, and a calm, grounded approach to a topic that can feel overwhelming. We talk about what dyslexia actually is,how it can show up in kids, and what moms can do next — without panic, labels for the sake of labels, or unnecessary fear.This episode is for moms who are noticing patterns, asking questions, or simply wanting to understand their child moreclearly. My hope is that this conversation offers reassurance, practical insight, and a reminder that struggling doesn’t mean failing — and understanding changes everything.Jen’s Bio: Jen Parra founded the Multisensory Reading Center in 2015 and has over 20 years of experience working with children who have learning disabilities including dyslexia, autism, ADHD, and SLD. Her passion is using science-based interventions to unlock literacy for all students. Jen has anM.Ed. from Midwestern State University with an emphasis in dyslexia and is currently a doctoral candidate at the University of Florida. Jen is a Certified Academic Language Therapist (CALT) through the Academic Language TherapyAssociation and a Certified Structured Literacy Dyslexia Specialist (C-SLDS) with the International Dyslexia Association.Dyslexia is a neurobiological difference in the way the brain attempts to read and spell our written language. Through the use of research-backed learning practices, we can build the literacy capacity of struggling readers and writers so they canreach their academic goals.Elevating Motherhood Links:Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.comInstagram: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhood Sponsors: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/sponsorsJen's Links: Website: www.dyslexiasite.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/msrcenterLinkedin: https://linkedin.com/in/jenparra/Instagram: @multisensoryreadingcenter37

Homeschooling is rewarding — but it can also feelmessy, overwhelming, and full of pressure. Choosing curricula, scheduling lessons, balancing priorities — it’s easy to feel like you’re drowning in decisions. It’s common for homeschool parents to question whether they are doing enough or even if they are doing it right. Today, I’m talking with Carrie De Francisco, author, podcaster, homeschool coach, and “retired” home educator. Carrie knows firsthand how chaotic homeschooling can feel, and she’s written A Home Education Handbook: NineQuestions to Ask for Simple & Balanced Home-Based Learning to help parents cut through the clutter and focus on what truly matters.Carrie helps parents simplify homeschooling onestep at a time, without losing the joy or the faith-centered foundation that matters most. She’s the voice behind the Coffee With Carrie Homeschool Help podcastand the author of multiple homeschooling guides, including Just Breathe (and Take a Sip of Coffee) and Homeschool High School: A Handbook for Christian Education.In this conversation, we dig into her approach toasking the right questions, embracing balance, and creating a homeschool that actually works for your family — not someone else’s. If you’ve been feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure about next steps, this episode is packed withpractical insights and encouragement to get you moving forward confidently. Get Carrie’s Book Here: ⁠https://amzn.to/4c9TFO7Join me for my next homeschool planning retreat! www.elevatinghomeschool.com Homeschool Moms...imagine getting away for a fewdays at a 9,000 sq ft lodge on Lake Coeur d’Alene in beautiful North Idaho where you can walk along the lake, hike nearby trails, or relax in the lodge’s private hot tub. That’s exactly what I’m offering at the Elevating Homeschool SpringRetreat this May 15-17th, 2026. I’m hosting a small group ofhomeschool mamas at Lutherhaven Lodge where you’ll enjoy a 2 night vacation, 5 meals you don’t have to cook, threehomeschool planning workshops, fireside chats, a game night, and two live worship music sessions. The Elevating Homeschool Spring Retreat is for moms who are ready to step back, breathe, and plan their upcoming homeschool with confidence, surrounded by other moms who truly understand the journey.Spots are limited, so grab your homeschool besties,reserve a room together, and head to www.elevatinghomeschool.com to sign up!

SIGN UP FOR THE RETREAT HEREIn this episode, I’m sharing the heart behind the Elevating Homeschool Spring 2026 Retreat I’m hosting — why it exists, who it’s for, and what makes it different from other events.This retreat was created for homeschool moms who are doing the work, loving their kids, and showing up daily — but who need space to pause, reflect, and plan with intention. Not to hustle harder. Not to overhaul everything. Just to think clearly again.We talk about why planning matters, the power of stepping away from everyday noise, and how thoughtful connection with other moms can be just as impactful as the workshops themselves.If you’ve been craving clarity, confidence, and a reset as you head into your next homeschool season, this episode is for you.Why this homeschool retreat existsWho the retreat is for (and who it’s not)What makes this retreat different from typical homeschool eventsThe heart behind the homeschool planning workshopsWhy getting away from daily life changes everythingThe role of meaningful community and conversationWhat I hope moms feel when they leaveYou’re committed to homeschooling but feeling scattered or stretchedYou want thoughtful planning, not pressure or comparisonYou need space to reflect, pray, and think without interruptionYou’re craving clarity, connection, and renewed confidenceMy hope is that moms leave this retreat feeling lighter, steadier, and more confident — with a clear sense of direction and excitement for the season ahead.If this episode resonates and you’ve been feeling that nudge to step away and plan with intention, I’d love to invite you to join us.Retreat Info: www.elevatinghomeschool.com

Today’s conversation is a special one.I’m joined by Amy Hughes, author of Words Like Honey,a book that gently reminds us of the power our words carry, especially in our closest relationships. Amy writes with honesty and tenderness about how our speech shapes the atmosphere of our homes, the hearts of our children, and eventhe way we see ourselves. (And she does it in such a way that she doesn’t make moms feel like jerks when our words aren’t like honey).This isn’t a conversation about saying everything perfectly or getting it right all the time. It’s about becoming more aware, more intentional, and more compassionate with the words we choose, especially on the hard days.In this episode, Amy and I talk about motherhood, faith, grace, and what it looks like to let our words be a source of life rather than pressure. If you’ve ever wished you could rewind amoment and speak differently, or if you’re longing for a softer, more peaceful tone in your home, this conversation is for you.Amy’s Bio: Amy Hughes is a mother of nine, a writer, a speaker, and a parenting coach living on the central coast of California. A featured writer for Wild + Free, Amy is a sought-after keynote and conference speaker and has been published in Scary Mommy, (in)Courage, Simplify Magazine, The Fallow House, The Natural Family, Rhythm of the Home, Christian Unschooling, and more. She reads too many books and drinks too much coffee, plus she thinks she’s incredibly funny. I’m so grateful to share Amy and her work with you today. Get Amy’s Book Here: https://amzn.to/4rSlZsUElevating Motherhood Links: Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.comInstagram: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhood

Last week, we began a conversation about marriage—not the highlight-reel version, but the honest, complicated, sometimes fragile reality that so many couples live inside of. And today, we’re continuing that conversation in a deeper way.Tim and Kathy Bush join me to share their story —a marriage that began on shaky ground and nearly ended in complete destruction. Their relationship was marked by infidelity, trauma, addiction, and secrets that stayed hidden for years. And yet, this is not a story that ends in heartbreak. It’s a story of what can happen when the truth is brought into the light, when pretending stops, and when hope arrives in a way no amount of effort could manufacture.Their book, Sex on the First Date, is raw, courageous, and deeply redemptive — and this conversation reflects that same honesty. Whether your marriage feels like it’s barely holding together, quietly drifting, or strong but still growing… orwhether you’re not married at all, there is wisdom here for every relationship and a reminder that no story is too broken to be transformed. Buy the book here: https://amzn.to/3Zh0HZJThe Bush Bios: Tim and Kathy Bush are the authors of Sex on the First Date: A Story of a Broken Beginning to a Radically Transformed Marriage. They have been married since 1982 and are the proud parents of three children, three in-law children, eight grandchildren and one dog. They are speakers as well as FamilyLife affiliate staff, who share their story at marriage conferences and retreats across the country. They founded War Room Ministries (warroomministries.com), which has served to strengthen men, marriages, families and churches and to develop Christian character through redemption, relationships and resilience. Tim and Kathy have received countless responses of gratitude for openly discussing the shame that comes from searching for happiness in all the wrong places.Tim is retired from thirty-five years in the automobile business and is an entrepreneur in real estate and business development, having owned businesses since just out of high school. Kathy has been a homemaker and esthetician who studied at Euro Institute of Skin Care and is retired from running her own spa and skin care business. They both enjoydrinking coffee, walking and traveling. They love spending time with their kids and grandkids, praying and reading God’s Word and worshiping God and going to churchtogether. They also stay very busy serving together at marriage events, and partnering with other couples who have a passion for marriages. And you might be interested to know they also recently moved to North Idaho.Elevating Motherhood Links: Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com Instagram: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhood Please visit our sponsors: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/sponsors

Today’s episode might surprise you — especially if you’ve ever thought, “If my husband would just change, our marriage would be easier…” (You're not alone in this thought...)I’m sitting down with Ann Wilson, speaker, author, and co-host of FamilyLife Today, to talk about her latest book How toSpeak Life to Your Husband —a book born out of real-life frustration, honest mistakes, and a total shift in how she used her words at home. Ann doesn’t sugar-coat anything. She shows us how encouragement, respect, and truth-filled communication can actually reshape our marriages — not by pretending, but by learning how powerful our voices really are. If you’ve ever felt stuck, misunderstood, or just tired ofrepeating the same arguments… this conversation is going to give you hope, tools, and a whole new perspective. Ann’s Bio: Ann Wilson has served with her husband for more than twenty-five years, co-founding Kensington Community Church, speaking at FamilyLife’s Weekend to Remember®, and hosting their own marriage conferences across the country. They live in the Detroit area, and have three grownsons, CJ, Austin, and Cody; three daughters-in-law; and seven grandchildren.Ann’s Links: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daveannwilson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DaveAnnWilson/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DaveAnnWilson Her Book: https://amzn.to/49fPXAM Elevating Motherhood Links: Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.comInstagram: @loribethauldridgePlease Visit Our Sponsors: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/sponsors

Every year December sneaks up on moms — the traditions, the sugar, the sickness, the parties, the pressure. This episode is all about what I’m doing differently next Christmas to create a calmer, healthier, more intentional holiday season for our family. From planning ahead and simplifying gifts to supporting our kids’ immune systems and downsizing expectations, I’m sharing practical changes that reduce stress, protect our peace, and let us actually enjoy Christmasagain. If you’ve ever thought, “There has to be a better way to do the holidays,” this conversation is for you. Things I’mdoing different next Christmas/December: 1. I’m going to create a bin in the garage that I store gifts in 2. I’m going to buy gifts throughout the year3. Order Christmas jammies in September/October4. Start probiotics for the kids in August* Immune probiotic chewable from Dr. Elisa Song of Healthy Kids Happy Kids * Link to probiotics: https://healthykidshappykids.com  (Dr. Song Probiotics) 5. Start Vitamin D in September* Favorite Vitamin D: https://amzn.to/3YTMVvV (MaryRuth’s)6. I’m going to plan for the holidays at the beginning of October and order what I need to order and place celebrations on the calendar. This includes:* My son’s birthday party (find the balance with holidays + December birthdays!)* St Lucia Day* Martinmas (lantern walk)* Christmas Eve Eve party (do we want to host for an 11th year?)* I’m not going to host homeschool group at my house in December…we’ll plan outdoor outings & adventures instead8. Use bleach wipes when I hear about norovirus (I’m semi crunchy, okay?) * Favorite non-crunchy wipes: https://amzn.to/3YV0bjX(Clorox Free & Clear)9. Have grape juice, activated charcoal, and grapefruit seed extract on hand for stomach stuff* Favorite grape juice: https://amzn.to/4sql5VF (Organic Grape Juice)* Favorite activated charcoal: https://amzn.to/4q8CdxM(Activated Charcoal)* Favorite GSE: https://amzn.to/4plY2IO (Grapefruit Seed Extract)10. Have pineapple juice & gelatin on hand for coughs* Favorite pineapple juice: https://amzn.to/49mqrsk (Pineapple Ginger)* Favorite gelatin: https://amzn.to/3LdfqSg (Gelatin Powder)11.  Limit sugar to outings and parties only (instead of giving in to all the sugar temptations & offerings of December)—make sugar a sometimes habit instead of a daily habit12.  Open windows as a daily habit—make this a daily habit instead of a sometimes oneTo summarize, we’re going to continue to downsize Christmas & aim for less stress and better health. I feel like there is an undercurrent in American motherhood culture that is leaning that direction…and I’m going to ride that undercurrent!Elevating Motherhood Links: Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.comInstagram: @loribethauldridge Please Visit Our Sponsors: www.elevatingmotherhood.com/sponsors

This episode is a true meeting of the minds. Kiri Jorgensen and I both bring years of passion and experience in children’sliterature to the table—and this conversation might just change the way you see your family’s bookshelf.The world of children’s publishing has shifted dramatically over the past few decades. What once felt simple and safe is now layered with hidden social agendas and stories thatoften work against the virtues we’re trying to nurture in our kids.If you’ve ever been told that “as long as they’re reading, it’s fine,” this episode will gently challenge that idea. Not every book deserves a place in your child’s hands, and discernment matters more than ever.We’re diving deep into how to spot truly good books, why quality matters more than quantity, and what you can do to raise thoughtful, well-read kids in today’s publishing climate.Parents—you do not want to miss this one. Kiri’s Bio: Kiri Jorgensen is the Publisher andSenior Editor at Chicken Scratch Books. She is also a writer, teacher, entrepreneur, and most importantly wife and mother. Her involvement in the world of children’s literature spans almost three decades with perspective from many angles—writer, editor, organization leader, and writing instructor forboth kids and adults. She also taught school for 16 years where she specialized in gifted and rural education. She loves all books middle grade, but in her heart, she is a teacher. Chicken Scratch Books lets her combine all her passions. Besides the world of teaching and story, Kiri loves gardening, sewing quilts, being in nature, and bragging about her four amazing kids. She lives with her husband and a plethora of animals in rural Montana, where she cooks her meals on a wood-burning cookstove and is grateful every day for being right where she is.In this episode, Kiri & I talk about: * Chicken Scratch Books: middle grade fiction without hidden social agendas* Traditional American values* Why Kiri started Chicken Scratch Books * The drastic shift in children’s publishing world—and why we should be concerned as parents* Quality, clean literature for kids* How motherhood changed my perspective * Writers are required to bring liberal agendainto their * The political agenda in children’s literature* Kids don’t naturally connect over demographics* Relatable motives are what connects kids to a character* How my degrees in children’s literature are for my kids more than anything else* Podcast Docu-series: Sold A Story* Books are competing with short attention spans* Parents are so desperate for their kids to readanything that they’ll hand them anything regardless * Don’t choose books based on what is most popular* Character development in books affects our children’s budding character* Children are vulnerable and impressionable—the children’spublishing world takes advantage of this* Practical things parents can do to seek out decent children’s literature* “Books and media can be really powerful tools toteach and reinforce the virtues that you want instilled in your kids”* Have a kid who doesn’t want to read? Doread-alouds!* Every parent has power“Embrace who you are, where you are, and lookfor ways to be grateful for each of the experiences that you’re having alongthe way because they do culminate into what you become.” -Kiri Jorgensen* AND MORE!  Chicken Scratch Books Links: https://chickenscratchbooks.com@chickenscratchbooks on IG and FB@CSBooks4 on X Elevating Motherhood Links: www.elevatingmotherhood.comwww.instagram.com/loribethauldridge Please Visit Today’s Sponsors:www.elevatingmotherhood.com/sponsors

Guest: Brianna Reiser, Vice President of Experience at ToothpillowOverview: In this episode, we explore the incredible impact of Toothpillow, a comprehensive airway health program for kids, with Brianna Reiser—an experienced dental professional whose personal journey led her to this work. We dive into the “why” behind Toothpillow, how it works, and my personal experience using it with my daughter.In This Episode:Meet Brianna Reiser14+ years in dentistryLost her mother to sleep apnea, which led to her passion for airway healthNow VP of Experience at Toothpillow, working to make airway care accessibleWhy Airway Dentistry MattersUnderdeveloped jaws: a growing epidemicRoot causes of crooked teeth (not just cosmetic!)Cultural factors: diet, breastfeeding challenges, and lack of support for oral developmentThe danger of “band-aid” approaches (like wisdom teeth removal without cause investigation)What Toothpillow Is & How It WorksA two-year, app-supported airway health programIncludes myofunctional exercises, nasal hygiene, and tongue tie assessmentsGuides kids through face muscle training and jaw developmentThree current competitors: Healthy Start Habit Corrector, MyoBrace, and Vivos GuidesToothpillow is a full program—not just a single deviceWhat Makes It DifferentEvery child is assigned a dentist and a virtual dental assistant through the appPersonalized coaching and ongoing support available to parentsNot every child is a fit (about 30% are not recommended to proceed)Compliance is supported through encouragement and trackingCommon Signs of Airway Struggles in Kids:Mouth breathingNight wakingBedwettingNightmares or terrorsADHD-like symptomsWhy Moms Love ItAffordable: No brick-and-mortar costs passed on to parentsEasy-to-use app experienceHolistic and rooted in connection—not just clinicalMy Personal Review:My daughter has been using Toothpillow for over 4 monthsNoticed improvements: better sleep, no more night terrors, fewer dark circlesFace shape is changing; jaw is visibly wider“When I wear my Toothpillow, my tongue just knows where to go.”Toothpillow for the Future:Plans to expand to adults and babiesKeeping long-term health and root causes at the center of careSPECIAL OFFER: Use code LORIBETH for $200 off + a free video assessment ($50 value)Referenced:Episode 175 – Intro to Airway DentistryToothpillow Website: ⁠Toothpillow.com⁠Elevating Motherhood: ⁠elevatingmotherhood.com⁠Instagram: @loribethauldridge

What if your child’s mouth breathing, restless sleep, or even focus issues weren’t behavioral—but biological?In this eye-opening episode, I sit down with a pediatric airway dentist to explore the critical (and often overlooked) role of airway health in childhood development. We talk about how things like tongue ties, narrow palates, and poor oral posture can impact sleep, behavior, and even long-term health—and why early intervention matters.If you’ve ever been told “they’ll grow out of it,” or felt dismissed when raising concerns about your child’s breathing or sleep, this conversation is for you.In this episode, we cover:* The difference between traditional and airway-focused dentistry* How mouth breathing can lead to misdiagnoses like ADHD or anxiety* Signs parents can look for at home* What treatment and support can look like* Why airway health is a foundational part of whole-child wellnessThis episode is full of insight, practical takeaways, and encouragement for parents who want to better understand what’s going on beneath the surface of their child’s symptoms. Dr. Hilary’s Bio: Dr. Hilary Fritsch is a leading airway and biological dentist, one of the very few in the country with deep expertise in proper jaw development and airway health. She is also Montana’s premier Toothpillow provider, offering cutting-edge, nonsurgical techniques to optimizeairway growth and function.Practicing dentistry since 2006, Dr. Fritsch has been featured on The Today Show (NBC), New York Magazine, Business Insider, Pop Sugar, Fatherly, and Romper. Her passion for wellness is deeply personal—shaped by her own struggles with childhood sleep apnea and a debilitating autoimmunedisease that once impaired her ability to see and even walk unassisted. These experiences fuel her commitment to helping patients and their families optimize their health through airway-focused dentistry.Dr. Fritsch is the founder of Western Sleep Solutions andSaddle Peak Dental, both rooted in the philosophy that oral health is intricately connected to whole-body health. She specializes in nonsurgical airway development and the treatment of sleep apnea, breathing disorders, andorthodontic issues that impact long-term wellness.Determined to bring the best possible care to her patients,Dr. Fritsch has trained under one of the most elite airway dentists in the world and continuously pursues advanced education in airway-aware orthodontics, occlusion, and oral microbiome health. She is an active member of theInternational Academy of Sleep and other leading organizations dedicated to uncovering the root causes of airway dysfunction.Dr. Fritsch is passionate about educating and empowering her patients—both young and old—to take ownership of their health, breathing, and longevity. Quick Note Before We Begin:If you get curious during this episode about the palateexpander device we mention, head to toothpillow.com and use the code LORIBETH to receive a free video consultation with a trained airway dentist—a $50 value—plus $200 off the cost of treatment.That’s toothpillow.com, code LORIBETHDr. Hilary’s Links: Website: Saddlepdeakdental.comInstagram: @hilaryfritschdmd Elevating Motherhood Links: Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.comInstagram: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhood

The Kind of Decluttering That Actually Lastswith Julia UbbengaJulia Ubbenga is a minimalist. I’m not.But I read her new book Declutter Your Heart and Your Home from cover to cover—and I was both challenged and changed.In this episode, we talk about what it really means to live with less—less clutter, less noise, less pressure—and how that can create more space for peace, purpose, and presence. We dive into the emotional side of decluttering, why stuff isn’t the real problem, and how simplifying your outer world can lead to deep inner clarity.If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the chaos in your home or your calendar... this conversation will speak to you.In this episode: ​Why emotional clutter keeps us stuck​How to start simplifying when minimalism feels extreme​The surprising link between physical space and spiritual freedom​What Julia let go of—and what she gained​And why this kind of decluttering actually lastsWhether you're a seasoned minimalist or just starting to rethink what “enough” looks like, this episode will encourage you to move toward a simpler, more intentional way of living.Julia's Links: Instagram: @richinwhatmattersWebsite: www.richinwhatmatters.com Lori Beth's Links: Instagram: @loribethauldridgeWebsite: www.elevatingmotherhood.comCheck out my favorite planner: www.sparrowhomeschool.comCODE: LORIBETH for 10% off

Mary Ruth Organics collaborated with the brand Liquid Death in a temporary collaboration for their nighttime formula. They released the "ad" on social media that included chainsawing clowns (murder) and dark imagery and messaging that really rocked the online space. The collaboration seemed to make zero sense for those of us who have been users of Mary Ruth's high quality vitamins and products for years. There was outrage--including from me. I left an unbecoming comment on MRO's IG post, I cancelled my subscription to their products, I shared it with friends and followers. And once I had done all of those things, I should have felt some sort of peace, right? Wasn't that the "right" thing to do? Wasn't this me aligning my actions and values? It sure didn't feel like it...I couldn't get rid of this nagging feeling that perhaps Mary Ruth Organics wasn't familiar with just how dark Liquid Death's advertising tactics can get (ever heard of their "soul contract?") So I decided to message the MRO's IG page and ask if they knew about it and get curious about how this collaboration came to be. You know who answered? Mary Ruth herself. THE Mary Ruth of Mary Ruth Organics. She messaged me back and asked if we could talk. I said yes. She called me, we chatted, and at the end of the conversations I can confidently say hearts and minds were changed--especially mine. This episode is about the unfolding and understanding that took place after that conversation. It also explains why--despite the online outrage over a collaboration (that has ended, by the way)--I'm going to continue to buy and use Mary Ruth Organics products. Disclaimer: at the the time of this recording, I am not an affiliate for or have any sort of business relationship with Mary Ruth Organics. This is simply my opinion & personal story about a "hot topic" among the mom community.

This episode is my audio version of my contribution to the 2025 For the Love of Homeschooling Homesteading & Skillful Living Mega Bundle – available now through April 25, 2025 Get your mega bundle here: https://www.fortheloveofhomeschooling.com/?ref=loribethWhat makes me a passionate home cook?Lori Beth Auldridge is a homeschooling mom of 4 & passionate home cook. She learned from the best (Grandma Huck) while growing up in Appalachia & from private celebrity chefs when she worked as a personal assistant. She is the creator & host of the Elevating Motherhood Podcast. Follow her on IG: @loribethauldridgeWhat if cooking didn’t feel overwhelming? What if you could follow a recipe—or even create your own—without second-guessing yourself? I’m here to help.In this episode, you’ll find my 8 best tips for home cooks to help you build trust in your own cooking instincts. You’ll learn how to elevate flavors, experiment with spices, and make meals that actually taste good—not just edible. We’ll also cover how to study recipes, memorize key dishes, and practice your favorites so they feel effortless.Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated. Let’s make it simple—and enjoyable. I’m glad you’re here. Let’s get started!Tip 1: Cook from Semi-Scratch. Tip 2: Elevate Your Flavor Profiles.Tip 3: Pinch Your SaltTip 4: Bold Flavors, Better CookingTip 5: Study Recipes and Make Them Your OwnTip 6: Perfect a Favorite DishTip 7: Try New MealsTip 8: Memorize a Recipe(More details available in print form in the mega bundle)Lori Beth’s Famous Easy 3-sy Sausage GravyIf you can remember the number 3, you can memorize this recipe!1lb ground sage breakfast sausage3 tbs grass-fed butter1/3 cup white flour3 cups raw milksalt & pepper to tasteBrown the sausage in a pan on the stove. Once browned, add 3 tbs of butter. Let the butter melt, stir the sausage to coat. Add the flour. Stir again, coating the sausage. Allow the butter & flour to cook together for a few moments, forming a roux. Once a roux is achieved, add the milk. Stir continually on low to medium heat until thickened. You’ll know it’s ready when you scrape the pan and the gravy doesn’t come back together right away, but slowly moves back together because of its thickness. Add salt & pepper to taste (aiming to season heavily), tasting for flavor before serving. Serve over biscuits of your choosing.Note: I’ve added my personal preferences for a knock-your-socks-off gravy, but you are welcome to use your own (real) butter, whole milk, & preferred flavor of sausage.

Today’s Sponsor: Homesteading & Skillful LivingMega Bundle 2025 Evgeniia’s Bio: Evgeniia Arasim is a homeschooling mama and holistic health coach dedicated to helping fellow homeschooling moms overcome burnout through movement, nourishing food, andmindset work. Originally from Russia, she grew up in a competitive school and sports environment but chose a different path for her own child—one filled with wild adventures, child-led learning, and a slow, intentional lifestyle.Now living in Toronto with her husband and son, Evgeniia embraces a multilingual homeschooling journey, incorporating English, Polish, and Russian into their daily learning, making education both enriching and fun.After becoming a mother, she shifted her focus from traditional fitness to holistic health,recognizing that true well-being goes beyond just movement. With a deep understanding of metabolism, movement, and sustainable wellness, she now empowers homeschooling moms to nourish their bodies, regain their energy, and thrive in both motherhood and homeschooling.In this episode, Evgeniia & I talk about: * Her Russian background* Her work with homeschool moms on their health journeys* What is cortisol is and why it matters* Cortisol is all the rage online right now* Cortisol is a hormone* Life-long learning mindset* Not aiming for perfection but for learning* High cortisol* Low cortisol* Cortisol testing* What we can do today to feel better* Cortisol is supposed to peak in the morning (between 6-8am)* Using our cortisol energy to live our life (not scroll social media)* Doing what helps you survive* Everyone stresses out about something different* Glycogen & the liver* Insulin resistance* Hemoglobin A1C averages* Do we need snacks? * Sugars going up and down* Making small changes* Cortisol and metabolism* Cortisol and weight management* Accepting your body shape/form * Acknowledging our natural body frame* It’s never going to be “just cortisol”* Blood sugar disregulation and imbalances* Craving certain things* Energy crashes* Muscles not growing despite working out* Symptoms of high cortisol* Symptoms of low cortisol* H pylori * Best tips for balancing cortisol* Managing weight for how our body needs to be* Breathing exercises* Prioritizes protein* Protein before coffee* Get outside and get morning sunlight* Cold plunging* Challenging yourself* Book Evgeniia mentions: Wim Hof: Iceman* Underestimating the importance of sleep* Evgeniia’s coaching offerings Evgeniia’s Links: Free Cortisol Guide: (April 2025 only) https://www.atnourishedmotherhood.com/page/650812Instagram: @at.nourished.motherhoodWebsite: www.atnourishedmotherhood.com  Elevating Motherhood Links: Instagram: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhood Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.comLeave a 5 star review on Apple Podcasts! This helps other moms find this resource...thank you for listening! I appreciate you!

*Must Read* Book Alert! + *Must Listen* Episode!Patience, purpose, perfectionism, stagnation, doubts, worries, fear…there aren’t many stones we leave unturned in this episode of Elevating Motherhood! Britt Maher and Cassandra Speer co-authored a book called Ready As You Are: Discovering a Life of Aundance When You Feel Inadequate, Uncertain, & Disqualified...Britt is here today to share about the book and their incredible mission to encourage women (especially moms!)  Britt’s Bio: Brittany Maher (Britt) is the founder and president of Her True Worth, a large and growing online community designed to liberate an entire generation of faith-filled women with the freedom found in discovering their true worth in Christ. She and her husband Ryan invest most of their time in equipping and empowering God's people for digital evangelism across the globe. Brittany is planted in Michigan with her husband, Ryan, and their daughter, Ariana.Link to the book Britt’s Links:IG: @brittmaher @hertrueworth @cassandralspeer Elevating Motherhood Links: Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.comIG: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhood

For the Love of Homeschooling Virtual Conference: Click here to join!Episode 169 Show NotesSpring is almost here—it's March 1st, and the air is starting to feel different! Before we fully dive into the new season, let’s take a moment to reflect on this winter (yes, we’re still in it) and all the growth and learning we've experienced this winter. I’ll lead you through the questions and give you a few of my answers, but also press pause and apply each question to your own life.   1.     What were your goals for winter? Did you meet any of them?2.     Celebrate what went well and all you did accomplish (including holidays)3.     Were your goals realistic? Were they too much or not challenging enough? 4.     Did you rest? Enough or too much? 5.     What is something you really enjoyed this winter? 6.     Did you create magical moments worth recreating? Any new traditions? 7.     Did you read? Any good book suggestions worth passing along to others? 8.     Were you cozy? Content?9.     How was your mood? Do you think the weather affected you?10.  Is there anything you would do different next year?   Elevating Motherhood Links: Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.comAmazon Book Lists: Click here for book listsInstagram: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhood

For the Love of Homeschooling Virtual Conference Link - click here. This episode is pure encouragement & hope! Mamas…tune into this episode and be inspired by Sally’s generous spirit and find out about her newest book Well Lived.  Sally’s Bio: Sally Clarkson is a bestselling author, renowned speaker, and beloved mentor who has dedicated her life to inspiring countless women to live for Christ. Her podcast, At Home With Sally, has over 28 million downloads. She has been married to her husband Clay for more than forty years and they have raised four adult children. Today, Sally lives between the mountains of Colorado and the rolling fields of England. In this episode, Sally & I talk about…·      Her latest book Well Lived·      Surrounding ourselves with beauty in dark times·      Rhythms·      Taking time away from work and then come back, it gives you clarity & focus·      Finding delight even in the hard times·      Not being a victim·      Whatever you practice, you become·      Guarding our children·      Choices inside our hearts·      Keep going forward·      Mount up over the darknessSally’s Links: Website: www.sallyclarkson.comIG: @sally.clarkson Elevating Motherhood Links: Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.comIG: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhood

Sponsor Highlight: The 2025 For the Love of Homeschooling Virtual Conference--Join Now!A romance author on a "serious" podcast for moms? ABSOLUTELY. Melissa's message is just what we need right now...more light, more hope, more joy, more whimsy. You are going to enjoy this chat SO MUCH!Melissa’s Bio: Melissa Ferguson is the bestselling author of titles including Meet Me in the Margins, How to Plot a Payback, On the Way to Christmas, and The Perfect Rom-Com.She lives in Tennessee with her husband and children in their growing farmhouse lifestyle and writes heartwarming romantic comedies that have been featured in such places as The Hollywood Reporter, Travel + Leisure, Woman’s World, and BuzzFeed. Join along her journey with over 900,000 other followers at @ourfriendlyfarmhouse. In this interview, Melissa & I talk about: * Melissa’s new book: The Perfect Rom Com* How I went from reading The Invisible War (about spiritual warfare) to reading a rom com* Love and laughter…why is it considered less than other things we need* Cheerfulness and whimsy in motherhood & everyday life* The bleak motherhood messaging in American culture right now* An invitation into lightness* Humility in motherhood* Living hopeful and loving* Finding the balance between strong messaging & lightness* Encouragement for moms* Strength in lightness* Being bold in our life (and everyday!) decisions* And SO MUCH MORE!More info over at: www.elevatingmotherhood.comMelissa’s Links: Website: www.melissafurguson.comInstagram: @ourfriendlyfarmhouseFind Melissa's Books Here 

You Can Create a Flexible Schedule That Supports Connection in Every Season  Today's conversation is for all moms (not just homeschoolers!) It's packed full of ideas for creating rhythms, traditions, and memories no matter season (or the weather!) It's a conversation about connection & intentional mothering that you're going to love. Lyndsey’s Bio: Lyndsey Mimnagh is a homeschool mom of four and the founder of Treehouse Schoolhouse. Before motherhood, Lyndsey had a career in children's ministry and special needs education. Her home education centers around living books and ideas, hands-on learning, nature exploration, and biblical discipleship. She shares experiences and home education inspiration through her Instagram and blog, as well as creates curriculum and resources for families around the world. Her most popular curriculum titles are An Expectant Easter, A Connected Christmas, and Treehouse Nature Study.   CODE: ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD15 for 15% off Treehouse Schoolhouse www.treehouseschoolhouse.com Lyndsey’s Links:  Instagram: @treehouse_schoolhouseFacebook: /treehouse.schoolhouseYouTube: /TreehouseSchoolhousePinterest: /TSMotherhoodHomeschool   Elevating Motherhood Links: Instagram: @loribethauldridge @elevatingmotherhood Website: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

We’ve known and seen how consumerism, materialism, and sugar have taken over Christmas. We see it, know it, and understand it…and we’re still influenced and affected by it, even when we “know better.” I know many parents who are wanting to step out of the holiday spending swirl and get their kids less stuff this stuff this year. But many (myself included at times) are conflicted because we don’t want to let our kids down by giving them less than previous years. And yet the need for change and simplification can’t be ignored. So how do we make peace with downsizing Christmas this year? We’ve got to get to a place where we feel confident and calm about our decision to simplify Christmas and get/give less stuff.  Listen to the full episode for tips, suggestions, and idea for how to confidently downsize Christmas gracefully with grace. Merry Christmas! I appreciate you! www.elevatingmotherhood.com IG: @loribethauldridge Love this episode? Give it a 5 star review! Reviews help others find the show...and their confidence!

Burnout, frustration, exhaustion…as moms, these feelings rear their ugly heads more often than we’d like. We’re human. We only have so much capacity. We get touched out, noised out, and just need a break. Whether these emotions creep up daily or just occasionally isn’t as important as how we handle them when they do arise. Jenny Hedrick, host of The Super Simple Homeschool Podcast, is here today to share her tips and thoughts on how to find rest in the lifelong ministry that is motherhood. While Jenny’s podcast is about homeschool, my podcast is about motherhood in general. This conversation is for all moms, not just homeschoolers. So if you’re looking for strategies, ideas, and biblically sound solutions to finding rest as a mom, this episode is for you.  Jenny’s Bio: Jenny Hedrick   is a homeschool mom who works as a mental health therapist and relationship intelligence coach. She is a licensed clinical social worker and certified Core Strengths facilitator. Jenny also has a Certificate in Christian Apologetics from Biola University. Jenny lives in Northern Colorado with her husband and their 3 kids, 2 dogs, 2 cats, 3 axolotls, chickens and honeybees. Jenny is a professional speaker and trainer with experience in virtual webinars, retreats and full-day trainings. She started the Super Simple Homeschool podcast and website in 2024 to help inspire moms to homeschool simply and purposefully. In this episode Jenny & I talk about:  ·      Jenny’s podcast: The Super Simple Homeschool Podcast  ·      How she has homeschooled for 8 years ·      She’s a mental health therapist ·      Dealing with mental health in practical and biblical ways ·      How loud the internet is right now ·      The spiritual side of healing and trauma is often ignored ·      How mental health practices can be humanistic in our culture, especially motherhood ·      The self focus of motherhood  ·      The definition of “self care”  ·      The sacrificial nature of motherhood ·      Can Jesus relate to mothers? Jenny shows us the connection ·      How did Jesus take care of himself? He spent time alone in prayer ·      Jesus had a three year ministry that changed the course of history ·      Moms have a life long ministry ·      Jesus is sufficient for our needs ·      How we view rest ·      Take every thought captive ·      Busyness & hurry in motherhood ·      The story of Mary & Martha ·      Distractions of the enemy ·      Praying for discernment as mothers ·      Productivity as an idol ·      You don’t have to keep working so hard to earn your place with Jesus ·      Receive instead of do & produce ·      Eryn Lynum’s new book coming this Spring ·      The habit of sabbath ·      The pressure to fill our down times with productivity ·      Learning to just sit ·      Allowing everyone in the family space to rest ·      Life is about togetherness and community ·      How sabbath spilled over into her relationships ·      Is there resentment in my heart as a mom?  ·      Learning how to be self-reflective as a mom ·      When psychology reflects scripture ·      Where to find a good Christian therapist

Winter is upon us...and so are so many common childhood sicknesses. In this episode, I'll help you: 1. Teach your child how to swallow pills (starting at age 3!) 2. Teach them how to barf (without drama) 3. Share my top 3 basics I always have on hand before sickness strikes (spoiler alert: they are NAC, activated charcoal, & hot tea) Listen, like, subscribe, & leave a 5 star review if this episode is helpful to you! www.elevatingmotherhood.com

Ever heard of PDA? Pathological Demand Avoidance? It's a nervous system disability that falls on the autism spectrum. It's often confused with ODD. In this episode, Casey and I talk about: * What PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) is * PDA awareness & caregiver strategies * Traumatic birth and PDA * Symptoms & Sign of PDA * How a diagnosis of PDA happens * The fact that PDA isn’t new, our awareness is deepening * The anxiety driven need for control * Trauma healing and nervous system regulation * And SO MUCH MORE! Casey’s Bio: Casey Ehrlich, Ph.D. is a social scientist, parent coach and educator, and the CEO and founder of At Peace Parents, LLC. Casey brings 15 years of work experience and expertise in social science methodology to help parents and therapists understand how to connect with and accommodate PDA Autistic children. She is currently working on empirical research with the University of Michigan Medical School on Pathological Demand Avoidance in children and teens. She helps parents radically accept the constraints of raising a child with a nervous system disability so they can find peace on their parenting journey. More Podcasts: www.elevatingmotherhood.com Homeschool Support: www.elevatinghomeschool.com

Be Honest: How was your Mother's Day? In this episode, I talk about: * The importance of reflecting on what went well (and what didn’t) during this year’s Mother’s Day * How my Mother’s Day this year ACTUALLY went * Setting up everyone for success on Mother’s Day and Father’s Day * Checking in with my husband before Father’s Day about what he wants and needs that weekend (and in his everyday life) * Making Mother’s Day and Father’s Day a whole weekend celebration instead of just a day * Taking time on Saturday to be by yourself before Mother’s Day * Giving him time alone on Saturday before celebrating together on Father’s Day * Meeting needs before celebrating and using frustrations as growing points instead of just frustration points   Join me at this year’s FOCUS Retreat! To find out more and register, go to: www.thefocusretreat.com

Mother’s Day brings with it a roller coaster of emotions…and there are some complex reasons for that. Heaven forbid we feel disappointed on Mother’s Day because we feel like we can’t express that and feel guilty for even feeling that way or explode from trying to keep those “negative” emotions inside for too long. Add in things like loss, longing, grief, infertility, work, the craziness of the calendar in May…and it’s no wonder many moms get overwhelmed and underwhelmed at the same time on Mother’s Day. Chris took the kids out for the morning and I wanted to process this Mother’s Day with you while I have a minute to reflect. This is a heavy one for me since it’s my first one without either of my grandmas. Mother’s Day expectations are on our minds as the big day approaches…most of us are in charge of balancing the family calendar and most celebration details and this holiday is one that supposedly is for us, not by us and, and, well, that’s hard. I have a few thoughts, ideas, and stories to share with you in this episode. Here are a few highlights: * Grace upon grace upon grace *Your emotions are valid *10/10 recommend time alone the day BEFORE Mother’s Day *Feeling disappointed on Mother’s Day is more common than you think *Clear communication about what I want on actual Mother’s Day as a way to avoid disappointment or hurt feelings will go a long way! More episodes and info available at: www.elevatingmotherhood.com

A rare appearance from my husband Chris who courageously shows up today in a raw, candid conversation with me about marriage, expectations, and who needs to do more. It’s really hard to talk about marriage in a public forum because it can be easily be misinterpreted as “advice” …and we want to reassure you that today’s episode is not intended to be marriage advice, it’s not about anyone in particular, it’s us seeing a common thread all around us (even online and in shows!) and pulling that thread to see where it leads us. Our hope is that this episode is a conversation starter for you and your spouse—a perspective that leads to deeper growth and conversation. We hope it’s an example of how two people in a marriage can view things differently and not have those differences be a hinderance or cause hurt to the other. These are incomplete thoughts—observations rather than conclusions. Will you see yourself in this episode? Will you see your marriage in this episode? Will your husband? We don’t know. Marriages have similarities and differences across the board. We’ll be curious to hear your thoughts at the end. Thanks for listening and for your gentleness and respect as we pull at this new thread in a public and unscripted way. In this episode Chris and I talk about: · Martyrdom · Husbands not doing enough · Financial trials in our current culture · Our current economy · Tensions in marriage · Man dogging culture · Allowing time for transitions · Looking for creative ways to bring in more money · Answering the call to do more · Having patience with transitions · Ideals · Starting over · How it’s hard to find the motivation to do more for less · Skewed expectations of what we are bringing to the table · Are women growing & changing at a faster rate than men? · Dads not being on board with homeschool and why · Jealousy in our roles · Living a scheduled life when your family doesn’t · Moms researching parenting · Fair expectations · Happiness and rest for both spouses · Respecting each other’s perspectives · Man hating culture is trickling into marriage culture · Actions speak louder than words · Men feel emotions like stress and jealousy too · What do you believe about your husband? · What do you believe about your marriage? · What is the undercurrent in your marriage? Christian Business Women! This is for you: www.thefocusretreat.com

This is a high energy conversation. For some reason it’s highly political at the moment to talk about boys, men, gender, and masculinity. And here we are as moms, right smack dab the middle of the over-politicized nonsense, trying to have meaningful marriages with our husbands and raise our sons well in a world that bashes boys and men. We need to talk about the tension—both the undercurrent in our culture and the outright hatred toward men. We need to stand up for our sons and raise them up at the same time. In this interview you’ll hear me tell the story about how when I found out I was pregnant at 40, I knew I was going to have a son. I knew I was going to be called to speak out about the war on men happening in our current culture. My guest today is Durenda Wilson…she is a friend of mine but also a brilliant writer and podcaster. I look to her a lot for homeschool and parenting advice. She speaks out on this subject with so much grace and encouragement. Her perspective really takes the charge off our current cultural messaging and puts tools and encouragement back in the hands and hearts of moms so we can show up well in our marriages and in our motherhood. You’ll leave this conversation feeling equipped as a boy mom and have a better understanding of what true masculinity is. Durenda Bio: Durenda Wilson has been married to Darryl for 34 years. He wanted two children and she wanted ten. They compromised at eight. Durenda has over 30 years of homeschool experience. She also has 11 grandchildren (7 are boys) who are also being homeschooled. During her years of experience in home education, she has seen first hand how kids learn naturally and effectively when they are given time and space along with encouragement to trust their own learning processes. She wants to take this hard-earned wisdom and mentor moms—she believes an encouraged mom is always a better mom. Durenda began The Durenda Wilson Podcast for this purpose back in July 2017 which grew quickly and gained recognition with both families and leaders in the homeschool community. Durenda has over 500 episodes to choose from and boasts over 3 million downloads! FULL SHOW NOTES AT: WWW.ELEVATINGMOTHERHOOD.COM Durenda's Links: Buy Her Book: https://a.co/d/3lEu5J4 Website: www.durendawilson.com Instagram: @durendaleewilson   Today’s Sponsor: The Focus Retreat www.thefocusretreat.com