Higher Hope with Adriane Stuebs

After a short (and much-needed) break, Adriane is back with a quick update on where the Higher Hope podcast has been, and where it’s headed next. This mini episode is all about gratitude for listeners and excitement for what’s to come.Get a sneak peek at upcoming topics, including conversations around chronic pain, parenting, marriage, and more- plus the return of some favorite guests and inspiring new voices. Adriane also invites listeners to share guest ideas and stories that uplift, encourage, and glorify God.This is just a quick check-in, but there’s so much more on the way- so stay tuned!

In today’s episode, Adriane sits down with Alex Heideman- a woman of deep faith, devoted wife, mom of three, and third-generation entrepreneur- who is boldly stepping into her calling in both business and ministry.Together, they talk about what it really looks like to pursue purpose in the middle of everyday life. The laundry piles, business calls, and beautiful chaos of motherhood. Alex shares her journey from online sales to mental wellness and launching a creative side business, proving that meaningful work doesn’t have to happen outside the home.This conversation is a powerful reminder that God meets us right where we are, and that you don’t have to wait for perfect circumstances to build something impactful.Check out the Show Notes for this episode!https://www.housesthatshine.com/blog/moms-journey-faith-business/

What does it look like to honor God in the everyday rhythm of cooking? Adriane shares her journey of preparing meals for a large family, offering practical meal prep tips, budget wisdom, and encouragement for making the kitchen a place of connection. From batch cooking to community meals, this episode reminds us that even the simplest acts can be meaningful.

Today's devo builds on Tuesday’s conversation with Katie and Farah, centering on Matthew 5:16 and what it really means to live it out. When work feels heavy, overwhelming, or unnoticed, our purpose doesn’t change. God is still present in the middle of it all—and even in the ordinary, we’re called to shine.

What’s it really like to work with your family? Adriane sits down with her daughters, Katie Ryan and Farah Stuebs, to spill the good, the hard, and the hilarious moments of running Shine Realty together. From heartwarming client wins to laugh-out-loud office stories, this episode gives an unfiltered, behind-the-scenes look at mixing family with business.Check out the Show Notes for this episode!https://www.housesthatshine.com/blog/working-with-family/

In this Friday Devo, Adriane reflects on Tuesday’s powerful conversation with Matthew and Joanna Raabsmith. Their story is a moving reminder of what it looks like to keep Christ at the center of a marriage through every season. Adriane dives deeper into the importance of building your relationship on a strong spiritual foundation, seeking God together, and allowing Him to guide your love, communication, and commitment. Whether you’re married, dating, or hoping to be someday, this episode offers encouragement and truth about what it means to pursue a Christ-centered relationship.

What happens when the person you trust most breaks that trust? Matthew and Joanna Raabsmith share the painful discovery that nearly ended their marriage—and the unexpected path that led them toward healing and reconciliation.After sensing a growing disconnect in their relationship, Joanna uncovered Matthew’s lifelong struggle with pornography, forcing both of them to confront deep hurt, difficult truths, and the future of their marriage. In this episode, Matthew, a professional relationship coach and former pastor, and Joanna, a licensed marriage and family therapist, open up about the heartbreak, the hard conversations, and the intentional work it took to rebuild trust. They also share what they’ve learned about healing after betrayal and how they now use their story to help other couples pursue restoration and hope in their own relationships.Check out the Show Notes for this episode!https://www.housesthatshine.com/blog/healing-after-betrayal-with-matthew-and-joanna-raabsmith/

What if your mission field isn’t across the ocean- but right across the street? Building off Sarah’s episode from earlier this week, we talk about what it really means to live missionally. From foreign countries to your neighborhood coffee shop, God calls us to serve wherever we are. This episode explores how everyday faithfulness, simple conversations, and open hearts can become powerful ministry.

In this episode, Sarah shares about her experience teaching in China and how that season deeply shaped her life and faith. She reflects on the unexpected challenges of returning home after COVID, the adjustments that followed, and how God has been guiding her through uncertainty. Sarah also shares about what the future may hold and how this journey continues to transform her perspective and calling.Check out this episode's Show Notes!https://www.housesthatshine.com/blog/trusting-whats-next-sarah-schoenfeld/

In this Friday devotional follow-up to our interview with Heidi Black, we dive into Malachi 3:17 and explore what it truly means to be treasured by God. You’re not a tool, an employee, or a burden- you are a precious jewel in His eyes. Jesus went to the cross out of love, not obligation, and this episode reminds us that God cherishes us deeply, personally, and eternally.

Jewelry is more than what meets the eye. Heidi Black shares how she got started, what most people don’t know about the industry, and simple ways to keep your pieces looking their best. A fun, honest look at business, beauty, and building something meaningful.Check out the Show Notes for this episode https://www.housesthatshine.com/blog/behind-the-bling-heidi-black/

On this Friday devo, we’re digging deeper into this week’s conversation with Kim and exploring what the Bible says about flowers in Gospel of Matthew chapter 6.Flowers are sustained by forces greater than themselves. We may plant and water, but it’s God who gives the growth. Before beauty ever breaks through the soil, strength is forming underground. The same is true in our faith.Sometimes God is doing His deepest work in the unseen places of our lives. This episode is an invitation to loosen your grip, release control, and trust the One who brings the bloom in His perfect timing.

When life changed suddenly, Kim Kornstedt chose to plant something new. In this inspiring episode, she shares how her flower farm thrived in the midst of grief, while she continued her career in occupational therapy. Now, she integrates flowers into her therapy work, creating spaces for healing in the most tangible ways. This conversation is a reminder that purpose often grows from the hardest seasons.Check out the Show Notes for this episode!https://www.housesthatshine.com/blog/planting-purpose-kim-kornstedt/

Clothes are fun. Fashion is creative. But what is God actually looking at? In this episode, we expand on our conversation with Christina Pickett and shift the focus from what we wear on the outside to what’s happening on the inside. Rooted in Proverbs 31:30, we unpack the truth that charm fades and beauty shifts- but a heart that fears the Lord is what truly matters.Our best efforts will never make us perfect. Without Him, even our “good” can’t measure up. But because of His free gift of grace, we are washed clean- fully known, fully loved, fully redeemed.

Behind every rack of clothes at Brightter Boutique is a story of community, confidence, and creativity. Cristina Pickett opens up about her journey into fashion, the challenges of running a local business, and how she helps every customer feel their best. From style tips to small-town business wisdom, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who loves fashion and connection.Check out this episode's show notes!https://www.housesthatshine.com/blog/styling-jefferson-christina-pickett/

Earlier this week, we talked all things reading- how books can inspire us, challenge us, and even change us. But today, we’re talking about the most important book of all.The Bible isn’t just a collection of stories or information. It doesn’t just give us knowledge- it gives us wisdom. And true biblical wisdom doesn’t start with knowing more… it starts with knowing God.In this devotional, we unpack why God’s Word is different from every other book on your shelf and how reading it can shape not just what you know, but who you become.

Reading doesn’t have to be a chore. In this episode, Missy McKenna of Read Where You’re Planted shares how she made reading fun, approachable, and pressure-free; leading her to read over 100 books in a year. We talk book recommendations, reading rhythms, and the freedom to stop reading books that just aren’t for you. Perfect for readers, former readers, and everyone in between.

In this short devotional, we build on Tuesday’s Downsizing conversation and shift our focus from what we own to what truly matters. Jesus reminds us to store up treasures in heaven- not on earth- because the things we accumulate can never go with us. This episode is an invitation to loosen our grip on stuff and tighten our grip on faith, purpose, and eternal hope.

In this episode, we talk about living with intention by letting go-downsizing, decluttering, and creating a home that truly works for you. From simplifying your spaces to organizing important documents, this conversation is about making room for peace, clarity, and what matters most in your everyday life.

In this short Friday devo, we reflect on this week’s conversation with Katie and talk about why our identity must be rooted in God- not our fitness goals, routines, or results. Fitness can be a gift, but it was never meant to define us. A reminder to anchor who we are in Christ first, and let everything else flow from that foundation.

What if your workout became the place you found confidence, community, and purpose? In this episode, I’m joined by my daughter Katie- CycleBar spin instructor, realtor, and wife- for an honest, faith-filled conversation about how fitness became a turning point in her life far beyond the physical.Katie shares how stepping into fitness opened the door to meaningful community, personal growth, and deeper self-discipline through a faith lens. We talk about the yeses and nos of fitness, what to look for when choosing the right workout class, and practical, grace-filled tips for staying consistent even when motivation fades.If you’re craving more than just a workout- if you’re longing for connection, purpose, and sustainable habits- this episode is for you. Press play, be encouraged, and take one intentional step toward caring for your body and spirit.Check out the show notes for this episode!https://www.housesthatshine.com/blog/fitness-and-finding-your-people-with-katie-ryan/

What if the strongest marriages aren’t built on feelings, but on faith? In this 5-Minute Friday devotional, we dive into God’s design for marriage through Ephesians 5, Proverbs 31, and other Biblical passages. This episode explores what it truly means to love and respect one another and how praying for your marriage can shift hearts, strengthen unity, and invite God into every season. A short, powerful encouragement to build your marriage on God’s Word.

Amanda Haar is back by popular demand! In this episode, I’m joined again by the registered dietitian, hormone expert, mother of three, Christian yoga instructor, and health & life coach for an honest and empowering conversation all about perimenopause.We break down what perimenopause actually is, the symptoms many women don’t realize are hormone-related, and how diet and exercise can either support or stress your body during this season. Amanda also walks us through the often-confusing conversation around HRT, sharing balanced insight, education, and encouragement so you can make informed decisions with confidence.Whether you’re in perimenopause, approaching it, or simply want to better understand your hormones, this episode is packed with practical wisdom, clarity, and hope.Check out the Show Notes for this episode!https://www.housesthatshine.com/blog/navigating-perimenopause-amanda-haar/

We’re excited to introduce something new- 5-Minute Friday devotionals. Every Friday, we’ll be sharing a short, Scripture-centered moment to help you pause, reset, and refocus your heart before the weekend.In today’s very first Friday devotional, we’re reflecting on Philippians 4:4–7 and the promise of a peace that surpasses all understanding. If anxiety has been loud or your mind has felt restless, this episode is an invitation to bring it all to God and rest in the peace He offers- one prayer at a time.

If you’re doing “all the right things” but still feeling stuck, this episode is for you. Back by popular demand- registered dietitian, hormone expert, Christian yoga instructor, and mom of three, Amanda Haar, returns to uncover the unexpected habits, stressors, and daily choices that can quietly help- or hurt- fertility. This conversation blends science, faith, and real-life wisdom to bring clarity, hope, and attainable hormone support for women in every season.Check out the Show Notes for this episode!https://www.housesthatshine.com/blog/fertility-faith-hormones-amanda-haar/

Every January, we promise ourselves we’ll do better, be better, try harder. And every year, many of those resolutions quietly fade- often leaving guilt and disappointment behind. In this episode, we’re shifting the focus from self-improvement to soul-rest. A reminder that your worth isn’t found in what you accomplish or fail to accomplish, but in Christ, who already paid it all. If you’re tired of striving and ready to start the year grounded in grace, this one’s for you.Check out the Show Notes for this episode!https://www.housesthatshine.com/blog/when-resolutions-fail-grace-remains/

In the midst of the lights, music, and busy schedules, it’s easy to forget what Christmas is truly about. In this special Christmas devotional episode, we pause to reflect on the real meaning of Christmas through a biblical lens—why Jesus came, what His birth means for us today, and how we can carry that truth into every season. Whether you’re listening by the tree or on a quiet walk, this episode is an invitation to slow down and center your heart on Christ.https://www.housesthatshine.com/blog/higher-hope-christmas-reflection/

We’re closing out the year with a bang — and a whole lot of gratitude. This season was packed with powerhouse women juggling business, parenting, family, faith, and about a hundred other hats… and somehow doing it all with purpose.In this episode, we’re spilling our biggest “Wow I needed to hear that” takeaways, the moments that surprised us, and the stories from our guests that left us inspired (and maybe in tears). If you’re heading into the new year craving renewed faith, bold business moves, stronger family rhythms, or just a boost of encouragement, this recap is basically your highlight reel of everything God did this season — and a reminder that He’s just getting started.Check out this episode's show notes!https://www.housesthatshine.com/blog/higher-hope-podcast-season-1-recap/

Buying your first home doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. In this solo episode, Adriane gets real about the six must-know tips that will save you stress, time, and money. We’re talking needs vs. wants (yes, there’s a difference!), breaking down what you can actually afford each month, and why your credit score matters more than you think. If you want to walk into your home search prepared and confident, this is your head start.Check out the Show Notes for this episode!https://www.housesthatshine.com/blog/first-time-homebuyer-adriane-stuebs/

Back by popular demand, Stacy Schweighart joins us again to break down the real path to owning investment properties—no matter your age, background, or experience level. We dive into getting pre-approved with confidence, deciding when to DIY versus hire out, and choosing between long-term or short-term rentals. If you’ve been curious about stepping into real estate investing, this episode gives you the roadmap.Check out the Show Notes for this week's episode!https://www.housesthatshine.com/blog/real-estate-investing-stacy-schweighart/

Get your home winter-ready without the stress. In this episode, we break down the easy-to-forget home maintenance tasks that can save you money, prevent headaches, and keep your space cozy all season long. We’ll talk about how to tell when to DIY and when to call in the pros—plus a much-needed reminder that the heart of a home is the people in it, not how perfect it looks.Whether you’re a seasoned homeowner or brand new to it all, this episode is your simple, practical winter home survival guide.Check out the Show Notes for this episode!https://www.housesthatshine.com/blog/home-ready-for-winter/

In this raw and eye-opening episode, Kristy Wegner shares her powerful journey through food addiction, emotional eating, and the hidden battles she carried for years. Growing up as a missionary’s daughter, Kristy knew faith well — but financial stress and childhood comfort-seeking led her into a cycle she couldn’t break on her own.Kristy opens up about the moment she realized food had become her escape, how God met her in the middle of addiction, and the life-changing habits that keep her grounded today. If you’ve ever struggled with unhealthy coping mechanisms, emotional eating, or finding your identity outside of Christ, this conversation will hit home.This episode is packed with hope, honesty, and practical truth — a reminder that God can break chains we don’t even know how to name.Check out this episode's Show Notes!https://www.housesthatshine.com/blog/food-addiction-kristy-wegner/

Have you ever caught yourself feeling guilty for resting? Or felt like you have to earn your worth through productivity? This episode dives into our culture of constant motion and what happens when our work begins to take center stage. We’ll talk about the importance of Sabbath, the gift of slowing down, and how to find your identity not in what you do — but in who you are in Christ.Check out the Show Notes for this week's episode!https://www.housesthatshine.com/blog/hustle-becomes-idol-adriane-stuebs/

 Trigger Warning: Sensitive topic involving sexual assault.Stephanie’s story is one of incredible faith and redemption. After growing up in Mexico surrounded by love, she later discovered a devastating truth about her conception. In this episode, she shares how she and her mother turned to God for strength and peace, and how He transformed their pain into purpose. You’ll be inspired by Stephanie’s radiant joy and her testimony that God truly makes all things new.Check out the Show Notes for this episode!https://www.housesthatshine.com/blog/god-writes-story-joy-after-pain-stephanie-jaramillo/

Have you ever thought about how many people share your name — and yet, God knows you? In this episode, we reflect on what it means to be personally known and loved by God. We open the Word together to discover scripture after scripture affirming our worth, identity, and place in His heart. Whether you’re in a season of feeling unseen or simply need a reminder of God’s closeness, this episode will leave you encouraged by His everlasting care and the truth that you are fully known and deeply loved.Check out this episode's show notes!https://www.housesthatshine.com/blog/god-knows-your-name-adriane-stuebs/

In this inspiring episode, Maria opens up about her calling to help others organize their homes with compassion and grace. She shares practical tips for staying organized and faith-filled truths about identity, reminding us that our worth is found in Christ, not in perfection.Check out the Show Notes for this episode! https://www.housesthatshine.com/blog/declutter-organize-maria-ewings/

Farah is back! If you’ve been wanting to create healthier habits, this conversation is for you! In this episode, we sit down to talk about our daily routines, the power of discipline, and how faith plays a role in keeping us centered. We open up about what motivates us, how we encourage each other, and the simple choices that have made a big difference in our days.Check out the Show Notes for this episode!https://www.housesthatshine.com/blog/morning-routines-farah-stuebs/

In this episode, we sit down with Maureen Lawrenz, owner of Lake Country Growers and now a thriving real estate agent with Shine Realty. Maureen shares her inspiring journey of entrepreneurship, from growing a successful CBD business to helping families find their dream homes. Alongside her husband, Benj Lawrenz of the Christian band Koine, Maureen has built not only beautiful houses but also a life grounded in faith. Her story is one of hard work, vision, and trusting God’s plan every step of the way.Check our our Show Notes for this episode!https://www.housesthatshine.com/blog/growing-dreams-maureen-lawrenz/

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, Jessica opens up about her journey as a cancer survivor and the ways her faith became her lifeline during the most difficult seasons of her life. With honesty and grace, she shares how she clung to God’s promises and found strength she didn’t know she had. Jessica also highlights the powerful role of friendship and community in her healing—reminding us all that we were never meant to walk through hard times alone. Her story is one of courage, hope, and the beauty that can emerge even in the midst of pain.Check out our Show Notes for this episode! https://www.housesthatshine.com/blog/faith-becomes-lifeline-cancer-survivor-jessica-mlsna/

In this tender and heartfelt episode, Jill shares her journey of losing her son to suicide and the deep grief that followed. She reflects on his struggles with mental health, the beautiful memories of his childhood, and the legacy of faith he left behind. Through it all, Jill clung to God’s comfort and strength, finding hope and peace even in the midst of heartbreak. This conversation is a gentle reminder of God’s presence in our deepest pain and the enduring power of love.Check out the Show Notes for this episode!https://www.housesthatshine.com/blog/light-midst-loss-jill-nelson/

In this episode, we sit down with Linda Buxa—author, Christian wife and mom, and former military spouse. Linda shares her journey of faith and family, and how her unique experiences have shaped her writing. Through her devotionals, she offers encouragement and biblical truth for everyday life. Whether you’re seeking strength, comfort, or simply a reminder of God’s presence in the middle of life’s challenges, Linda’s story will leave you inspired and uplifted.Check out the Show Notes for this episode!https://www.housesthatshine.com/blog/words-stregnthen-soul-linda-buxa/

In this inspiring conversation with Val Breit, we dive into her journey of becoming a work-from-home mom while managing Shine Realty’s website and blog. Val opens up about the sacrifices and discipline it takes to make working from home possible, the role of budgeting in creating stability, and the challenges of navigating her daughter’s severe peanut allergy. What started as a health necessity led to an unexpected step of faith—homeschooling. Through it all, Val shares how her faith has guided her family through uncertainty, change, and new beginnings.Check out this week's Show Notes!https://www.housesthatshine.com/blog/motherhood-career-homeschool-val-breit/

In this heartfelt conversation, Renee Peiffer shares her story as a homeschooling mom, businesswoman, and creative soul. From navigating the misconceptions around homeschooling to fostering strong bonds with her daughters, Renee offers wisdom on the beauty and challenges of family life. She opens up about the power of traditions, the role of faith in parenting and marriage, and how communication keeps relationships thriving. Renee also dives into her journey of blending creativity with everyday life, while offering a peek into her Airbnb venture and practical financial strategies. This episode is an inspiring reminder that faith and intentionality can shape a family’s story in powerful ways.Check out our Show Notes for this episode!https://www.housesthatshine.com/blog/marriage-motherhood-creativity-renee-peiffer/

In this episode, we sit down with Stacy Schweighardt—a boy mom with a heart for adventure and a deep love for the Lord. Stacy shares her journey of taking a leap of faith into business with her husband, which opened the door for her to stay home with her boys. She also talks about her passion for building and flipping investment properties, and how her faith has been the steady guide through each new season. Stacy’s story is one of courage, trust, and living with purpose.Check out this episode's Show Notes!https://www.housesthatshine.com/blog/faith-family-big-leaps-stacy-schweighardt/

Nicki Hill has built an incredible career with Mary Kay, but for her, success isn’t just measured in sales—it’s measured in how well she loves others. In this inspiring conversation, Nicki shares how her faith shapes the way she works, serves, and connects with people in every interaction. From beauty consultations to everyday conversations, she’s learned that genuine care is the most beautiful thing you can offer. Get ready for a story of business, belief, and the power of leading with love.Check out the show notes for this episode! https://www.housesthatshine.com/blog/faith-lipstick-loving-people-nikki-hill/

When Elise packed her bags and moved to the Dominican Republic to teach, she knew it wouldn’t be easy—but she didn’t expect how much it would stretch her faith. In this episode, she shares the highs and lows of navigating a new culture, the moments when she had no choice but to fully depend on God, and how that deepened her relationship with Him. From the classroom to everyday life, she found ways to live out her faith and share the hope of Jesus with her students, even in the toughest seasons.Check out the show notes for this episode!https://www.housesthatshine.com/blog/faith-foreign-land-elise-meier/

In this deeply honest and hope-filled episode, Alaina shares her story titled “Unfulfilled,” where she opens up about her lifelong longing to become a mother—a dream that, so far, God has not brought to life. Through her vulnerability, she invites us into the quiet ache of unanswered prayers, the wrestle with identity, and the deep peace she’s found in Christ. Alaina’s journey is a powerful reminder that even in seasons of waiting or disappointment, we are still fully seen, fully loved, and fully known by God.Check out this week's Show Notes!https://www.housesthatshine.com/blog/unfulfilled-yet-fully-known-alana-enger/

In this heartfelt solo episode, Adriane shares the powerful story of her dad — a passionate pastor, devoted father, and man of deep faith. Once a strong spiritual leader with a voice that reached many, his life drastically changed after a brain aneurysm left him bedridden for the past 15 years. But his story doesn’t end there. Through pain, loss, and unexpected turns, God’s faithfulness has never wavered. This is a testimony of how God is near to the brokenhearted, how nothing happens outside of His will, and how He continues to use her dad’s life to inspire, teach, and reflect the love of Christ — even from a place of stillness.If you've ever questioned God's plan in suffering or wondered how He works through weakness, this episode is for you.Check out this week's shownotes! https://www.housesthatshine.com/blog/my-dads-legacy-through-disability-faith-that-doesnt-fade/

In this episode, we sit down with Amanda Haar — registered dietician, hormone expert, mother of three, Christian yoga instructor, and health & life coach — to talk about her inspiring journey into hormone health and nutrition. Amanda shares how her faith shaped her approach to health, and offers practical, grace-filled tips for creating a healthy lifestyle that nourishes both body and soul. Whether you're curious about balancing your hormones, improving your eating habits, or simply living with more intention and faith, this conversation is full of wisdom and encouragement.Check out this week's show notes! https://www.housesthatshine.com/blog/nutrition-hormone-health-amanda-haar/

In this episode, we talk with a former teacher who made a bold leap of faith — leaving the classroom behind to step into the world of social media and podcast production. Her story is one of unexpected turns, quiet nudges from God, and learning to trust His leading even when the path doesn’t make sense. She opens up about the highs and lows of her faith journey, how God was guiding her even when she didn’t realize it, and what it looks like to say “yes” to His call — even when it leads somewhere completely new.Check out our Show Notes for this episode!https://www.housesthatshine.com/blog/god-redirects-plans-chloe-peiffer/