Missional Mamas

In today's episode, I'm chatting with my longtime friend Katie, who shares her unique life story. Katie opens up about her journey growing up in Hebron (the boarding school in southern India that I attended with her), returning as an adult, raising a family in a remote boarding school setting, and navigating the challenges and blessings of missional living and parenting.Friends, what a joy it was to interview Katie and talk about some of our shared stories, and the joy she now has in pouring into the next generation of students at Hebron! Listen as she shares about the ups and downs, and how she journeys through them with such humility and reliance on Christ.

In today's episode of Missional Mamas, I connect with Geena, a missionary-turned-pastor whose journey spans Mexico and Canada. Geena shares her story of moving her family to Mexico for three years of mission work, the challenges and blessings of that life, and the unexpected calling to pastor a church in Logan Lake, BC. She opens up about the importance of pursuing God’s presence over just knowledge, the dynamics of ministry as a couple and family, and how their faith shaped and sustained them through transitions, burnout, and uncertainty. Geena also offers wisdom on trusting God’s timing, nurturing joy amid challenges, and the power of prayer, especially in marriage and ministry. This episode is a treasure trove of encouragement for moms, missionaries, and anyone navigating the twists and turns of following God’s call.

In today's episode, we delve into the often-challenging question: "Do I really hear God?" For mums navigating the complexities of daily life, discerning God's voice can feel overwhelming amidst the noise. Today I share my own experience of learning about discernment, the gifts of the Spirit, and what the prophetic culture and the issues with listening to big 'prophetic' names. In recent exposure surrounding the ministry and character of Shawn Bolz, I reflected on my own story of going to a conference where Shawn headlined, and how the Lord used it to grow my understanding and confidence in discernment. If you've ever wondered "Can I really hear God?", this chat is to encourage you that YES - you can! If you'd like to take steps to journal and process this out like I have done, here's some questions to get you going and help you grow in confidence as you seek to hear and respond to God's leading in your life and motherhood: - Whose voice can I trust in all of this? - How do I go about praying for direction? - How do I go about learning how to hear the voice of God? - What was the last time that I felt that peace? And what did it feel like?- How can I look for that peace in the future?

Ever wondered how missionaries manage to leave everything behind and thrive in the most challenging environments? In today's episode, we'll hear Abi's journey from pastoring a church in the UK to planting one in Cambodia, and how God has guided every step. In this inspiring episode, Abi opens up about the highs and lows of living cross-culturally, parenting on the mission field and trusting God through miracles and setbacks. We talk about counting the cost, experiencing God's provision and learning to rely on God in all things. Abi shares about the importance of community, raising children with purpose, and the ongoing journey of surrender and trust, even when the future is uncertain. If you're a mum that's ever wrestled with fear, guilt or doubts in stepping out of your comfort zone, Abi's wisdom and candid honesty will inspire you to move forward with courageous faith. Tune in to be encouraged, challenged and reminded that the greatest transformation happens when we follow God's extraordinary plan for our ordinary lives. If you'd like to follow more of Abi and her family's journey in Siem Reap, follow them on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/LittlesInCambodia (Devoted to Cambodia).

Today on the show we are hearing from Jan Kilpatrick, whose life journey spans growing up on the mission field in Kenya, leading churches worldwide, and serving families through counselling with Iris Global. Join us as Jan shares candid reflections on faith, parenting, mental health, and the unpredictable calling of missions.Key Takeaways:The power of trusting God’s plans even when life feels uncertain or difficult.The importance of vulnerability, grace, and honest communication within families.How creativity and spiritual disciplines sustain emotional health and vitality.Practical guidance for navigating mental health struggles with biblical and therapeutic insights.Encouragement to embrace imperfection and celebrate “the little wins” in everyday life.Tune in for this rich conversation filled with heartfelt stories and profound wisdom, perfect for anyone navigating family life, ministry, or personal growth through faith.If this conversation touched you, please share it with one mom or missionary who needs a reminder of God's grace today. If you'd like to connect with Jan, you can email her here: [email protected]

If you’re heading into Christmas feeling tired, behind, or wondering how this season became so heavy — you’re not alone. Today I'm chatting about what living missionally looks like when motherhood is loud, life is full, and expectations are high. Rather than adding more to your plate, this conversation invites you to release perfection, embrace presence, and trust that God is near in the small, hidden moments of Christmas.Let's embrace Immanuel - Christ with us this Christmas. I hope this is a huge blessing to you all, and may the peace of Christ reign in your hearts this season. I'll be back in the New Year with some new content. Until then, blessings and peace!

Meet Jackie - a missionary mum and grandma with a heart of gold, and a spiritual mum of mine. Join us for this conversation where Jackie shares about choosing joy in every season, and serving others while pursuing intimacy with Jesus and raising a family. Tune in to hear her wisdom on living missionally, embracing challenges and nurturing your kids hearts through gratitude and seeking the Lord. Warning: You might want to rewatch this a few times or have a pen and paper handy because the incredible amount of wisdom Jackie has is just mind blowing!Check out Jackie and her husband Don's newest book about Authority here: https://www.amazon.com.au/Chaos-Order-Understanding-Authority-Wisely/dp/B0FXQXW8G3

Today we're kicking off our series of me sharing some of my journey and what I'm learning about being a Missional Mum myself! I'm starting by sharing some of my story, from being a missionary kid, to being a missionary in Mexico, to now where I'm at. If you're interested in what I'm learning, in how to raise your kids intentionally with a missional heart, whether you're in the field, in ministry, or doing day in and out in the home with your kiddos, this is for you! I'd love you to join me and share your wisdom too! My heart is for a community of mums that encourage each other along to raise kids in light of the Gospel and the great commission!

Meet Leah - encouraging mums from her everyday living! In this episode, Leah shares about her heart for Jesus, and raising kids that are disciples of Jesus. We unpack what it means to see motherhood as mission, how discipleship starts at home, and simple ways to weave faith into everyday family life. You'll be encouraged to nurture faith in your kids, even through the weariness of life with young kids, and be reminded that your home can be your most powerful mission field. Go and give Leah a follow at @raising.disciples_ if you want practical, incredibly down to earth, Jesus filled, Biblical encouragement!

We're back with another episode after a little break! In today's episode we hear from Jenny about serving in Mexico with a cross-cultural family, navigating cultural differences, and embracing the unexpected joys and challenges of raising a family. Jenny's story is inspiring and beautiful, and shows the power of community for mums.

Meet Melissa*, serving the Lord in Central Asia. Honestly, this is one of the most edifying things you'll listen to this week. Mel shares about her childhood in Thailand as a missionary kid, her journey into the mission field in Central Asia, and how the Lord is faithful through every season and every challenge. Mel shares about loneliness, heartache and incredible joy in serving in a new home and culture, and how these challenges lead us to the cross of Christ. *Melissa is a pseudonym for privacy and security reasons, based on the location where her family serves.

Enjoy this awesome episode with Hannah, former YWAM missionary kid and missionary, as she shares about becoming a mum whilst serving, and then the transition 'home'. Her heart for Jesus and others is beautiful, you won't want to miss this one! A BONUS episode this week that I thought I had LOST! This episode was recorded during a thunderstorm, and until recently I thought the files had been lost, but thank the Lord we have found a way to restore these files!

Meet Jo - missionary extraordinaire, mum of 5, heart sold out for Jesus. Her words will fill you with joy, hope, inspiration and remind you why we follow our incredible God. Jo shares about her faithful waiting to be sent into the mission field, how her family learnt to serve and love Jesus in a new context, and how war and a pandemic led to them relocating 'home' again. Listen as she shares practical tips for mums raising families in different cultures, what's truly the most important thing, and how faith in Christ shapes everything we do.

A special episode today with my dear friend Alli*, mum to 3 young boys and missionary in the Middle East. Listen to this beautiful mama share about her challenges, profound impact, and her identity in Christ. Alli* gives creative advice and shares how to find contentment in each season of God's calling. Don't miss this inspiring episode! *Alli is a pseudonym for privacy and security reasons based on where her family serves.

Meet Alana, my Kiwi Amiga loving and serving Jesus in Mexico. Alana shares about her inspiring journey from New Zealand to Mexico, balancing motherhood and missionary work, starting a church and training church leaders. Listen as she shares about her faith in Christ and how it guides everything she does.

Meet Taylor. Best Southern accent I've ever heard. Loves Jesus. Loves missions. All around, an amazing gal and an amazing mum! Listen as Taylor shares her inspiring journey of listening to the heart of God, and following wherever it takes their family. Taylor and her husband Colby have been learning to trust God as they plant a spirit-filled, mission focused church in Louisiana. Her story of experiences from Honduras to Africa to Mexico is incredible, as is her unwavering faith and commitment to spread the gospel in love. Join us to hear how Taylor balances motherhood and mission work, church planting and personal faith, and be ready to be inspired to embrace your own calling. Follow what Taylor and her husband are up to at @KaleoColumbiala, or email her at [email protected] to get in touch.

Meet Kate. Loves Jesus, her family and France. I may be a little biased, Kate is my sister-in-law! Join us for an inspiring conversation with Kate as she shares her journey of missional work in France, navigating neurodivergence in children, and then journeying "home" to Australia. Kate offers profound insights into faith, family and beauty of embracing differences and growing with your children. If you'd like to hear more from Kate, read what she's written here: anextraordinarynormal.substack.com

A little trailer for the podcast