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TMV: Episode 57 – Raising Boys – Part 2 Welcome back to the Mom Village! While our podcast is hosted by moms, today we have the dads with us, and they’re asking the questions. Joining us in conversation are Jimmy and Kristin Scroggins, Jismarie and Christian Ramos, and Eric and Kirra Kelly. Today’s topic is around teaching our kids to respect women. To kick off our conversation, we discuss some of the ways we model healthy spousal relationships within the home to give our kids something to aim for when they reach adulthood. Next, we talk about friendship between brothers and how to encourage them to be a team by speaking about them as though they are one before it is true. We dive into the role of church in supporting single parents and providing resources to guide our kids, and finish by acknowledging and celebrating God’s design for sexuality, and why, statistically, the most fulfilling relationships exist between married Christians. Join us to hear more today. Key Points From This Episode: Introducing today’s guests: Jimmy and Kristin Scroggins, Jismarie and Christian Ramos, and Eric and Kirra Kelly. Today’s topic: teaching our kids to respect women. Jimmy’s perspective that the main thing we need to do to teach respect is to model it. Modeling healthy romantic attraction to our spouses to give our kids something to aim for. Why Christian insists on hugging and kissing his wife in front of the kids. Why Jismarie tells her girls that no boyfriend gets husband privileges. What the world models in comparison to what we can teach our kids about what it means to be married. Encouraging friendship to remain friends. Speaking things into existence before it is so to teach your kids principles. An example of how the hard work of bringing boys together pays off in the long term. The role of church community for single moms, and how Jismarie’s mother encouraged her to connect with her dad. Encouraging single parents to reach out, married folks to support them, without singling them out. God’s design for sexuality we should aim for as it is illustrated in Genesis. How, statistically, married Christians have the most fulfilling relationships. Having hard conversations with boys, and with men about directing their sexuality. How Psalm 1 can help men to direct their sexuality. The importance of affirming the wild-hearted nature of men. Reminding kids of the ultimate design for sexuality: to stick you together with your spouse and produce children if you can. Returning to God’s design to encourage kids to think how God wants them to think. Having resources available to combat the impact of pornography and social media. Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Family Church The Mom Village Email The Mom Village on Instagram Kirra Kelly Jismarie Ramos Kristin Scroggins

TMV: Episode 56 – Raising Boys – Part 1 It’s time for something a little different on the Mom Village Podcast! Today, Dads are taking over! With us today, we have Christian Ramos, Eric Kelly, and Jimmy Scroggins. We’re talking today about raising boys, in their different phases of life, as moms and dads. The conversation kicks off with the story of a father figure in each of our guest’s lives, leading into a discussion about just how crucial it is to have a village when you’re raising happy children. Listeners will hear from Eric about how vital the role of a father is, before Jimmy, Christian, and Eric weigh in on their personal approach to raising both boys and girls. Next, we dive into the challenge of connecting with our boys as they grow older, and we share some of the critical tools that have helped us to make sure they know we are there for them. We touch on the ebb and flow of our roles as mothers and fathers, always reminding our kids that we are on their side, and teaching boys to work hard, and take risks, so that they can contribute and learn. Join us to hear all this and more today! Key Points From This Episode: An introduction to the Dads joining us today: Christian Ramos, Eric Kelly, and Jimmy Scroggins. A great father figure or leader in each speaker’s life: Jimmy’s present father, Eric’s fraternity brothers and Jimmy Scroggins, and Christian’s gentle and loving dad. How crucial a village is to raising happy children. Eric’s thoughts on how vital the role of a father is with God the Father as his guide. Jimmy’s intent to raise men who can provide and protect, and his hope that one day his girls will be married to a godly man. Christian’s approach of being way softer on his girls than his boys. Eric’s unapologetic intent to raise his boys to be men, never apologizing for God’s design. Maintaining connection with boys as they are growing older: prioritizing meals, creating experiences together, and communicating love and security. Why it’s so important to intentionally remind your boys that you are on their side. The opportunity for connection you have when you drive with your kids. Christian’s advice to moms who notice their boys pulling away from them. How Christian’s mother put all her boys to service at the church. Eric’s mother’s words that she had done all she could, and it was time to find men. Jimmy’s advice to Kristin when her boys started to pull away: pretend not to notice! Why there is a time when mom needs to sit down, and dad needs to stand up. Being an example of the things you want your kid to do and be. Teaching boys to work hard and to take risks, within reason. Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Family Church The Mom Village Email The Mom Village on Instagram Kirra Kelly Jismarie Ramos Kristin Scroggins

TMV: Episode 55 – Jen Wilkin – Part 2  Today we continue with the second part of our two-part interview with author and bible teacher Jen Wilkin. In the first episode, we talked about Deuteronomy 6:7 where the Lord commands us to instruct our children in the way. In this episode, Jen explains how she became aware of the real dangers of false teaching and the vital importance of firsthand knowledge of the bible. She talks about what a bible literacy advocate is and why there is such a bible literacy crisis in the church today, before breaking down the methods she uses to read and understand the bible. Jen also talks about some of the most common problems with the way people misunderstand the bible and God, and she explains how some of her books have been written to address some of these challenges. Before closing, Jendrops a massive revelation about how the commandment to love your neighbor as you love yourself has impacted her mothering. For an inspiring and practical conversation that may very well change the way you read the bible and parent your kids, tune in today! Key Points From This Episode: The story about how Jen came to know the Lord as a child. How Jen became aware of the importance of firsthand knowledge of the bible as a young adult. The real dangers of false teaching and why bible literacy is so important to Jen. Jen’s thoughts on the ‘pink ghetto’ resources for women that are based on feelings and not thought. Where you should start if you’re trying to understand the bible. How Jen personally studies the scriptures for herself. What Jen means when she describes herself as a bible literacy advocate. Why there is a bible literacy crisis in the church today. Some of the most common problems with the way people misunderstand the bible. What Jen’s favorite writing assignment is to date: None Like Him. The important tool for bible literacy explained in Women of the Word. Value of studying the old testament, and how this helps us understand the friendship between law and grace. How the commandment to love your neighbor as you love yourself has impacted Jen’s mothering. How you can win one of Jen’s books Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Jen Wilkin Jen Wilkin Twitter Family Church The Mom Village Email The Mom Village on Instagram Kirra Kelly Jismarie Ramos Kristin Scroggins

TMV: Episode 54 – Jen Wilkin – Part 1  Today we begin the first part of our two-part interview with author and bible teacher Jen Wilkin. Jen opens up about how she met her husband, what she admires most about him, and how they managed to balance their lives while having four kids in four years.In this inspirational conversation, Jen explains how the verse Deuteronomy 6:7 has impacted her and her approach to parenting. She explains why she believes strongly in shared spaces, shared experiences, and shared conversations, and how she has facilitated these priorities in her home. To find out how Jen has taught her children that home is their primary place of belonging, her tips for answering tough questions, and to discover what she would do differently if she could, tune in today! Key Points From This Episode: An introduction to the Wilkin family. How Jen met her husband Jeff and what she admires about him. How Jeff’s support has spurred on Jen’s ministry throughout the years.•How the Wilkins balanced everything as parents who had four kids in four years. The importance of the scripture Deuteronomy 6:7 in Jen’s life and how this has impacted the way she has approached motherhood. The importance of the big conversations and small conversations and promoting them in your day-to-day life. Jen’s tip on how to respond to difficult questions with a clarifying question. What Jen would do differently regarding motherhood if she could: say yes more. The one thing that Jen was determined to make sure that her kids knew or had confidence in: That home is your primary place of belonging Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Jen Wilkins Jen Wilkins Twitter Family Church The Mom Village Email The Mom Village on Instagram Kirra Kelly Jismarie Ramos Kristin Scroggins

TMV: Episode 53 – Daughters – Part 2  In the first episode in our two-part series on daughters, we discussed the importance of making the gospel the foundation of our relationships with our daughters. In today’s episode, we’re going to be focusing more specifically on how we can talk to our daughters about sex and relationships, dressing in a way that honors Christ, and how to approach them during their teenage years. It’s impossible to prevent our daughters from being subjected to all sorts of information on social media, and in their social circles, but the important thing is that you are giving them the truth. In order to be in a position where our daughters feel like they have a soft place to land and they trust our guidance, it’s important that we spend quality time with them. If you already feel like you don’t have enough time in the day, don’t worry, even just having a conversation in the car on the way to school can be very valuable if you create the right environment!  Key Points From This Episode: The value of coming up with your own definition of modesty within your family.  Examples of how to speak to your daughters about dressing appropriately.  When to start having conversations about relationships and sex. The importance of making sure that our daughters are aware of the difference between good and bad attention.  Jismarie shares a traumatic experience from her youth, and the healing journey that she has been on.  The importance of facilitating a strong family structure.   Kira shares the story of the tattoo that she got with her daughter.  Why spending time with our daughters is such a valuable practice.  Advice for moms who feel like they don’t have enough time to spend quality time with their daughters.  Our thoughts on how to alleviate tension in the home that often arises when our daughters become teenagers.   Full Circle Parenting; a resource which we would highly recommend for your parenting journey. Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Full Circle Parenting  Family Church The Mom Village Email The Mom Village on Instagram Kirra Kelly Jismarie Ramos Kristin Scroggins

TMV: Episode 52 – Daughters – Part 1 If you are the mother of a daughter (or daughters), the next two episodes are for you! In part one of our series on daughters, we discuss why it is so important that the word of God forms the foundation of our relationships with our children. As moms, our main job is to teach our daughters how to live out the truths of the gospel, and these lessons start from the moment they are conceived in our womb. In today’s world, there is no place better than the home to impart biblical lessons, and although there are many challenges on the journey of raising a daughter, by weaving conversations about God’s design and His redemption into their lives from a young age, you will see the enormous benefit it brings to their lives. Key Points From This Episode: Why the gospel should form the foundation of every conversation we have with our children. An explanation of the concept of 3 Circles. The conflict that can arise in pre-teen and teenage years, and advice for moms who have daughters going through this transitionary period. The problem of allowing our daughters to be exposed to social media at a young age. Examples of how we know that our children are learning the word of God through the conversations that we have with them. Advice on how to talk to your daughters about the topic of singleness. Male role models that you can direct your daughters towards if they don’t have a father figure. What it means to be biblically submissive, and how we can pass these lessons on to our daughters. The disservice that churches are doing by not speaking openly and honestly about biblical manhood and womanhood. Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Origin of The Three Circles Family Church The Mom Village Email The Mom Village on Instagram Kirra Kelly Jismarie Ramos Kristin Scroggins

TMV: Episode 51 – Seasons of Motherhood – Part 2  Welcome back to part two of the Seasons of Motherhood episode with the Mom Village! Today’s episode focuses on the later seasons of motherhood, and the challenges and pain of releasing your children into the world. Kristin opens the discussion with a recap of what was learned in the last episode, and how motherhood constantly reminds her that she needs Jesus. Kirra describes the major milestones she’s been faced with recently, and the mourning she feels for the way things used to be. Hear all about the joy and sadness motherhood brings, and how you can walk in both at the same time. We learn about what God wants from mothers, and how to accept that your children are always in His hands, while Jismarie reads her favorite verse that helps her get through the challenges. We find out why being an intentional mother helped Kristin teach her kids the right lessons and the benefits of being part of a family church. We wrap up the discussion with the unexpected joys of the unknown, and some proverbs to keep in mind. Key Points From This Episode: Kristin’s recap of part one of Seasons of Motherhood, and how motherhood constantly reminds her that she needs Jesus.   Responding to the major milestones and how naïve Kirra feels she was about how she would handle them.   How time flies in each of the seasons of motherhood.   The truth of walking in sadness and joy at the same time, and how to handle it.   Why you should never feel bad about mourning your children flying the nest.   What Kristin wants as a mom, and what God wants of mothers.   The comfort that Jismarie takes from Philippians 3:12-15.  The challenge that Kirra is facing at the moment: saying goodbye to what was.   What is challenging Jismarie right now, and how she’s preparing herself.   Some advice from Kristin on how to be intentional as a mother.   The key things the moms want to teach their kids: faith and how to love.   How important the church family is in moving through the seasons of motherhood.   What mothers can do to walk with other mothers through the ups and downs.   How to have joy in letting go: looking forward to the unknown.   Letting go of the season of having kids, and some encouragement from the moms.   Acknowledging that your children are truly in God’s hands, and not your own.   The joy of your children coming back even once you’ve released them.   Final comments on the seasons of motherhood, and the proverbs to keep in mind.  Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Family Church The Mom Village Email The Mom Village on Instagram Kirra Kelly Jismarie Ramos Kristin Scroggins

TMV: Episode 50 – Seasons Of Motherhood – Part 1  As with all aspects of life, there are seasons of motherhood. From birth to flying the nest, join us today as we dive into the personal experiences and lessons learned as mothers, with the Mom Village. Kirra introduces the topic with a poignant story about her son growing up and starting to want to venture out on his own apart from the family, something that got her to think about the different seasons all mothers must come to terms with. We hear the crazy realizations that each of the moms had once they brought their newborns home, and some top tips (learned the hard way!) on how you can best handle the chaos that is a newborn. Find out why transitioning from one kid to two, or even three, had such a big effect on each of the moms, and why date nights even when you don't feel sexy are important for you and your husband. We go deep into the valley of shadows that is post-partum depression, and hear some raw and honest experiences from Kristin, and how she overcame it. For all this, and so much more on the seasons of motherhood, tune in to part one, today. Key Points From This Episode: Kirra’s recent experience realizing that her son is growing up.  What today’s episode will cover: the seasons of motherhood.   Jismarie’s realization that her season of diapers is over. Why Kristin left the crib up for nearly 16 years. What shocked each of the moms as a new mom, from lack of sleep to mesh panties to communication within a marriage.  How birth and having a child is nothing like the magazines. The importance of communication between you and your partner.  Giving time to yourself and your husband.   The Mom Village’s advice to mothers transitioning from one to two kids, and more! Kristin’s experience of post-partum depression and how she overcame it.   Overcoming the mom pride: communicating your needs to older, more successful moms.   Finding your Village when you’re expecting, and the importance of being in the same season.   Why the Family was the good and perfect gift, and using the Word to cope with motherhood.   What the Mom funk is.   How reading Ecclesiast can help you keep Motherhood in perspective.   Why thinking about ways to be a blessing to others can help you stay positive.   Coming to terms with having finished having kids and learning to listen to others.   What to expect from part two of the seasons of motherhood!  Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Jeannie Hodges Peoples on Instagram Welcome to Holland by Emily Perl Kingsley Family Church The Mom Village Email The Mom Village on Instagram Kirra Kelly Jismarie Ramos Kristin Scroggins

TMV: Episode 49 –Marriage Conversations: Valentines Special – Part 2  Welcome to Part Two of the Marriage Conversations Valentine’s Special! We’re back with our husbands and our good friends Anna and Bernie to answer a few more of your questions. Keeping to the theme, we start off with sharing the weirdest, most unique Valentine’s Day gifts we’ve ever received from our spouses, before tackling all the brilliant marriage-related questions you sent us. In this episode, you’ll hear what we each wish we did more of as a family and as a couple, as well as some handy tips on what to do when your toddler has a meltdown in public! Better, even: how to preempt and prevent a meltdown. Find out how, although, yes, gender roles are specified in the Bible, NOWHERE does it point to abuse. We discuss the importance of a healthy balance in a marriage, and we encourage you to seek counsel if you are experiencing abuse in your home! We share our personal do’s and don’ts if we find ourselves in a heated dispute with our spouse, and touch on what we do when we feel anxious and overwhelmed. Finally, we delve into the inevitable topic of loss and hear how each couple has experienced it differently, with some firsthand advice on how to support your spouse on their walk through grief. For all of this and so much more, tune in with us today!  Key Points From This Episode: The weirdest, most unique Valentine’s Day gifts we’ve ever received.  Eric’s best Valentine’s gift from Kirra: a baby boy!  What the Cuetos and the Ramoses wish they did more of as a family and as a couple.  What to do when you’re out alone with your toddler and they have a meltdown in public!  Why the Scrogginses view home time as training and being out in public as game time.  How to preempt and prevent meltdowns.  How to find a healthy balance in a marriage and rule out gender bias and abuse.  What to do if you are experiencing abuse in your marriage.  What to remind yourself and your spouse in the heat of an argument.  Why you shouldn’t use permanent language in a dispute.  What we do when we feel anxious and overwhelmed.  How God’s word encouraged Anna through a difficult time in her life.  The importance of nurturing yourself first before you can nurture your kids.  The value of having someone to count on or confide in.  How to support your spouse through loss.   The importance of giving each other the space to grieve and talking about the departed.  How Eric has supported and encouraged Kirra through the grief of her mother’s Alzheimers.  What Christian learned from Jismarie’s grieving process when her father passed away.  How Anna responded to her father’s passing and how her family supported her.  How to handle your family’s guilt trips when you go away as a couple.  Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Family Church The Mom Village Email The Mom Village on Instagram Kirra Kelly Jismarie Ramos Kristin Scroggins

TMV: Episode 48 – Marriage Conversations: Valentines Special – Part 1  We love introducing the people we love to the people that we love and for this Valentine's Special, we invite our husbands, Christian, Jimmy, and Eric, as well as our special friends Anna and Bernie Cueto onto the show for a jam-packed installment of Marriage Conversations. We chat about our various Valentine’s Day rituals (or lack thereof) and join forces to answer a few of your questions! In this episode, we cover everything from how we see God working in our lives to how we encourage one another on a daily basis and how we manage our boundaries as married couples in a cyber-savvy world. We discuss the value of respecting the God-given roles in a family and how to gently guide each other along our spiritual paths by example, not superiority or force, before moving on to the topic of date nights! Tune in to find out how our concepts of date night have evolved since having kids and for those eager to find a spouse, discover how being single is a beautiful opportunity to deepen your relationship with God and serve others. Thank you for joining us for Part One; we’ll be back soon for Part Two of the Valentine's Special! Key Points From This Episode: Introducing our guests for the Valentine’s Special: our husbands, Christian, Jimmy, and Eric, and our special friends, Anna and Bernie!  What we all do (or don’t do) on Valentine’s Day.  What Anna and Bernie’s ideal day off would look like.  How Christian has seen God working to change his anger reactions.  How Jimmy and Kristin were encouraged by their kids’ pride in their church and their parents.  How Anna and Bernie show each other encouragement on a daily basis.  How Kirra shows Eric encouragement in simple ways.  Why the Scrogginses have access to each other’s devices and have joint social media accounts.  How Jismarie runs Christian’s social media accounts, and the hilarious repercussions!  How the Cuetos navigated social media for their kids and why Bernie practices a digital sunset.  Eric’s choice to limit his access to the internet by using a ‘dumb’ phone.  Bernie shares a story to demonstrate the value of respecting the God-given roles in a family.  What the Kellys have learned to appreciate about each other that they didn’t know before they got married.  How to navigate guiding your family through their spiritual walk without an air of superiority.  The Ramos’ and the Scroggins’ alternatives to date nights.  The importance of gauging your partner’s emotional wellbeing and acting accordingly.  How to be content in the season of waiting to find a life partner.  Why singleness mustn’t be associated with loneliness and the beautiful opportunity it brings. Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Family Church The Mom Village Email The Mom Village on Instagram Kirra Kelly Jismarie Ramos Kristin Scroggins

TMV: Episode 47 - Healthy Financial Habits - Part 2  Welcome back to The Scalici episode, part two! Continuing with the theme from part one, we talk to Steve and Apryl Scalici, the unofficial Family Church financial advisors, about investments, getting out of debt, and how you can start giving. We dive into how giving financially is the one way the Lord encourages us to challenge Him, and how you can find a middle ground with your partner regarding how much to give. We discuss the pitfalls of credit cards and investments, and the advice you should be giving your kids. Raising fiscally responsible children boils down to three things: being transparent with how you spend your money, teaching delayed gratification, and learning from your mistakes. Steve also breaks down common misconceptions around how long it takes to get out of debt (only seven years!), and why you should never invest in something that you don’t understand. Tune in to hear all this and more, in today’s financial masterclass.   Key Points From This Episode: Welcome back to The Scalici episode part two, where we talk to Apryl and Steve Scalici about all things finance.   God’s commandment of being a cheerful giver: the verses addressing living abundantly.   How investing financially links to emotional investment.   The six keys of The Treasure Principle and the two that stuck with Steve. How prayer helped Steve and Apryl to pick an amount to give. Negotiating a compromise with your partner when your spiritual gifts differ: the importance of setting financial boundaries. Applying “Godliness with contentment is great gain” to finances: getting to the point of contentment begets you being generous. Seeing the fruits of giving and how it makes it easier to do it. The pitfalls of credit cards and investments: being wise about spending. The three things you can do with money: give it, save it, spend it, and why giving is the most enjoyable. When to talk to a financial advisor about saving. Steve’s opinion on cryptocurrency: don’t invest in something that you don’t understand.   Advice for starting to invest for kids and adults: invest in things you know. How you can survive on a single income.  When to look for another job: earning too little to save. Implementing financial literacy in the home: be transparent with how you spend your money, teach delayed gratification, and learn from your mistakes. The software and apps that Apryl uses to track their spending.   How to pay off debt quickly: putting your ducks in a row. Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: The Treasure Principle: Unlocking the Secret of Joyful Giving  The Family Church Spiritual Gifts Test  Steve Scalici  Apryl Scalici Family Church The Mom Village Email The Mom Village on Instagram Kirra Kelly Jismarie Ramos Kristin Scroggins

TMV: Episode 46 – Healthy Financial Habits – Part 1 The secret to financial success is simple: give 10, save 10, and live on the rest. With simple solutions like this, it's easy to see why Steve and Apryl Scalici are the resident Family Church financial advisors! Join us today as we talk to this power couple about all things finance: from how to teach your kids healthy financial habits, to when you should start saving, to why it’s okay to work past your retirement. We find out why Steve, as the financial advisor, is not the one looking after the books in the Scalici family, and how Apryl’s upbringing gave her a financial head start over Steve. Although he stands by the “give 10, save 10” rule, Steve does tailor his advice based on the stage of life you are at, so tune in to find out what the differences are for single mothers, couples at the start of their marriage, and couples entering into retirement. Press play to listen to part one now! Key Points From This Episode: Who the Scalici family are: bi-vocational pastor Steve, and creative & events director and spreadsheet guru Apryl. How Steve was inspired by Family Ties to become a financial advisor. Why Apryl handles the finances in the Scalici home and Steve's role in investments. How you bring into your marriage what you experienced: using your gifts to get the most out of the situation financially. Advice for families in the early stages of their marriage: preparing for a family. Why Apryl chose to give their kids an allowance rather than paying for chores. The responsibilities and privilege that come with getting an allowance as a kid. Advice for couples later on in their marriage: live on one income, and save the other. The Scalici’s golden rule for any stage of life: give 10, save 10, live on the rest. Why trusting God helps with saving money: thinking about others and not the self. How defining boundaries allows you to live within and below your means. How Apryl’s upbringing helped Steve pay off his debt. Why it’s important to understand what a credit card means. Advice for people retiring: pay off all your debt before retirement. Three simple tips for single moms: start saving now (any amount), plan to work past your retirement, and treat your kids well as they pick your retirement home! A teaser of what to expect in part two: cryptocurrency and more. Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Steve Scalici on LinkedIn Apryl Scalici on Instagram Family Church The Mom Village Email The Mom Village on Instagram Kirra Kelly Jismarie Ramos Kristin Scroggins

TMV: Episode 45 – Loss and Redemption – Part 2  Join us today to hear part two of the Loss and Redemption discussion with widow and mother, Brittany Price Brooker. We hear how Brittany's life has changed since the loss of her husband, and how she now cares for a blended family with kids facing challenges she can't help with. We discuss why mothers can't always be everything and the importance of trusting God to cover the things that you aren’t able to. We touch on how you can best support those who are grieving around you; from what to say, to how to handle the awkwardness you might feel when God prompts you to help. We are all gifted with unique gifts, and sharing these gifts in the community of God can have a bigger impact on someone than you know! There is no timeline to grief, and Brittany highlights the importance of asking for help from those around you when you are in a grieving season. Tune in to learn how to help anyone walking in the valley of death.   Key Points From This Episode: Welcome back to part two of the Loss and Redemption episodes, with Brittany Price Brooker.  How Laurel-Grace entered Brittany and Daniel’s lives, and the joy she brought to their blended family.   Some of the challenges Brittany faces as a blended family: knowing that you are not enough as a mother and that Jesus is.  Accepting that you can’t do everything well, and trusting God to support you, and to multiply what you have.  Asking the right questions and saying the right things to someone who is facing grief: show up and do it, and saying ‘I’m sorry’.  Understanding that prompting from God to help someone in grief might make you uncomfortable, but it’s needed and you should follow through.   How your unique gifts can help someone in a dark time.   Pulling the community of God together to support those in the grieving season.  Knowing when it’s time to step back from helping someone in grief: loss is a lifelong journey, and everyone’s timeline differs.   Why it’s important to ask for help when you are in the grieving season. Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Brittany Price Brooker Family Church The Mom Village Email The Mom Village on Instagram Kirra Kelly Jismarie Ramos Kristin Scroggins

TMV: Episode 44 – Loss and Redemption – Part 1  Grief is part of being human; whether you have experienced it in the past, are currently grieving, or are going to enter the season. So why do so many of us rebel against the pain? Talking to us about this very topic is Brittany Price Brooker. Brittany lost her husband at the tender age of 25 and was left with three kids under three, and her grief. She found solace when she put her faith in God, and she talks us through walking through the valley of grief and the treasures she found along the way. We discuss how she came to terms with her loss and the advice she has for those currently in the season. Find out what Brittany's favorite Psalms are, and how God brought her and Daniel together to help heal each other as well as their kids. Join us for another meaningful podcast in The Mom Village today. Key Points From This Episode: Welcome to today's guest, Brittany Price Brooker: Chaos Coordinator, Christian, singer, and cook!  Brittney’s story: becoming a widow at the age of 25 with three kids under three.   Embarking on the journey of walking through the valley of death, and knowing the richness and treasures that you get only in the darkness.  Brittney’s advice to navigating loss: Psalms 1-19, the word of God, and how it gave her hope in the darkness.  Holding God to his promises and trusting the greatness of Jesus and God in times of suffering.   Understanding that everyone experiences different types of loss at some point in their lives.   Allowing yourself to feel the pain and accepting that God has put you in that season to learn from it.   Brittney’s advice to parents navigating grief: seek help when needed, model grief to your children, and acknowledge the pain. How Brittney remembers her lost loved ones but avoids remaining in her grief: talking about those lost and remembrance days.  Dealing with the fear of what will be.   Find out who Daniel is, and how Brittney and Daniel came together.   The scripture that has been vital to Brittney’s survival: psalms where people question God. Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Brittany Price Brooker on Instagram  Family Church The Mom Village Email The Mom Village on Instagram Kirra Kelly Jismarie Ramos Kristin Scroggins

TMV: Episode 43 – Marriage Conversations – Part 6  Welcome back to Marriage Conversations (Part 6)! We hear from the husbands again today, as we tackle some seriously topical issues. From advising your kids on how to interact with friends who have gender/pronoun issues, to when you should accommodate others' preferences: in your community, in your church, or your own family. Hear what characteristics each couple admires the most about the other two couples, and how your relationship needs to grow both with your spouse and your kids as time moves on. Discover how Christ and commitment are the ultimate glue that holds couples together, and how you can maintain the love through looking for the good within your spouse. We are reminded that self is the route of sin, that your relationship affects your spirituality. Tune in to this exciting episode to hear the men serenading their women, and so much more!  Key Points From This Episode: Welcome back to the husbands: Jimmy Scroggins, Eric Kelly, and Christian Ramos.  What each couple admires about the other two: from charisma to dignity. Helping children navigate friendships with people who struggle with their gender pronouns. God's plan regarding gender and sex: the rules for within your community, your church, and your family. How your relationship needs to change as your kids become adults.  Why it’s important not to step back from daughters as they develop into women.  The challenges of raising men in today’s society. How your relationship can affect you spiritually daily. Find out the special song for each couple! Commitment: the ultimate glue that keeps couples together. How to handle a relationship as it changes throughout life.  Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Family Church The Mom Village Email The Mom Village on Instagram Kirra Kelly Christian Ramos  Jismarie Ramos Jimmy and Kristin Scroggins  Kristin Scroggins

TMV: Episode 42 – Marriage Conversations – Part 5  A happy marriage is a big contributor to raising healthy kids. In today's episode, we hear from the husbands of Kirra, Kristin, and Jismarie on how they keep their marriages thriving. From insightful observations about what each of these three couples does to grow spiritually, to each husband’s opinion on what habits can make or break a marriage, today’s discussion covers it all! No holds are barred in this dialogue, where the men finally have their say. We tackle three questions that the men think husbands should be asking their wives (and how the wives feel about these), and what a husband’s role in raising boys should be in today’s sexually conflicted society. Tune in to find out how Family Church has inspired each couple to be their best, and why it’s so important as a guidance structure for young boys. Whether you’re married or not, this episode contains a wealth of good advice for Christians everywhere. Key Points From This Episode: Welcome to part one of Marriage Conversations with Kirra and Eric Kelly, Kristin and Jimmy Scroggins, and Jismarie and Christian Ramos. The ice breaker: three questions husbands should ask their wives more often.  Finding out which of your wife’s goals you can help with (the first question). Why it’s important to ask if you are satisfying your wife sexually (the second question).   Asking if you’ve done enough (the third question).   The good habits that bring each of these couples closer together. The bad habits that can push a couple apart. Advice from each couple about what they do to continue to grow spiritually. How each of these men parent boys in this sexually conflicted society. The importance of Family Church and being a disciple when raising boys. When each couple is at their best, and how this can help you reach yours. The bucket list items for each couple. Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Family Church The Mom Village Email The Mom Village on Instagram Kirra Kelly Christian Ramos  Jismarie Ramos Jimmy and Kristin Scroggins  Kristin Scroggins

TMV: Episode 41 – My Veteran Story Today we talk to Kim Wells, a former munitions inspector, traveler, Family Church member, and single woman, about her journey to Christ and how she applies her military experience to God's mission. Throughout her life, Kim has visited 41 countries; and she talks us through some of these experiences and how she has seen the Lord move. From an agnostic teenager to a devout Christian, Kim's journey to God is one that highlights how being an obedient Christian can have an incredible impact on other people's lives. We hear how being in the darkest places can minimize the divides and the importance of denominations between Christians, and how God answered Kim’s prayers in the most obvious fashion. Find out what Kim’s advice is to single Christian women, and why humility is essential in surrendering yourself to God’s plan and more, in this incredible episode. Key Points From This Episode: How being raised by a single mother of three kids affected Kim’s life choices. Why joining the armed forces was a selfish act that ultimately brought her to God. Kim’s story of her introduction to Christ in Germany, and how a friend and a pastor changed her life. How being an obedient Christian can change other people’s lives. Kim’s experience of God’s ways when she was on active duty and Him orchestrating His plans. When faith in Christ unites people: transcending denominations and divides. How being honest with yourself allows you to feel when you are losing touch with the Lord. Hear how God stepped in to save Kim from one of her “dumb decisions”. Surrendering your life to God and how it helped Kim transition from the military to civilian life. The similarities between serving your country and serving the Lord. The story of the milk truck: how God sometimes moves in very obvious ways. Kim’s experience of motivating others to pray for God’s assistance and the help He gave. Lessons Kim has learned about the people development business from both the military and doing a bachelor’s degree in education. Kim’s bible study for singles: the prime feature of your life should be walking with Christ, not your relationship status or kids. Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Family Church The Mom Village Email The Mom Village on Instagram Kirra Kelly Jismarie Ramos Kristin Scroggins

TMV: Episode 40 – Mom on a Mission Being a missionary is not for everyone, or so people think. Today we hear from Kristin's friend, and missionary mother Christy Allen about how being a mother is being a missionary, and what she learned on her missions throughout South and Southeast Asia. Christy grew up in a missionary family and spent time in the Philippines, where she learned that there is nothing too small to pray about, and how you see life through the lens your parents do. Moving back to the USA at the age of 14 gave Christy a new insight into God's plan and how she gave her life to it. She has spent the past two decades on missions in Bangladesh and India and speaks to us about the challenges they faced, the lessons she learned, and how she has prepared her children for missions later on in their own lives. Tune in to find out more about motherhood and being a missionary! Key Points From This Episode: An introduction to today’s guest: Kristin’s friend, missionary, and mother, Christy Allen. How Christy was inspired to answer the call to missions, and how she met her husband. Growing up in the Philippines: learning that there is nothing too small to pray about.  How moving back to the USA at the age of 14 impacted Christy. What a parent’s role is in pointing their kids to God.  The cultural challenges Christy faced when living in Bangladesh. How God turned Christy’s fear into love. Trusting God to keep you and your children safe.  Find out about Christy’s mission in India: The challenge of differentiating between culture and religion.   A day in the life of a missionary mother. How to train your kids now to be ready for missions when they are older.  Lessons Christy learned from being part of the famous Tebow family in the USA to an isolated missionary in South Asia.   How the everyday mom can help the missionary mom.  he Allens' plans moving forward: educating a new generation of missionaries.   Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Christy Allen Bob Tebow Evangelistic Association Family Church The Mom Village Email The Mom Village on Instagram Kirra Kelly Jismarie Ramos Kristin Scroggins

TMV: Episode 39 – Welcome to Holland: Mothering a Special Needs Child – Part 2 In this episode, we dive deeper into the life of Jeannie Hodges Peoples' very special family. Jeannie shares the new set of challenges that they were faced with as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, including having to take Dana, her special needs daughter, out of school far earlier than they were expecting to. Our conversation also covers the value that everyone derives from interactions with people who are different to themselves, how Jeannie and her husband handle unkindness towards Dana, and the importance of having a support network as a parent. There are so many ways that society can improve the way it supports its special needs communities, and Jeannie shares some of the ways that churches have responded to the needs of special needs families, and how others can play their part in enhancing inclusivity. Tune in today! Key Points From This Episode: A brief recap of Jeannie’s story. How the COVID-19 pandemic impacted Jeannie and her family’s life. One of the greatest blessings of Jeannie’s life. Jeannie shares examples of how people can support parents of children with special needs. Benefits of interacting with people who are different from ourselves. Valuable lessons we can learn from Dana, Jeannie’s special needs daughter. The open-book approach that Jeannie has adopted when it comes to Dana. How Jeannie and James handle it when people are unkind towards Dana. Why she recommends that parents with special needs children reach out to other parents. The major role that the church has played in Jeannie’s family’s journey with Dana. Results from a survey on the attitudes of churches to people with disabilities, and how these results correspond with the experiences of special needs families. Examples of church programs that respond to the needs of special needs families. How having a special needs child has blessed Jeannie’s life and strengthened her faith. Philippians 4:6-8 and why this is one of her favorite pieces of scripture. An unforgettable moment Jeannie had with Dana recently. Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Jeannie Hodges Peoples on Instagram Welcome to Holland by Emily Perl Kingsley Family Church The Mom Village Email The Mom Village on Instagram Kirra Kelly Jismarie Ramos Kristin Scroggins

TMV: Episode 38 – Welcome to Holland: Mothering a Special Needs Child – Part 1 Raising children always has its difficulties, and raising children with special needs comes with its own additional set of challenges. When Jeannie Hodges Peoples was pregnant with her second child, soon after finding out that she was going to be having a girl, she also discovered that her daughter was going to be born with Down's Syndrome. Later in life, Dana was also diagnosed with autism and epilepsy, and although Jeannie and her husband, James, do mourn the loss of the life they had imagined, they have found so much joy in their journey with Dana, and they feel honored that God chose them for this task. This episode will fill your heart with love and your eyes with tears, and for any parents who are on a similar journey, it is essential listening. Key Points From This Episode: The gratitude that Jeanie feels for her upbringing. Jeannie shares how she met her husband and what their life together has looked like. The moment that Jeannie found out that her unborn daughter had down syndrome. Support that Jeannie felt from God throughout her second pregnancy journey. Responses that Jeannie and James received when people found out they weren't going to abort. How Jeannie and James included their first daughter, Emily, in Dana’s life, and what Emily is doing now. The impact that having a special needs child has on the majority of marriages, and how Jeannie and James have avoided this fate. Jeannie talks about Dana’s personality, and what they have all learned from her. People who have helped Jeannie and James along their journey with Dana. Advice from Jeannie for any parents who receive a special needs diagnosis for their child. Jeannie reads out the poem, Welcome to Holland. How James has handled being the father of a special needs child. Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Jeannie Hodges Peoples on Instagram Welcome to Holland by Emily Perl Kingsley Family Church The Mom Village Email The Mom Village on Instagram Kirra Kelly Jismarie Ramos Kristin Scroggins