Are you struggling with what it means to show your child grace while still maintaining your God-given authority? Is first-time obedience even a thing to expect from your child? Is there any way to find purpose in parenting? What do I do if I feel like I've hit ROCK BOTTOM, not just in parenting, but in LIFE?
These are the questions I've battled with, and am still battling with in this on-going journey of parenthood, but thankfully, there are answers straight from scripture that help guide these oh-so-heavy topics we as parents are always circling in the boxing ring.
I'm so thrilled to introduce Emily J. Waits! Emily is an encourager, motivator, truth teller, life-long learner, former homeschooler, now homeschool parent, mom of twins and two more, wife, social media content creator, course creator, voracious reader, podcast aficionado, and the host of her very own podcast Howdy Mama.
We chatted through these questions, laughed at our own parenting, and dove into the heavy heart topics that most steer clear from: the struggles of miscarriage and what to do when you only want to escape from this life.
This is an episode I'm so proud to present to you guys. Emily's wisdom, insight, and clarity, her ability to consume information and give it back in ways that are simple and applicable, blow me away. As a former homeschooler she can also give you the peace of mind that you are in fact doing enough, and that God has given all of us the room to be life-long learners.
As always my prayer is that your lives are sanctified, your homes are edified, and Jesus is glorified.
-your host, Kristin Malphrus
Book Recommendations:
-The Call of the Wild and Free by Ainsley Arment
-The Opt-Out Family: How to Give Your Kids What Technology Can't by Erin Loechner
-Until the Streetlights Come On by Ginny Yurich
-The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer
Emily J Waits
https://stan.store/emilyjwaits?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAadq5StIKed5SKC8007dizXit9Fqr262MYoZybBqopKz9aveVeatagKbnXaZ0A_aem_Pl7QrofgRQWTKzFsmVtAnw
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emilyjwaits/
Home Edify Podcast
https://www.instagram.com/homeedifypodcast/?hl=en
It's been a little more than two weeks since Charlie Kirk's assassination, and I can't think of anyone who embodied the three characteristics that make up this show more than he did: a boldness for sharing truth? courageous, check. A willingness to endure persecution for the sake of the gospel? Resilence, check. A life-long learner, well-read, well-versed? Check.
The goal of this podcast is pretty simple: to encourage parents to raise courageous, resilient, life-long learners. As a parent, I wanted to talk about the impact of his death, and what we can do as homeschool parents to guide our kids in his footsteps, to encourage and equip them to make a lasting impact on their own generation. So let's talk about it. What was Charlie reading? What was his inspiration? And how can we as parents strive to lead our children down paths of deep conviction.
I felt COMPELLED to record this episode. I pray that as you listen, your lives are sanctified, your homes are edified, and that Jesus, as always, is GLORIFIED.
Some notable verses mentioned:
" Though I am free and belong to no one, I have made myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible. 20 To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews. To those under the law I became like one under the law (though I myself am not under the law), so as to win those under the law. 21 To those not having the law I became like one not having the law (though I am not free from God’s law but am under Christ’s law), so as to win those not having the law. 22 To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some. 23 I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings."
1 Corinthians 9:22-23
For though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to the flesh. 4 For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds. 5 We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ, 6 being ready to punish every disobedience, when your obedience is complete.
2 Corinthians 10:3-6
15 but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, 16 having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame. 17 For it is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be God's will, than for doing evil.
1 Peter 3:15-17
Authors Mentioned:
-C.S. Lewis (The Abolition of Man)
-Edward Burke
-Russel Kirk
Find Me on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/homeedifypodcast/
This week's episode I chatted with Leah Nicklause, the content creator behind Living Bright Homeschool where she shares book recommendations, homeschooling adventures, and posts about biblical motherhood. It was SO fun, and helped me really grasp educational philosophy. As a mom of five boys, she brings incredible insight into the world of habits as described by Charlotte Mason.
I asked her all about what led her to the Charlotte Mason philosophy and what the real differences are between it and a Classical education. Discover the principles of Charlotte Mason's educational philosophy, which emphasizes respecting children as individuals and nurturing their natural curiosity through a rich "feast" of living ideas.
Leah shares her journey from public schooling to embracing a literature-based, life-giving approach to education, offering insights into how this philosophy shapes her family's daily life and learning.
Whether you're a new homeschool mom or exploring different methodologies, this episode provides valuable perspectives on creating a nurturing and holistic educational environment.
If you're a homeschool mom searching to find the foundation for your child's homeschool experience, this episode is for you.
And as always, may your lives be sanctified, your homes edified, and Jesus glorified as you listen to this week's episode.
-Kristin
Literature Recommendations:
Gentle and Lowly by Dane C. Ortlund, Ph. D
Living Bright Homeschool:
https://livingbrighthomeschool.com/
https://www.instagram.com/livingbrighthomeschool/?hl=en
If you’re a mom who wants to get your kids outside but struggles to make it happen, this episode is for you.
I sat down with Julianne Neinberg, The Outdoorsy Mom, who shares her journey from corporate life to motherhood while building an everyday outdoorsy lifestyle—starting in a tiny postage-stamp yard.
Julianne gives realistic tips for getting outside, encouraging independent outdoor play, and raising low-screen kids (without guilt or overwhelm).
If you’re longing to create simple outdoor rhythms for your family, you will leave this conversation inspired and equipped.
And as always, may your lives be sanctified, your homes edified, and Jesus glorified as you listen to this week's episode.
-Kristin
My Outdoorsy Mom
Blog: https://www.myoutdoorsymom.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/myoutdoorsymom/
Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/1LiMMftEIWo05oL7Tsso0n?si=ad8383f5d9e043a2
Literature Recommended
Mama Bear Apologetics by Hillary Morgan Ferrer
Balanced and Barefoot by Angela J. Hanscom
Home Edify Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homeedifypodcast/
I don't know about you, but THIS is the episode I've been waiting for. I asked Madi Schultz, homeschool mom of *almost* four, the podcaster behind Sunny and 65, as well as the creator behind Mack and Benj, a Christian, gospel-centered apparel company, to sit down with me for a conversation about what it looks like to radically follow Christ as a mom, wife, and member of the local church.
We tackled questions like:
-What role does the gospel have in motherhood? Is it external, internal or both?
-Are we only called to share the gospel with our kids?
-How radical does it get when chasing after Jesus?
-What does it look like raising a generation of life-long learners who are courageous and resilient and pursuing Jesus faithfully?
-How do we raise kids who share the gospel if we don't intentionally do that ourselves?
-What does balance look like? Is it even possible to achieve?
Being a mom with a heart for ministry is no easy task, and often some of us feel crippled with the weight of other people's expectations. Madi and I dove into Romans 14, and the freedom we have in Christ that passage offers. As you walk away from this episode, I hope and pray that you welcome this truth: that YOU have been created so DIFFERENTLY on purpose by the Creator of the universe who loves you so, so much. Embracing those differences He's intentionally made us with puts us in a place of contentment as we gaze upon the Savior.
And, as always, may your lives be sanctified, your homes edified, and Jesus glorified as you listen to this week's episode.
-Kristin Malphrus
Literature Recommended:
MADI SCHULTZ
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/madelinschultz_/?hl=en
website: https://www.madischultz.co/
Podcast: https://sunnyand65.buzzsprout.com/
On this week's episode, I'm finally answering the questions you guys left in my question box over on Instagram! There were three questions in particular that synced so well together, and allowed me to answer in a story that I'm praying encourages you as much as it did me telling it.
Those questions were;
-How did you go from being a feminist to a homeschool mom of three?
-How did you end up homeschooling?
-What values do you hope to impart while homeschooling your kids?
In this episode I share my personal journey into homeschooling while reflecting on past experiences and how they've made an impact on the values I hope to pass on to my children. I discuss learning as a form of worship, and how EVERY christian is called to be an engaged life-long learner. Since God is apart of every facet of our lives, pursuing HIM leads us into life-long learning and ultimately worship. This story is one full of God's fingerprints, how His faithfulness and pursuit of me brought me out of the feminist mind-frame I had (the one that said, "I'm NEVER having kids, and I'm NEVER getting married,) and brought me to the beautiful life I now have as the home school mom of three kiddos. My prayer is that you're encouraged to embrace whatever story God has given you, and that we all will feel free from expectations and instead embrace Jesus and the story He's already written out for us.
May your homes be edified and Jesus glorified.
-your host Kristin Malphrus
This week I got to chat with one of my favorite people on the internet: Ashley Taylor from ThisJoyFilledHome! Ashley is a Charlotte Mason homeschool mom who has learning abnormalities like Autism and ADHD and in this episode she shared her daily rhythms, how she manages to teach multiple learning styles, and what its like maintaining order in her home. All of her kids also have learning abnormalities and we discuss what it takes to raise life-long learners.
This Joy Filled House
https://www.instagram.com/thisjoyfilledhouse/
Literature Recommended
Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling
This episode is an act of surrendering- surrendering of my plans, my sorrow, my family, my testimony, what I thought would happen, what did happen, my rejoicing, my worship, my vulnerability. This story is one that is truly hard to share. Not because of the content, because God is good during rejoicing and sorrow, and I’d love to scream that from the rooftops. Not because of the topic, because I truly want more women to feel seen and loved in the midst of something as painful as miscarriage, but because I never for one moment would want anyone on social media to think I was using this situation for my own gain or glory. But here I am, attempting not to care what others think. My audience is One.
The truth is I hope you see God as the ultimate Giver of good gifts in the midst of whatever loss you’re facing as you listen to our story. A little over a week ago today our family lost a child in miscarriage. And while there are pieces of this story that are sad, this is more than anything, a story of TRIUMPH, because while we live in a broken world full of miscarriages, death, illness, heartaches, broken relationships, and more, there is a Kingdom coming where Jesus will wipe away every tear for good and defeat the darkness once and for all.
But for now, while brokenness still surrounds us as we await our coming King, there is a Savior who knows every pain imaginable, a Father who once watched his only Son die a painful death in our place, and that God who is three in one, has sent His Spirit to wrap His loving arms around us when this world seems too much to bear. He says, “come to me all who are weary, and I will give you rest.”
He is good. He is kind. He is faithful. For three weeks we as a family had the opportunity to celebrate life, and for that I will always be thankful. May His glory be known in sorrow, and may you know the depths of His love. Those who have no hope, weep. Instead we rejoice. Our hope is in Christ alone.
If you need prayer, reach out on my instagram at https://www.instagram.com/homeedifypodcast/
Would love to pray for you and all requests will, of course, be kept confidential.
Scripture to sustain during loss:
-Habakkuk 3:17-19
-2 Corinthians 12:9-10
-Nehemiah 8:10
Poem read from Kate Goes Creating:
-https://www.instagram.com/p/DKcIWhJR_1_/?img_index=1
Literature Recommended:
A Severe Mercy - a memoir by Sheldon Vanauken
Are you homeschooling your kids and wondering how to make ends meet? Are you drowning in debt as a two income family, but wanting to live a simpler life? Have you ever really wondered if its possible to stay home with your kids while living off of one income? For this week's episode I dove into all of these questions with Jillian Seeden, the content creator behind Sprouting Arrows.
There are so many challenges and rewards to living on less and managing a budget, and Jillian shared her own personal experiences, tips for managing debt, and the joy of finding simplicity in everyday life. Jillian doesn't just talk the talk, she walks the walk, living on an income of 50k as a family of 6, managing debt, and living financially free. Her entire instagram account, Sprouting Arrows is themed around cultivating contentment and helping moms find joy in frugal living. She's a homeschool mom, former Occupational Therapist, and the author of "One Income and Thriving." This episode is jam packed with how to live a life of stewardship.
Literature Recommended:
Mama Bear Apologetics by Hillary Morgan Ferrer
Instagram Accounts:
https://www.instagram.com/sproutingarrows/
https://www.instagram.com/homeedifypodcast/
Home Edify Record Keeping:
homeedify.com
In this episode I got the privilege to sit down with Sam Moulding, the Instagram content creator behind Stay Gritty. Stay Gritty is a mindset of perseverance, passion, and power. Stay Gritty is about refusing to quit despite all odds, digging deep and deciding to keep going, qualities we all hope to raise in the next generation.
Sam Moulding is a 5th generation Montana cowgirl, a business woman, barrel horse trainer, rodeo coach, homeschool advocate, and most importantly, a follower of Christ. Her mindset, grit, and outlook on life truly set her apart. She encourages people all over the world to persevere through whatever challenges they face in life.
Sam is a passionate advocate for homeschooling and personal development. She discussed with me the importance of education, character building, and faith in shaping resilient kiddos. Our conversation explored the significance of community, mentorship, and the role of family in nurturing the next generation. Sam emphasized with me the need for personal growth, lifelong learning, and the impact of investing in children's lives, regardless of your title or role.
I was so inspired by this conversation and I know you will be too.
-Kristin Malphrus (host of the Home Edify Podcast)
Sam Moulding | Stay Gritty
-https://www.instagram.com/stay_gritty_/
-https://sammoulding.com
Recommended Literature:
Goliath Must Fall by Louie Giglio
Home Edify Podcast;
https://www.instagram.com/homeedifypodcast/
podcast.homeedify.com
Home Edify Record Keeping App
-https://www.homeedify.com/
Welcome to the first episode of SEASON 2!! Yayy!! After a REST of a few months, we're welcoming Eryn Lynum for this first episode back, and we're talking about... REST! Eryn Lynum is a master naturalist, author, national speaker, homeschool mom, and the host of the Nat Theo Podcast for kids: Nature Lessons Rooted in the Bible. We discussed her latest book, The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation teach Us About Sabbath Living. We talked about the creation of her podcast, her journey with Addison's disease, and how nature can teach us about God's design for rest. Eryn shared practical tips for parents to implement Sabbath practices in family life, especially for homeschool families, and she emphasized the significance of rest in both scripture and everyday life. In this conversation, we talked about the need for intentionality in creating a pace of life that allows for rest and reflection, which ultimately leads to a deeper connection with God and our families. This is an episode you don't want to miss!
Eryn Lynum:
https://erynlynum.com/
https://www.instagram.com/erynlynumauthor/?hl=en
Recommended Literature:
Sand County Almanac by: Aldo Leopold
Home Edify:
homeedify .com
podcast.homeedify.com
www.instagram.com/homeedifypodcast
In this GRAND FINALE episode of SEASON ONE Kristin Malphrus interviews Jessica Human from We Chose Adventure. She shares her journey from traditional schooling to homeschooling her three boys, emphasizing the importance of fostering a love for learning and the benefits of experiential education through travel. She discusses the challenges and rewards of homeschooling, including the flexibility it offers in creating personalized learning experiences. Jessica also highlights the significance of setting goals, the role of outdoor adventures in education, and the importance of adapting to state requirements for homeschooling. The conversation concludes with insights on the impact of literature on personal growth and the joy of learning.
Jessica Human with We Chose Adventures
-https://www.wechoseadventures.com/
-https://www.instagram.com/wechoseadventures/
-https://www.instagram.com/shechoseadventures/
-https://www.instagram.com/mid.atlantic.mama/
Literature Recommended:
-Anne of Greene Gables by Lucy Maude Montgomery
Home Edify Podcast
-https://www.instagram.com/homeedifypodcast/
Home Edify App
-https://www.homeedify.com/
In this conversation, Leigh Nguyen shares her journey into homeschooling, discussing the challenges and joys of educating her children at home. She emphasizes the importance of fostering a love of learning, adapting to each child's unique needs, and building strong family relationships. Leigh also addresses the role of technology in education, character building, and the empowerment of other homeschooling parents. Her insights provide valuable guidance for those considering or currently navigating the homeschooling journey.
Little By Little Homeschool
https://littlebylittlehomeschool.com/
https://www.instagram.com/littlebylittlehomeschool/
Literature Recommended:
-The Resolution for Women by Alex Kendrick, Priscilla Shirer, and Stephen Kendrick
In episode 10, Lyndsey Mimnagh, the owner and creator behind Treehouse Schoolhouse, shares her journey into homeschooling, a journey heavily influenced by her background in education and missionary work. She discusses the importance of a family-centered education approach, emphasizing the need for a daily rhythm that accommodates both learning and character building. Lyndsey highlights the significance of integrating faith into education and the practical life skills that can be taught through everyday activities. She also addresses the challenges of transitioning to middle school education and the importance of fostering a love for learning in children.
With the code HOMEEDIFY15 you can get 15% off any order through Treehouse Schoolhouse at https://treehouseschoolhouse.com/.
Literature Recommended:
-Educating the Whole Hearted Child by Clay and Sally Clarkson
Lyndsey Mimnagh & Treehouse Schoolhouse Media:
Website: treehouseschoolhouse.com
Instagram: @treehouse_schoolhouse
Facebook: /treehouse.schoolhouse
YouTube: /TreehouseSchoolhouse
Pinterest: /TSMotherhoodHomeschool
Home Edify App:
homeedify.com
In this conversation, Kristin Malphrus sits down with Kristen Young to discuss their experiences with homeschooling, the challenges and joys it brings, and the importance of instilling faith and theology in their children. They explore the daily rhythms of homeschooling, the balance of extracurricular activities, and the lessons learned through the process. The discussion also touches on the impact of recent political climates on faith and the concept of deconstruction in Christianity, emphasizing the need for resilience and critical thinking in the next generation.
Recommended Literature:
- Hard is Not the Same Thing as Bad by Abbie Halberstadt
Kristen Nicole Young
-https://www.instagram.com/kristennicoleyoung/?hl=en
Home Edify Podcast
-https://www.instagram.com/homeedifypodcast/
Home Edify App
homeedify.com
In episode 8 I sat down with blacksmith and 3x Canadian Grand Master Fiddler, Ethan Harty, owner of Harty Locomotive Works. Ethan shares his journey into blacksmithing, starting from his childhood fascination with antique machines to becoming a professional blacksmith. He discusses the importance of mentorship, the role of faith in his work, and the Christian virtues of industriousness and usefulness. Ethan emphasizes the need for resilience and grit in both craft and parenting, advocating for a balanced approach to safety and risk. He concludes with insights on raising children to be brave and self-motivated, while glorifying God in their endeavors.
How to Find Ethan Harty:
-https://www.youtube.com/shorts/NMMtQ90RH8c
-https://www.youtube.com/@EthanHarty
-https://www.ethanhartyblacksmith.com/
Literature Recommended:
-Family Shepherds by Voddie Bauchaum
https://www.instagram.com/homeedifypodcast/Website/
Themes of this podcast:
blacksmithing, mentorship, Christian values, industriousness, parenting, resilience, craftsmanship, faith, safety, grit
In this episode of the Home Edify Podcast, Kristin Malphrus interviews Olivia Wilcox, the creator behind The Not So Angry Mom. They discuss the journey of overcoming anger in motherhood, the importance of seeking professional help, and the power of sharing personal testimonies. They dive into the grief Olivia had when the Lord directed their family to choose a private school option. Olivia shares her experiences as a pastor's wife, the challenges of parenting, and the significance of setting boundaries, especially regarding screen time. The conversation emphasizes the need for community support, proactive parenting strategies, and the importance of raising resilient, lifelong learners.
Literature Mentioned/Recommended:
"This Momentary Marriage: A Parable of Permanence" by John Piper
"Evidence Not Seen: A Woman's Miraculous Faith in the Jungles of World War II."
The Not So Angry Mom
-https://www.instagram.com/thenotsoangrymom/
Home Edify Podcast
-https://www.instagram.com/homeedifypodcast/
-podcast.homeedify.com
In episode 6 of Home Edify, Kristin Malphrus and Katie Klein discuss the journey of homeschooling, exploring methodologies, daily routines, and the importance of character development. They delve into the challenges of managing homeschooling alongside health issues, the role of fathers, and the significance of community. Katie shares insights on creating a curriculum through her company, Little House Learning Company, and emphasizes the value of lifelong learning for both children and parents. The conversation also touches on dealing with criticism, preparing for higher education, and the future of homeschooling in society.
Recommended Literature:
-"A Severe Mercy: a Story of Faith, Tragedy, and Triumph" by Sheldon Vanauken
-"For the Children's Sake: Foundations of Education for Home" by Susan Schaeffer Macaulay
-"For the Family's Sake: The Value of Home in Everyone's Life" by Susan Schaeffer Macaulay
-"Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott
Little House Learning Company
-https://littlehouselearningco.com/
-https://www.instagram.com/littlehouselearningco/?hl=en
In this episode of the Home Edify Podcast, Kristin Malphrus engages in a heartfelt conversation with Kristen Folsom about her journey from fostering to adoption. They discuss the challenges and emotional roller coasters that come with fostering, the impact on biological children, and the personal growth that arises from these experiences. The conversation also touches on the importance of the gospel in parenting, the implications of vaccination policies for foster families, and the vision behind their community coffee shop that aims to foster connection and support. Throughout the episode, the importance of resilience, faith, and community support is emphasized, providing listeners with encouragement and insight into the fostering journey.
Literature Recommended:
-A Momentary Marriage: A Parable of Permanency by John Piper
-Kill Sin by the Spirit https://www.desiringgod.org/messages/kill-sin-by-the-spirit
The Proper Coffee Shop
https://properministries.com/
This week I had the JOY of interviewing Mackenzie Wilcox, momma of 4 almost 5 kiddos this side of heaven. She shared about her grief during miscarriage and how homeschooling continued in the midst of their family's tragedy, how homeschooling allowed them to grieve as well as grow together. She also shared their family's upcoming ADOPTION of a sweet baby boy due in MARCH, the excitement her kids are feeling as the time comes for them to welcome in a new family member, and the process has grown their character and resilience. This is an episode that you do not want to miss!
How to Give Towards the Wilcox Adoption:
-https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-the-wilcox-familys-adoption-journey
- https://twigsandsage.wixsite.com/adoption?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaYI9XV8UKgvlGQ7lQkNosCtE983cyABUuVb12pPxH2d53vfrj9TwsyaKi0_aem_5TGw4X0r5iQUagyl37l3tA
Curriculum used by Mackenzie:
https://myfathersworld.zinrelo.com/ref/MAC9CU8B
Recommended Literature:
-Sally Clarkson
-The Call of the Wild and Free : Reclaiming the Wonder in Your Child's Education, A New Way to Homeschool by Ainsley Arment
Instagram:
- https://www.instagram.com/twigsandsageadoption/
-https://www.instagram.com/twigsandsage/