You weren't meant to do this alone. For months, I've been working on something behind the scenes that I'm finally ready to share with you. After publishing my first book and feeling stuck about what's next, God led me on an unexpected journey into mentorship and it changed everything. In this episode, I'm sharing: How I found my mentor (Dr. Jamie Morgan) through a divine appointment Why I went through Trail Blazers mentoring school and became a certified mentor The struggles I faced in the book writing world and why mentorship matters What my new mentorship program looks like and who it's for A powerful story about two women in their 70s who prayed me through a health crisis This mentorship is for you if: You know there's more but aren't sure how to get there You feel overwhelmed or easily flustered by life's demands You're a harsh critic of yourself You struggle to hear God's voice clearly You love motherhood but feel called to something more You're unsure of your gifts, purpose, or how God wants to use you this season ✨ Learn more or book your free 20-minute discovery call → https://laurengaines.com/mentorship Whether you want to write a book, start a podcast, launch an online ministry, draw closer to God, or simply talk through the hard parts of motherhood, I'd love to walk alongside you. LINKS: 🌐 Mentorship Info: laurengaines.com/mentorship 📱 Connect on Instagram: [@inspired.motherhood] 📖 My book "Unshakable Kids": [https://amzn.to/40GgrXg]]

Have you ever built something up in your mind, only to be completely let down when reality didn’t match your expectations? In this episode, I’m sharing the story of my 30th birthday (how I spent the day in tears) and what turning 40 taught me about peace, perspective, and letting go of the pressure to have it all together. We’ll talk about how unmet expectations can steal our joy, why it’s okay to ask for what we need, and how surrendering our plans to God leads to deeper contentment and freedom. You’ll also learn a simple reflection exercise that can help you see where your values and priorities truly lie. If you’ve ever felt disappointed, unseen, or weary from trying to make life look a certain way, this episode will remind you that God is faithful in every season and He’s shaping something beautiful, even when things don’t go as planned. 🥳 Post with 40 Reflections from 40!: https://www.instagram.com/p/DP1JevVEXv5/?img_index=1 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/inspired.motherhood/Website → https://laurengaines.com

Are you exhausted from trying so hard to “do it all” and feeling like nothing is working? In this episode, I’m sharing why our best efforts alone aren’t enough and how leaning on God’s wisdom and guidance can completely change the outcome. Using the story of David and the Ark of the Covenant, we’ll explore why good intentions aren’t enough, how seeking God first leads to favor and blessing, and practical ways to ask Him for wisdom in parenting, ministry, and life. If you’ve been frustrated, exhausted, or questioning why your efforts aren’t producing fruit, this episode is for YOU. Scriptures referenced: 1 Chronicles 13 | 1 Chronicles 15 | 1 Samuel 6 | Proverbs 3:5-6 | Philippians 4:8 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/inspired.motherhood/Website → https://laurengaines.com

Ever been told to "give yourself grace" but had no idea what that actually means in real life? You're not alone, and I finally figured it out. In this honest episode, I share a breakthrough moment I had during a chaotic Monday morning. Instead of losing my cool and lecturing my kids, I did this instead... Discover what grace really looks like and how it's the key to navigating hard seasons without shame, frustration, or losing your temper. You'll learn: The two different inner dialogues that completely change your response Why acknowledging "this is hard" is actually the breakthrough you need What grace is NOT (toxic positivity, lowering standards, or making excuses) The 3 practical steps to give yourself grace in difficult moments How to invite God's strength when you feel powerless What 2 Corinthians 12:9 really means for overwhelmed moms If you're exhausted, feeling out of control, or constantly battling frustration with your kids, this episode will transform how you respond to the hard moments. Grace isn't about giving up, it's about acknowledging reality and receiving God's help. Related episode: "Holding Every Thought Captive." Practical steps for controlling your thought life Connect with Lauren: Get Her Book Unshakable Kids: https://amzn.to/40GgrXg Website: https://laurengaines.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspired.motherhood/

For years, I walked around with tightness in my chest, struggled to sleep, and felt weighed down by anxiety and heaviness. I went to church, read my Bible, and loved Jesus, but something was still missing. Then everything changed the day I received the baptism of the Holy Spirit. In this episode, I'm sharing my personal Holy Spirit testimony and how this gift completely transformed my life. We'll dive into Scripture together, explore what the Bible says about the Holy Spirit's power, and I'll walk you through exactly how you can receive this fullness for yourself. If you've been feeling like there's more to your faith, more peace, more power, more boldness, you're right. And the Holy Spirit is the answer. What we cover in this episode: My personal Holy Spirit encounter story (including a detail about my wedding day I've never shared publicly!) The biblical foundation for the baptism of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2, Acts 19) How this gift changed me from anxious and heavy to peaceful and free Why every believer can receive this power today Practical steps on how to receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit The two ways you can use the gift of tongues This isn't just for a select few or only for the early church, this promise is for YOU, your children, and all who have been called by God. If you're ready to experience the fullness of God and walk in the power He has for you, this episode is for you. Let's connect: 📧 Email me your questions or testimony lauren@inspired-motherhood.com📱 Follow on Instagram: @inspired.motherhood 🌐 Visit my websites: laurengaines.com and inspired-motherhood.com Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it!

Feeling like something is missing in your faith? You're not alone, and there's an answer you might not have heard about in church. In this powerful episode, I explore who the Holy Spirit really is and why Jesus said it was better for Him to leave so we could receive this incredible gift. Discover how the Holy Spirit can transform your daily walk from feeling alone and powerless to having a constant companion, counselor, and friend who never leaves your side. You'll learn: The biblical truth about the Holy Spirit as your "Paraclete" (comforter) Why there's a difference between having the Holy Spirit and being baptized in the Holy Spirit How to pray with power and boldness The truth about speaking in tongues from Scripture Why this isn't just for church leaders - it's for every believer If you've been struggling with loneliness, feeling powerless in your faith, or wondering where God is in your daily struggles, this episode will open your eyes to the relationship you've been missing. Next episode: I share my personal Holy Spirit testimony and how you can pray for this as a believer. Connect with Lauren:   •Get Her Book Unshakable Kids: https://amzn.to/40GgrXg •Website: https://laurengaines.com •Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspired.motherhood/   📖 Want to dive deeper? All the scriptures mentioned are below. John 14:15-26 | 1 John 2:1 | Acts 1:4-8 | Romans 8:11 | John 16:7-8 | Titus 3:5 | Luke 11:13 | Acts 4:31 | Jude 1:20 | Galatians 5:22-23 | Joel 2:28 | Acts 2:17-18

Ever feel like you're drowning in every area of life? You're not alone, mama. If you're that mom who wakes up exhausted even after 8 hours of sleep, loses her temper too quickly, and hears that familiar whisper of "you're not enough" - this episode is for you. In this episode, you'll discover: Why your tears are actually a language to God Three practical pillars to help you survive (and thrive) in overwhelming seasons How to set boundaries without guilt  Why being spontaneous might save your sanity Biblical truth for when God feels distant and faith feels impossible This isn't about me telling you to become a perfect mom. It's about finding intimacy with Jesus when you're too tired to think straight and learning that seasons of wilderness might actually be seasons of preparation. "Refuse to give up. Refuse to quit. You are not a quitter - you're going to persevere with God by your side." Connect with me: Subscribe for the upcoming Holy Spirit series Share this episode with a mom who needs to hear it Leave a review if this encouraged you Remember: You are doing holy work, mama. Your children are blessed to have you.

Does everything feel like "the end of the world" sometimes? You're not alone. I used to let my senses dictate my emotional state. One mess, one loud noise, one stressful moment could send me spiraling into overwhelm. In this episode, I share the science behind why our brains can trigger fear in under 100 milliseconds and how our senses can actually sabotage our peace. But more importantly, I'll show you how to shift from trusting what you see, hear, and feel to trusting God's truth instead. Through the story of David and Goliath, we'll explore how David refused to let his natural senses dominate his emotions and actions. While everyone else saw an unbeatable giant, David chose to focus on God's faithfulness. If you're tired of living in the "emergency lane" and ready to experience the peace God promises, this episode will help you stop trusting your senses and start trusting His Word. Perfect for Christian moms who struggle with anxiety, overwhelm, or that tendency to catastrophize everyday situations. RESOURCES MENTIONED: 📖 Back to School Prayer Guide: Download Here [https://inspiredmotherhood.myflodesk.com/backtoschool]🎧 John Hagee Healing Scriptures: [https://youtu.be/0gQILVCBH8k?si=o9lq7ujn9nwc5oX5] 

What if your prayers could shape your child’s future and protect them this school year? I used to avoid praying out loud because I felt self-conscious and unqualified. But over the years, I’ve discovered that prayer is one of the most powerful tools God has given us, especially as moms. In this episode, I share: Why prayer is our most powerful weapon as moms How to pray scripture over your kids (even if you feel unsure how) Why persistent prayer is an act of faith, not weakness The importance of praying protection, wisdom, and joy over your children Whether you’re sending your little one to kindergarten or your teen off to high school, this episode will encourage and equip you to cover them in prayer with confidence. 📖 Resources Mentioned:👉 Download my FREE Back-to-School Prayer Guide: https://inspiredmotherhood.myflodesk.com/backtoschool👉 Get my book Unshakable Kids: https://amzn.to/40GgrXg ✨ Connect with Inspired Motherhood: https://inspired-motherhood.com💌 Join my email list for weekly encouragement: https://inspiredmotherhood.myflodesk... #FullyImmersed #ChristianParenting #PrayerForKids

"I did it because I knew it would make you happy." When my 6-year-old said this after a dentist visit, it sparked a deep realization about performance-based parenting that's silently destroying kids today. Are you accidentally teaching your children that love must be earned through achievements, wins, and perfect behavior? In this deeply personal episode, I talk about the hidden danger of "performance parenting" and shares my own confessions about falling into this trap. In this episode you'll discover: Why it's biblical for kids to want to please parents  The research behind helicopter, lawnmower, and intrusive parenting How sports culture drives performance-based love in Christian homes My honest mistakes in homeschooling and competitive gymnastics Practical ways to love unconditionally while maintaining expectations How to safely push kids out of their comfort zone Whether you're navigating kids' sports, homeschooling decisions, or simply trying to raise confident children who know they're loved no matter what, this episode offers both biblical wisdom and real-world application. If you've ever caught yourself being prouder of what your kids DO than who they ARE, this wake-up call is for you. Connect with Lauren: Get "Unshakable Kids" book: https://amzn.to/40GgrXg Website: https://inspired-motherhood.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspired.motherhood/

We spend 20% of our day on our phones but not 20% in God's word. We carefully filter what our kids consume while mindlessly scrolling content that leaves us anxious, drained, and spiritually clouded. In this honest episode, I share why I deleted my entire music library in grad school and how that radical decision opened my eyes to what I was really feeding my spirit. You'll discover: The Philippians 4:8 filter that will transform your media choices Why "I'm an adult" isn't justification for consuming harmful content How to have age-appropriate conversations with kids about media influence Practical ways to protect your home's spiritual atmosphere The uncomfortable truth about pouring from an empty cup This isn't about becoming legalistic or throwing your TV out the window. It's about creating space for God to move in your life and home.  Let me know: What's one thing you'll take inventory of this week?  Resources mentioned in this episode: 🎥 Plugged In (Focus on the Family): https://www.pluggedin.com 📖 Good Pictures, Bad Pictures Book: https://amzn.to/45z9WZf 📖 My book Unshakable Kids: https://amzn.to/40GgrXg Some links here are affiliate links. If you purchase them, I earn a small commission. Thank you very much for your support! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If this episode resonated with you, please leave a 5-star review and share it with a friend who needs this encouragement. Your support helps other moms find the peace and purpose God has for them.

What does it actually mean to "take every thought captive"? In this powerful episode, I give you step-by-step instructions to get those thoughts under control and access the perfect peace God promises. In This Episode: The shocking research on how thoughts impact your physical and mental health Why your brain can change (you're not stuck in old patterns) The 3-step biblical process for capturing runaway thoughts How to use "It is written" to combat anxiety and fear Key Scriptures Explored: 2 Corinthians 10:5 • Isaiah 26:3 • Romans 12:2 • 2 Corinthians 5:17 Whether you're dealing with worry, fear, or negative thought spirals, this episode will equip you with biblical tools to fight for your sound mind. Peace is your birthright as a child of God - let me show you how to walk in it. 💝 Love this episode? Subscribe now and share it with someone who needs to hear this truth today. ____________________________ 💌 Join my email list for weekly encouragement: Sign up Here

Are you tired of living with that constant tightness in your chest? Feeling like worry and anxiety are just "normal" parts of life?This episode delivers a revolutionary truth that will transform how you see yourself: Peace isn't something you must earn through perfect performance or spiritual achievement, it's already yours by divine inheritance. Whether you're drowning in life's chaos or trapped in endless cycles of anxious thoughts, this episode will remind you of who you are, what's been given to you, and how to live from a place of spiritual authority and rest. 🎯 What You'll Discover: Why "peace is my birthright" is more than a catchy phrase How the enemy weaponizes comparison and perfectionism to hijack your peace The liberating difference between exhausting striving & empowering surrender The profound meaning of Jesus' promise: "My peace I give you"—and why it changes everything 📱 Free Resource: Download the companion devotional "Peace Is My Birthright" on YouVersion:[https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/56657-peace-is-my-birthright]   If you're ready to break free from anxiety's prison and step boldly into your God-given identity of peace, this episode will be your breakthrough moment.   💝 Love this episode? Subscribe now and share it with someone who desperately needs to hear this truth today.   Connect with me:📲 Instagram: @inspired.motherhood🌐 Website: laurengaines.com📖 Read my book Unshakable Kids

Are you losing your peace throughout the day? You start your morning with an amazing quiet time, feeling God's presence and reading His Word, but by afternoon, you're snapping at your kids, feeling overwhelmed, and longing for a break from it all. Does this sound familiar? In this episode, I share my personal journey of discovering I was "addicted to stress" and reveal why busyness has become one of the biggest barriers to experiencing God's peace in our daily lives. What you'll discover: The shocking statistics about busyness in America (including why 75% of parents are too busy to read bedtime stories!) The difference between living a "busy" life vs. a "full" life Why Jesus was pleased with you before you accomplished anything Practical steps to break free from the busyness trap How to align your schedule with God's will 📖 Resources mentioned in this episode: Created to Work book recommendation: https://amzn.to/4lLNrFUGoliath Must Fall book recommendation: https://amzn.to/4lSj68E Some links here are affiliate links. If you purchase them, I earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). Thank you for supporting this podcast and the work I do! If this episode resonates with you, please share it with a friend who might need these words today. Let's choose to live with intention rather than just staying busy! ____________________________ 💌 Join my email list for weekly encouragement: Sign up Here  

Are you living in shallow water faith, or are you ready to dive deep? In this inaugural episode of Fully Immersed, I share my journey from worldly immersion to spiritual depth, and why God is calling us beyond ankle-deep Christianity.Using the powerful metaphor from Ezekiel 47, we'll explore what it means to progress from shallow water faith, where we occasionally read God's word, to deep water faith, where we stand unshakable on His promises like Abraham did.I get vulnerable about my college years, a heartbreaking breakup that led me back to church, and the fears that keep us from full surrender: fear of losing control, fear of being "weird" for Jesus, busy schedules, and even fear of silence. If you're tired of surface-level faith and ready to be fully immersed in God's healing and love, this episode is for you. ____________________________   💌 Join my email list for weekly encouragement: Sign up Here