Shows
Blessings and MotherhoodBringing Up Girls Ever wondered why your approach to parenting daughters might need to be different than raising sons? Join Delise as she welcomes longtime homeschooling veteran Shelly Stockton who shares her wisdom from raising five daughters. After 25 years of homeschooling and now enjoying her role as a grandmother to six, Shelly offers invaluable insights on nurturing girls into godly women. Discover practical advice on encouraging emotional health, the importance of outdoor play, building empathy, and navigating the cultural challenges to biblical femininity. The Classical Learning Cohort offers online classes for parents to become more confident and competent C...2025-03-2742 min
Blessings and MotherhoodTrust the Process with Yating Haller Ever wonder how an immigrant from Taiwan with no homeschooling experience became a passionate advocate for classical education? In this heartfelt conversation, Delise speaks with Yating Haller, a book representative for Classical Conversations (CC) in Central Indiana and homeschool mom of seven years. Born in Taiwan and raised in Singapore, Yating shares her remarkable journey from fearful beginner to confident homeschool educator. The episode concludes with an important clarification about the phrase "trust the process" in classical education, emphasizing that it refers to trusting the natural learning progression (the trivium) rather than blindly following a curriculum. 2025-03-1328 min
Blessings and MotherhoodRaising Readers in a Digital Age with Lisa Bailey"Your children need you to love them. They need to know they are worthy of your time—that they are not a distraction from the important work you're doing, but they ARE the important work." Lisa Bailey shares this profound insight and more from her 21-year homeschooling journey. Discover her ingenious "Hot Chocolate Coffee Break" technique that transformed her parenting, gain perspective on raising children amidst today's digital distractions, and learn why relationship-building trumps educational perfection. Plus, stay for the exciting announcement that's bringing these two beloved podcasts together! https://everydayeducatorpodcast.com/ Di...2025-02-2751 min
Blessings and MotherhoodNavigating Big FeelingsLooking for insights on emotional intelligence and parenting? Join Delise for a fascinating conversation with Noble Gibbons, the "EQ Gangster"! From West Point graduate to emotional intelligence coach, Noble shares his personal journey from being emotionally unaware to helping others develop emotional literacy. Learn practical tools like the "Gorilla APE" method and discover how to create an emotionally safe environment for your children - all while applying classical education principles to emotional growth. https://www.eqgangster.com/ Mark your calendar for the 2025 National Commencement, May 16-17, 2025, in sunny Southern Pines, North Ca...2025-02-1355 min
Blessings and MotherhoodKeep it Simple! Essential Tips for Homeschooling with Jill Philbrick Can a simple stick in the sand really be all you need to teach your child? In this illuminating episode, Delise welcomes back special guest Jill Philbrick, a veteran homeschooling mom and long-time member of the Classical Conversations community. In this heartwarming episode, Jill shares her wisdom on finding God's presence in everyday moments through what she calls the "treasure hunt" of daily life. From examining rocks with curious children to discovering the beauty in simple teaching tools, Jill explores the powerful concept of "stick and sand" - a back-to-basics approach to education that reminds us that sometimes the...2025-01-3040 min
Blessings and MotherhoodSpeaking the Truth in Love with Lisa Whittle"Is it possible to over-emphasize Jesus to your kids?" Author Lisa Whittle tackles this provocative question and more in a candid conversation about faith-filled parenting. From launching adult children to teaching truth in love, Lisa shares hard-won wisdom from her motherhood journey while offering a sneak peek at her upcoming "Body and Soul" project that challenges cultural messages about our bodies through a biblical lens. https://www.lisawhittle.com/2025-01-1653 min
Blessings and MotherhoodFalling In Love with The Arts with Courtney SanfordLooking for ways to nurture your child's creativity without stifling their natural genius? Join host Delise as she interviews Courtney Sanford, founder of The Delightful Art Co. and author of "Marvelous to Behold." A former graphic designer turned homeschool mom, Courtney shares her journey of integrating art education with classical learning, discusses creative approaches to teaching art to different types of learners, and offers practical advice for parents wanting to cultivate creativity in their children. https://www.delightfulartco.com/ Mark your calendar for the 2025 National Commencement, May 16-17, 2025, in sunny Southern Pines...2025-01-0241 minBlessings and MotherhoodIs This Goodbye?Big changes are coming to Blessings and Motherhood! Join hosts Delise and Jenny as they reminisce about favorite past episodes - from homeschooling wisdom with Jennifer Courtney to navigating family rhythms with Michelle Oliver - and share important updates about the future of the podcast. Mark your calendar for the 2025 National Commencement, May 16-17, 2025, in sunny Southern Pines, North Carolina! This is a time for Classical Conversations families from around the nation to celebrate the hard work with fellow families on the homeschooling journey. Register at https://classicalconversationsfoundation.org/2024-12-1920 min
Blessings and MotherhoodDear Santa... Please Check 'Yes' or 'No' (Re-Air)In this special replay episode, co-hosts Delise and Ginny discuss different approaches to handling Santa Claus in Christian households. Using classical tools of learning, they explore personal experiences, faith perspectives, and how each family navigates the balance between holiday magic and biblical truth. The hosts share updates on how their approaches have evolved since the original episode aired last Christmas, including handling children's questions and maintaining wonder while staying true to their values. Mark your calendar for the 2025 National Commencement, May 16-17, 2025, in sunny Southern Pines, North Carolina! This is a time for Classical Conversations families from a...2024-12-0536 min
Blessings and MotherhoodHow To Be Thankful In A Difficult SeasonHow do you find gratitude when you're struggling? Ginny and Delise explore finding thankfulness in difficult seasons. Through meaningful Scripture passages from Nahum to James, they share personal experiences about waiting on God's timing, learning to be quick to listen but slow to speak, and the importance of community during challenging times. A perfect listen for anyone needing a reminder that the Lord remains good, even when circumstances feel anything but. Mark your calendar for the 2025 National Commencement, May 16-17, 2025, in sunny Southern Pines, North Carolina! This is a time for Classical Conversations fa...2024-11-2118 min
Blessings and MotherhoodWhat Every Mom Needs to Know with Amanda of Able MomsWhen a routine grocery store trip turned into a mother's worst nightmare, it launched a mission to protect children from trafficking. Join us as Amanda Florczykowski shares her harrowing close call with child traffickers and how it inspired her to found Able Moms International and Vigilant Families. Now pursuing a master's in neuroscience and trauma, Amanda offers practical safety tips for parents while emphasizing the power of faith-based community in preventing exploitation. https://www.amandaflorczykowski.com/ Celebrating together! Has your student or community done something noteworthy? We are collecting the...2024-11-0740 min
Blessings and MotherhoodShould Christians Celebrate Halloween?Should Christians celebrate Halloween? Is Halloween bad for Christians? This is a conversation moms have with their families and friends every year. So today, Ginny Tran and Delise Germond are using the 15 Tools of Classical Learning to discuss their views on this area of Christian liberty. Please note that the thoughts expressed here are not intended to represent Classical Conversations as a company, but rather their personal views and approaches at this time. Thanks for joining in the conversation as we navigate the beautiful challenges of parenting, looking to Jesus each step of the way.2024-10-2432 min
Blessings and MotherhoodThinking Logically with Kathy GibbensAre you equipping your kids to think clearly in a world filled with misinformation? Delise sits down with Kathy Gibbens, host of the Filter It Through a Brain Cell podcast. They dive into the importance of teaching children critical thinking and logical reasoning in today's world, discussing how to cultivate compassionate and empathetic thinkers. Plus, Kathy shares insights on AI and how it might impact the next generation's ability to discern truth. https://www.filteritthroughabraincell.com/ Discover the clarity you need to make the best decision for your family’s educational needs at one of...2024-10-1037 min
Blessings and MotherhoodRaising Independent LearnersNavigating the tension between encouraging independence and providing necessary support can be tricky for parents. Delise and Ginny explore the concept of independent learning in parenting. They discuss the balance between self-directed learning and the importance of community support, tackling common misconceptions and sharing practical tips. Copper Lodge Library offers a collection of stories presented in a beautiful series of books for the whole family to enjoy. Build a family culture by reading these stories together and have meaningful conversations about wisdom and virtue. Learn more about the Copper Lodge Library at https://copperlodgelibrary.c...2024-09-2632 min
Blessings and MotherhoodGetting Back To Our Roots with Jennifer CourtneyHave you ever wondered where compulsory schooling originated? In this episode, Jennifer Courtney walks us through her classical, Christian education timeline, explaining how we got where we are today. Delise, Ginny, and Jennifer discuss the history of schooling and how you can be the best educator for your children. “How Should We Then Live?” – Francis Schaeffer The Great Brain series – John D. Fitzgerald That Hideous Strength – C. S. Lewis The Abolition of Man – C. S. Lewis Pride and Prejudice is a beloved classic novel. The footnotes include word d...2024-09-1244 min
Blessings and MotherhoodWhy What and How We Eat Matters With Brandice LardnerHow should a Christian view food? Delise sits down with Brandice from Grace Filled Plate to discuss the powerful connection between faith and our relationship with food. Brandice shares her personal journey from struggling with disordered eating to finding true food freedom through her faith in God. Whether you’re a mom overwhelmed by meal prep or someone looking to deepen your spiritual life through daily habits, this conversation offers valuable insights and encouragement. https://gracefilledplate.com/ The Secret Garden is a beloved classic novel. The footnotes include word definitions, pronunciations, and...2024-08-2936 minBlessings and MotherhoodBack To School #momsnewyearWe’re going back to school! Delise and Ginny dive into the back-to-school season, discussing how moms can embrace the changing seasons of life. They explore the challenges and joys of new beginnings, from transitioning between school stages to managing unexpected life changes, all while keeping faith at the center. New to the Copper Lodge Library this year is English Epic Poetry, a collection with Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, and selections from Canterbury Tales and Paradise Lost. Build a family culture by reading these stories together and have meaningful conversations about wisdom a...2024-08-1528 min
Blessings and MotherhoodWill Homeschooling Ruin My Relationship With My Child?Join Delise and Ginny as they chat with Emily Philip, a veteran CC homeschooling mom. Emily shares her homeschooling journey with Classical Conversations, balancing life with four kids, and the joys of a supportive family. Gain practical tips, inspiration, and fun anecdotes from her story! Emily’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCX6a5Kz67acRFlSnTzKVH_g https://www.amazon.com/shop/emilythehomeschooler The Secret Garden is a beloved classic novel. The footnotes include word definitions, pronunciations, and historical context to support life-long learning, enabling students to deepen their...2024-08-0146 minBlessings and MotherhoodState of the YearJoin Delise and Ginny as they reflect on the year so far. They chat about the ups and downs of parenting, the goals they've set and achieved, and the surprises along the way. Grab a coffee, and let's dive into heartfelt conversations that will encourage you and provide thoughtful questions to ponder with friends or family. New to the Copper Lodge Library this year is English Epic Poetry, a collection with Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, and selections from Canterbury Tales and Paradise Lost. Build a family culture by reading these stories toget...2024-07-1846 minBlessings and MotherhoodMoms And Mental HealthGet your tissues and confetti ready for this heartfelt episode that celebrates the highs and lows of parenting! Delise and Ginny chat with Jill Philbrick, a seasoned homeschooling mom with over 15 years of experience. Jill shares her inspiring journey, the challenges she faced, and how her faith and community helped her persevere. New to the Copper Lodge Library this year is English Epic Poetry, a collection with Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, and selections from Canterbury Tales and Paradise Lost. Build a family culture by reading these stories together and have meaningful conver...2024-07-0448 minBlessings and MotherhoodSummertime ThoughtsWondering how to make the most of your summer with your kids? Join Delise and Ginny for a treasure trove of ideas! They explore fun summer activities, from gardening and fort-building to creative indoor play and educational projects. Tune in for tips on maintaining structure while embracing spontaneity and creating magical moments with your children. CC International Video: https://vimeo.com/936878688/f8ca80b57b?share=copy New to the Copper Lodge Library this year is English Epic Poetry, a collection with Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, and se...2024-06-2028 minBlessings and MotherhoodMama Bear ApologeticsCurious about how to navigate tough conversations with your kids? Join hosts Delise and Ginny as they chat with Lindsey Mendenwalt from Mama Bear Apologetics. Discover how to tackle challenging topics with your children through practical tips and insights on apologetics. At Classical Conversations®, we believe that parents can provide quality education for their children. Grow as the Lead Learner in your homeschool at classicalconversations.com/cohort.2024-06-0640 minBlessings and MotherhoodHome Organization Tips with Mama SystemsDiscover practical tips for organizing your home, embracing community, and understanding it’s okay to ask for help. Join us on “Blessings and Motherhood” as we chat with Laura Hernandez, founder of “Mama Systems.” Laura, a mom of ten, shares her journey of creating peace and intentionality in her busy household. https://www.mamasystems.net/ More information about Great Wolf Lodge and Exclusive CC Discount Code found in the CC Connected Learning Center > Member Benefits and Additional Resources Document. https://www.greatwolf.com/2024-05-2338 minBlessings and MotherhoodHow to Cultivate Lifelong Relationships with Your Children with Connie AlbersHow do you create a healthy relationship with your child? Delise and Ginny sit down with homeschooling mentor Connie Albers to discuss building strong connections with our children. Connie provides practical insights into navigating the challenges of parenting, especially when dealing with resistant children. Tune in for valuable advice on fostering healthy relationships and effective communication with your kids at every stage of their development. https://conniealbers.com/ Do you want to become a better everyday educator? Visit https://ccpracticum.com/ to find out when your local Practicum meets.2024-05-0942 minBlessings and MotherhoodYou Asked for It with Robert BortinsGet to know Classical Conversations’ CEO Robert Bortins! Delise, Ginny, and Robert dive into his personal life and what it was like being raised by the founder of Classical Conversations. They also answer questions that were sent in by listeners. https://refiningrhetoric.com/ Make April 26 a Family Day at theater! #UnsungHeroMovie opens everywhere beginning April 26. From the creators of Jesus Revolution comes Unsung Hero. Tickets on sale now. Visit https://tickets.unsunghero.movie/.2024-04-251h 10Blessings and MotherhoodSeeing God in MathDiscover the surprising connection between math and God! In this episode, Delise and Ginny chat with Kirsty Gilpin, lead mathematician for The Math Map curriculum, about seeing God through math. Kirsty shares personal stories and insightful examples, revealing how mathematical concepts offer profound insights into the nature of God. themathmap.com leighbortins.com You’re invited to our 2024 National Events Weekend in sunny Southern Pines, North Carolina! Register at https://classicalconversationsfoundation.org/.2024-04-1141 minBlessings and MotherhoodSpring FavoritesJoin Delise and Ginny as they share their current favorite activities and moments of joy. From embracing outdoor adventures to exploring the Psalms through devotional practices, they discuss various ways of learning and bonding as a family. Tune in for an uplifting discussion on finding joy in the simple moments of motherhood. Whether planning for an in-person trip or visiting from the comfort of your home, learn more about Classical Conversations at the Museum of the Bible by going to . http://museumofthebible.org/classical-conversations-at-museum-of-the-bible.2024-03-2843 minBlessings and MotherhoodPudewa Party, Anyone?!In this “Blessings and Motherhood” episode, Delise and Ginny discuss education and parenting with Andrew Pudewa, founder of the Institute for Excellence in Writing. They explore his insights on teaching writing, the importance of reading aloud to children, and practical tips for homeschooling parents. This enriching conversation offers encouragement and strategies for parents aiming to improve their children's reading and writing skills. Institute for Excellence in Writing Join other homeschool parents in your area at a 2024 Practicum event! https://ccpracticum.com/2024-03-1447 minBlessings and MotherhoodUnderstanding God's Heart for IsraelIn this episode of “Blessings and Motherhood,” Delise and Ginny continue their talk with Sarah, focusing on faith, parenting, and combating anti-Semitism. Sarah discusses educating children on Jewish culture and the importance of understanding the Bible in its proper cultural context. This part deepens the first episode’s discussion, emphasizing faith’s role in understanding and addressing social issues. If you’re enjoying listening to Blessings and Motherhood, you might also enjoy our other Classical Conversations® podcasts! You can find these shows on your favorite podcast streaming app of choice, or by clicking on the links below...2024-02-2921 minBlessings and MotherhoodThe Kindness of Sabbath, Cultivating Spiritual Memory with Messianic MomIn this episode of "Blessings and Motherhood," Sarah, a Jewish mom, shares her journey of integrating Jewish traditions with her Christian faith in parenting. She discusses the unique challenges and joys of Jewish motherhood, emphasizing the importance of embracing both sorrows and celebrations. Join us for a heartfelt conversation on faith, tradition, and the nuanced experiences of being a Jewish mother today. Resources: The Copper Lodge Library series from Classical Conversations® preserves history's best stories for future generations. View the library on ClassicalConversationsBooks.com. 2024-02-1527 minBlessings and MotherhoodHelping Children Manage their Emotions and More with Kamilah CarterDo your children struggle with understanding and managing emotions? In this “Blessings and Motherhood” episode, Kamilah Carter discusses her journey with homeschooling. She emphasizes the importance of community in education, setting appropriate boundaries, and nurturing individual relationships with each child. The conversation highlights the challenges and joys of parenting, advocating for a balance between recognizing children’s feelings and teaching them responsible emotional management. mamabearapologetics.com Love Thy Body - Nancy Pearcey | Amazon M is for Mama You’re invited to our 2024 National Events Weeke...2024-02-0148 minBlessings and MotherhoodFighting the Winter Blues - Know Your WhyIn this episode, Delise and Ginny discuss coping with the winter blues, offering practical tips like focusing on your parenting “why,” creating a peaceful home, and practicing gratitude. CC parents, tutors, and Directors—sign up for the Classical Learning Cohort to level up your skills in guiding and assessing your student’s learning at home and in community! Register today at ClassicalConversations.com/cohort. 2024-01-1830 minBlessings and MotherhoodBecoming the Guardian of Your Home with Erika KirkHappy New Year! In this episode, Delise and Ginny talk with Erika Kirk, founder of Proclaim Streetwear and Biblein365, host of the Midweek Rise Up podcast, and an all-new mom to discuss how to make the home a safe refuge for one’s family and how to pursue God’s standards for motherhood. Erika talks through how to become the guardian of your home and walks through practical ways to transform your home into a place of rest for the family. Also, she discusses the importance of viewing motherhood as a privilege rather than a responsibility, tips for fostering digi...2024-01-0447 minBlessings and MotherhoodThe Art of Celebrating Well with Laura KooistraIt’s cause for celebration! In this last episode of the year, Delise and Ginny chat with Laura Kooistra, a Classical Conversations® employee and homeschool mom of ten children, all about celebration. And although this episode airs during the Christmas season, the three discuss more than just holiday festivities! In true classical spirit, Laura begins the conversation with her definition of “celebration,” considering whether it’s more than just an expression of thankfulness and that, at its core, celebration is really about the goodness of God. Laura shares why it’s important to celebrate, God’s direction for how and what we o...2023-12-2141 minBlessings and MotherhoodDear Santa... Please Check 'Yes' or 'No'Should you tell your children that Santa Clause is real? In today's episode Ginny Tran and Delise Germond discuss their l family approaches to Christmas and Santa Claus. 2023-12-0730 minBlessings and MotherhoodPt. 2 Growing a Family Through Adoption with Vanessa RoyerIn part two of this conversation, Delise and Ginny sit down (literally, our first-ever in-person episode!) with the incredible Vanessa Royer to talk about adoption, music, homeschooling, and so much more. You’ll discover insights into all things adoption, from the meaning behind the word “adoption” and examples in Scripture to navigating the complicated legal process and a new, popular method called embryonic adoption. Vanessa also shares about her own wild adoption story, her biological children’s relationships with her adoptive children, her advice for parents pursuing or praying about adoption, how inviting new members into your family can complete...2023-11-1641 minBlessings and MotherhoodGrowing a Family Through Adoption with Vanessa Royer Part 1This month, Delise and Ginny sit down (literally, our first-ever in-person episode!) with the incredible Vanessa Royer to talk about adoption, music, homeschooling, and so much more. You’ll discover insights into all things adoption, from the meaning behind the word “adoption” and examples in Scripture to navigating the complicated legal process and a new, popular method called embryonic adoption. Vanessa also shares about her own wild adoption story, her biological children’s relationships with her adoptive children, her advice for parents pursuing or praying about adoption, how inviting new members into your family can completely expand your worldview and empa...2023-11-0229 minBlessings and MotherhoodMovies Your Children Should Watch with Sam SorboJoin Delise, Ginny, and Hollywood actress, writer, and podcaster Sam Sorbo on this episode of Blessings and Motherhood! Discover the backstory of Sam’s upcoming historical comedy, Miracle in East Texas, which tells the heartwarming true story about the biggest oil strike in the history of the United States, right at the dawn of the Great Depression. In this wide-ranging conversation, Sam shares about a homeschool curriculum she wrote to accompany the film, encouraging parents to learn from the story and not just be entertained. This curriculum (a free download, link in the show notes!) includes thought-provoking questions that pr...2023-10-2635 minBlessings and MotherhoodShould Christians Celebrate Halloween? [Bonus Episode]Should Christians celebrate Halloween? Is Halloween bad for Christians? This is a conversation moms have with their families and friends every year. So today, Ginny Tran and Delise Germond are using the 15 Tools of Classical Learning to discuss their views on this area of Christian liberty. Please note that the thoughts expressed here are not intended to represent Classical Conversations as a company, but rather their personal views and approaches at this time. Thanks for joining in the conversation as we navigate the beautiful challenges of parenting, looking to Jesus each step of the way.2023-10-1931 minBlessings and MotherhoodTrusting God in the Midst of Loss w/ Melissa Jean DimancheWelcome back to another episode! This month, Delise and Ginny chat with Melissa Dimanche, a musician and worship leader, pastor’s wife, and mother of two beautiful children. During their conversation, Melissa talks about the importance of embracing one another in community just for who we are—both the neat and the messy—and doing life together. With Haitian-American ancestry, Melissa explores what it means to welcome diversity in both community and home, describing how she and her husband bring their ethnic backgrounds into their family and pointing out the dangers when parents “ignore” their children’s cultural heritage. Finally, Mel...2023-10-0546 minBlessings and MotherhoodManaging the Mental Load with Chelly BarnardSay hello to Delise’s mom, Chelly Barnard! As a mother of four and homeschool parent of over twenty years, Chelly has a unique understanding of the mental load that mothers often bear. She brings a biblical perspective to those often-overwhelming feelings of responsibility, insecurity, and ever-shrinking time to get it all done. Chelly comes prepared with her best time management tips and the most helpful habits she has developed over the years as a mom that enable her to have a healthy relationship with her mental load. She discusses investing in a good planner, keeping analog lists of re...2023-09-0740 minBlessings and MotherhoodRaising Two Under Two and Looking Back Over the Years with Robin BarnesHappy August! In this delightful conversation, hosts Delise and Ginny chat with Robin Barnes, a homeschool mom of three (including twins!). Having experience raising children with a ten-year age gap, Robin shares all about her motherhood journey, considering the lessons she would go back and tell her younger self, the importance of giving children encouragement, and ways busy moms can find time alone in the Scriptures. Plus, Robin reflects on her homeschooling journey. With one of her children having trouble learning to read, she speaks to dealing with situations where one child struggles in a subject that another child...2023-08-0331 minBlessings and Motherhood3 Big Questions That Shape Your Future with Kristel AcevedoIs there anything to be hopeful about in the next generation of Christians? In this episode, Delise and Ginny sit down with Kristel Acevedo to talk about teen ministry and discipleship. Kristel is the Spiritual Formation Director at Transformation Church in South Carolina and co-author of the book 3 Big Questions That Shape Your Future. Her radiant passion for teen ministry and contagious hope for the future of the next generation of Christians shine through in this conversation as she offers insights and encouragement to all parents, not just those with teenage children in the home! Of course, one of...2023-07-0643 minBlessings and MotherhoodMother-Daughter Boundaries: Finding Balance and Connection Through the YearsFor any mom seeking advice on how to navigate a parent-adult child relationship or needing encouragement during a season of struggle, we hope you find comfort in this month’s conversation of Blessings and Motherhood! In this episode, mom-daughter combo Julie Melendez and Lauren Clickner hop on the show to talk about how they have nurtured their relationship as parent and child over thirty-some years. In this conversation packed with insights and encouragement from both guests, Julie begins by shining a light on an often unspoken truth about motherhood: that this is a journey that just keeps getting better ye...2023-06-0142 minBlessings and MotherhoodCreating Family Rhythms, How To Build A Strong Foundation with Michelle OliverHow can we lay a foundation in our homes for our children to stand upon and grow into mature adults who love to learn and love Jesus? In this episode, Michelle Oliver, the MA Program Academic Lead at Classical Conversations®, joins Delise and Ginny to talk about what building this strong foundation really looks like on a day-to-day basis. Michelle shares practical advice for moms balancing all the things, the importance of establishing “liturgies for the home,” how she guided her children in developing discernment, and the daily habits she practices to cultivate a healthy prayer life. Finally, she talks...2023-05-0456 minBlessings and MotherhoodSavoring Moments with Lisa BaileyIt’s the ultimate crossover episode . . . Delise and Ginny are joined by CC legend and host of the Everyday Educator podcast Lisa Bailey! Lisa recently became a grandmother, so in this conversation, she chats about parenting versus grandparenting. As a parent, she was often so focused on doing everything right that she missed out on opportunities to enjoy the small, simple moments of her children just growing up. But now, as she is blessed with the chance to relive those moments with her grandson, she can be more present and treasure every minute. Of course, with the much-anticipated release of...2023-04-0637 min
Refining Rhetoric with Robert BortinsRaising the Next Generation with Blessings and MotherhoodWhere has the fun gone in parenthood? In this special episode, Robert is joined by Delise Germond and Ginny Tran—hosts of the podcast Blessings and Motherhood from Classical Conversations®—to talk about the joys of parenting, the national birth rate decline, the behind-the-scenes of producing the Classical Conversations podcasts, and how to figure out major life decisions with your spouse. After their conversation, Robert provides insight into the recent bank failures and explains the Federal Reserve’s balance sheet. Then, Will concludes the episode by considering how Silicon Valley Bank’s collapse may impact the future of crypto. Sho...2023-04-0547 minBlessings and MotherhoodBeing the Neighborhood Mom with Crystal StoreyDo you know those moms, perhaps in your neighborhood growing up or where you live now, whose houses were the gathering places for all the local kids? Crystal Storey is one of those moms, and she certainly has great stories to tell! In this conversation, Crystal tells the incredible story of God calling her to become a “neighborhood mom,” stories of being a light to children in her area, and the miraculous story of God healing her daughter from life-threatening bacterial meningitis—a story that speaks to the power of lots and lots of prayer. In addition, Crystal gets practi...2023-03-0251 minBlessings and MotherhoodDating Your Spouse with Cristina Smith How can you continue to date your spouse into marriage? During this conversation, Delise and Ginny are joined by their good friend Cristina Smith to chat about dating in marriage. Together, they explore what Scripture says about dating, suggest ideas for dates, and recall their favorite dates over the years. In true classical fashion, the three take a step back, attempting to define a “date” and consider the purpose of dating in the first place. Remember—no marriage is perfect. So don’t expect anything less from this episode than an honest conversation about the reality of dating a...2023-02-0238 minBlessings and MotherhoodLearning Together with Leigh BortinsHappy New Year! In our first episode of 2023, join Delise and Ginny as they sit down with Leigh Bortins, the founder of Classical Conversations®. As a mother of four adult boys and a grandmother of three littles, Leigh has years of experience in building strong and intentional family relationships. Be inspired by Leigh's insights on parenting little ones versus adult children and her advice on fostering a love of learning in children at an early age. Of course, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows—Leigh also describes how she must constantly remind herself of who she is in Chris...2023-01-0534 minBlessings and MotherhoodNavigating a New Year with PurposeCan you believe it’s almost 2023? With all the craziness that comes with Thanksgiving and Christmas, it’s easy to forget to set aside time to reflect on the past year and prepare for the new one. In this conversation, Delise and Ginny talk about fresh starts. They discuss everything from looking back in order to look forward, choosing a word to keep top of mind throughout the new year, and fanning into flame your family's gifts. From Delise and Ginny and everyone at Classical Conversations®, thank you to our listeners of Blessings and Motherhood in 2022. It’s been...2022-12-2222 minBlessings and MotherhoodThe Career vs Caregiver Dilemma with April FosterMoms face a dilemma: stay home to care for the kids, work a job, or try to balance both at the same time. In this episode of Blessings and Motherhood, April Foster, the communications manager at Classical Conversations®, joins the show to chat about her experience navigating this tension between pursuing a career and being a caregiver to her children. With Delise working full-time and Ginny part-time, the three mothers dive into an important conversation about balancing parenting, homeschooling, and working, offering helpful insights and powerful stories along the way. Plus, April recalls how she went from never, ever, ev...2022-12-0839 minBlessings and MotherhoodClassical Motherhood - Teacher or Mom? with Heather ShirleyHomeschool moms can easily slip into compartmentalizing their lives into two roles—the teacher and the parent. However, learning and parenting aren’t boxes to be checked off but rather journeys to be lived intentionally and in harmony. In this conversation, Delise and Ginny sit down with Heather Shirley, a longtime homeschool mom and Classical Conversations leader, to explore how homeschool moms can live more integrated lives. They explore topics such as the biblical view and purpose of education, the meaning of being a ‘lead learner,’ and how parents can enhance the opportunity to reclaim their education. Plus, Heather shares s...2022-11-2443 minBlessings and MotherhoodLet's Talk About Traditions!With Thanksgiving and Christmas nearly upon us, Delise and Ginny have seized this opportunity to explore the idea of traditions, approaching the topic from a biblical worldview and sharing some of their family-favorite traditions. Don’t miss out on this week’s heartwarming episode and discover how to be more intentional in your own family’s traditions! Show notes: blessingsandmotherhood.com/lets-talk-about-traditions2022-11-1023 minBlessings and MotherhoodMindsets for Moms with Allie Beth StuckeyWhat does the Bible say about self-love? Is this idea, prevalent in our culture, helpful or harmful? In this episode, Delise and Ginny interview Christian author and podcaster Allie Beth Stuckey. Among other topics, they discuss Allie Beth’s new book You Are Not Enough (And That’s Ok), which debunks five cultural myths around self-love. Allie Beth also shares encouraging advice for moms wondering how to teach their children Scriptural truths. Show notes: blessingsandmotherhood.com/allie-beth-stuckey2022-10-2732 minBlessings and MotherhoodKnowing God's WordHow can we imprint God’s Word on our hearts and minds? On those of our children? In this episode, Ginny interviews Delise about how she developed a deep knowledge of the Bible and a talent for recalling memorized verses. From childhood activities to current habits, Delise discusses strategies both children and parents can use to memorize the Scriptures and to know God better. And together, Delise and Ginny explore practical ways parents can naturally and intentionally open the Bible to their children as they learn God's word. Show notes: blessingsandmotherhood.com/knowing-gods-word2022-10-1336 minBlessings and MotherhoodFinding Time For CommunityDo you struggle to find time for community? You’re not alone. After a discussion with listeners on social media about our first episode, Pursuing Community in Every Season, we discovered that by far the largest limiting factor for moms building relationships in community is not having the time to do so. In this conversation, Delise and Ginny talk about the reasons why moms can have difficulty finding spare time, the role guilt can play in regard to time management, and practical examples of how to seek out community in the midst of a crazy schedule. Show no...2022-09-2933 minBlessings and MotherhoodPt. 2 Pursuing God Through Motherhood with Tara FurmanEver wanted to sit at the feet of a mom with over twenty years of parenting under her belt? This episode is for you! In this fourth episode of Blessings and Motherhood, Delise and Ginny interview Tara Furman, the founder of Knowing God Ministries. This is a continued conversation from two weeks ago centering around the pursuit of God in all seasons of motherhood. Among other topics, Tara discusses how to know when to speak and when to be silent, how to tell your husband that you need time to process, and how to discover your family members’ love lan...2022-09-1522 minBlessings and MotherhoodPursuing God Through Motherhood with Tara Furman Pt 1Ever wanted to sit at the feet of a mom with over twenty years of parenting under her belt? This episode is for you! In this third episode of Blessings and Motherhood, Delise and Ginny interview Tara Furman, the founder of Knowing God Ministries. The conversation centers around the pursuit of God in all seasons of motherhood. Among other topics, Tara discusses her passion for helping women build personal relationships with God, what it looks like practically to prioritize faith, the purpose of prayer, and how to make the family home the best place in the world. ...2022-09-0137 min
Everyday EducatorYou Are One Smart Mamma!As you begin the new academic year, do you feel like one smart mama? Join Lisa Bailey this week as she picks the brains of two smart mamas: Delise Germond and Ginny Tran. Discover what smart mamas know, and where they look for support. 2022-08-3043 minEveryday EducatorYou Are One Smart Mamma!As you begin the new academic year, do you feel like one smart mama? Join Lisa Bailey this week as she picks the brains of two smart mamas: Delise Germond and Ginny Tran. Discover what smart mamas know, and where they look for support. 2022-08-3043 minBlessings and MotherhoodEncouraging Exploration with Olivia WalshIn this second episode of Blessings and Motherhood, Delise and Ginny speak with Olivia Walsh about how and why she encourages her children to explore their world. This conversation is packed with Scriptural encouragement from the stories of King Lemuel and Samson, an explanation of what it means to be a “lighthouse mom” and not a “helicopter mom,” and practical tips for letting your children be whom God called them to be and to explore on their own, even if that’s just in the family backyard. Show notes: blessingsandmotherhood.com/encouraging-exploration-with-olivia-walsh2022-08-1835 minBlessings and MotherhoodPursuing Community in Every SeasonIn this debut episode of Blessings and Motherhood, hosts Delise and Ginny talk about the biblical importance of community. They discuss the role of community in their own lives and how to be intentional (and set realistic expectations) about pursuing and building a trusted group of friends to do life alongside. Ginny also dives into how she and her husband first got started homeschooling and describes how, when her family moved to a new area, their Classical Conversations local community rallied together to offer help and support even before Ginny’s family had joined! Show notes: blessingsandmotherhood.co...2022-08-0430 minBlessings and MotherhoodBlessings And Motherhood TrailerJoin Ginny Tran and Delise Germond for a show that brings encouragement, and solidarity from a classical, Christian perspective; celebrating the blessings and challenges of motherhood in every season.2022-04-2013 min