Shows
The WHoly Mom ChatChrista Vickers-Smith's Healing JourneyChrista Vickers-Smith joins me on this first episode of the year on The WHoly Mom Chat Podcast with her blissful journey of #healing after seasons of great suffering. A native Richmonder, Christa has experienced firsthand the power of prayer, of the body of Christ, bearing each other's burdens and seeing every joint supply. Her passion has become pursuing wholeness in spirit, soul, and body, and walking alongside others in their journeys.Christa was born and raised in a God-fearing #Christian home, knowing Jesus and His Word, but she experienced Him deeply when she was desperately longing for...
2023-01-1259 min
All things Career with Growing PerspectivesDiscussion with Jennifer James, Board Certified Life Coach and Owner of wHoly MomListen to hear Jennifer's wonderful career journey filled with successful transitions. She shares a glimpse into her multicultural background ranging from experiences in Pakistan, Dubai, Toronto and currently in the US. Jennifer shares how she transitioned across the following areas: Business, IT, Counseling and Coaching. She experienced a personal reset that led to the path she is on today as a Coach!
Enjoy hearing about what's next for her in this phase of her career!! She reminds us of how great it is when you are living the life you want to live! She...
2022-08-0518 min
The WHoly Mom ChatIs it a Migraine or a Headache? with Dr. Rani BanikThis week on the WHoly Mom Chat, Jennifer interviews Dr. Rani on migraines and headache. Dr. Rani shares the story of her own struggles with chronic migraines and her path to a whole health approach to life. She became a certified functional health practitioner after becoming a board certified ophthalmologist and neuro-opthamologist. With her broad experience she helps us process what our body is telling us when we have migraines and headaches. Rani shares her passion to educate people and practitioners about the benefits of holistic health. As you listen, if you think you are having symptoms of mi...
2022-05-0134 min
The WHoly Mom ChatHolistic Nutrition with Lorraine DriscollThis week on the WHoly Mom Chat, Jennifer interviews Lorraine Driscoll on Holistic Nutrition. Lorraine shares the story of her daughter's health struggles and her journey to get a diagnosis for PANS/PANDAS. Along with discussing the benefits of holistic nutrition, she guides parents to find help for their children and themselves in their wellness journey. Listen in to learn more about: {05:15} What is holistic nutrition?{08:08} What is functional neurology?{11:45} Lorraine's journey in dealing with PANS/PANDAS with her daughter{22:12} Overview of signs in children and when to seek help {27:25} Practical strategies that par...
2022-04-3033 min
The WHoly Mom ChatKristen Carder on ADHDThis week on the WHoly Mom Chat, Jennifer interviews Kristen Carder, ADHD expert and host of the I Have ADHD podcast. Together, they take a deep dive into Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), the symptoms of ADHD, and strategies for success. Kristen also shares her practical tips on managing her own ADHD. Listen in to learn more about:What is ADHD? How does ADHD present itself in adults?Kristen's journey with ADHD and the strategies she has learned to be successfulThe importance of a healthy self-image despite any diagnosis.About KristenKristen Ca...
2022-04-2238 min
The WHoly Mom ChatUnderstanding Your Child with Dr. Danielle DickWouldn't it be amazing if we knew how to parent and had a handbook for each child we parented? There is something that can get us close to this dream – The Child Code. In this episode of The WHoly Mom Chat, Jennifer interviews Danielle about her book The Child Code and her motivation to write the book. She shares her story about her parenting journey and gives to help us be successful, effective parents. Listen in to learn more about: {04:37} Danielle's personal experience with paren...
2022-04-1635 min
The WHoly Mom ChatOvercoming Perfectionism in Motherhood with Amy WicksIn this episode of The WHoly Mom Chat, Jennifer interviews Amy Wicks on perfectionism in motherhood. She shares her personal story and how perfectionism impacted her quality of life. Amy also shares her tips and steps to fight the idea of being the perfect mom. Listen in to learn more about: Amy’s personal journey of dealing with perfectionism How this idea of perfectionism impacts our quality of lifePractical tips to overcome perfectionism and be the mom your kids need About Amy WicksAmy is a podcast host, E...
2022-04-0934 min
The WHoly Mom ChatFrom Failure to Favor with Dimple EmmanuelOn this episode of the WHoly Mom Chat podcast, Jennifer interviews Dimple Emmanuel, a Pakistani Christian who is a singer, songwriter, and poet. Dimple shares the story of her miracle birth and overcoming trauma. She shares how God can use us if we allow Him to, regardless of our past. Listen in to learn more about: {04:05} Dimple's journey and overcoming her past.{20:48} Advice for other women, moving forward after trauma. About Dimple EmmanuelDimple Emmanuel is a Pakistani Christian who was born in Benghazi, Libya. Sh...
2022-04-0136 min
The WHoly Mom ChatFrom the Bottom of the Pot with Chef Tye HallFood is loved universally. Each culture has different dishes that are appreciated, and well, who doesn't love to eat? Don't forget that cooking is an art too? Not only that, but it can also be incredibly therapeutic and life-changing. In this episode of the WHoly Mom Chat, Jennifer James sits down with Chef Tye Hall to discuss how Tye overcame the horrors of assault and abuse. Tye shares how her spouse, children, and intense passion for cooking have helped her overcome her background. Listen in to learn more :{02:25} Chef Tye...
2022-03-1925 min
The WHoly Mom ChatKeeping the Sizzle in Your Marriage with Dr. Jessica McCleese Sex in a marriage is a beautiful, God-designed act. It is for pleasure, not just for procreation. God created sex in a marriage to have physical, spiritual, and emotional intimacy with our partners. In this episode of the WHoly Mom Chat, Jenny talks with a friend and licensed Christian sex therapist, Dr. Jessica McCleese. They discuss the role sex plays in a Christian marriage and how we can keep the passion burning in our intimate relationships after having children.Dr. Jessica is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in Virginia and one of less than 200 Certified Christian Se...
2022-03-1241 min
The WHoly Mom ChatFinancial Planning with Erika Baez’ GrimesFor most people, financial independence may seem like a lofty goal. However, if you start early and stay consistent, you can reach it without much of a struggle. But how do you get there? On this episode of the WHoly Mom Chat, I sat down with Erika Baez, a mother who suddenly found herself in a financial nightmare. Erika shares her journey and her wisdom with us. Once she discovered how to become financially secure and independent, she made it her mission to help others. Listen in as we talk to learn more about: Eri...
2022-03-0541 min
The WHoly Mom ChatResolving Conflict Using the L.O.V.E. Method with Dr. Jen RipleyEveryone is on their healing journey that involves recovery from traumatic experiences or elements that may be related to how one deals with conflict. Cultural differences, gender biases, socio-economic factors, and family of origin – all play a role in developing our conflict resolution style. Conflict is a part of everyday living and necessary for growth. Conflict can be a source of adding new value and meaning to any relationship if handled healthily. . During the healing process, engaging with the pain (that a conflict may trigger) instead of avoiding it would be beneficial. Having a genuine conflict resolution st...
2022-02-1939 min
The WHoly Mom ChatImpact of Attachment Styles In Relationships with Dr. Erica HurleyIn this episode of the WHoly Mom Chat, Jennifer talks with Dr. Erica Hurley on attachments in parenting and relationships. We discuss the different attachment styles and how they affect us as adults. We also dive into how we can ensure our children have a suitable attachment to be better adults. Dr. Erica Hurley is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist. Her office is in Richmond, Virginia, and she is licensed to practice telehealth in 25 other states. Dr. Hurley is one of two psychologists on the east coast specializing in Collaborative/Therapeutic Assessment. C/TA is a br...
2022-02-1236 min
The WHoly Mom ChatPerspective, Strength & Faith with Sylvia FarbsteinSylvia’s whole life changed when her young son, Brandon, was diagnosed with a rare form of dwarfism called metatropic dysplasia at the age of two.In this episode of the WHoly Mom Chat, Jenny talks to Sylvia Farbstein, Brandon’s mom, branding strategist, and sought-after speaker. We talk about the importance of modeling positive behavior, growth opportunities in our education system, and how we can help our children to become independent adults. Listen in to learn more about: Sylvia’s journey about how she navigated Brandon's diagnosis.The growth opportunities in the educatio...
2022-01-2248 min
The WHoly Mom ChatFinding the Fabulous You with Lisa TraniIt's never too late to start doing what you want to do. Thankfully, being creative, following your dreams, and being innovative doesn't come with an age limit. Many people will get to a certain age, maybe after their babies are all grown up, and think: "I wish I had done that." Remember, it is never too late to find the fabulous you!In this episode of the WHoly Mom Chat, Jenny talks with Lisa Trani about her business "Finding Fabulous You" and how Lisa started her business at the age of 51. Lisa s...
2022-01-1520 min
The WHoly Mom ChatLiving On Purpose with Mary TomlinsonHappy New Year! Having it all may seem like the recipe for a perfect life. As we check all the boxes, it might feel like something is missing —and that "something" most often is our "purpose." "Finding your purpose" is so much more than a dream or goal that will never be fulfilled. It just may be the secret to a happier and healthier life. So Mama, what is your purpose? Today on the WHoly Mom Chat, I'm joined by Mary Tomlinson, a former Disney executive, entrepreneur, and mom of 2 adult children. Mary a...
2022-01-0837 min
Networking and Marketing Made SimpleEpisode 331: Regaining Your Female Power and Truth with Jenny JamesJennifer B. James
Master’s in counseling
Board Certified Coach
PhD. Candidate at Regent University
I am Jenny. I am a Jesus follower, an inspirer, life-long learner, foodie, a Board Certified Coach raising moms to new heights, a PhD. candidate, a podcaster, a wife to my love of 13 years, and a mama to three, currently living south of Richmond, Virginia.
It was my personal awakening to hit the reset button in my life that led to pursuing coaching. I became a coach to empower women to feel and be their...
2022-01-0631 min
The WHoly Mom ChatNavigating Grief This Holiday SeasonMerry Christmas, my lovelies! The holiday season is often marked by a season of anticipation, frenzy, excitement, and stress. Many grievers experience a variety of emotions. For most people going through a sudden loss, the holiday season can be the most painful time of all, thanks to holiday interactions, parties, and holiday traditions. Today on the WHoly Mom Chat, I'm doing things a little bit different than usual. Recently, I had the honor of being on the Simply Wholehearted Podcast with Amy Wicks, where we had a fantastic conversation. I shared several tips for how to na...
2021-12-1817 min
The WHoly Mom ChatTake Back Your Time With Christy WrightBalance is not a word that describes daily life for most moms. Balance is a word that brings more stress than relief sometimes. It carries the burden of trying to do all the things perfectly. Things like the monogrammed kid outfits, the perfect birthday party, thriving in your career and your mom life where everyone gets what they need, and Mom has time for the elusive "self-care." How can we possibly spend the same time and effort on meal prep, helping with homework, building relationships with our kids and partners, and all the other things moms m...
2021-12-1135 min
The WHoly Mom ChatTaking Inventory with Leah ColemanEvery day when we see friends, coworkers, or even strangers, we ask them how they are doing? It comes second nature to us to question others, but have you taken a moment to ask yourself that recently? Instead, we go through our daily list of tasks, take care of everyone else, and never take some time to check in with ourselves. We just keep moving from one thing to the next, hoping it will take us in the right direction. You can't know what you need to change if you don't know all the information, right? T...
2021-12-0441 min
The WHoly Mom ChatBusting the Holiday Stress with Dr. Chinwe Williams I don’t know about you, but I grew up eagerly awaiting the holiday season — the gifts, the decorations, the delicious food, the time off from school, and the togetherness of family. When I became a mom, sharing these things with my kids was supposed to be just as magical. Yet the reality of the modern holiday season is often the exact opposite of what we imagined it to be. So how do we make it magical and intentional for ourselves as well as our kiddos? On this episode of the WHoly Mom Chat, I sit down with D...
2021-11-2738 min
The WHoly Mom ChatRecovery Is Possible After Baby with Dr. Maria MilhousReturning to movement during postpartum time can sometimes feel overwhelming, scary, and difficult. Maybe you stayed active during your pregnancy and no longer have your usual routine and you feel antsy and isolated. Maybe you just aren’t into working out? In any case, remember your body needs time to heal and return to movement in a way that honors what you just accomplished. You’ve just had a baby! Your postpartum healing journey requires rest, but it also requires restorative movement. In this episode of the WHoly Mom Chat, I chat with Dr. Mari...
2021-11-1334 min
The WHoly Mom ChatThriving in Motherhood with Danielle GannonHaving kids—the responsibility of rearing good, kind, ethical, responsible human beings—is the biggest job anyone can embark on."- Maria ShriverEven in the best of situations, motherhood is hard. You take on the responsibility of raising your kids to become good and decent adults and want to do the best job possible. Many times, you can lose your own self in the needs of your family. You cannot thrive when you feel like you are not surviving. When you are in a stress response you cannot thrive and live mindfully into your highe...
2021-11-0636 min
The WHoly Mom ChatHealthy Parenting with Susan HoltRaising kids is one of the toughest and yet most rewarding jobs in the world — and it is also one that might make you feel the most unprepared. We’ve all been there. However, today’s guest will help you be a more intentional parent and raise emotionally intelligent children. In this episode of the WHoly Mom chat, I sat down with Susan Holt, a board-certified Family Life Coach to discuss her journey to become a Life Coach, the parenting pyramid, and how to parent effectively with Susan’s CALM method. Susan Townsend Holt, M.Ed, is a B...
2021-10-2951 min
The WHoly Mom ChatFoster Parenting with Liz ThomsonHello, My Lovelies! I'm so excited about my guest this week. In this episode of the WHoly Mom chat, I sat down with Liz Thompson: a foster mom, and food blogger, to discuss her journey of foster parenting during a pandemic, managing parenting as a vegetarian, and practical ways mothers can receive healing. Liz Thomson is the food blogger and cookbook author behind I Heart Vegetables, a site dedicated to easy, healthy, vegetarian recipes. She and her husband became foster parents in 2019 and have enjoyed the wild adventure of foster care!Listen in as...
2021-10-2329 min
The WHoly Mom ChatOn Good Sleep Hygiene with Brittney StefanicDid you know that a lack of adequate sleep can also trigger the symptoms of postpartum depression and sometimes even worsen it? Getting enough sleep is essential for helping us maintain optimal health and well-being. When it comes to our health, sleep is as vital as a healthy diet and regular exercise. A good night's sleep can reduce fatigue and re-energize us to handle whatever parenting challenge is thrown at us the next day without it becoming too overbearing. In this episode of the WHoly Mom Chat, I chat with Brittney Stefanic, a Ce...
2021-10-1533 min
The WHoly Mom ChatNurturing Birth and Beyond with Sarah ThorpeThe experience of childbirth is an amazing and beautiful one. It can also be quite overwhelming. One thing that can help make it exponentially better is to hire a doula. Hiring a doula is like having an experienced travel guide while visiting a foreign country. They can help you and your partner during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. In this episode of the WHoly Mom Chat, I chat with Sarah Thorpe, an experienced nurse, Doula, and Childbirth Educator, to discuss the benefits and advantages of having a doula. I also share my personal ex...
2021-10-0937 min
The WHoly Mom ChatTammie Mobley’s recovery from Domestic ViolenceDid you know that, on average, nearly 20 people per minute are victims of abuse by a spouse/partner in the United States? During one year, this equates to more than 10 million women AND men. (NCADV.org) It is October, and we honor all domestic violence survivors since it is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. TRIGGER WARNING- Some of the content may trigger victims and may not be appropriate for children. On this episode of the WHoly Mom Chat, I sit down with Tammie Mobley to discuss how s...
2021-10-0228 min
The WHoly Mom ChatFrom Trials to Triumph with Demetria BuieWhen we take off our rose-colored glasses and examine our childhood, we may notice many dysfunctional traits in our family. It’s not a topic we readily want to share with the public, much less admit it to ourselves. Once we wake up to the realization that our childhood was less than a stellar experience, it is a long healing journey to break generational barriers, make peace with our past, and move forward with our future. On this episode of the WHoly Mom Chat, I sit down with Demetria Buie to discuss how she over...
2021-09-2535 min
The WHoly Mom ChatPostpartum Mental Health and Mom Rage with Dr. Jessica KafferFor most women, having a baby is a beautiful and joyful time. For some, it can be a very stressful, anxious time. It can also produce something that one might not expect - depression. Many mamas will experience “baby blues'' following childbirth, which usually lasts up to 6 weeks. They will experience symptoms like mood swings, crying, irritability, etc. Sometimes, a more severe form occurs called Postpartum depression - symptoms include depressed mood, sleep issues, crying all the time, feeling of worthlessness, intrusive thoughts, plus several other symptoms. This period also increases the risk of...
2021-09-1843 min
The WHoly Mom ChatReigniting Your Marriage with Veronica CisnerosBeing a mother is hard with all the demands and needs of our children, plus the needs and wants of our spouses, it’s hard to not lose our identity. There is so much to do: take care of our children, our homes, work on our marriages and relationships. No wonder we lose ourselves. The thing is - that’s ok. We won’t ever be the same version of ourselves pre-kids or when we first got married. However, there are ways to find our way back to a better version of ourselves for our kids and our...
2021-09-1142 min
The WHoly Mom ChatOvercoming Cancer with Heather MoretDid you know that almost half of all men and a third of all women in the United States will receive a cancer diagnosis at some time in their lives? Many times receiving a cancer diagnosis often comes with little or no warning at all.In today's episode, I chat with cancer survivor, Heather Moret to discuss her cancer battle with a rare and aggressive lymphoma. She shares how she handles the diagnosis, how it impacted herself as those around her, and the mindset shifts she needed during her battle. Heather Mo...
2021-09-0449 min
The WHoly Mom ChatIn Good Order with Professional Organizer, Mary DavisThe idea of living a life with less clutter sounds fantastic, doesn’t it? A home with less stuff, toys, clothes, etc. Did you know that decluttering also has a mental health aspect to it? Your home environment can affect your mental well-being. By having all the things unorganized, you can feel the chaos and be out of control. In today's chat, I sat down with professional organizer Mary Davis to discuss her journey from packrat to helping others get organized, the importance decluttering has on ourselves and our families, and tips on wher...
2021-08-2827 min
The WHoly Mom ChatPositive Body Image with Holly Byrd MillerPositive body image and self-talk doesn’t start by looking in the mirror or at the scale - it starts in our mind. Self-talk is an intrinsic part of the human experience. We are hardwired for internal dialog with ourselves, and this is not always problematic. The issues start when self-talk starts to focus on shortcomings or problems in one area or one situation, it becomes very easy to only see problems in many other areas or situations. We need to focus on the positive, speak to ourselves with love...
2021-08-2137 min
The WHoly Mom ChatUnpacking Perspectives with Nicole DavisonAre you on a journey of self-discovery or making a change? Are your kids going back to school and you’re looking to re-enter the workforce? Are you examining your life because of the pandemic and wanting to try something new? No matter where you are in your journey, it is useful to investigate not just what you want to achieve, but why. In today’s episode, I sat down with career coach Nicole Davison. We take a deep dive into her journey that led her to where she is currently, she shares...
2021-08-1443 min
The WHoly Mom ChatPracticing Mindfulness with Yedda StancilPracticing Mindfulness seems like an impossible task these days, juggling children, work, home life, etc. However, you don't need to meditate or spend time on the top of a mountain in Colorado at some fancy retreat. Although that does sound amazing, doesn't it? Mindfulness is all about paying attention to how you're feeling in your body, mind, and spirit.In today's chat, I sat down with Yedda to explore her motherhood journey that led her to where she is currently, how we as moms can practice Mindfulness with ourselves and our children. Yedda also s...
2021-08-0758 min
The WHoly Mom ChatTrusting Your Gut: A Mother’s Journey with Molley ReganParenting is tough sometimes. But when your child is struggling with a disability or health issues, it can be very overwhelming. This is especially true when you can’t get the proper diagnosis, the key to getting effective help is understanding what’s going on and advocating for your kids with the right doctors and specialists. Today on the show, I’m joined by Molley Regan. I sat down to chat with Molley about her journey with her daughter Grace’s diagnosis of hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP) 54 and how Molley followed her gut to find the corr...
2021-07-3140 min
The WHoly Mom ChatHow to Keep the Intimacy Alive for New Parents with Dr. Jessica McCleeseHaving a child is one of the greatest joys that we can experience, but it’s also a big adjustment especially for first-time parents. Every parent can agree that the six weeks following the birth of your child are some of the most chaotic, exhausting, and rewarding weeks of your life. There are so many new responsibilities, things to do, books to read, late nights, and early mornings. So how do you do all this but still find the time to be intimate with your spouse? How do you keep the love alive, esp...
2021-07-2439 min
The WHoly Mom ChatLet’s Talk about Consent Parenting with Rosalia Rivera**Trigger warning**This week on the podcast, we are talking about childhood sexual abuse. According to CDC (2021), “1 in 4 girls and 1 in 13 boys experience child sexual abuse at some point in childhood, and 91% of child sexual abuse is perpetrated by someone the child or child’s family knows.” Child abuse occurs at every socioeconomic level, across ethnic and cultural lines, within all religions, and at all levels of education, but 95% of abuse is preventable through education and awareness.Today on the show, I’m honored to have Rosalia Rivera share with us what we ca...
2021-07-1748 min
The WHoly Mom ChatTurning Your Mistakes Into Confetti With Maghon TaylorBeing a mom in itself is a full-time job. As a mom, you have all the responsibilities of taking care of your kids. Add in the tasks of running a business and you’ve got a very full plate. It takes determination, courage, and tenacity to run a business while also being a parent. Today on the show, we have the perfect person to show that it can be done with some planning, accepting help from others, and of course, God. I’m so excited that my new friend, Maghon Taylor is joinin...
2021-07-1051 min
The WHoly Mom ChatKelly Van Zandt’s Powerful PostpartumThis episode is for all the new mamas out there.Let’s talk about a thriving postpartum. Most moms spend a lot of time preparing for the birth of their precious baby but don’t know how to prepare well or experience the best time in postpartum. However, the truth is that while postpartum time can be mentally, emotionally, and physically exhausting, we can thrive during it.56In this episode of The WHoly Mom chat, we discuss exactly that with my special guest, Kelly Van Zandt. Kelly is the author of the ne...
2021-06-2635 min
The WHoly Mom ChatSupporting Husbands To Be Better Fathers With Mike Flynn, LCSWWelcome to a very special episode for Father’s Day! Usually I interview women on the WHoly Mom Chat but today we brought in a seasoned and trained gentleman who can teach my female listeners about how women can support their husbands to be better fathers. In this episode , I’m talking with my friend Mike Flynn on the WHoly Mom Chat. Mike is not only a man of many talents, he is also a whirlwind of energy and enthusiasm. I came to know Mike about 12 years ago while I was looking for an organization to comp...
2021-06-1234 min
The WHoly Mom ChatKeya Wingfield's Journey Through Post Truamtic Stress DisorderToday on the show, we have Keya Wingfield.Keya describes herself as a Richmonder. Chef. Entrepreneur. Instructor. Mom. This is Keya Wingfield. The culinary education is from Virginia, but the love and passion come from Bombay, where she was born and raised. But this isn't "Indian Food." It's food by an Indian. Like Keya, it's complex, diverse...and definitely bold.Most people know her as the winner of the recent Food Network's Spring Baking Championship in Season 7. However, most people don't know that Keya and her family were experiencing a tragic loss while the episodes...
2021-05-2930 min
The WHoly Mom ChatEmpowering Single MomsHey Mama! I am so glad you are here! I am your host Jennifer James on The WHoly Mom Chat! In honor of Mental Health Awareness month, we are dedicating today’s episode to single mothers and empowering them to make the changes necessary to move forward in their lives. Parenting is too important a responsibility to bear alone. Yet, so many mothers are forced to do just that due to a variety of situations. Many single moms struggle at some point as we can simply not do everything on our own. It also plays a to...
2021-05-1542 minThe WHoly Mom ChatLet's get started on our journey together!Welcome to the WHoly Mom Chat Podcast!! I'm so glad that you are here! You are so blessed to be a mother. You have a fantastic gift for your family. Yet you may feel like you have "lost your individuality," you feel alone, unfulfilled, busy catering to the demands and needs of your family, having no time to invest in yourself or to lean into being the person you hunger to become. It's time to accept our reality, stop the mom guilt, and thrive in our everyday present. I am Jenny. I am a Jesus fol...
2021-04-2604 min