Today’s guest, Ash Brandin, says we’ve been taught to fear screens — but what if that fear is keeping us from finding real balance?

Ash is a longtime public school teacher, librarian, and creator of The Gamer Educator, where they help families understand how screens can be part of a healthy, connected life. Their new book, POWER ON: Managing Screen Time to Benefit the Whole Family, offers a calm, realistic approach to parenting in a digital world — replacing guilt and restriction with confidence and connection.

In this episode, we talk about why screen time isn’t the enemy, how to set boundaries that actually work, and what it looks like to raise kids who feel balanced both online and off.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by technology or unsure how to handle screens at home, this conversation will help you find peace and perspective.

For those that are new around here, I release bonus episodes that serve a niche part of my audience, I have listeners of all faith backgrounds that listen to the podcast. This episode is coming from a christian perspective so if that’s something that doesn’t fit what you’re looking for, check out the other episodes that dropped this week or join me back here next Tuesday for a conversation that you don’t want to miss!

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Most of us are running — from pain, fear, disappointment, and wounds we haven’t had the chance to heal. But what if the peace we’ve been chasing isn’t out there somewhere, but waiting for us when we stop running?

In this episode, I’m joined by Terry Crist, co-lead pastor of City of Grace in Phoenix, global speaker, and author of Now You Can Stop Running: Finding the Rest Your Soul Desperately Needs. Terry shares how letting go of striving and embracing God’s boundless love can transform our restlessness into healing, purpose, and hope.

We dive into why so many of us run from our own stories, how to discern the false promises of the world versus true refuge, and practical ways to experience rest, safety, and wholeness in everyday life. If you’ve ever felt burned out, restless, or like peace is just out of reach, this conversation will guide you back to the stillness your soul is craving.

In this episode, Diane talks with Jessica Baum, licensed mental health counselor, relationship expert, and author of the upcoming book SAFE: Coming Home to Yourself and Others – An Attachment-Informed Guide to Building Secure Relationships. Jessica shares how early attachment patterns shape the way we love, trust, and connect, offering insights into healing attachment wounds, recognizing the difference between intensity and intimacy, and learning what it truly means to feel safe in relationships. With practical guidance for overcoming relationship anxiety and building secure, healthy love, this conversation is a roadmap for anyone ready to break old patterns and create deeper emotional connection.

In this episode, I speak with Brian Page, a nationally recognized financial education leader and founder of Modern Husbands, to explore what happens when a love for simplicity meets a partner’s preference for abundance. Together, we unpack how differing money mindsets and childhood experiences shape financial values, and how empathy, communication, and understanding each other’s “why” can bridge the gap between frugality and minimalism. Brian shares practical insights on how couples can navigate these differences with respect and curiosity. Whether you’re a devoted minimalist or simply striving for financial harmony in your relationship, this episode offers real-world advice and actionable strategies to help you find balance and peace around both money and stuff.

For those that are new around here, I release bonus episodes that serve a niche part of my audience, I have listeners of all faith backgrounds that listen to the podcast. This episode is coming from a christian perspective so if that’s something that doesn’t fit what you’re looking for, check out the other episode that dropped this week or join me back here next Tuesday for a conversation that you don’t want to miss!

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Today, I’m joined by Rachel Myers, co-founder of She Reads Truth, to talk about the inspiration behind her new book, The Bible Is for You. For many of us, no matter how much we want to read Scripture regularly, it can still feel like a challenge. My hope is that this conversation will encourage, inspire, and equip you to make time in God’s Word a greater priority in your life.

In this episode, parenting coach, Tia Slightman, joins us to share powerful insights on improving children’s listening and behavior without resorting to punishment. Tia explains why understanding the root causes of kids’ actions is far more effective than relying on yelling, timeouts, or endless reminders. She introduces simple, practical strategies to set clear boundaries, foster cooperation, and build stronger connections with your children. We also dive into the impact of screens, the importance of consistent discipline, and why it’s essential for parents to seek guidance and develop positive parenting skills. Tia also shares her personal journey as a parenting coach and offers valuable resources to help families create more harmony at home.

Feeling overwhelmed by tantrums, sleep struggles, or figuring out how to set respectful limits? This episode is for you! Joining me once again is toddler expert Devon Kuntzman, the voice behind the hugely popular Instagram account Transforming Toddlerhood. Devon shares practical, compassionate strategies for navigating the everyday challenges of raising toddlers—insights she expands on in her brand-new book. In our conversation, she breaks down why so-called “bad behavior” is actually a normal part of development, how to set firm yet respectful boundaries without yelling, and how to nurture emotionally healthy, confident kids—while actually enjoying the journey of parenting.

Change is one of life’s few constants—but letting go of what no longer serves us can be one of its hardest lessons. In this episode, Diane sits down with artist, author, and mother Meera Lee Patel to talk about her new book, Learn to Let Go: A Journey to Inner Peace and Self-Discovery.

Known for her bestselling guided journals, Meera shares how creativity, journaling, and mindfulness can help us navigate transitions, release old patterns, and rediscover inner peace. Together, Diane and Meera explore how self-expression becomes a powerful tool for healing, clarity, and growth—especially during times of change.

Meera also opens up about her experiences balancing motherhood, art, and wellness, revealing how creative practice has supported her personal journey.

If you’re going through a season of change—in your relationships, career, or personal life—this episode will help you process your emotions, find clarity, and move forward with confidence.

Ever wonder how minimalism could actually make motherhood easier? In this episode, we dive into the real-life benefits of simplifying with kids—from decluttering clothes and toys to creating calmer routines and smoother family transitions. You’ll hear practical tips for starting small (like tackling your wardrobe or kitchen), plus honest stories about the challenges and wins of raising kids with less stuff and more intention. Whether you’re curious about minimalism or ready to embrace it fully, this conversation will inspire you to clear the clutter and create more space for what truly matters in motherhood.

Are you pouring your energy into everything and still feeling like it’s never enough? In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Diana Hill—clinical psychologist, co-author of ACT Daily Journal, and author of the upcoming book Wise Effort: How to Focus Your Genius Energy on What Matters Most.

Grounded in psychology, neuroscience, and contemplative practices, Diana helps us explore how to stop scattering our energy and instead focus it on what aligns with our values, our families, and our well-being. We discuss what it means to identify your “parenting genius,” how that strength can sometimes become a stumbling block, and practical ways to conserve and redirect your energy so you can show up more fully in the areas that matter most.

If you’re struggling to meet your goals, the problem may not be effort—it’s that you’re still trying. In this episode, author and motivational speaker Carla Ondrasik joins me to share insights from her new book, Stop Trying!: The Life-Transforming Power of Trying Less and Doing More.  Drawing from her unconventional childhood, career in music publishing, and experience as a mother, Carla challenges the way we use the word “try” and makes the case for a powerful mindset shift: replacing trying with doing. We dive into the psychology of language, the difference between half-hearted attempts and decisive action, and why accountability and small, achievable steps are key to lasting change. If you’ve ever felt stuck in the cycle of “trying” without results, this conversation will give you the tools and encouragement to stop spinning your wheels and start moving forward with confidence.

For those that are new around here, I release bonus episodes that serve a niche part of my audience, I have listeners of all faith backgrounds that listen to the podcast. This episode is coming from a christian perspective so if that’s something that doesn’t fit what you’re looking for, check out the other episode that dropped this week or join me back here next Tuesday for a conversation that you don’t want to miss!

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Do you long for deeper connection but feel overwhelmed at the thought of opening your home? In today’s episode, I’m joined by Abby Kuykendall, author of Let the Biscuits Burn, to talk about reclaiming hospitality as a practice of care and connection - not perfection. Abby shares how hospitality has less to do with spotless homes and gourmet meals and far more to do with creating space for community. Drawing from personal stories, practical tips, and biblical wisdom, she helps us break free from excuses like “I can’t cook” or “my house is too small” and instead embrace the transformative joy of welcoming others into our lives. Abby reminds us that true community begins not with performance but with presence.

How do we raise boys who are not only confident, but also compassionate and emotionally intelligent? In this episode, parenting journalist Joanna Schroeder shares insights from her new book Talk to Your Boys, with practical scripts and tips for tackling subjects like masculinity, consent, bullying, and mental health. Drawing on research and insights from over 80 boys themselves, Joanna shares how we can build stronger connections with our sons while equipping them to navigate adolescence with confidence and care. Learn how to build trust, spark connection, and raise emotionally intelligent young men who care for themselves and others.

Drowning in thousands of photos? In this episode, photo organization expert, Haleh Shoa shares practical tips to declutter, back up, and enjoy your digital and physical memories. From the Daily Delete habit to the 3-2-1 backup method, you’ll learn how to simplify your photo collection, preserve family stories, and finally make space to enjoy the moments that matter.

Our words matter more than we realize. The phrases we use with our children—often without thinking—can leave lasting impressions on their hearts, shaping how they see themselves and their relationship with us as parents. In this episode, I’m joined by Amy Hughes—writer, speaker, and mother of nine—whose new book Words Like Honey helps parents recognize the unintended harm in common phrases like “Hurry up,” “Calm down,” or “Don’t be sad.” Amy explains how these words can cause stress, anxiety, or self-doubt, and offers life-giving alternatives that nurture confidence, security, and resilience. Filled with relatable stories and practical wisdom, this conversation will encourage you to parent with intention and use words that truly build your child up.

For those that are new around here, I release bonus episodes that serve a niche part of my audience, I have listeners of all faith backgrounds that listen to the podcast. This episode is coming from a christian perspective so if that’s something that doesn’t fit what you’re looking for, check out the other episode that dropped this week or join me back here next Tuesday for a conversation that you don’t want to miss!

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What if you could see the story of Jesus through the eyes of someone who knew Him best? In this episode, Diane sits down with directors John Schaefer and Tom Bancroft to talk about their brand-new 2D animated feature film, Light of the World, premiering September 5.

Told from the perspective of young John the Apostle, the film offers a fresh and emotionally resonant look at Jesus’ life—crafted to connect with both believers and those curious about His story. John and Tom share their incredible journeys in the animation industry, the vision behind this unique project, and the obstacles they overcame to bring the story to the screen. Whether you’re passionate about faith, storytelling, or animation, this behind-the-scenes conversation will inspire you to see the Gospel story with fresh eyes.

What if “control” didn’t mean perfection, but peace? In this episode, Christina Lee, co-founder of Graceful Spaces Organizing, shares how she’s reclaiming the word “control” — not as a path to perfection, but as a tool for peace. We talk about the difference between healthy control and perfectionism, how simple systems can reduce overwhelm at home, and why an organized space should reflect your values, not Instagram standards. Christina opens up about a time she felt completely out of control, the mindset shifts that brought her back, and how parents can take small, doable steps toward a calmer, more empowered home.

Finding the right nanny isn’t just about childcare - it’s about trust, connection, and building a family rhythm that works. In this episode, the founder of Olive You Nanny, a nanny placement agency with over 20 years of experience, shares her journey from babysitting in high school to running a trusted agency. You’ll hear practical advice on hiring the right nanny, creating clear expectations, and building strong, respectful relationships that help both families and caregivers thrive.

What if bravery wasn’t about being fearless—but about taking small, deliberate steps in the face of fear? In this episode, I’m joined by Jill Schulman, a Marine Corps veteran and leadership expert, to talk about her new book on courage. She shares how to move past routine, confront challenges in relationships, career, and parenting, and why building a supportive “brave tribe” matters. If fear has been holding you back, this conversation will help you see bravery in a whole new way.

What if small space living could actually give your family more—more connection, more creativity, and more clarity about what really matters? In this conversation, Khrystyne Jaspers shares her story of raising two kids with her husband in a one-bedroom Manhattan apartment for over a decade. What started as a necessity turned into a lifestyle and eventually a business, as she now helps families rethink and reimagine the spaces they call home…