Don't Mom Alone Podcast

Don't Mom Alone Podcast
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Heather MacFadyen, mother of four boys, connects you the listener with people and resources to help you feel less alone. Consider it an invitation to "withness".

  1. 22 HR AGO

    Live Your Life, Take Notes, Tell Strangers: Tim Hawkins on Comedy and Parenting [Ep 569]

    Today on the podcast, I’m joined by comedian Tim Hawkins, who has been making people laugh for over three decades. With years of life, family, and stage experience behind him, Tim brings humor and perspective to everything from parenting to personal growth. We dive into his family life, including the story of how he met his wife, and reflect on the journey of raising kids, including the rewarding moment of watching them grow into adults. Tim shares his thoughts on parenting, emphasizing that there’s no perfect formula. While many feel pressure to follow methods and systems, he and his wife chose not to get bogged down in outcomes, trusting that God is big enough to guide the process. We also get into the realities of raising kids, like what to do when they’re constantly wrestling. For Tim, one of the biggest factors in raising kids well is simple but powerful: proximity. Being present matters. Tim opens up about his own creative journey, including a season where he hit a wall, struggled to write, and had to step back and reset. He shares how his comedy process has evolved over the years and how life itself fuels his material. His approach to comedy is simple and honest: live your life, take notes, and tell strangers. The more you can relate to people, the more successful your message becomes. Whether it’s disappointment, joy, or frustration, the best material comes from real passion and lived experience. Join us today for a great (and hilarious) conversation.  Connect with Tim Hawkins:  Website: Tim Hawkins  Facebook: Tim Hawkins Instagram: Tim Hawkins (@timhawkinscomic) Links Mentioned:  Watch Tim Hawkins: Fist Bump | Prime Video  Listen to Heather on Sidetracked Podcast Related Episodes: Don’t Dad Alone :: Dustin Nickerson [Ep 472] When Friendships Get Messy: Healing, Humor and Finding Your Chicken-Fried Women :: Melissa Radke [Ep 519] From Blockbusters to Blanket Forts: Patricia Heaton on Parenting, Faith, and Comedy [Ep 521] Featured Sponsors:  Tumble Rugs: Machine Washable Rugs, Made Better. For a limited time only, our listeners get 10% off + free shipping at Tumbleliving.com/DMA.  StoryWorth: This year, give Mom a gift that helps her reflect on her life with fresh perspective–and gives your whole family the gift of her stories. Mother’s Day is Sunday, May 10th. Order right now and save up to $20 at storyworth.com/dma Skylight Calendar: Families are better when they’re working together. Right now, Skylight is offering our listeners $30 off their 15 inch Calendars by going to MySkylight.com/DMA.

    43 min

  2. 13 APR

    Navigating Homework Battles, Understanding Executive Function & Helping Teens Succeed :: Dr. Matthew Housson [Ep 568]

    Why does homework and school in general turn into a battle in so many homes? In this insightful conversation, Dr. Matthew Housson breaks down what’s really going on when kids struggle with homework—and why it’s often not a discipline issue at all. Instead, many challenges come down to executive function skills—things like planning, focus, emotional regulation, and the ability to start and finish tasks. We talk about how brain development impacts motivation, why some kids struggle to shift into “low dopamine” tasks like homework, and what parents can do to support their child without taking over. If you’ve ever felt frustrated, confused, or even discouraged trying to help your child succeed academically, this episode will give you clarity, practical tools, and encouragement—you’re not alone, and there is a better way forward. In this episode we talk about:  When behavior is developmentally normal vs. when to seek help The key signs of depression in teens (including irritability) Why a full profile is often more helpful than a diagnosis Practical tools to make homework time smoother Executive function skills are learned and developed over time You can’t rush development—but you can support it Connect with Dr. Matthew Housson:  Website: Home - The Housson Center Facebook: The Housson Center Instagram: The Housson Center (@thehoussoncenter) Links Mentioned:  Resources from The Housson Center (books & websites) Definitions of different childhood challenges (parent resource) Related Episodes: How to Stay Calm with School Stress :: Kirk Martin {Ep 88} School Choice Series: Public School Options with Emily Fenlaw:: [Ep 561] Grace Based Discipline for Kids with Unique Needs :: Karis Murray [Ep 237] Featured Sponsors:  Hiya: We’ve worked out a special deal with Hiya for their best selling children’s vitamin. Receive 50% off your first order. To claim this deal you must go to hiyahealth.com/DMA (not available on regular website). Get your kids the full-body nourishment they need to grow into healthy adults.  In The Special Needs Parent: A Guide to the Life You Never Expected, Dr. Joe and Cindi Ferrini share more than 40 years of lived experience raising a son with profound disabilities. With honesty and faith, they speak to the strain on marriage, the weight of finances, the sting of unkind comments, and the grief of a journey you didn’t choose, but also the joy you didn’t expect. If you’re walking this road—or love someone who is—this book offers steady encouragement for the long journey ahead. To learn more about The Special Needs Parent: A Guide to the Life You Never Expected, visit moodypublishers.com or find it wherever books are sold. Branch Basics: And here’s the good news — Branch Basics is now available everywhere you shop: at Target, Target.com, Amazon, and of course, BranchBasics.com. Tossing the toxins has never been more convenient! And for anyone grabbing the Premium Starter Kit, you can still get 15% off at BranchBasics.com with our code DMA.

    57 min

  3. 6 APR

    When You've Had Enough Hard :: Kirby Kelly [Ep 567]

    What do you do when life doesn’t just hand you lemons—but keeps throwing them at your face? Today, Kirby Kelly joins us to share about her new book, The Fabric of Hope.  After unexpectedly losing her mom, Kirby turned to Scripture to find hope in a season that felt unbearable. With a Master’s in Theology, she began searching for truth and hope right in the middle of her pain. When life unravels, it can feel impossible to believe that anything good could come from it. In those moments, it’s easy to begin seeing God as the enemy in our situation. But God is not the author of evil—He is the redeemer of it. And when the hits keep coming, that truth can be incredibly hard to hold onto. This episode is a reminder to stay tethered to Him through both praise and lament—to remain connected and fight for that connection, even when it’s difficult. Be encouraged today as Kirby shares her personal story of pain and how God is with us in all things.  Connect with Kirby Kelly:  Website: Kirby Kelly Facebook: Kirby Kelly Instagram: Kirby Kelly (@kirbyisaboss) Links Mentioned:  The Fabric of Hope: By Kirby Kelly Eternity is Now in Session: by John Ortberg Related Episodes: Finding Freedom from Habitual Sin :: Kirby Kelly [Ep 469] Walking Through Grief: Coping, Comforting Kids, and Embodied Emotions :: Erin Nelson and Colleen Montague [Ep 517] When Moms Walk through Grief :: Stacey Thacker {Ep 76} Featured Sponsors:  Honeylove: Treat yourself to the most advanced bras and shapewear on the market. Use our exclusive link to save 20% off Honeylove at honeylove.com/DMA.  Green Chef: Where fad diets fail, Green Chef delivers real food and recipes that make healthy eating easy…and lasting. Head to greenchef.com/50alone and use code 50alone to get 50% off your first month, then twenty percent off for two months.

    50 min

  4. 30 MAR

    How to Set Boundaries Without Cutting People Off :: John Townsend *top 10 episode* [Ep 566]

    As moms, we are like a life support system for our kids. To keep our families healthy, we need to be healthy. A key part of our overall well being is setting healthy boundaries.  But boundaries are hard. They require uncomfortable, direct conversations. We may need to put a limit on really good things or draw a line in the sand with our in-laws or parents.  My guest, Dr. John Townsend literally wrote the book on boundaries and he shares some deep wisdom on how to set healthy boundaries while honoring our family members and others.  “You've got to take care of your energy, your heart and your emotions. You've got to take care of yourself and your health. If you don't guard that heart, then the wellsprings of life won't come out from it. Boundaries are basically about how to set healthy, loving limits in our life. So we have something to offer to our children.” Townsend answers your tough questions about setting limits with in-laws, making healthy boundaries for the holidays and even models having a tough conversation with a parent about a boundary.  This is an episode packed with great information and Townsend has several books and resources available if you want to go deeper. Let’s make setting healthy boundaries a priority and guard our hearts and our time to bring life to our family! Connect with John Townsend:  Instagram: John Townsend (@dr.john_townsend) Facebook: Dr. John Townsend Website: Home - Dr. John Townsend Links Mentioned:  Boundaries Updated and Expanded Edition: By John Townsend Relational Nutrients (new layout) - Dr. John Townsend People Fuel: By John Townsend Related Episodes: Parenting a Spicy Child: How to Stay Calm, Set Boundaries, and Keep the Connection :: Mary Van Geffen [Ep 558] Good Boundaries and Goodbyes :: Lysa TerKeurst [Ep 387] Strengthening the Relationship with Your Adult Child :: Kathy Cunningham [Ep 543] Featured Sponsors:  Thrive Causemetics: Amplify your spring look with Thrive Causemetics. Go to thrivecausemetics.com/DMA for an exclusive offer of 20% off your first order.

    50 min

  5. 23 MAR

    Parenting Through Divorce: Helping Kids Heal, Co-Parent Well & Trust God :: Vaneetha Risner [Ep 565]

    How do you parent your kids through a story they didn’t choose? In this honest and hope-filled conversation, Vaneetha Risner shares her journey of raising two adolescent daughters as a single mom after divorce. She opens up about the pressure to “hold everything together,” the tension of co-parenting with different values, and the deep questions kids ask about God in the middle of pain. This episode offers practical wisdom and biblical encouragement for all moms, reminding us that while we can’t control our children’s stories, we can faithfully shepherd their hearts—and trust God to restore what has been lost. Here is some of what we cover:  The balance between sharing too much vs. hiding your emotions Navigating co-parenting with different rules and values The importance of community when you feel alone You don’t have to have all the answers—sometimes “I don’t know” is enough Parenting is a long game—trust God with the outcome Connect with Vaneetha Risner:  Website: Vaneetha Risner Facebook: Vaneetha Rendall Risner Instagram: Vaneetha Risner (@vaneetharisner) Links Mentioned:  This Was Never the Plan: Walking with God Through the Heartache of Divorce: By Vaneetha Rendall Risner Walking Through Fire: A Memoir of Loss and Redemption: By Vaneetha Risner The Scars That Have Shaped Me: How God Meets Us in Suffering: By Vaneetha Risner Related Episodes: How to Never Miss Out :: Vaneetha Risner [Ep 402] RWYB Series wk 1 Walking Thru Divorce :: Lara Williams [Ep 324] How God Personally Pursues and Redeems :: Jenn Jett [Ep 193] Featured Sponsors:  Wayfair: Find furniture, decor, and essentials that fit your unique style and budget. Head to Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Every style. Every home.  Cozy Earth: Discover how care in every detail transforms simple routines into moments of true comfort and ease. Head to cozyearth.com and use my code DMA for up to 20% off. Experience the craft behind the comfort, and make every day feel intentional.

    54 min

  6. 16 MAR

    Vision and Values | Clarity Series (Part two) with Nadya Dickson [Ep 564]

    In part two of my interview with Nadya Dickson, we dive deeper into how Christian moms can lead their families with clarity by identifying their values and creating a vision.  Values and vision go hand in hand. Whether we’ve named them or not, every family operates from a set of values. Nadya explains that when we take the time to identify and name the values that matter most to us, they become a powerful lens for making decisions, setting priorities, and shaping the atmosphere of our homes. We also talk about creating a yearly vision for your children, focusing more on character than performance, and asking God to reveal who each child is becoming. In a world filled with competing messages about what motherhood should look like, a clear vision can help moms filter out the noise and focus on what is truly fruitful. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by expectations or unsure how to prioritize your time as a mom, this conversation will help you rediscover peace, purpose, and intentionality in your parenting. Here is some of what we cover:  The power of naming your top 5 values How moms can filter out cultural pressure and expectations Why clarity helps us determine what is fruitful versus wasteful You can’t change people, but you can control the atmosphere Connect with Nadya Dickson:  Website: Formed to Lead | Nadya Dickson Links Mentioned:  50 I am statements  CliftonStrengths Online Talent Assessment 5 Values Exercise Annual Vision Process - Children 2026 One-Year PowerSheets® Goal Planner Related Episodes: Goals, Roles and Superpowers :: Bruce and Heather [Ep 112]  Motherhood Is an Assignment, Not Your Identity | Clarity Series (Part One) with Nadya Dickson [Ep 563] Learning to Listen to God’s Voice :: Kelsey Phillips [Summer of Mentorship wk 3] Featured Sponsors:  Written by Tim and Mark Shoemaker, a father and son duo who have spent years walking with guys through real questions, 72 Questions (and Answers) About Life and Becoming the Man God Designed You to Be tackles the issues they’re facing, porn, dating, purpose, fear, and spiritual dryness, with clear, biblical direction. Warby Parker: Warby Parker gives you quality & better-looking prescription eyewear at a fraction of the going price. Our listeners get 15% off + Free Shipping when they buy 2 or more pairs of prescription glasses at WarbyParker.com/DMA.  Cove: Make protecting your home a top priority. Check out Cove at covesmart.com/DMA or use code DMA at checkout for up to 60% off your first order!

    59 min

  7. 9 MAR

    Motherhood Is an Assignment, Not Your Identity | Clarity Series (Part One) with Nadya Dickson [Ep 563]

    Many women today are running at full speed—balancing motherhood, work, leadership, and countless responsibilities—yet still feel like they are barely surviving. In this powerful conversation, purpose strategist Nadya Dickson shares how women can move from survival mode into clarity and confidence by rediscovering their God-given identity. One of the most powerful reminders from this episode: motherhood is an assignment, not your identity. When women understand who God says they are, everything else—leadership, family, work, and influence—begins to align. If you’ve ever wondered Who am I beyond my roles? or Where should my time and energy really go? This conversation will encourage you to slow down, seek God, and rediscover your purpose. Here is some of what we cover:  Starting with the prayer: “God, who do You say I am?” Understanding your identity as a daughter of the King of Kings Recognizing the unique personality and wiring God gave you The parable of the four soils and why busyness is not the same as fruitfulness The influences around us are constantly forming and shaping us. Connect with Nadya Dickson:  Website: Formed to Lead | Nadya Dickson Links Mentioned:  50 I am statements  CliftonStrengths Online Talent Assessment Free Personality Test | 16Personalities Related Episodes: Goals, Roles and Superpowers :: Bruce and Heather [Ep 112]  Healing Past Wounds for More Freedom :: Jennifer Barnett [Summer of Mentorship wk 4] Generational Healing: Becoming the Mom You Needed :: Melanie Shankle [Ep 508] If You’re Tired of Feeling Like You Don’t Measure Up… :: Hosanna Wong [Ep 538] Featured Sponsors:  Hiya Health: We've worked out a special deal with Hiya for their best selling children's vitamin. Receive 50% off your first order. To claim this deal you must go to hiyahealth.com/DMA. get your kids the full-body nourishment they need to grow into healthy adults. Branch Basics: And here’s the good news — Branch Basics is now available everywhere you shop: at Target, Target.com, Amazon, and of course, BranchBasics.com. Tossing the toxins has never been more convenient! And for anyone grabbing the Premium Starter Kit, you can still get 15% off at BranchBasics.com with our code DMA.  Honeylove: Treat yourself to the most advanced bras and shapewear on the market. Use our exclusive link to save 20% off Honeylove at honeylove.com/DMA .

    55 min

  8. 2 MAR

    Finding Your Purpose and Authentic Self in Motherhood with the Enneagram :: Suzanne Stabile *top 10 episode* [Ep 562]

    In this episode, Suzanne Stabile, internationally recognized Enneagram expert and mom of four adult children, shares her personal story and how the Enneagram has shaped her approach to parenting. She explains that the Enneagram isn’t about changing who we are, but about understanding how we see the world and choosing how to act with intention. She reminds us that there’s no one right way to parent; motherhood requires recognizing differences, extending grace, and embracing our own authentic path. Suzanne dives into the practical applications of the Enneagram in family life, showing how it can transform relationships with your children, your spouse, and other moms. She explains the energy and tendencies of different Enneagram types—from aggressive and dominant types to dependent and withdrawing types—and how understanding these patterns can bring unity instead of conflict. Parenting is never easy, and mistakes are inevitable, but Suzanne emphasizes that grace covers our shortcomings. By using the Enneagram as a tool, we can parent with more awareness, respond with empathy, and honor our own authentic selves while guiding our children with love. Here is some of what we cover:  Enneagram Types as Animals: Ones are Worker Bees, Twos are Kangaroos, Threes are Eagles, Fours are Butterflies, Fives are Owls, Sixes are Bunny Rabbits, Sevens are Monkeys, Eights are Lions, and Nines are Turtles. Grace covers the places we fall short Set appropriate priorities: You can’t do it all. Be mindful in child-centered families: When the focus is entirely on the children, much can get overlooked, and it often reflects a broader cultural expectation. Connect with Suzanne Stabile:  Instagram: Suzanne Stabile (@suzannestabile) Website: The Enneagram Godmother Facebook: Suzanne Stabile | Facebook Links Mentioned:  The Road Back to You: By Suzanne Stabile The Journey Toward Wholeness: By Suzanne Stabile Related Episodes: How God Personally Pursues and Redeems :: Jenn Jett [Ep 193] Enneagram and Stress :: Ian Cron Recap [Bonus Episode] The Enneagram, Marriage and the Gospel :: Beth McCord [Ep 259] Featured Sponsors:  Green Chef: Head to Greenchef.com/50ALONE and use code 50ALONE to get fifty percent off your first month then 20 percent off for two months with free shipping.  Cove: Make protecting your home a top priority. Check out Cove at covesmart.com/DMA or use code DMA at checkout for up to 60% off your first order! And if you get a survey, please let them know you heard about Cove from this podcast. Thrive Causemetics: Amplify your Spring look with Thrive Causemetics. Go to thrivecausemetics.com/DMA for an exclusive offer of 20% off your first order.

    56 min
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Heather MacFadyen, mother of four boys, connects you the listener with people and resources to help you feel less alone. Consider it an invitation to "withness".

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