Circle 31 Podcast

Sometimes you just need a reminder that everyone else is trying to figure things out — just like you! That’s where Circle 31 Podcast comes in. Here you’ll be both challenged and encouraged by women who are eager to make real progress alongside each other. Join Ellen and Kendra, your book club hosts (and friends!), as they chat with authors and other experts about topics that spark curiosity and help us grow in our faith. Think of this podcast as a book club on the go — perfect for your commute or while you work at your desk. Remember, good things happen when we grow, and there’s so much good waiting for us as we read together, learn from one another, and chat about the current book club pick. Let’s get started.

  1. 13/08/2025

    Book 4, Episode 2: Glorifying God in the Trenches of Motherhood

    This week on the Circle 31 Podcast, Ellen and Melissa are joined by Ellen’s longtime friend Brooke Swift for a tender and honest conversation about glorifying God through the work of motherhood. As a stay-at-home mom to three little ones (with one on the way), Brooke shares what it’s like to follow Jesus in a season that is deeply personal, often unseen, and sometimes overwhelming. Brooke’s story reminds us that God is present in every diaper change, every napless afternoon, and every sacrifice made for the good of another. Whether you’re in the thick of early motherhood, walking alongside someone who is, or simply wondering how to find meaning in the mundane, this episode is a powerful reminder of what it looks like to say, “My life for yours.” You’ll hear: Why Brooke’s journey into stay-at-home motherhood taught her more about Jesus than seminary ever could. The way sacrifice in motherhood reflects the gospel — not in perfection but in presence.Encouragement from Melissa for moms who feel like they’ve lost themselves in the daily grind.Click here to download a transcript of this episode.Not a member of Circle 31 Book Club yet? We don’t want to read without you! Join for free to access our online community, watch teaching videos, and dig into Five Mere Christians alongside us. Already a member? Log in here, and let us know your favorite moment from this week’s episode. Book club is way more fun when you’ve got the book! Grab your copy of Five Mere Christians, and follow along with us. The Circle 31 Book Club community of women is part of Proverbs 31 Ministries.

    12 min
  2. 03/09/2025

    Book 4, Episode 5: When Retirement Feels Like a Wilderness

    This week on the Circle 31 Podcast, Melissa introduces us to someone very close to her heart — her best friend, Denise Hammond. After running a vibrant farm camp for over 16 years, Denise made the difficult decision to retire. But what she didn’t expect was the identity crisis, depression, and loneliness that followed. In this honest and powerful conversation, Denise opens up about what it’s been like to transition from a full calendar to a quiet house — and how God met her there. Whether you’re in a season of retirement, transition, or simply asking “what now?” Denise’s story is proof that God is never finished writing your story. You’ll hear: How to let God make an impact in your life before you try to make one for Him.What retirement really feels like — the good, the hard, and the unexpected.Three ways to glorify God even when your days look very different than before.Click here to download a transcript of this episode.This is the final episode in our series on Five Mere Christians — but the conversation isn’t over! Don’t forget to RSVP in Mighty Networks for our live Beyond the Pages event with Jordan and Kaleigh, happening tomorrow! Not a Circle 31 Book Club member yet? Join for free so you don’t miss out. Already in? Log in here to connect with others, and share what this book and podcast series has meant to you. Book club is better when we do it together. Grab your copy of Five Mere Christians, and let’s keep growing. The Circle 31 Book Club community of women is part of Proverbs 31 Ministries.

    21 min

Tráilers

Acerca de

Sometimes you just need a reminder that everyone else is trying to figure things out — just like you! That’s where Circle 31 Podcast comes in. Here you’ll be both challenged and encouraged by women who are eager to make real progress alongside each other. Join Ellen and Kendra, your book club hosts (and friends!), as they chat with authors and other experts about topics that spark curiosity and help us grow in our faith. Think of this podcast as a book club on the go — perfect for your commute or while you work at your desk. Remember, good things happen when we grow, and there’s so much good waiting for us as we read together, learn from one another, and chat about the current book club pick. Let’s get started.

Más de Proverbs 31 Ministries