Make America Happy Again

Wendy Benedict
  • 5.0 (4)
  • KIDS & FAMILY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Motherhood is messy. Life is unpredictable. And in a world that feels more divided and overwhelming than ever, we need real conversations, practical solutions, and a whole lot more joy. Welcome to Make America Happy Again—a podcast for moms who want to break free from stress, burnout, and generational cycles to build a life of health, purpose, and peace. I’m Wendy—wife, mom of two, business owner, and recovering perfectionist who knows firsthand how easy it is to get lost in the chaos of daily life. But I also know that transformation is possible—when we focus on what truly matters and take small, intentional steps forward. This is not another podcast that will tell you to hustle harder, do more, or be perfect. Instead, we’re keeping it real, raw, and radically simple. Each week, we’ll dive into topics like:✔️ Breaking generational cycles and creating a better future for your family✔️ Health & wellness for busy moms—without the all-or-nothing mindset✔️ Faith, mindset, and personal growth—so you can show up as your best self✔️ Simplifying the everyday—meal planning, routines, and making life easier✔️ Overcoming mom guilt, fear, and self-doubt—because you are not alone No fluff. No political affiliation. Just real conversations, practical tools, and a whole lot of encouragement. So if you're ready to take back your peace, prioritize what matters most, and step into the healthiest, happiest version of yourself—you’re in the right place. Hit play, and let’s do this together. 💛

  1. APR 30

    Season Finale! Faith Like Fire: The Unbelievable Story of Pastor Jacinta Mullins

    In this powerful episode, I sit down with Pastor Jacinta Mullins of Broad River Church in Norwalk, CT—a woman of deep faith, incredible resilience, and radical joy. We dive into her journey from stepping into ministry to surviving three separate cancer diagnoses. Pastor Jacinta opens up about the emotional highs and crushing lows of walking through illness, how her relationship with God sustained her, and why every woman needs to be taking their health seriously—especially when it comes to dense breast tissue and early detection. She doesn’t hold back when it comes to calling out the broken parts of the medical system and reminding women that they must advocate for themselves. If you or someone you love has ever battled illness—or if you just need a reminder of God’s faithfulness—this episode is a must-listen. ✨ What We Talk About: How Pastor Jacinta followed the call to ministry in Norwalk, CTHer experience being diagnosed with cancer three separate timesThe emotional and spiritual toll of facing life-threatening illnessWhy annual screenings matter—especially for women with dense breastsHow the medical system fails women and what we can do about itHow she kept her eyes on the Lord, even in her darkest momentsPractical encouragement for women going through a battle📲 Connect with Pastor Jacinta: Instagram: @egomullins Email: jacinta@broadriver.church 🎧 Listen now and share this episode with a woman who needs encouragement, strength, or a reminder that she’s not alone in the battle. Follow me on social! @keepingittogetherish Join my weekly newsletter! 🌟 Sponsor Spotlight: Hiya Health 🌟 As moms, we want the best for our kids—including their nutrition! That’s why I love Hiya Health—a pediatrician-approved, super clean kids' multivitamin with zero added sugar and all the essential nutrients growing little ones need. Ditch the junk and give your kids a healthier start! 💛 Grab yours today at https://hiyahealth.com/WENDYBENEDICT

    1h 8m

  2. APR 23

    Burning the Candle at Both Ends (and Finally Blowing It Out)

    Hey girlfriend. This one’s a little tender. In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain and giving you a real, honest update on what’s been going on in my life lately. Things have been a lot—and if you’re in a season where it feels like everything is spinning a little too fast and you’re just barely hanging on, this one’s for you. I’m talking about the burnout I didn’t see coming, the toll it’s taken on my sleep, my kids, my marriage, and even my faith. I share how I made the incredibly hard (but necessary) decision to shut down my Amazon business for now, and how that felt like a giant, painful failure… but also like a chance to reset. This episode is for the woman who’s been trying so hard to “make it all work” but knows deep down she can’t keep going at this pace. ✨ Inside the episode: Why my kids and I have been butting heads more than usualHow JJ’s sleep regression and Joe’s changing schedule pushed me to my edgeWhat God’s been showing me through my morning devotionalsHow food and hustle can be sneaky forms of comfort for meWhy I’m choosing to slow down, breathe, and trust the Lord with what’s nextI even close this one out with a prayer over you (and myself), because I know I’m not the only one walking through this kind of overwhelm right now. So if you’ve been burning the candle at both ends and you’re ready to finally stop striving and start surrendering, press play. God’s got you. He’s got us. Let’s walk this out together. 💛 — ✨ Resources Mentioned: Scriptures I’ve been clinging to: Matthew 11:28-30, Isaiah 40:29-31, John 15:5The Keeping It Together-ish community on IG → @keepingittogetherish— 📣 Let’s Stay Connected: If this episode spoke to you, would you do me a favor? Screenshot it, share it to your stories, and tag me so I can send you a little love. And if you haven’t already, leave a quick review—it helps more mamas find this space. We don’t have to be perfect. We just have to keep showing up. Follow me on social! @keepingittogetherish Join my weekly newsletter! 🌟 Sponsor Spotlight: Hiya Health 🌟 As moms, we want the best for our kids—including their nutrition! That’s why I love Hiya Health—a pediatrician-approved, super clean kids' multivitamin with zero added sugar and all the essential nutrients growing little ones need. Ditch the junk and give your kids a healthier start! 💛 Grab yours today at https://hiyahealth.com/WENDYBENEDICT

    28 min

  3. APR 16

    Feeling Like A Hot Mess Express? I Have The PERFECT Devo For You!

    "But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me."  - 2 Corinthians 12:9 "The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit."  - Psalm 34:18 "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."  - Matthew 11:28 Real Talk Reflection: Let's be honest – there are days in motherhood when everything goes to hell in a handbasket. Days when the shit hits the fan before you've even had your coffee. When your kids are acting like tiny terrorists, and you're one "Mommy! Mommy! MOMMY!" away from losing your ever-loving mind. You know those moments – when you've screamed into a pillow, hidden in the pantry eating contraband chocolate, or locked yourself in the bathroom just to get three minutes of peace? Yeah, those moments. The ones that make you feel like the worst mom ever. But here's the thing that 2 Corinthians is telling us: God's power isn't most evident when we've got our crap together. It shows up most powerfully in the moments when we're a hot mess express. When we're at our wit's end, when we've lost it with the kids (again), when we feel like we're royally screwing everything up – that's precisely when grace shows up most powerfully. The Psalmist gets real with us too. When we're emotionally wrecked, feeling like we're completely failing at this mom gig – God actually draws closer, not away. Those moments when we're crying in the car after a grocery store meltdown? We're not alone there. And Jesus – bless him – he's basically saying, "Bring me your dumpster fire. All of it. Your bad attitude, your mom guilt, your complete exhaustion. Just come as you are." Prayer: God, let's be real – I'm a mess today. I've yelled too much, my patience is shot, and I'm pretty sure I'm screwing up my kids. But You say Your grace is enough, even for this chaos. Thank You for drawing near when I feel like I'm falling apart. Thank You for offering rest when I'm running on empty and caffeine. Help me extend the same grace to my kids that You keep extending to my hot mess self. Help me remember that these struggles don't make me a bad mom – they make me human and in desperate need of Your strength. Amen. Today's Truth to Hold Onto: Your moments of "I can't do this anymore" aren't failures – they're opportunities for grace to show up and show off. You don't have to have it all together. You just have to be real about your mess and willing to let grace do its thing. Remember: The same grace that saves us is the grace that gets us through those days when everything's gone sideways. Your chaos isn't pushing God away – it's creating space for His strength to show up in ways you never expected. So mama, when you feel like you're failing? That's actually your superpower moment. Because that's when grace steps in and says, "I got you. And I got this."​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ Follow me on social! @keepingittogetherish Join my weekly newsletter! 🌟 Sponsor Spotlight: Hiya Health 🌟 As moms, we want the best for our kids—including their nutrition! That’s why I love Hiya Health—a pediatrician-approved, super clean kids' multivitamin with zero added sugar and all the essential nutrients growing little ones need. Ditch the junk and give your kids a healthier start! 💛 Grab yours today at https://hiyahealth.com/WENDYBENEDICT

    6 min

  4. APR 9

    Midlife Isn’t a Crisis—It’s a Fight You Can Win!

    ATTENTION PERIMENOPAUSAL LADIES!  In this episode, we’re stepping into the ring—because let’s be real, midlife hormone shifts? They don’t play fair. I’m breaking this one down into three intense rounds of unexpected symptoms that hit like a punch to the gut (sometimes literally): 🥊 Round One: Fatigue & Energy Crashes Why I suddenly feel like crying at 4 p.m.What I’ve changed in my workouts (RIP burpee vomit sessions)How water, electrolytes, and rest are becoming my secret weapons🥊 Round Two: Mood Swings & Anxiety My recent journey with antidepressants (and why I switched paths)Daily habits that bring peace: prayer, journaling, and movementHow I'm using nutrition and connection to support my mental health🥊 Round Three: Nutrition Tweaks That Actually Work Upping protein and fiber without losing my mindDitching the sugar (kind of…) and embracing homemade snacksWhy fasting has been a spiritual and physical game-changer for meAnd in the final few minutes, I’m sharing what I want every woman to know during this wild transition: ✨ You are NOT alone ✨ Small changes = big wins ✨ We don’t have to suffer through—we can fight smarter, not harder Whether you’re deep in this season or just starting to feel the shift, this one’s for you. 🔗 Listen now and share this episode with a friend who needs to know she’s not crazy—she’s just entering a new round. And she’s not in it alone. Follow me on social! @keepingittogetherish Join my weekly newsletter! 🌟 Sponsor Spotlight: Hiya Health 🌟 As moms, we want the best for our kids—including their nutrition! That’s why I love Hiya Health—a pediatrician-approved, super clean kids' multivitamin with zero added sugar and all the essential nutrients growing little ones need. Ditch the junk and give your kids a healthier start! 💛 Grab yours today at https://hiyahealth.com/WENDYBENEDICT

    30 min

  5. APR 2

    Perfectly Imperfect: Andrea John on Faith, Purpose, and Modern Womanhood

    On this week's episode, I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Andrea John, the warm and insightful author, speaker, and host of the "Destiny Awaits" podcast. Our Heart-to-Heart Andrea and I dove into a refreshing conversation about what it really means to be a modern woman trying to balance it all. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by expectations (and honestly, who hasn't?), this episode is for you! We started by chatting about Andrea's popular 31-day devotional on the Proverbs 31 woman (which is how I found her!). What I love about Andrea's approach is how she takes this ancient wisdom and makes it feel completely relevant to our lives today. No more feeling intimidated by some impossibly perfect biblical superwoman! Andrea opened up about her own journey of discovering identity beyond titles and roles. We talked about those messy, beautiful moments of motherhood that transform us in unexpected ways. She shared some really vulnerable stories about times when life didn't go according to plan, and how those detours often led to her greatest growth. Real Talk for Real Life One of my favorite parts of our conversation was when we explored what success actually looks like for women today. Andrea offered such practical wisdom about setting boundaries and protecting your energy while still showing up for the people you love. We also talked about those "pause seasons" in life - you know, when you feel stuck or in transition? Andrea shared how these times can actually be incredibly fertile ground for personal growth if we approach them with the right mindset. Connect With Andrea If you enjoyed this episode (and I know you will!), you can find more of Andrea's wisdom: Check out her 31-day devotional on the YouVersion Bible appListen to her podcast "Destiny Awaits" on all major platformsVisit her website at www.andreajohn.comFollow her on Instagram @andreajohnofficialThis conversation left me feeling so inspired and grounded. I hope it brings a little brightness to your day too! Follow me on social! @keepingittogetherish Join my weekly newsletter! 🌟 Sponsor Spotlight: Hiya Health 🌟 As moms, we want the best for our kids—including their nutrition! That’s why I love Hiya Health—a pediatrician-approved, super clean kids' multivitamin with zero added sugar and all the essential nutrients growing little ones need. Ditch the junk and give your kids a healthier start! 💛 Grab yours today at https://hiyahealth.com/WENDYBENEDICT

    1h 6m

  6. MAR 26

    Waiting on God (Without Having a Tantrum)

    In today’s episode, I’m getting real about something we all struggle with—waiting on God. Whether it’s hearing ‘no’ when we really wanted a ‘yes,’ feeling like we’re stuck in a season of waiting, or throwing a full-on tantrum when things don’t go our way, I’m unpacking the ways we are just like our kids when it comes to our relationship with our Heavenly Father. I share some personal stories—like when God took away a relationship I thought was my reward for getting sober, and how I wrestled with that heartbreak, only to realize years later that His ‘no’ was actually making way for something so much better. I also open up about my journey with my Amazon business—something I started a year ago that hasn’t turned out the way I had hoped… yet. But instead of giving up, I’m leaning into His promises and trusting that when He puts a dream in our hearts, He will be faithful to see it through. If you’ve ever struggled with waiting, with trusting God’s plan, or with accepting a ‘no’ when you were hoping for a ‘yes,’ this episode is for you. Let’s dive into what it really means to trust, to be patient, and to believe that God’s timing is always perfect—even when it doesn’t feel like it. Key Takeaways: 💡 Why We Struggle With ‘No’ from God: How we react when God takes something away from us, just like our kids react when we take away a toy.The heartbreak of losing something we thought was good for us, only to later realize it wasn’t God’s best.💡 The Power of Waiting Well: My Amazon business journey: How I’ve had to trust and wait when things didn’t go as planned.God’s timing isn’t our timing, but His plans are always greater.Encouragement for anyone in a season of waiting—your ‘yes’ is coming, in His perfect timing.💡 Three Ways to Wait on the Lord with a Patient Heart: Reflect on His Faithfulness – Look back at past seasons where He has shown up for you.Serve While You Wait – Shift the focus off yourself and onto how you can be a blessing to others.Stay Rooted in His Promises – Read scripture, pray, and remind yourself of God’s truth over your feelings.💡 Final Encouragement: God’s ‘no’ is never rejection—it’s redirection.Choosing patience and trust is hard, but it leads to greater peace and joy.Whatever you’re waiting on—trust that God is working behind the scenes.Scriptures Mentioned in This Episode: 📖 Isaiah 40:31 – “But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength…” 📖 Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding…” 📖 Psalm 27:14 – “Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!” Follow me on social! @keepingittogetherish Join my weekly newsletter! 🌟 Sponsor Spotlight: Hiya Health 🌟 As moms, we want the best for our kids—including their nutrition! That’s why I love Hiya Health—a pediatrician-approved, super clean kids' multivitamin with zero added sugar and all the essential nutrients growing little ones need. Ditch the junk and give your kids a healthier start! 💛 Grab yours today at https://hiyahealth.com/WENDYBENEDICT

    32 min

  7. MAR 19

    From Scary Mom to Spiritual Warrior: Guest Emily Assell on Rewriting Your Motherhood Story

    In this heartfelt and totally inspiring conversation, Emily Assell joins us to discuss her newly released book Wherever You Are: Devotions and Declarations for Moms and shares powerful insights about finding God's presence in the messy, beautiful journey of motherhood. Emily opens up about overcoming shame, embracing God's forgiveness, and the transformative power of speaking truth over ourselves and our children. Whether you're a mom in the trenches of raising little ones or simply seeking to deepen your faith in everyday moments, this episode offers encouragement and practical wisdom for your journey. Episode Highlights Emily shares the personal story behind writing "Wherever You Are" and how her own struggles with perfectionism and shame led to deeper spiritual freedomThe power of declarations and speaking God's truth aloud over yourself and your childrenHow motherhood shapes our understanding of God's nature and his father heartPractical ways to cultivate awareness of God's presence even in the busiest seasonsFinding balance between calling, ambition, and family lifeThe surprising freedom that comes when we stop punishing ourselves for our mistakes Memorable Quotes "Holding on to the guilt and shame didn't keep me from sinning—it just kept me from God." - Emily Assell "Our few minutes are precious to God, and when given to him, they become more than enough." - Emily Assell "Why stay chained to what God has already broken?" - Emily Assell Resources Mentioned Where to find Emily's books:"Wherever You Are: Devotions and Declarations for Moms""When It Hurts" (children's book)Connect with Emily:@generationclaimedWherever You Are Free Devo for Moms About Emily Assell Emily Assell is an author, speaker, and the creator of Generation Claimed. Through her writing and speaking, Emily encourages women to discover God's presence in every season of life. Her honest approach to faith and motherhood has resonated with readers looking for authentic spiritual guidance. Emily's personal experiences navigating motherhood, homeschooling, and her own faith journey inform her compassionate and truth-filled message. Follow me on social! @keepingittogetherish Join my weekly newsletter! 🌟 Sponsor Spotlight: Hiya Health 🌟 As moms, we want the best for our kids—including their nutrition! That’s why I love Hiya Health—a pediatrician-approved, super clean kids' multivitamin with zero added sugar and all the essential nutrients growing little ones need. Ditch the junk and give your kids a healthier start! 💛 Grab yours today at https://hiyahealth.com/WENDYBENEDICT

    47 min

  8. MAR 12

    From Numbing Out to Showing Up – Sobriety & Motherhood

    Have you ever found yourself numbing out just to get through the day? Maybe it’s scrolling endlessly on your phone, pouring that extra glass of wine, or filling your schedule so full that you don’t have time to feel. In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into the moment I realized that numbing out wasn’t helping—it was only making the noise in my head louder. I’ll share my own journey from using substances to cope to embracing sobriety long before I became a mother. And if you’re a mom who feels stuck in this cycle, I want you to know: there is hope, and you are not alone. But we’re not stopping there. We’re also unpacking the wisdom of the Proverbs 31 woman—a biblical example of strength, purpose, and faith. What can we learn from her? How can we apply her principles to modern motherhood without feeling overwhelmed by the pressure to be "perfect"? This isn’t about doing more—it’s about stepping into who you were created to be. If you’re ready to trade self-loathing for self-acceptance, numbness for clarity, and exhaustion for true joy, this episode is for you. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ The moment I realized that numbing out wasn’t working—and what I did next ✅ Why so many moms turn to substances, social media, or busyness to cope ✅ How sobriety is more than just quitting—it’s about reclaiming your peace and purpose ✅ What the Proverbs 31 woman can teach us about strength, wisdom, and living with intention ✅ Practical steps to start embodying clarity, self-worth, and purpose—right where you are Resources & Mentions: 🔹 Proverbs 31:10-31 – The blueprint for a woman of strength and dignity 🔹 My Instagram – Come hang out with me and continue the conversation! 🔹 Need support? Don’t do this alone—reach out to a trusted friend, mentor, or support group. You are not alone. Let’s Keep the Conversation Going! If this episode spoke to you, screenshot it, share it on Instagram, and tag me @keepingittogetherish! I’d love to hear your thoughts, your story, and what resonated with you most. And if you’re feeling stuck in a rut, let this be your sign: You can step into a better, healthier, more purpose-driven life. One choice at a time. 💛 You are strong. You are worthy. And you are never alone. 👉 If you loved this episode, first SHARE it, then leave a review—it helps more moms just like you find the encouragement they need! Follow me on social! @keepingittogetherish Join my weekly newsletter! 🌟 Sponsor Spotlight: Hiya Health 🌟 As moms, we want the best for our kids—including their nutrition! That’s why I love Hiya Health—a pediatrician-approved, super clean kids' multivitamin with zero added sugar and all the essential nutrients growing little ones need. Ditch the junk and give your kids a healthier start! 💛 Grab yours today at https://hiyahealth.com/WENDYBENEDICT

    33 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Motherhood is messy. Life is unpredictable. And in a world that feels more divided and overwhelming than ever, we need real conversations, practical solutions, and a whole lot more joy. Welcome to Make America Happy Again—a podcast for moms who want to break free from stress, burnout, and generational cycles to build a life of health, purpose, and peace. I’m Wendy—wife, mom of two, business owner, and recovering perfectionist who knows firsthand how easy it is to get lost in the chaos of daily life. But I also know that transformation is possible—when we focus on what truly matters and take small, intentional steps forward. This is not another podcast that will tell you to hustle harder, do more, or be perfect. Instead, we’re keeping it real, raw, and radically simple. Each week, we’ll dive into topics like:✔️ Breaking generational cycles and creating a better future for your family✔️ Health & wellness for busy moms—without the all-or-nothing mindset✔️ Faith, mindset, and personal growth—so you can show up as your best self✔️ Simplifying the everyday—meal planning, routines, and making life easier✔️ Overcoming mom guilt, fear, and self-doubt—because you are not alone No fluff. No political affiliation. Just real conversations, practical tools, and a whole lot of encouragement. So if you're ready to take back your peace, prioritize what matters most, and step into the healthiest, happiest version of yourself—you’re in the right place. Hit play, and let’s do this together. 💛

Information

  • Creator
    Wendy Benedict
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    26
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Make America Happy Again
  • Show Website
    Make America Happy Again