One Tough Momma

Christine Siddens

Sometimes, being a mom is tough. This podcast delves into the more complex topics of motherhood and sometimes the mundane. We will talk about loss, special needs, mental health, adoption, homeschooling, isolation, adult children, and large families, all while relying on Jesus. Get ready to laugh, be encouraged, and need a few tissues.

  1. APR 29

    Supermom Myth is Destroying Mental Health Ep. 41 with Emma Donaldson

    In this episode, Emma Donaldson, founder of Joyful Mama Mental Wellness, shares clinically informed, faith-rooted insights into postpartum mental health, highlighting how women can find support and healing during one of life's most vulnerable seasons.Main Topics Covered: The importance of understanding postpartum mental health beyond typical counselingCommon struggles faced by new and seasoned moms, including postpartum anxiety and depressionThe impact of cultural and societal shifts on community support for mothersHow faith intersects with mental health and the importance of compassion and empathyPractical ways for moms to nurture their well-being amidst chaosThe significance of community, support systems, and co-regulation for emotional healthIn this episode: Emma explains her mission to bring mental health care into everyday life for Christian womenShe discusses the normalization of postpartum struggles and the barriers to seeking helpThe episode explores how societal expectations and lack of community contribute to moms feeling isolatedEmma emphasizes the importance of giving oneself permission to rest and seek supportPractical tips for integrating faith and self-care in busy motherhood momentsThe role of the church and community in supporting women through postpartum challengesThe benefits of co-regulation and simple breathing exercises for nervous system regulationTimestamps: (00:00) - Welcome & introduction to postpartum mental health(02:22) - Emma's background and journey to founding Joyful Mama(10:13) - The biggest challenges for moms, including stigma and societal expectations(13:40) - Postpartum depression vs. baby blues - signs and differences(17:45) - How faith aligns with mental health care and God's care for moms(32:23) - Practical steps to know God's character during postpartum struggles(35:46) - The importance of simplicity and self-care rituals for moms(45:16) - The power of community support and practical love(56:42) - Regulation techniques for anxiety and emotional overwhelm(58:50) - The significance of co-regulation and physical connection(61:23) - Loving and nurturing across the lifespanResources & Links: Joyful Mama Mental WellnessInstagram - JoyfulMamaMentalWellnessTikTok - JoyfulMamaMentalWellnessBible AppConnect with Emma Donaldson: WebsiteInstagramTikTokAdditional notes: Emma emphasizes the importance of community, practical self-care, and integrating faith with mental health strategies, encouraging women not to navigate postpartum alone and to seek help without shame or stigma.

    1h 2m
  2. APR 22

    Honest Talk: Faith, Family & Adoption with RuthAnn Zimmerman Ep38

    Most mothers carry hidden burdens—struggles with faith, identity, and the pressures to succeed. Ruth Ann Zimmerman’s story of overcoming excommunication, finding new purpose, and embracing God's plan will challenge everything you think about motherhood and resilience. Discover how surrendering idols and trusting God's timeline transform pain into strength.In this heartfelt conversation, Ruth Ann shares her journey from old order Mennonite roots to a life of grace, grace-filled parenting, and radical obedience. You’ll uncover practical wisdom on laying down social expectations, managing big emotions in adoption, and the importance of building a biblical connection with your children—no matter their age.We break down:*How to recognize and uproot idols disguised as success or control in your parenting journey.*Practical ways to nurture emotional health in kids through intentional relationships.*Handling adoption and birth-family dynamics with grace, honesty, and faith.*The transformative power of giving your pain and past to Jesus for healing and purpose.*Why loving your children unconditionally, even amid chaos, creates resilient, secure adults.This episode matters if you're longing for peace amid parenting challenges, confronting fears about adoption and birth-family ties, or seeking direction to parent with biblical integrity in a busy, image-driven culture. Ruth Ann’s honest reflections will inspire you to lay up treasures in heaven rather than on earthly accolades—and to trust in God's perfect plan for your family.Her credibility is rooted in years of navigating faith, motherhood, and adoption, and her insights are backed by personal victories and biblical truth. Whether you've faced rejection, cultural pressure, or just plain exhaustion, her story offers hope and practical steps for every mom eager to lead a legacy of faith.Perfect for overwhelmed parents, adoptive families, and anyone yearning to deepen their relationship with Jesus and their children, this episode will leave you refreshed, challenged, and empowered to walk in grace and truth.Find RuthAnn Zimmerman here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=homesteading+with+the+zimmermansIG: https://www.instagram.com/ruthannzimm/Her Documentary: https://abundanceplus.com/pages/ruthann?rfsn=8893609.8d77c5Her Book: https://www.amazon.com/Heart-Homestead-Cultivating-Through-Homemaking/dp/0736989765/ref=sr_1_2?crid=2HFDUC0EIA3O&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.R6SZLizD-NNiLta6PAM6TeR2uQYSXi0NANVwaG5IV-s.k8dHnS3fCCfVOwf_sYI0v3EACwyO2PyJr2I3b9thnCk&dib_tag=se&keywords=ruthann+zimmerman+book&qid=1776380215&sprefix=ruthann%2Caps%2C258&sr=8-2Intro/Outro Music: Nathan SiddensAlso on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/18XrBi4...Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Want to be a Guest: https://www.joinpodmatch.com/otmpodmatchAffiliates:ThredUP: 45% off your first order, plus free shipping. https://www.thredup.com/r/IYGJ0BSeven Weeks Coffee: https://snwbl.io/seven-weeks-coffee/C...Stone and Spear: https://www.stoneandspeartallow.com/?...Herbal Roots: https://herbalrootssupplements.com/?r...Toups and Co Organics: https://toupsandco.com/christinesiddensHeart and Soil: https://refer.heartandsoil.co/hs292638 Connect with me on:Instagram: / onetoughmommapod Email: onetoughmommapod@gmail.comWELCOME:I am a Christian wife and homeschooling mom of nine. My husband and I have biological, adopted, and kids with special needs, and a baby in Heaven. We have been through hell and back along the way on this fulfilling journey as parents. I get candid about the good times, the bad times, and the times that almost broke me.#podmatch #ruthannzimmerman #homestead #homesteading #homesteadingwiththezimmerman's #adoption #adoptionjourney #birthparents #mom #parenting #family #oldordermennonite #mennonite #raisingkids #grandparents #children #faith #faithinjesus #hope #hopeinchrist #christianfaith #jesus #podcast

    54 min
  3. APR 15

    Secret to Healing After Pregnancy Loss Ep 40

    Most women carry invisible scars from pregnancy loss and grief — but what if sharing your raw, honest story could free you from shame and help others heal?Val Kleppen’s journey through the pain of stillbirth, NICU trauma, and intense grief is a powerful reminder that vulnerability can be our greatest strength. From losing her sweet daughter Harlan at birth to helping dozens of families through her inspiring organization, Val’s story unveils the profound ways God’s grace sustains us through the darkest chapters of motherhood. You’ll discover:**The true depth of grief after stillbirth and how to navigate those turbulent waters without shame.**How trusting your intuition in pregnancy can make all the difference, and why silence can sometimes be dangerous.**The transformative power of honest, unpolished faith — Psalm stories that comfort, and raw prayers that bring us closer to God.**Practical ways to honor your child’s memory while establishing healthy boundaries and honesty with others about your story.**The healing journey of forgiving yourself, trusting God's timing, and sharing your pain to help others—even when social media makes it feel risky.**This episode is a lifeline for any mom who’s faced pregnancy loss, feels stuck in grief, or longs to find her voice again after loss. It’s about embracing every chapter of your story — even the painful ones — as part of your unique walk with Jesus. If you’ve ever wondered how to turn heartbreak into hope, this conversation will inspire and equip you to share your testimony boldly, knowing it can be a beacon for others walking the same path. Val Kleppen is a dedicated mother and founder of Harlan’s Heart, a nonprofit supporting bereaved families. Her courage and authenticity make her a powerful voice for healing and hope. If you’re ready to stand firm in your faith, free yourself from shame, and find beauty in your brokenness, this episode is your gentle, honest invitation. Your story matters — and healing begins when we share it. Perfect for moms of all ages, believers seeking deeper faith, and anyone who needs a reminder that God’s grace sustains us through the hardest seasons. Hit play and be reminded: you are not alone.Find Val Kleppen here: https://www.youtube.com/@TheMotherhoodExperience_2023Intro/Outro Music: Nathan SiddensAlso on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/18XrBi4...Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Want to be a Guest: https://www.joinpodmatch.com/otmpodmatchAffiliates:ThredUP: 45% off your first order, plus free shipping. https://www.thredup.com/r/IYGJ0BSeven Weeks Coffee: https://snwbl.io/seven-weeks-coffee/C...Stone and Spear: https://www.stoneandspeartallow.com/?...Herbal Roots: https://herbalrootssupplements.com/?r...Toups and Co Organics: https://toupsandco.com/christinesiddensHeart and Soil: https://refer.heartandsoil.co/hs292638 Connect with me on:Instagram: / onetoughmommapod Email: onetoughmommapod@gmail.comWELCOME:I am a Christian wife and homeschooling mom of nine. My husband and I have biological, adopted, and kids with special needs, and a baby in Heaven. We have been through hell and back along the way on this fulfilling journey as parents. I get candid about the good times, the bad times, and the times that almost broke me.0:00 Introduction and Welcome 0:44 Val's Background and Family Life 3:27 The Story of Harlan 5:13 Navigating Grief and Loss 7:43 Impact on Family and Faith 39:14 The Birth of Harlan's Heart Organization 49:21 Encouragement for Grieving Mothers 51:40 The Power of Sharing Your Story 55:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts#podmatch #bereavedmother #infantloss #infantlossawareness #infantlosssupport #stillborn #grief #griefsupport #griefjourney #motherhood #mom #pregnancy #pregnancyjourney #pregnancyloss #faith #faithinjesus #hope #hopeinchrist #christianfaith #jesus #podcast

    58 min
  4. APR 3

    Why Learning History Matters Ep 39

    Unlock the transformative power of history through the eyes of an educator and author who’s passionate about inspiring young minds. Discover how understanding our past can shape smarter, more compassionate decision-makers and elevate our children’s critical thinking skills—starting from their very first words. If you’re a parent, homeschooling advocate, or educator frustrated by traditional teaching methods, this episode is a game-changer.Barbara Ann Mojica, a former educator with 40 years of experience specializing in both general and special education, shares her journey from classroom to author. She’s the creator of “Little Miss History,” a whimsical character designed to make history engaging and interactive for kids. She reveals her unique approach to teaching history as a lively adventure that connects the past to the present—combining storytelling, science, and critical thinking to foster curiosity and innovation. You’ll learn how her books incorporate multimedia elements like maps, portraits, and museum interactions, making history tangible and exciting for children of all ages.We break down specific techniques to nurture critical thinking in children—asking the right questions, encouraging experimentation, and teaching responsibility. Barbara emphasizes that understanding history isn’t just about memorizing dates but about learning to analyze, question, and connect with the world. She discusses the modern challenges posed by social media, AI, and biased information, and offers practical strategies for parents to develop their kids’ media literacy and resilience. For parents concerned about the tech-driven future, this episode offers essential insights on how to equip children with the skills to navigate a rapidly changing world responsibly and thoughtfully.Why does this matter? Without fostering critical thinking early, kids may become superficial thinkers, easily swayed by biased content and social algorithms. This episode is your guide to empowering your children with a deep, analytical mindset that will serve them for life—whether in solving today’s problems or tackling tomorrow’s innovations.Perfect for parents, homeschoolers, educators, or anyone passionate about raising a generation that’s informed, independent, and prepared for the future. Dive into Barbara’s tips on effective storytelling, fostering curiosity, and making history relevant. These insights could be the key to developing the next generation of thoughtful leaders.Visit LittleMissHistory.com to explore her resources, books, and multimedia projects—designed to make history unforgettable and fun. Whether you’re planting the seeds of critical thinking in toddlers or inspiring older children to question and connect, this episode is a must-listen.Where to find Barbara Ann Mojica: https://www.littlemisshistory.comIntro/Outro Music: Nathan SiddensAlso on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/18XrBi4...Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Want to be a Guest: https://www.joinpodmatch.com/otmpodmatchAffiliates:ThredUP: 45% off your first order, plus free shipping. https://www.thredup.com/r/IYGJ0BSeven Weeks Coffee: https://snwbl.io/seven-weeks-coffee/C...Stone and Spear: https://www.stoneandspeartallow.com/?...Herbal Roots: https://herbalrootssupplements.com/?r...Toups and Co Organics: https://toupsandco.com/christinesiddensHeart and Soil: https://refer.heartandsoil.co/hs292638 Connect with me on:Instagram: / onetoughmommapod Email: onetoughmommapod@gmail.comWELCOME:I am a Christian wife and homeschooling mom of nine. My husband and I have biological, adopted, and kids with special needs, and a baby in Heaven. We have been through hell and back along the way on this fulfilling journey as parents. I get candid about the good times, the bad times, and the times that almost broke me.#podmatch#history#children'sbooks#books#author #histoybooks #homeschooling #teacher #education#travel #family #criticalthinking

    54 min
  5. MAR 18

    Fighting for our Prodigals Ep 37

    Do you have a prodigal child? Do you need a new prayer plan for your prodigal, a refocused heart for your prodigal child? Then "Battle Cry: Waging the Spiritual Battle for Your Prodigal" by Debra McNinch is the book you need. We talk about our prodigal children and how to wage the spiritual battle for their souls. There is nothing like a praying mom. There is nothing like a praying mom with a Battle Plan for her prodigal child. "No one fights alone", is Debra's motto when it comes to our prodigals. Listen as we talk about how to navigate the guilt and shame that come with parenting a prodigal, estrangement, a path to healing, finding hope for our prodigal in prayer, and advice for young parents who do not have a prodigal. Get a prayer strategy, fight in faith, not fear, for your prodigal. Learn to worship in the battle for your prodigal. We also talk about navigating the LGBTQ conversation.**Where to find Debra: https://www.debramcninch.com/Her book can be found on her site as well as on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Battle-Cry-Waging-spiritual-prodigal/dp/1936501910/ref=sr_1_5?crid=1ZPFFGTFXQLBD&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.wisUg8XiU-0rpU1uZBeAzB4rFD34PIAFKYSVErKtO95FkZBUddmc6TasbAbslkG7Cb3P7yaAAasZK2tzaZckzXiW3bsFEQ5NN0lUq3lkZb2vf49JbC9EGo4O0haZkbdXRZ3-YkziyQ2l1vdIByLZeC9dZU0usKDkS1uhDgAv4GWGH1LmlGMX26IuSvv5i3aEMfD_0KQ-vZhdkN4EDtYs-xa8k0lKNe6ONfIwt5Yjr8M.CeMr8wxEnMtCa1whRmB33931L6XsQn6Qdu9J-CxgVxo&dib_tag=se&keywords=battle+cry+book&qid=1773785121&sprefix=battle+cry+boo%2Caps%2C247&sr=8-5Intro/Outro Music: Nathan Siddens Also on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/18XrBi4...Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Want to be a Guest: https://www.joinpodmatch.com/otmpodmatchAffiliates:ThredUP: 45% off your first order, plus free shipping. https://www.thredup.com/r/IYGJ0BSeven Weeks Coffee: https://snwbl.io/seven-weeks-coffee/C...Stone and Spear: https://www.stoneandspeartallow.com/?...Herbal Roots: https://herbalrootssupplements.com/?r...Toups and Co Organics: https://toupsandco.com/christinesiddensHeart and Soil: https://refer.heartandsoil.co/hs292638 Connect with me on:Instagram: / onetoughmommapod Email: onetoughmommapod@gmail.comWELCOME:I am a Christian wife and homeschooling mom of nine. My husband and I have biological, adopted, and kids with special needs, and a baby in Heaven. We have been through hell and back along the way on this fulfilling journey as parents. I get candid about the good times, the bad times, and the times that almost broke me.#prodigals #prodigal #prodigalscomehome #prodigalchildren #lgbtq #guilt #shame #church #mom #momofprodigal #christianbelief #faith #faithinjesus #podcast #growyourfaith #prayer #prayerworks #prayerlife #prayerwarrior #worship #worshiptogether #hope #hopeinchrist #battlecry #jesus #healing #spiritual #podmatch

    1 hr
  6. MAR 4

    87+ Babies Saved! Ep 36

    It is estimated that over 1 million babies are aborted in the US each year. Meet someone who is doing something to reduce those numbers and save more babies. Suzy Walker with LoveLife talks about hope amid heartache, LoveLife and its mission, her journey into the abortion ministry, and the role of the church. Learn how to support women and what other options are available. Links mentioned in shownotes: Suzy Walker, Love Life Chicago City Coordinator Email: Suzy@lovelife.orgJuan Riesco, Missionary To Chicago Abortion Clinics Links:Request Help With PregnancyFree Pregnancy Test & Ultrasound Call or Text: 1-800-712-4357Abortion Pill Reversal Website:Help For Abortion Industry Workers:National Human Trafficking Hotline:Center Against Forced Abortion:Get Involved:Support Love Life ChicagoInstagram https://www.instagram.com/juaneliasri...Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/share/1BCUBn...Testimony Video   • Saved out of a Homosexual Lifestyle and No...  https://www.real-choices.comhttps://abortionpillreversal.comhttps://abortionworker.comCall 1-888-373-7888 or Text “HELP” to 233733Call 1-210-614-7157 or visit https://thejusticefoundation.org/cafa/https://lovelife.org/connect/https://axiainternational.net/gift/la...Also on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/18XrBi4...Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Want to be a Guest: https://www.joinpodmatch.com/otmpodmatchAffiliates:ThredUP: 45% off your first order, plus free shipping. https://www.thredup.com/r/IYGJ0BSeven Weeks Coffee: https://snwbl.io/seven-weeks-coffee/C...Stone and Spear: https://www.stoneandspeartallow.com/?...Herbal Roots: https://herbalrootssupplements.com/?r...Toups and Co Organics: https://toupsandco.com/christinesiddensHeart and Soil: https://refer.heartandsoil.co/hs292638 Connect with me on:Instagram: / onetoughmommapod Email: onetoughmommapod@gmail.comWELCOME:I am a Christian wife and homeschooling mom of eight. My husband and I have biological, adopted, and kids with special needs, and a baby in Heaven. We have been through hell and back along the way on this fulfilling journey as parents. I get candid about the good times, the bad times, and the times that almost broke me.#abortion #prolife #prolifegeneration #babies #alllivesmatter #alllifeisprecious #adoption #mom #help #support #lovelife #plannedparenthood #jesus

    59 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Sometimes, being a mom is tough. This podcast delves into the more complex topics of motherhood and sometimes the mundane. We will talk about loss, special needs, mental health, adoption, homeschooling, isolation, adult children, and large families, all while relying on Jesus. Get ready to laugh, be encouraged, and need a few tissues.

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