Doing Less & Enjoying the Holidays MORE; Peace not chaos during Christmas

In this episode of Hope for the Journey, Monica Schmelter discusses the importance of embracing the holiday spirit by doing less and enjoying more.She emphasizes that holiday magic comes from being present rather than overdoing it and shares practical strategies for women over 40 to reclaim joy dur…

Holidays -Unwrapping Grace: How flexibility can show others the love of Christ

The holiday season often arrives wrapped in expectations—traditions to uphold, gatherings to organize, and memories we hope to recreate. But life is never static. Children grow. Circumstances shift. Loved ones move across states… or even across oceans. In this episode of Hope for the Journey, Monic…

Hope is Closer than you Think: The Spirit of Christ: Hope for the Holidays

If the holiday season is already feeling heavy - if your scheduled is already overbooked - you are NOT alone. Hope is closer than you think. Acclaimed author Cynthia Ruchti joins Monica to talk about the Spirit of Christmas - a unique look at the Christmas story - that may change your perspective o…

Breaking the Grip of Anxiety - Reclaim Peace in Your Life

  Episode Title: Breaking the Grip of Anxiety with Dr. Michelle Bengtson Description: In this powerful episode, board-certified clinical neuropsychologist Dr. Michelle Bengtson shares her personal and professional insights on overcoming anxiety’s relentless grip. Drawing from decades of clinical…

I'm a Stepmom now what Do I Do ? Help from the SMART Stepmom

One of the biggest challenges stepmoms face is figuring out where they actually fit in. Are you a parent? A friend? A bonus mom? Or just… in the background? In this episode, we unpack the confusing, ever-shifting role of a stepmom in a blended family. From navigating parental boundaries to defining…

Grace Beyond Failure: It's Never Too Late to Rewrite Your Story

In this episode of Grace Beyond Failure, we explore the hidden strength found in our most broken moments. Whether you're wrestling with personal setbacks, professional disappointments, or simply feeling stuck, this conversation will remind you don't have to let failure have the final say — it’s the…

Finding Hope in the Shadows of Grief: A Mom's Story of Loss and Finding Purpose beyond Grief

When Denette Schaer lost her 17-year-old son in a tragic accident, her world was shattered. What followed was a journey through the deepest valleys of grief—a place where time stood still, and the future felt unimaginable. In this powerful episode, Denette shares her story with raw honesty and quie…

Boundaries Without Guilt: No is a Complete Sentence, Stop People Pleasing and Enjoy Your Life

Ever felt selfish or guilty for setting boundaries? You’re not alone — but it doesn’t have to be that way. In this episode, we explore how to set clear, compassionate boundaries without the emotional baggage. Learn why boundaries are a form of self-respect, how to communicate them with confidence, …

Making the Most of Change and Transitions in Life: Change - Not If - But When

My guest today shares that change is sometimes spelled H-A-R-D. Yet if we remain open to what God is doing in our lives change can bring the transformation that we want and need. Whether it's a cross country move, a new job, or relationship loss change is always right there with us. Change can brin…

Rewritten - Shakia's Story of Hope, Healing, and Motherhood: Abuse, Addiction, Recovery

Today, Shakia a beautiful, professional, single mom raising 3 children. What you can't see is that Shakia was sexually abused by several members as a young child. This along with other circumstances led her down the path and drugs and addiction. Her story will bring you hope as Shakia faced the har…