Growing Through Motherhood — Christian Mom Podcast, Faith-Based Parenting, Grace-Filled Motherhood

A New Season, A New Name: Welcome to Growing Through Motherhood

Let's talk about a big shift happening here—our podcast is getting a new name and stepping into a whole new season of purpose. What started as Confidence to Homeschool has grown into something deeper, wider, and more aligned with the work God is doing in my heart… and hopefully yours.
Today, I’m sharing:✨ Why the old name no longer fit where God is leading✨ What “Growing Through Motherhood” truly means✨ How this podcast will serve you in a richer, more meaningful way✨ The themes God keeps pressing on my heart—faith, triggers, family culture, marriage, homeschooling, and spiritual growth✨ What you can expect in this next chapter
If you've ever felt God shifting your heart, stretching your identity, or inviting you into a new season, this will feel like a deep exhale and a warm reminder that He guides every step.
This podcast is growing because we are growing—spiritually, emotionally, and as mothers. And I can’t wait to walk through this next season right alongside you.
Welcome to Growing Through Motherhood. Let’s grow together. 🌿💛

EP 36: Always Hungry: Feeding Your Homeschool Family Without Losing Your Mind ft. Janeen Marino

If you’re a homeschool mom, you already know—these kids are always hungry! 🍽️ Between lessons, chores, and everyday chaos, it can feel like someone is asking for a snack every five minutes. 
In this episode, I’m joined by Janeen Marino for an honest and funny conversation about what it’s really like keeping your homeschool family fed when cooking feels hard.
We talk about the “second breakfast” phenomenon, why homeschoolers seem to eat nonstop, and how to make feeding your family easier with simple meal ideas and practical kitchen hacks.
From doubling your rice to stretch meals, to grabbing a rotisserie chicken on busy days, to creating easy snack stations your kids can manage themselves—this episode is packed with doable ideas and encouragement.
Janeen and I also dive into what it means to build confidence in the kitchen, even if you weren’t taught how to cook growing up. 
You’ll hear how you can teach your children valuable life skills like meal prep, planning, and gratitude—without turning every meal into a stressful event.
Whether you love cooking or dread dinner time, this episode will remind you that you’re not alone, and that feeding your homeschool family can be simpler, more joyful, and full of grace.
 
Special Thanks to Janeen Marino who is an incredible rockstar of a momma that keeps up with 5 hungry boys while traveling the world and homeschooling if you would love to reach out to her:
Follow her @life.with.the.marinos   
or her website www.JaneenMarino.com
 
Grab Your Guide to all the easy healthy snacks to make eating while schooling possible
Recipe for EASY Coffee Creamer
 
Want to connect? Click here to Find me on Facebook

EP 35: When Faith Becomes Family Life

Faith isn’t something we just teach—it’s something our kids catch as they watch us live it. In this episode, we’ll explore how to bring God into your family’s daily rhythm—through worship music, Bible time, gratitude, and those unexpected conversations that shape young hearts. Let’s talk about walking the walk and making faith a natural, joyful part of everyday life.
 
Have questions or comments? Let's Chat
 
 

EP 34: Feeling Unqualified and Failing at Homeschool? Here’s the Truth

In this episode, we’re getting real about what it feels like to homeschool when you once struggled in school yourself. I share how I went from nearly failing in the traditional school system to realizing that the same system is often what teaches us to feel unqualified to teach our own kids.
We’ll talk about:💭 How public school shaped our definition of “qualified.”💡 Why following your child’s interests leads to deeper learning.🧠 How neurodivergent kids often don’t fit the public-school mold — and that’s okay.🌱 How I went from “unqualified” to thriving once I started learning what truly interested me.
If you’ve ever felt like your past disqualifies you from homeschooling, this episode will remind you: you’re not behind — you’re being redeemed. God can use your story, your struggles, and your growth to create a learning environment that actually prepares your children for real life.
 
Let's Connect
 

EP 33: Redefining Stay-at-Home Mom Life: Purpose, Income & Homeschooling

Stay-at-home mom does not mean dream-less mom. In this episode, Janeen and I have a real conversation about finding purpose at home, creating income streams as a homeschool mom, and making homeschooling more affordable—without burnout or guilt.
We talk about:
The identity shift from leaving a job to staying home
Why moms need purpose (not just productivity)
Ways to work from home while homeschooling
Income ideas for homeschool moms (without spammy tactics)
How working from home teaches kids an entrepreneur mindset
Affordable homeschooling options and budget curriculum tips
Letting go of mom guilt around money and spending
Protecting your energy, focus, and peace at home
At the end, we share why Make Wellness has been a game changer for restoring energy and mental clarity, and why I said yes—even though I swore I’d never do another MLM-style opportunity again. This one is built differently, with flexibility, low pressure, and real wellness results.
✨ If you're a homeschooling mom who wants financial margin, purpose, and more energy—this episode is for you.
 
Let's Chat! Connect with me Here 
Connect with Janeen: 
Instagram @life.with.the.marinos
or at her website www.JaneenMarino.com
Join Our Homeschooling Group with 40k+ Mommas

EP 32: Energy + Peace: Thriving in Motherhood Without Burnout

You know that 2 p.m. feeling—brain fog, fatigue, wondering how you’ll survive the rest of the day? That’s what today’s episode is all about. Janeen Marino joins me to walk through real, accessible ways for homeschooling moms to feel alive again.
Episode Highlights / Key Points
Transition tools, routines & micro-breaks
Brain breaks & nervous system resets
Energy boosters: protein, hydration, movement
Boundaries: protecting your peace
Adrenal fatigue: what to look for & why it matters
Peptides as support tools
Actionable small steps you can try this week
Links & Resources
Grab Your Free Energy + Adrenal Guide 
Peptides & Support Options  https://makewellness.com/512800/shopping/item?itemId=49&categoryID=33
Fast Like a Girl → https://amzn.to/4nVazD6
Boundaries → https://amzn.to/46YMPH5
Boundaries with Kids → https://amzn.to/4q4KaEs
Streaks App
Guest InfoJaneen Marino📧 janeenmarino@gmail.com📷 Instagram: @life.with.the.marinos🌐 Website: www.JaneenMarino.com
Your Call to Action
Pick one tiny change from today’s episode and try it this week
Subscribe to the podcast (so you don’t miss an episode)
Share with a friend who might need this encouragement
Grab the Energy + Adrenal Guide (if you haven’t yet)
Closing with EncouragementYou don’t have to push through every day. Motherhood + homeschooling doesn’t have to feel exhausting. Small shifts build sustainable energy. I’m cheering for you always. 💛

EP 31: Homeschool Do’s: What to Lean Into for a Joyful, Successful Journey

In this episode, we’re diving into the homeschool “Do’s”—the things that will keep you grounded, confident, and connected as you teach your children at home. From trusting your instincts to building a flexible rhythm, celebrating small wins, and weaving life skills into everyday learning, these practices will help you create a homeschool that works for your unique family. Think of this as your encouragement list—the gentle reminders that make homeschooling not just doable, but joyful.
👉 And don’t forget to check out Part 1, Episode 29: The Do Not’s of Homeschooling for the other side of this conversation.

Ep 30: Raising Kingdom-Minded Kids with Janeen Marino Part 2 Episode

In this 2 part episode, I sit down with Janeen Marino—a Jesus-loving, world-schooling mama of five boys who has been homeschooling for over a decade while traveling from RV life in the U.S. to mission-driven adventures across the globe. Janeen shares her heart for raising Kingdom-minded kids, why trusting God matters more than any curriculum, and how freedom in homeschooling can look different for every family.
We dive into faith-based parenting, choosing homeschool resources and more, plus how to make learning Spirit-led and joy-filled. Janeen also shares about her passion for wellness, creating income from home, and equipping moms to step boldly into their God-given role as teachers and nurturers.
If you’ve ever wondered how to homeschool with confidence—whether from your living room or while traveling the world—this conversation will encourage you to lean into God’s calling and embrace the freedom homeschooling brings.
📖 Mentioned in this episode: Pray for the World (the book Janeen recommends for teaching kids to pray for people around the world).
Easy Peasy Curriculum
Nessy Specifically created for children with NeuroDiverse Learning Styles
Reading Eggs
Outschool
🎧 Listen to Janeen’s podcast here: Kingdom Life Unfiltered🌿 Connect with Janeen:Instagram: @life.with.the.marinosFacebook: Janeen D Marino  Website: www.JaneenMarino.com

EP 29: Do Not Copy Public Schools + Homeschooling’s Biggest Don’ts

Thinking about homeschooling but feel like you’re “behind” or don’t have it all figured out? Here’s the truth—you don’t have to follow the school calendar, stick to a perfect curriculum, or run your day like a traditional classroom. In this episode, we’ll talk about the freedom homeschooling gives you, simple starter options so you can choose to start homeschooling at any time; and why flexibility is your best friend. You’ll learn how to ditch comparison, stop rushing, and create a homeschool that fits your family—without guilt, stress, or fear of “falling behind.”
 
Reading Eggs / Math Seeds
Easy Peasy
The Good and the Beautiful
Heart of Dakota
Find Your Curriculum
Next recommended podcast -Ep 16: 7 Kids 1 Journey + Homeschooling Curriculum and Tips

EP 28: Not Sure About Public School Next Year? Here’s the Homeschool Lowdown

Thinking about homeschooling next year? You’re not alone— more and more parents are starting to ask, “Is Public School really the best option?” In this episode, we’re diving into why a growing number of families are making the switch to homeschooling. We’ll break down the top reasons parents are pulling their kids out of public school—think school safety, curriculum concerns, mental health, flexibility, and more. Whether you’re just curious or seriously considering homeschooling, this episode will give you a real, honest look at what’s driving the shift—and what it could mean for your family.
 
Listen to Next: 
EP 016: 7 Kids, 1 Journey: Homeschool Curriculum & Tips with Kasey Ellis
Episode 21: For a how to on capturing the heart of your kids, curriculum help, and help with right brained learners! 
EP 018: Balancing a Full-Time Job while Homeschooling + Tips for Homeschooling in California
 
Ready to Find the Curriculum that fits your family? Here is the link we talk about in the show 
 
Let's Chat Email me at Kelsieshelaine@gmail.com