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The Perfectionist's Guide to Mothering

The Perfectionist's Guide to Mothering

By Andrea Fortenberry

This is a podcast is about finding freedom from perfectionism to show up for the life God has for you. Mom life is messy, unpredictable and just plain hard sometimes, but isn’t it also amazing? I believe God uses it all to grow us into the women He wants us to be.
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E76: Body & Soul Summer Series - How to Build Body Confidence

The Perfectionist's Guide to MotheringMay 17, 2023

00:00
48:32
E76: Body & Soul Summer Series - How to Build Body Confidence
May 17, 202348:32
E75: How to Survive Maycember
May 04, 202342:12
E74: On Becoming

E74: On Becoming

Welcome to Episode 74 of The Perfectionist’s Guide to Mothering! In this episode, I talk about hitting the milestone of 10k downloads. Thank you so much!

I also chat about becoming, discouragement, waiting, and what to do when we feel disappointed.


Here are some of my questions for you:

What did you enjoy doing as a child? What made you happy? How has God used those things in your journey to becoming? What dots can you connect from your life now that you couldn’t see as you lived through them? What are you waiting for? How can you grow your roots down deep in this waiting season?

Some of the resources I mention include:

“Nobody wants to show you the hours and hours of becoming. They’d rather show the highlight of what they’ve become.” - Angela Duckworth Galatians 6:9: “Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we don’t give up.” Zechariah 4:10: “Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin.” Psalm 1:1-3 says, “How blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, Nor stand in the path of sinners, Nor sit in the seat of scoffers, But his delight is in the law of the LORD, And in His law he meditates day and night, And he will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season, And its leaf does not wither; And in whatever he does, he prospers.” “Don’t waste the waiting. A waiting season isn’t a wasted season if you continue to seek and push into God.” - Pastor Craig Groeschel
Marmee by Sarah Miller* Next Level Chef and Farmer Wants a Wife Jireh by Elevation Worship & Maverick City Music Calendly Episode 20, Rest for Weary Moms, of The Perfectionist's Guide to Mothering Julie and Julia


Just a reminder that you can connect with me via:

Instagram @andreafortenberry My website


You can support this podcast financially by clicking here. 


*Affiliate Link


Apr 19, 202328:56
E73: The Pace of Grace
Apr 05, 202332:20
E72: Hot Date Night
Mar 22, 202338:45
E71: Untangling Faith

E71: Untangling Faith

Welcome to Episode 71 of The Perfectionist’s Guide to Mothering!

Today I’m talking with the very funny and insightful, Amberly Neese. Amberly is a popular speaker/teacher, comedian, author, and all-around encourager dedicated to helping you become the joyful person you were created to be.

Amberly is a featured speaker for the Aspire Women’s Events and the main host and female comedian for Marriage Date Night, two popular Christian events that tour nationally.

She and her husband have two adult children and live in Prescott, Arizona, where they enjoy the great outdoors, the Food Network, and all things Star Wars. She is also a previous guest of the podcast in Episode 50, What I Wish I’d Thought Of.

In this episode, we chat about untangling our faith, holy uncertainty, and how our struggles and questions about faith can actually draw us closer to God.

Some of the resources we mention include:

Amberly's new Bible study, Untangling Faith, which releases April 18th. When you pre-order you get amazing bonuses! Jeremiah 29:13 1 Peter 5:10 James 1:2-5 Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers* Google Calendar Miss Jessie's Hair Products

You can connect with Amberly via:

Her website: amberlyneese.com Her free newsletter: amberlyneese.com/join Instagram @amberlyneese_comedian

*Affiliate Link

Mar 08, 202338:36
E70: How to be a Time-Saving Mom

E70: How to be a Time-Saving Mom

Welcome to Episode 70 of The Perfectionist’s Guide to Mothering! Today I’m talking with the amazing Crystal Paine.

Crystal is the founder of MoneySavingMom.com, host of The Crystal Paine Show podcast, and a New York Times bestselling author. Her desire is to help women across the globe live with more joy, purpose, and intention in their everyday lives. She lives with her husband and six kids in the Nashville, Tennessee, area, where she is actively involved in her local church.

Her biggest passions are helping women understand how the gospel can radically transform their lives, raising awareness for foster care, going on adventures with her family (locally, domestically, and internationally), finding great deals at the grocery store, having heartfelt conversations, and trying to read too many books at one time!

We chat all about her new book, The Time-Saving Mom, which releases on March 7th.* In this episode shares her four-step system, her time-blocked to-do list, and many other great time-saving tips!

Some of the resources we mention include:

Off the Clock by Laura Vanderkam* 168 Hours: You Have More Time Than You Think by Laura Vanderkam* Mind Your Mindset by Meghan Hyatt Miller and Michael Hyatt* Soundtracks by John Acuff* Libby App Hoopla App The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek by Kim Michele Richardson* Clean Angel Miraculous Cleaner* Nothing to Prove by Jennie Allen*

You can connect with Crystal through:

Her website: moneysavingmom.com Her podcast: The Crystal Paine Show Instagram: @themoneysavingmom The new book: The Time-Saving Mom

*Affiliate Link

Feb 22, 202335:27
E69: How to Handle Decision Fatigue
Feb 08, 202338:41
E68: Start Small
Jan 25, 202345:11
E67: Start Slowly
Jan 11, 202326:26
E66: Fan the Flame
Dec 28, 202228:32
E65: Five Loaves and Two Fish
Dec 14, 202226:39
E64: What to Do When You're Distracted, Worried, and Upset
Nov 30, 202227:31
E63: Life Can Be Good Again

E63: Life Can Be Good Again

Welcome to Episode 63 of The Perfectionist’s Guide to Mothering!

Today I’m talking with Lisa Appelo. Lisa Appelo is a speaker inspiring women to cultivate faith in life’s storms and author of Life Can Be Good Again: Putting Your World Back Together After It All Falls Apart. When life shatters and you're navigating a life you didn't sign up for, Lisa provides compassionate, Biblical insight to help you find your footing, process raw emotion, and anchor your threadbare hope to see you won’t merely survive this, but that life can be good again.

A former litigating attorney, Lisa is passionate about rich Bible teaching. She writes at the popular site LisaAppelo.com, founded a team of writers at hopeingrief.com, administers the Facebook group Widow Mama Collective, and serves on the Executive Team for COMPEL with Proverbs31Ministries. As a single mom of seven, Lisa’s days are filled with parenting, ministry, and long walks to justify lots of dark chocolate.

In this episode, we talk about Lisa's story of loss, what has helped her and her family grieve, how we can help others going through grief, and how we can find hope that life will be good again despite our circumstances. 

You can connect with Lisa through:

LisaAppelo.com


Nov 16, 202229:08
E62: The Perfectionist's Guide to the Holidays - Part 2
Nov 02, 202201:39:31
E61: The Perfectionist's Guide to the Holidays - Part 1
Oct 19, 202257:37
E60: Blended and Redeemed

E60: Blended and Redeemed

Welcome to Episode 60 of The Perfectionist’s Guide to Mothering!

Today I’m talking with Scott and Vanessa Martindale. The Martindales founded Blended Kingdom Families (BKF) in 2020 with a passionate desire to equip and encourage blended families and married couples as well as to help the local church cultivate community among blended families. Through faith and radical obedience, Scott and Vanessa have partnered with God to better equip the local church to reach blended families. BKF exists to break the generational cycle of divorce by equipping marriages and uniting blended families with the truth of God’s Word.

In this episode we chat about their story of being a blended family, how we can come alongside and support blended families, some of their best tips for a thriving marriage and family, and more!

Some of the resources we mention include:

Blended Kingdom Families Website Blended Kingdom Families Podcast BKF Podcast Episode with Andrea Fortenberry Blended and Redeemed The Creative Marriage by Ed and Lisa Young* Victory in Spiritual Warfare by Tony Evans* The Craig Groeschel Leadership Podcast

*Affiliate Link

Oct 05, 202230:03
E59: How to Follow God's Will

E59: How to Follow God's Will

Welcome to Episode 59 of The Perfectionist’s Guide to Mothering!

Today I’m talking with Brittany Ann, who is a repeat guest of the podcast. If you want to hear our previous episode, it’s Episode 18.

Brittany Ann is an ECPA bestselling author of Fall in Love with God’s Word* and Follow God’s Will* and the founder of EquippingGodlyWomen.com, a popular Christian-living website dedicated to helping busy Christian moms find practical ways to go "all in" in faith and family. Her work has been featured on CBN, The Christian Post, Crosswalk, and more.

In this episode we talk about if God has a specific plan for your life, common myths we have about God's will, the checklist mentality, and more.

Some of the resources we mention include:

"Jireh" by Maverick City Music Dangerous Prayers* by Craig Groeschel

You can connect with Brittany Ann through EquippingGodlyWomen.com

*Affiliate Link

Sep 21, 202255:39
E58: Friendship Q & A - Summer Series Part 8
Sep 07, 202201:07:03
E57: Setting Our Kids Up for Friendship Success - Summer Series Part 7
Aug 24, 202246:34
E56: Friendship Lifecycles - Summer Series Part 6
Aug 10, 202241:03
E55: When Friendship Hurts - Summer Series Part 5
Jul 27, 202256:06
E54: Vulnerability in Friendship - Summer Series Part 4
Jul 13, 202256:39
E53: How to Make Friends as An Adult Woman - Summer Series Part 3
Jun 29, 202201:06:50
E52: Friendship Myths - Summer Series Part 2
Jun 15, 202242:09
E51: Summer Friendship Series - Part 1
Jun 01, 202237:00
E50: What I Wish I'd Thought Of

E50: What I Wish I'd Thought Of

Welcome to Episode 50 of The Perfectionist’s Guide to Mothering!

Before we dive into today’s conversation, I want to let you know about two things:

1. May 20th is the second birthday of the podcast! As a quick birthday gift, could you hop over to Apple Podcasts and rate and review the podcast? It means so much and will help more moms be able to find it.

2. Just a reminder that Restore: Soul Care for Moms is coming to Arizona on Tuesday, June 21st at Rock Point Church, 6:30-9 PM. Tickets are on sale now, link is in the show notes. I really hope to see you there!


Now, on to today’s episode:

Today I’m talking with Amberly Neese. I met Amberly earlier this year at an event here in Arizona and she’s amazing. Amberly Neese is a popular speaker/teacher, comedian, author, and all-around encourager dedicated to helping you become the joyful person you were created to be.

Amberly is a featured speaker for the Aspire Women’s Events and the main host and female comedian for Marriage Date Night, two popular Christian events that tour nationally. She is the author of The Belonging Project: Finding Your Tribe and Learning to Thrive*, Common Ground: Loving Others Despite Our Differences*, and The Friendship Initiative: Connecting and Loving Like Jesus.*

She and her husband have two teenagers and live in Prescott, Arizona, where they enjoy the great outdoors, the Food Network, and all things Star Wars.


Some of the resources we mention include:

Deva Curl Hero on a Mission by Donald Miller* The Bible Binge Podcast Atlas of the Heart by Brene Brown* M*A*S*H The Lazy Genius by Kendra Adachi*

You can connect with Amberly via:

Her website: amberlyneese.com Her free newsletter: amberlyneese.com/join Instagram @amberlyneese_comedian

*Affiliate Link

May 18, 202245:20
E49: How to Thrive in Motherhood

E49: How to Thrive in Motherhood

Welcome to Episode 49 of The Perfectionist’s Guide to Mothering!

Before we dive into today’s interview, I have some announcements:

1. I have a new digital magazine, Restore. You can subscribe here. 

2. Get your tickets to Restore: Soul Care for Moms in Arizona on Tuesday, June 21st

Now, on to today’s conversation:

Today I’m talking with Jaclyn Weidner. Jaclyn is the self-proclaimed former president of the Hot Mess Mom's Club. After God pulled her out of a pit of anxiety and depression she has been on a mission to help other overwhelmed moms thrive! She lives just outside of Vancouver Canada with her husband Brendan and their 3 talkative girls. She hosts the Ready to Thrive Podcast and is the author of Tangled: A Soul Care Revival Guide. She loves creating content that helps women experience transformation in her life and she started the Ready to Thrive school where she hosts e-courses for women to get the tools they need to thrive.

Some of the resources we mention include:

Jaclyn's Instagram post about Mother's Day Jaclyn's Course: Mama Get Your Life Back. Use coupon code MAMA50 for 50% off!  Waymaker by Ann Voskmap* Baby Steps Millionaires by Dave Ramsey*

You can connect with Jaclyn via: 

Her website: jaclynweidner.com Instagram: @jaclyn.weidner Her Mama Get Your Life Back course: Use coupon code MAMA50 for 50% off! 

*Affiliate Link

May 04, 202245:36
E48: A Confident Mom
Apr 20, 202244:10
E47: Helping Tweens with Anxiety

E47: Helping Tweens with Anxiety

Welcome to Episode 47 of The Perfectionist’s Guide to Mothering!

Today I’m talking with Caris Snider. Caris is a Christian Communicator who shares the hope of God through speaking and leading worship. She is the best-selling author of Anxiety Elephants: A 31 Day Devotional and Anxiety Elephants for Tween Girls and Boys*. Her passion for the Lord comes through as she shares her experiences of overcoming depression and anxiety. Her desire is to help women of all ages with their faith and mental health journey.

We chat about how to detect symptoms of anxiety in our tweens and how to help them. We also chat through tips for us as moms navigating anxiety and our favorite Bible verses that help us. 

Some of the resources we mention include: 

Psalm 94:19 1 Peter 5:7 Philippians 4:8 Psalm 91:11 Philippians 4:4-6 Matthew 6:25-34 Follow Me by David Platt* Rewire Your Anxious Brain by Catherine Pittman* The Tattooist of Auschwitz and Cilka's Journey by Heather Morris* Batiste Dry Shampoo* GroupMe App

You can connect with Caris via:

Her website: carissnider.com Instagram @carissnider Her books: Anxiety Elephants: A 30 Day Devotional to Help Stomp Out Your Anxiety*, Anxiety Elephants for Tween Girls* and Anxiety Elephants for Tween Boys*

*Affiliate Link

Apr 06, 202246:40
E46: The Cranky Mom Fix

E46: The Cranky Mom Fix

Welcome to Episode 46 of The Perfectionist’s Guide to Mothering!

Today I’m talking with Becky Kopitzke. She is a wife, mom of two, author, speaker, and writing coach. She’s the author of three books including The Cranky MomFix: How to Get a Happier, More Peaceful Home by Slaying the "Momster" in All of Us.* Becky and her family are living the dream in northeast Wisconsin, where they share precious space with two lazy dogs, and tables stacked with homework and craft supplies.

I loved this conversation with Becky, we are kindred spirits! We talked about crankiness triggers, how to handle blunders that happen despite our best intentions, Becky's three family rules, and more. 

Some of the resources we mention include:

Becky's Book, The Cranky Mom Fix* All Creatures Great and Small on PBS A Woman of No Importance by Sonia Purnell*

You can connect with Becky via her:

Website: beckykopitzke.com Instagram @beckykopitzke

*Affiliate Link

Mar 23, 202240:00
E45: Asking for Help

E45: Asking for Help

Welcome to Episode 45 of The Perfectionist’s Guide to Mothering! Today I'm sharing a story, encouraging you to ask for help, and asking for your help. 

Could you please help me with these five things?

Subscribe to my email list! I recently refreshed the format of my monthly emails to a new monthly magazine, Restore, and I think you’re going to love it! New issues will appear in your inbox every first Friday of the month. Share the link to subscribe to Restore with your friends! If you enjoy this podcast, please subscribe and share it with your friends! Send them the direct link to your favorite episodes. Ask them to subscribe. Leave a quick rating and review over on Apple Podcasts so when moms search for motherhood podcasts, the mysterious algorithm will make it appear to more moms. Lastly, follow me over on Instagram @andreafortenberry.

Some of my recommendations in this episode include:

The Dream Giver by Bruce Wilkinson Growing Slow by Jennifer Dukes Lee The Most Excellent Way to Lead by Perry Noble The Celebrations Passport Uncommon Perks Membership
Mar 09, 202230:03
E44: What If It's Wonderful?

E44: What If It's Wonderful?

Welcome to Episode 44 of The Perfectionist’s Guide to Mothering! Today’s guest is a familiar friend, Nicole Zasowski, who was with us for Episode 13. She is a licensed marriage and family therapist and the author of two books, including What If It’s Wonderful?*, which releases on March 8th. She lives in Connecticut with her husband and three young children.

Some of the resources we mention include:

Nicole's new book, What If It's Wonderful?* The Way of the Heart by Henry Nouwen* The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray* Eucalyptus Shower Steamers*

You can connect with Nicole through:

Her website: nicolezasowski.com Instagram @nicolezasowski

*Affiliate Link

Feb 23, 202240:12
E43: Marriage Q&A
Feb 09, 202242:21
E42: The Astronaut's Wife

E42: The Astronaut's Wife

Welcome to today’s episode, friends, you’re in for a treat! My friend and MOPS coworker, the amazing Stacey Morgan, is back with us today. We recorded Episode 19 together on friendship and it is still my most listened to episode. If you’ve not listened, I encourage you to do that, just click here. 

Today we’re going to hear all about Stacey’s book, The Astronaut’s Wife*, which launches into the world on February 22nd! (There has been a supply chain issue, so the book will launch a few weeks later than we mentioned in the episode.)

Some of the things we talk about include:

Adele's new album, 30 That Sounds Fun Podcast Storytellers Live Podcast Masterpiece Mystery Poldark on Masterpiece Poldark Novels by Winston Graham* Stacey's favorite face masks: No 7 Protect and Perfect Intense*

You can connect with Stacey on Instagram at @staceymorgan2000 or her website staceymorgan2000.com. Find out all about her book at theastronautswife.com.

*Affiliate Link

Jan 26, 202201:02:22
E41: How to Embolden Our Daughters

E41: How to Embolden Our Daughters

Welcome to Episode 41 of The Perfectionist’s Guide to Mothering!


Today I’m talking with Amy Debrucque. Amy is a wife, mom of four, cancer survivor, and co-author of Embolden.* She is the founder of the Life On Purpose Movement and host of the Life On Purpose Podcast where she encourages women to live on purpose instead of fear. 


We talk about how to embolden our daughters, differences in raising daughters and sons, how to care for yourself, and much more! 


Some of the resources we mention include: 

The Hard Good by Lisa Whittle* Advent 2021 from She Reads Truth Elemis Pro Collagen Rose Cleansing Balm


You can connect with Amy via:

Her website: https://www.amydebrucque.com/ Instagram: @amydebrucque Her podcast: Life on Purpose Her book, Embolden*

*Affiliate Link

Jan 12, 202235:06
E40: How to Stop People Pleasing

E40: How to Stop People Pleasing

Welcome to Episode 40 of The Perfectionist’s Guide to Mothering!

Today I’m talking with Karen Ehman. Karen is a Proverbs 31 Ministries speaker and the author of 17 books and Bible studies. You may also know her from the popular First 5 app or Encouragement for Today online devotionals from Proverbs 31 Ministries. She is married to her college sweetheart Todd. They are the parents of five adult children, three biological and two in-laws by marriage, although she forgets which are which. Her passion is to help women to live their priorities and love their lives as they serve God and others.

We chat all about her new book, When Making People Happy is Making You Miserable: How to Break the Pattern of People Pleasing and Confidently Live Your Life*. You're going to love what Karen shares about how to say yes to relationships and no to requests, how to establish and maintain boundaries, and much more!

Some of the resources we mention include:

The Unsolved Mysteries Podcast Picture This App for Plants

You can connect with Karen through:

Instagram: @karenehman Her website: karenehman.com Her new book: When Making People Happy is Making You Miserable: How to Break the Pattern of People Pleasing and Confidently Live Your Life*

*Affiliate Link

Dec 04, 202135:09
E39: Leaving a Legacy of Faith
Nov 19, 202132:42
E38: The Perfectionist's Guide to the Holidays
Nov 03, 202129:16
E37: Messy Hope

E37: Messy Hope

Welcome to Episode 37 of The Perfectionist’s Guide to Mothering!

Today I’m talking with Lori Wildenberg. Lori is a friend of mine I met through Called Creatives. Her passion is helping families build connections that last a lifetime. She is a licensed parent-family educator, speaker and author of six parenting books. Her most recent title is called Messy Hope: Help Your Child Overcome Anxiety, Depression or Suicidal Ideation.* She and her husband have four adult children, three bonus in-laws and three grandchildren.

We talk about why we need to impart our kids with hope, how to help our kids who are struggling, Hope Busters, and practical ways to infuse hope into our homes. 

Some of the resources we mention include:

Love Does* by Bob Goff Everybody Always* by Bob Goff All That Is Secret* by Patricia Raybon

You can connect with Lori via:

Her website: loriwildenberg.com Instagram: @loriwildenberg Instagram: @momstogether Facebook: @momstogether

*Affiliate Link

Oct 22, 202146:32
E36: How to Live Generously
Oct 08, 202151:09
E35: Living with Limits
Sep 22, 202136:38
E34: How to Disciple Our Kids

E34: How to Disciple Our Kids

Welcome to Episode 34 of The Perfectionist’s Guide to Mothering!

Today I’m talking with my amazing friend, Sarah Wood. Sarah is a wife, mom, sister and friend, living on the sunny east coast of Florida. She is the Editor in Chief at Mom Mentor, and fiercely believes in the purpose and power of encouraging Moms in their everyday lives. An evangelist at heart, she loves to blaze new creative paths to share the love and saving grace of Jesus.

In this episode, we talk about what discipleship is and why it's important for us and our kids. Sarah shares her wisdom and experience of how she learned how to disciple her three children. She gives practical tips and encouragement for moms of every step in their faith journey. 

Some of the resources we mention include:

Mama Bear Apologetics* by Hillary Morgan Ferrer Parenting* by Paul David Tripp The Hard Good* by Lisa Whittle Turner and Hooch on Disney+ Music by Mack Brock, Brandon Lake, and Vertical Worship

You can connect with Sarah through:

Instagram @sarahwoodwrites Mom Mentor Instagram @mommentor 

*Affiliate Link

Sep 08, 202148:21
E33: Strong Mommas
Aug 25, 202145:47
E32: Momming to Your Strengths
Aug 11, 202130:04
E31: Navigating Mental Health Challenges
Jul 28, 202159:07
E30: Good Morning, Mommy

E30: Good Morning, Mommy

Today's episode is short and sweet. I am sharing a devotion I wrote eight years ago called, Good Morning, Mommy. I hope it encourages you in the midst of your busy summer days. 

Jul 18, 202108:08
E29: Letting God Be Enough

E29: Letting God Be Enough

Welcome to Episode 29 of The Perfectionist's Guide to Mothering! Today I'm talking with my amazing friend, Erica Wiggenhorn.

Erica is the author of several in-depth Bible studies including Unexplainable Jesus: Rediscovering the God You Thought You Knew.* Her newest book Letting God Be Enough is now available for pre-order at www.getericasbook.com. Erica loves to teach God’s Word through conferences, seminars and retreats, and around her own kitchen table. She lives in Phoenix with her husband and two children. For more information about Erica’s Bible studies and writing/speaking ministry, visit www.EricaWiggenhorn.com.

We talk about Erica's newest book, imposter syndrome, how to tell when we're striving and much more.

A few of the resources we mention include:

Erica's free e-books, including 50 Days to Feel Closer to God and A Busy Woman's Guide to Praying for Friends and Family The Chosen Stitch Fix*

You can find Erica on:

Her Website: ericawiggenhorn.com Instagram @ericawiggenhorn

You can pre-order Erica's latest book, Letting God Be Enough here. She has some great pre-order incentives if you order early. The book releases September 7, 2021. 

*Affiliate Link

**Erica's Affiliate Link

Jun 30, 202101:00:04
E28: Trusting God's Timing
Jun 16, 202148:07
E27: Why You Need to Laugh
Jun 02, 202146:59
E26: Juggling All The Things
May 19, 202140:02
E25: Five Things I Know About Motherhood
May 05, 202120:44
E24: The Burden of Better
Apr 21, 202141:44
E23: I Am Not
Apr 07, 202135:20
E22: The Enneagram and Perfectionism
Mar 24, 202139:13
E21: Ordinary to Extraordinary

E21: Ordinary to Extraordinary

Today I’m talking with my friend, Sherri Crandall, who is also my boss at MOPS International.

Sherri Crandall is the Vice President of Global Ministries and Leadership Experience for MOPS. She is also a blogger and speaker for women’s events where she shares her passion for encouraging women to live life to the fullest. Sherri loves to garden, read historical fiction, play tennis and most of all, hang out with family and friends in the beautiful Rocky Mountains. Sherri has been married for 34 years and has four young adult children.

We talk about how to trust God with our ordinary lives, how to be content, and how it's sometimes a good thing when things don't work out the way we planned. 

Some of the things we mention include:

"Good Thing" by Spencer Crandall Truths I Never Told You by Kelly Rimmer* That Sounds Fun* by Annie F. Downs and That Sounds Fun Podcast Episode with Stacey Morgan The Post-Quarantine Church by Thom S. Rainer* Psalms in The Message* translation The Alli Worthington Show Jo Saxton's Podcast The Andy Stanley Leadership Podcast The Open Door Sisterhood

You can connect with Sherri on Instagram @sherricrandall or her website, sherricrandall.com.


*Affiliate Link

Mar 10, 202140:12
E20: Rest for Weary Moms

E20: Rest for Weary Moms

Welcome to Episode 20 of The Perfectionist’s Guide to Mothering! Today I’m talking all about rest for the weary mom.

Do you wish you could stop your hectic schedule? Do you need time to refresh but can’t figure out how to make it possible? I’d love to share with you how to experience rest and peace during your busy week through practicing Sabbath rest.

I talk about five reasons we should observe Sabbath rest:

To Replicate: Genesis 2:2-3 To Remember God and His Commandments: Exodus 20:8 To Revere God: 1 Chronicles 16:29 To Rest in His Presence, Physically and Mentally: Psalm 46:10 To Renew Our Minds: Romans 12:2

I also give seven practical tips on how to incorporate Sabbath rest into our lives:

Don't Be Legalistic Mom Guilt Not Allowed! Pick a Day/Time of the Week That Works for You Use a Sundown to Sundown Practice Everybody Rests on Sunday Keep Things Simple Do What Refreshes You Matthew 11:28-30: The Message

“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.”


Recommendations:

Episode 7: Remembering God's Faithfulness with Ginger Ciminello Strengthening the Soul of Your Leadership by Ruth Haley Barton* The Mandalorian Last Man Standing I Dream of You - Volume 3 by JJ Heller


*Affiliate Link

Feb 24, 202140:54
E19: Find Your People

E19: Find Your People

Welcome to Episode 19 of The Perfectionist’s Guide to Mothering! Today I’m talking with my friend and MOPS teammate, Stacey Morgan.


Stacey is on staff with MOPS International as an Executive Leadership Coach and is a frequent writer for MOPS. She lives in Friendswood, Texas and has four children, ranging from high school to elementary school, and is married to Drew, a NASA astronaut. Her newest project is writing a book for Tyndale Publishing called The Astronaut’s Wife, which will be released next year.


We talk about how to make female friendships as an adult and why we need them. You’ll love hearing Stacey’s story and how she learned to stop waiting for friends to come to her and how instead, she stepped out to find her people. 


Some of the things we mention include:

The Amazing Race Brene Brown’s Podcast: Unlocking Us Jock Jams Lisa Whittle’s Jesus Over Everything* Charles Stanley’s Success God’s Way*

You can connect with Stacey on Instagram at @staceymorgan2000 or her website staceymorgan2000.com.


*Affiliate Link

Feb 10, 202101:00:28
E18: Fall in Love with God's Word

E18: Fall in Love with God's Word

Today I’m talking with author and speaker, Brittany Ann. She is the owner of EquippingGodlyWomen.com, where she challenges, encourages, and  equips Christian women to be "all in" in faith and family. 

Brittany is married and has three adorably energetic little ones. She is about to release a book called Fall in Love with God’s Word: Practical Strategies for Busy Women* on February 1st.

We talk about Brittany Ann's story of reading the Bible, five misconceptions we have when it comes to reading the Bible, how busy moms can make time in their busy schedule to be in God's Word, and more.

A few of the resources we mention include:

Get Your Life Back by John Eldredge* Fall in Love with God’s Word: Practical Strategies for Busy Women*

You can connect with Brittany Ann through EquippingGodlyWomen.com and fallinlovewithgodsword.com.


*Affiliate Link

Jan 27, 202150:55
E17: Daring to Hope

E17: Daring to Hope

Welcome to Episode 17 of The Perfectionist’s Guide to Mothering! Happy New Year! It’s great to be back with you.

Today I'm talking about daring to hope, even as we navigate difficult times. Just a quick note that when I say Tuesday several times in the episode, I actually meant Wednesday of last week. Just got my days a little mixed up!

Some of the things I mention include:

Romans 15:13 NIV 1984: “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Lamentations 3:20-24 NLT: “I will never forget this awful time, as I grieve over my loss. Yet I still dare to hope when I remember this: The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh every morning. I say to myself, “The Lord is my inheritance; therefore I will hope in him.” James 1:2-5 NIV: "Consider it pure joy, y brothers and sister, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you." 
The Little House Books* by Laura Ingalls Wilder "Last Man Standing" Our Daily Bread Ministries "Promises Never Fail" by Bethel Music and Emmy Rose "Hope Has a Name" by River Valley Worship

*Affiliate Link

Jan 13, 202128:17
Episode 16: Quieting the Shout of Should

Episode 16: Quieting the Shout of Should

Welcome to Episode 16 of The Perfectionist’s Guide to Mothering! Today I’m talking with author and speaker, Crystal Stine.

Crystal loves encouraging women to live the best life God has designed for them. She is the author of two books, Holy Hustle: Embracing a Work-Hard, Rest-Well Life* and her most recent book, Quieting the Shout of Should: How a Life of Less Can Lead to More*. She is also releasing The Holy Hustle Planner* next month.

We talk about some common "shoulds" moms struggle with both now and during the holidays, how to quiet those voices, creativity, and much more. 

You can connect with Crystal here:

crystalstine.me Instagram: @crystalstine


Crystal has graciously offered to giveaway a signed copy of Quieting the Shout of Should: How a Life of Less Can Lead to More*! To enter, take a screenshot of this podcast episode while you're listening and tag us on social media: @crystalstine and @andreafortenberry.


*Affiliate Link

Dec 16, 202043:27
E15: Start Simplifying
Dec 02, 202048:22
E14: Choosing Joy
Nov 18, 202032:10
Episode 13: From Lost to Found

Episode 13: From Lost to Found

Today I’m talking with my friend, Nicole Zasowski. Nicole is a licensed marriage and family therapist and author of From Lost to Found: Giving Up What You Think You Want for What Will Set You Free.* As an old soul who wears her heart proudly on her sleeve, she enjoys writing and speaking on topics that merge her professional knowledge and personal experience. She lives in Connecticut with her husband and two young boys and has a baby girl on the way! We talk about why a lot of women struggle with perfectionism and its related p-word cousins (people-pleasing, performing, and pride), how we can let go of what we want for what God has for us, and practical ways to be authentic in our daily lives.

Some of the things we mention include:

Tell Me More by Kelly Corrigan* The Social Dilemma on Netflix

You can connect with Nicole here:

nicolezasowski.com Instagram @nicolezasowski From Lost to Found*

*Affiliate Link

Nov 04, 202046:58
Episode 12: Creating a Family Culture

Episode 12: Creating a Family Culture

Today I’m talking with my friend, Kimberly Amici. Kimberly is the host of The Build Your Best Family Podcast and is a writer, speaker and Family Culture Coach. She’s the mom of three children, ages 13, 15 and 17. We talk about what it means to create a family culture, how culture is different than atmosphere, and how knowing your why allows you to make day-to-day decisions with courage and confidence. 


Some of the things we mention include:

Our Pact Psych Family Matters Gortimer Gibbons' Life on Normal Street The Bible Recap App


You can connect with Kimberly here:

kimberlyamici.com buildyourbestfamily.com Instagram: @kimberlyamici and @buildyourbestfamily The Build Your Best Family Podcast


Oct 21, 202047:13
Episode 11: Be Where Your Feet Are
Oct 07, 202050:32
Episode 10: Q&A With Me

Episode 10: Q&A With Me

Sep 23, 202001:04:08
E9: Standing Strong
Sep 09, 202044:46
E8: Enjoy Every Minute, Really?

E8: Enjoy Every Minute, Really?

Today I'm chatting with my friend, Becky Baudouin. Becky is a speaker and the author of a brand-new book called Enjoy Every Minute and Other Ridiculous Things We Say to Moms. She is the mom of three daughters, ages 21, 19 and 15. She and her family live outside of Chicago, IL. We talk about how to receive and give mom advice, mom guilt, and how God uses our parenting mistakes for good.

Some of the things we mention include:

Fledge: Launching Your Kids Without Losing Your Mind* by Brenda Yoder Counter-Cultural Parenting* by Lee Nienhuis Human(Kind)* by Ashlee Eiland Survivor

Connect with Becky through:

Her website: beckybaudouin.com Instagram: @beckybaudouin Her book: Enjoy Every Minute and Other Ridiculous Things We Say to Moms*

Would you please take a quick minute to subscribe, rate and review The Perfectionist's Guide to Mothering in Apple Podcasts? It would mean so much to me and will help other moms be able to find the podcast.

Also, in a few weeks I'll be doing a special Q&A Episode and I need your questions! Send me a direct message over on Instagram @andreafortenberry. 

*Affiliate Link

Aug 26, 202044:20
Episode 7: Remembering God's Faithfulness
Aug 12, 202049:56
Episode 6: How to Keep Dreaming
Jul 29, 202050:36
Episode 5: How to Have Peace During a Pandemic
Jul 15, 202032:21
Episode 4: How to Parent on Purpose
Jul 01, 202044:49
Episode 3: Strategies for a Neat and Tidy Space
Jun 17, 202048:54
Episode 2: Choosing Faith Over Fear as a Mom
Jun 03, 202033:29
Episode 1: Welcome to The Perfectionist's Guide to Mothering
May 15, 202019:42