284. Listening Well and Practicing Simple Hospitality

Join Jesse and me for this final episode of 2024 as we reflect on the past year and look ahead to 2025 and talk about our goals and hopes for the coming year! The beginning of 2025 feels like a great time to reset, refocus, and embrace a new approach to personal growth, and I share why I’m shifting from yearly goals to monthly ones, how this change brings about flexibility and prevents burnout, and the five key areas I plan to prioritize (all of which happen to be words that start with M!).We dive into the specific goals I set for January, why I set them, and how I'm really excited to walk them out. I also talk about the 12 areas I hope to become proficient in in 2025 and why I set this goal!If you are looking for practical tips to set achievable goals for the new year, encouragement to prioritize your health and passions, or maybe even just some general inspiration to make 2025 your best year yet, I hope this episode inspires and encourages you!In This Episode[0:35] - Why I am setting specific, actionable monthly goals for 2025 instead of my usual yearly goals.[3:59] - Hear how Jesse finds it challenging to stay motivated toward year-end goals even though he is so close to reaching them.[7:17] - Hear how I organize my goals into five “M” categories to prioritize important areas of my life.[8:05] - 2024 brought about some unexpected challenges, which made it harder to achieve some of my goals.[9:20] - I celebrate personal growth in 2024 and am focusing on realistic monthly goals for 2025.[13:05] - By prioritizing health via circadian rhythm, less sugar, and more protein, I saw real marked improvement in my overall health in 2024.[14:56] - Why I focus on strong spiritual rhythms instead of setting a lot of specific spiritual goals.[19:33] - I also plan, for 2025, to master twelve DIY items, a new one each month.[21:11] - This coming year, Jesse is prioritizing flexibility and sustainable habits over rigid programs such as 75 Hard.[24:30] - I highlight setting goals that are actionable and achievable even during difficult times.[27:04] - Jesse shares how his coach suggested starting small, like exercising twice weekly, in order to build consistent habits.[28:01] - I reveal how I adjusted my goals, like decluttering 500 items, to be realistic and attainable.[30:39] - I plan family-focused activities, personal goals, and savings with Jesse for January.[33:31] - It's important to budget conservatively with variable income in order to maintain financial stability.Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on LinkedInCrystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out BetterHelp: https://betterhelp.com/CRYSTALPAINE* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com* Check out Seed and use my code Seed.com/CRYSTAL and use code 25CRYSTAL for a great deal: https://seed.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Welcome back to the show, everyone! While not intentional, we have been MIA from your ears for three whole weeks. We originally intended to only be absent for Thanksgiving week, but one week somehow managed to turn into two weeks which turned into three. That was in large part because of lots of things happening during that time, so we definitely have some exciting updates!Hear about things such as the two trips that I took to Kansas, the offer that Jesse and I put on a rental house, and how I recently took on a new position at our company! We also dealt with a round of hand, foot, and mouth disease in the family and have, of course, been prepping for Christmas, so yeah, we have had A LOT going on, but we are back!As I said, I took on a new role at our company and am so excited to be going into 2025. However, Jesse and I discuss how saying yes to things often means having to say no to others, so I discuss the small sacrifices I am making in exchange. We touch upon the importance of having consistency and fixed times for chores, tasks, and activities during the day and also why it’s good to give yourself grace when on a journey of self-development, celebrating wins and progress despite setbacks and unmet goals.Jesse and I also discuss three shows and movies that I watched recently, all on Disney+. Together, we watched a four-part docu-series titled Tsunami: Race Against Time, and we talk about what we loved about it and how enlightening we found it. I also recently watched a movie called Out of My Mind, and I reflect on some of the important lessons that the movie offers its viewers. Lastly, I discuss a documentary titled Endurance which tells the story of Ernest Shackleton and his ship that got stuck off the coast of Antarctica.I also reflect on a really important question that I got from a listener recently asking about approaching the major decision of adding more children to their family, especially when it will mean a big age gap between the kids that they already have and their new additions. As those of you who know our story know, that is pretty much exactly what our arrangement is like, so we discuss how we have made it work and what we have learned - not just us two but also our older kids.As always, I hope that our discussion is helpful and insightful, and I hope that you will join us next time! It will be our final episode of 2024, and we will be talking about our 2025 goals!In This Episode[0:35] - We have been MIA lately![2:03] - How was I able to take a new position in my own company?[5:07] - We also recently had a round of hand, foot, and mouth disease in the family.[7:02] - Taking on a new role in the company has meant giving up some things.[9:41] - I describe the wise advice that Jesse gave me about my new role.[12:59] - Jesse likes that we have set aside fixed times for tasks and activities.[14:52] - Jesse recently signed up for a personal training coach![17:24] - You have to be honest with yourself and your coach to make a mindset shift.[20:41] - I have been so much better lately about not scrolling on my phone in bed at night.[22:14] - Jesse and I recently watched the series Tsunami: Race Against Time together.[24:07] - A tsunami research center in Hawaii was tracking it but had no way to warn a lot of people.[26:22] - I also recently watched the movie Out of My Mind.[28:50] - Hear about the third movie I saw recently, Endurance.[32:20] - Incredibly, not one of Shackleton’s crew members died![34:30] - I open up discussion around a question that I got from a listener recently.[37:23] - Learn why we have enjoyed having little kids a lot more the second time.[40:00] - We discuss how having little kids has affected our older kids.[43:18] - When you have teenagers and little kids, someone always needs you.Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineTV Shows & FilmsTsunami: Race Against TimeOut of My MindEnduranceBooksOut of My Mind by Sharon M. DraperEndurance: Shackleton’s Incredible Voyage by Alfred LansingSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on LinkedInCrystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out BetterHelp: https://betterhelp.com/CRYSTALPAINE* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com* Check out Seed and use my code Seed.com/CRYSTAL and use code 25CRYSTAL for a great deal: https://seed.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

This week, we did something rare – we sat down and actually watched a movie, Twisters! Our kids have been raving about it, and turns out, it wasn’t just because we’re from Kansas. It's a thrilling and quite clean movie (just a small bit of language), which is not always easy to find these days, so if you haven't seen it, I definitely recommend it!We also talk about politics -- something I don't do much of on the internet. We talk about our setup on election night with multiple screens and streams, my Electoral college predictions, and how I tried to really listen to what people were saying on both sides this election and what I learned from that.In addition, we share about hosting guests recently and how we practical very simple hospitality and some ideas for reaching out and loving people well. We also discuss a message we heard at church recently and the hope it gives us, despite the division we can feel in our country.In This Episode[0:35] - We recently sat down and watched a movie - Twisters - together.[2:16] - I am currently reading Word Before World by Gretchen Saffles.[3:06] - We talk about me being a political junkie and how that surprises people and how I researched and listened before this election and what I learned from that.[13:54] - Why I steer clear of political debates online.[14:33] - Jesse shares about the importance of conversations over soundbites.[15:11] - I value curious, empathetic conversations to understand diverse perspectives.[17:09] - Listening can help lead to compassion, revealing shared passion and care despite differing opinions.[19:29] - I emphasize placing hope in Jesus, not politicians, as true change comes from faith.[21:28] - We hosted overnight guests recently, reminding me that simple hospitality is meaningful and sufficient.[24:17] - I advocate for offering specific help for those who are struggling instead of vague offers of support.[29:33] - Be sure to download our freebie, 20 Ways to Boost Your Christmas Budget!Links & ResourcesCrystal Paine@catfishwithketchup on InstagramFree Christmas Budget Boost Cheatsheet!FilmTwistersBooksWord Before World: 100 Devotions to Put Jesus First by Gretchen SafflesSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on LinkedInCrystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out BetterHelp: https://betterhelp.com/CRYSTALPAINE* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com* Check out Seed and use my code Seed.com/CRYSTAL and use code 25CRYSTAL for a great deal: https://seed.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Today's guest is actually a threepeat guest, Jeannie Cunnion! And today we get to have a conversation about building a deeper relationship with God, inspired by her new devotional, Closer to God: A 40-day Pursuit of God's Personal Presence.Jeannie has the remarkable ability to push us deeper in our walk with Jesus and her new devotional is full of profound questions and encouragement to challenge and inspire us to grow closer to God.In this episode, Jeannie shares her journey, drawing from her previous book Don't Miss Out, which explores the vital role of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Her new devotional continues this exploration with questions like "Who is the Holy Spirit?" and "What does true intimacy with God look like?" These are just a few of the 40 questions which she discusses, ultimately designed to stir our spirits and deepen our hunger for a more vibrant life with God.Jeannie also opens up about overcoming barriers to intimacy with God such as resisting the Holy Spirit or being caught in a performance mindset with God. She emphasizes the freedom and refreshment found in daily repentance and how it cultivates intimacy with God. In this episode, we dive into these subjects and also discuss practical ways to experience God's presence in our every day lives -- from washing dishes to carpooling, recognizing that God's presence isn't limited to just extraordinary moments.Whether you're new to Christianity or a long-time believer looking to deepen your relationship with God, I think you will be so blessed and challenged by what Jeannie shares in this episode on how to deepen your relationship with God -- in the midst of real life!In This Episode[0:33] - Jeannie's new devotional book Closer to God challenges readers with deep, reflective questions and inspiration.[2:48] - The Holy Spirit stirs a deeper hunger for God within us, Jeannie explains.[4:15] - God's presence is for everyday moments, not just mountaintop or valley experiences.[6:47] - Understanding the Holy Spirit's role removes barriers to intimacy with God.[10:22] - Embracing repentance, rather than performance, helps cultivate closeness with God.[11:24] - Repentance is refreshing and transformative and is not meant for reprimand.[14:15] - Jeannie states that practicing God's presence involves daily conversation and reading His Word.[17:45] - Pursuing holiness by following Jesus invites abundant life and peace.[21:10] - Worship and community can help us remember God's faithfulness in difficult times.[24:09] - Choosing God in daily moments leads to strength and hope.[27:50] - I observe how faith grows through cultivating intimacy, repentance, and obedience.Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineThe Crystal Paine Show - 3. The Secret to Being a Happier MomThe Crystal Paine Show - 136. Don’t Miss Out on This Superpower!BooksCloser to God: A 40-day Pursuit of God’s Personal Presence by Jeannie CunnionDon’t Miss Out: Daring to Believe Life Is Better with the Holy Spirit by Jeannie CunnionSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on LinkedInCrystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out BetterHelp: https://betterhelp.com/CRYSTALPAINE* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com* Check out Seed and use my code Seed.com/CRYSTAL and use code 25CRYSTAL for a great deal: https://seed.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

After knowing Jesse since I was 9 years old (I'm 43 now!), I just found out something I had no idea about him. We share the funny story on the podcast. I'm honestly still so shocked that I just discovered this!!We also dive into some really fun listener feedback, with one of you pointing out how I had incorrectly called beef you buy for the freezer cow and that turned into a fun discussion on things beef and cattle-related!Our family plans also took an unexpected turn recently when a storm rescheduled Silas’s baseball tournament, clashing with our trip to Silver Dollar City. We came up with plan B which split up the family, but despite the big changes of plans and what I had hoped for and envisioned, both groups had fantastic experiences. Jesse and the boys had a memorable baseball weekend, and I got some special time with the girls and their boyfriends. It was a great reminder that even if you have a completely different experience than you had expected and planned for, you can lead to beautiful memories!We also touch on early voting and how we try to include our kids in these civic duties is so important. It's been so heartwarming to see how invested Kathrynne has become in politics -- and how she's gotten many opportunities we would have loved at her age, that she never sought out but have been so good and exciting!In This Episode[0:35] - My recent discovery about Jesse that surprised me so much![6:11] - Astigmatism and how struggling to remember right and left causes uncomfortable eye doctor visits.[7:30] - We share some listener feedback on cows vs. beef.[10:23] - Does the age of cows affect meat quality? [11:06] - A listener suggests roasting beets, and I recount a fire alarm causing the arrival of a fire truck.[13:46] - Hear a story from a listener about a fireproof deep freeze keeping rotten meat safe after a wildfire.[15:33] - I talk about a Silver Dollar City family trip with the older girls and their boyfriends, which proved wonderful.[16:54] - Storms rescheduled a baseball tournament, leading to special family weekends and a successful trip![19:08] - I enjoyed creating special memories with Kierstyn.[21:05] - We voted early recently due to potential long lines on voting day.[23:19] - Even though I enjoy politics, I have avoided running for office due to past stressful experiences.[26:04] - Kathrynne is politically active and has received many unexpected opportunities.[27:36] - Jesse discusses how Kathrynne took anxiety-filled steps into political involvement, which led to personal growth.[28:18] - I recount how Kathrynne gained confidence from a challenging training experience, opening new opportunities.[31:04] - Jesse explains that we encourage our kids to step out of their comfort zones and know their values.[31:28] - I am very supportive of Kathrynne's small steps as character-building for future opportunities!Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on LinkedInCrystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out BetterHelp: https://betterhelp.com/CRYSTALPAINE* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com* Check out Seed and use my code Seed.com/CRYSTAL and use code 25CRYSTAL for a great deal: https://seed.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

One of our big goals for 2024 was to go on an overnighter just the two of us (Jesse and me) — something we hadn’t done in 5ish years!! We weren’t sure if we were going to be able to make it work with all the moving parts it would require, but WE DID IT a few weeks ago.It was the best trip and, in this episode, we share all about it -- why we chose NYC, how we did this trip on a budget, and how the trip more than exceeded our expectations!We discuss why this trip was so special, from navigating the city’s public transportation to making use of loyalty points for our hotel right in the heart of Times Square. The city was bustling, the weather was perfect, and Central Park on a Sunday afternoon was such a fun experience!We packed so much into 36 hours, from exploring Fifth Avenue to enjoying a meal at the boathouse overlooking a beautiful pond, and for the first time in years, we truly and fully relaxed. It was so good for our souls!This trip wasn’t just a getaway; it was a reminder of how important it is to prioritize our marriage and ourselves, so join us as we look back on this unforgettable trip and share some tips for anyone planning a quick yet meaningful escape to the Big Apple!In This Episode[0:35] - I am excited for Jesse and I to be talking about our recent trip to NYC![1:32] - Jesse discusses a nonfiction book called The Pledge to America by Drago Dzieran, which details the author's experiences with socialism and immigration.[4:33] - I discuss the book From Strength to Strength by Arthur C. Brooks, which focuses on success and happiness in later life.[9:09] - Inspired by an airport meal, I share how I discovered I enjoy fresh beets.[12:17] - We also laugh about me wanting to have chickens -- only they need to be noiseless and invisible and not need any care! :)[15:06] - All about our trip to NYC.[18:29] - Jesse describes previous short trips to NYC and navigating public transportation with family.[20:19] - I share NYC's cost-effective options for couples and advise against using public transportation if you're alone at night.[22:28] - How we got our hotel for free -- right in the heart of Times Square.[25:26] - We really appreciated uninterrupted time together![27:26] - I express gratitude and reflect on the smooth return trip amidst a busy Prime Week and hurricane concerns.[30:01] - The kids successfully managing at home during our trip was also incredibly reassuring![31:58] - Jesse experiences relaxation and health benefits from the New York City trip.Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineBooksThe Pledge to America: One Man’s Journey from Political Prisoner to U.S. Navy SEAL by Drago Dzieran1984 by George OrwellAnimal Farm by George OrwellSlow Productivity: The Lost Art of Accomplishment Without Burnout by Cal NewportFrom Strength to Strength: Finding Success, Happiness, and Deep Purpose in the Second Half of Life by Arthur C. BrooksSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on LinkedInCrystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out BetterHelp: https://betterhelp.com/CRYSTALPAINE* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com* Check out Seed and use my code Seed.com/CRYSTAL and use code 25CRYSTAL for a great deal: https://seed.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

I'm welcoming back a repeat guest this episode - Jennifer Pepito! Jennifer is the author of Habits for a Sacred Home: 9 Practices From History to Anchor and Restore Modern Families, and I have had the privilege of reading her insightful book which really resonated with me and challenged me to set up better habits and rhythms in our life!Jennifer brings a wealth of experience, having homeschooled her seven children for 27 years! In this episode, we talk about the joys and challenges of motherhood she's experienced and what it's been like as her children have transitioned into adulthood.We explore the significance of establishing habits that create a peaceful home environment and the importance of being present with our kids, even as they grow independent. Jennifer shares her thoughts on finding balance, letting go of perfectionism, and nurturing our children's development in a world that can feel chaotic at times. She emphasizes the need for mothers to have a solid sense of identity in Christ which allows them to stress less about things that don't matter and not try to find their identity in their children's behavior or choices.Throughout the conversation, Jennifer also offers practical advice on creating daily routines that encourage connection and joy within the family. Plus, we touch on the delicate balance between guiding our children and allowing them the freedom to learn from their experiences!Whether you’re navigating the early years of parenting, raising teens, and sending your kids into adulthood, this episode is packed with wisdom and encouragement, so please join Jennifer and me as we discover how small, intentional changes can lead to significant growth for both moms and their families!In This Episode[0:35] - I welcome back repeat guest Jennifer Pepito!​​[1:24] - Jennifer shares a little about her family and her new book, Habits for a Sacred Home.[4:26] - It's important to recognize both losses and gains when transitioning through life stages.[5:36] - Jennifer advises young moms to focus on their identity in Christ and being present with their children.[8:19] - Parenting teens requires maintaining values and visualizing positive outcomes for them.[11:21] - Jennifer talks about showing grace without compromising values when children make choices we disagree with.[14:48] - Younger moms: accept imperfection and focus on consistency and joy in parenting.[17:59] - After experiencing a gap between older and younger kids, I have recognized the need for intentional routines.[19:33] - Jennifer reflects on older kids caring for younger ones and emphasizes the importance of being committed to faithfulness.[22:12] - I highlight the benefits of having a morning routine that starts the day positively and intentionally.[24:48] - Jennifer's book connects Saint Benedict's rules to impactful historical women such as Edith Schaeffer and their ordinary lives.[27:29] - I recall a lesson from a book about creating beauty in small ways to bring stability to chaotic lives.[29:32] - Jennifer finds peace amidst chaos by reflecting on Psalm 37 and trusting God for better times ahead.Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineThe Crystal Paine Show - 180. Why You Should Read Aloud with Your KidsBooksHabits for a Sacred Home: 9 Practices from History to Anchor and Restore Modern Families (Helping Moms Experience Peace & Return to Simple Daily Rhythms from Historic Christians like St. Benedict) by Jennifer PepitoSelfish Reasons To Have More Kids by Bryan CaplanThe Hidden Art of Homemaking by Edith SchaefferSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on LinkedInCrystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out BetterHelp: https://betterhelp.com/CRYSTALPAINE* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com* Check out Seed and use my code Seed.com/CRYSTAL and use code 25CRYSTAL for a great deal: https://seed.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Join us this week as I discuss my recent 43rd birthday! In this week’s episode, I’m diving into my recent birthday reflections, the wisdom I've gained from embracing my wrinkles, and the unexpected lessons from our recent freezer incident. After celebrating turning 43, I've been contemplating the importance of aging and how every wrinkle tells a unique story about my journey, family, and faith.While our freezer mishap felt like a significant inconvenience, it pales in comparison to the challenges faced by those affected by Hurricane Helene. I share insights from my sister’s harrowing experience during the flood, where her neighborhood was cut off from the outside world for days. It highlighted the importance of emergency preparedness and community support in times of crisis, prompting me to rethink what it truly means to be prepared for unexpected events.We also discuss the value of having emergency supplies, such as non-perishable food, water, and cash on hand. These practical tips are vital, especially when local services are disrupted. Amidst this serious conversation, I share some lighter moments, including a humorous driving mishap that served as a reminder of my tendency to handle challenges alone. Tune in as we navigate through both the significant and the trivial, weaving in heartfelt stories and valuable lessons that encourage us to embrace life’s uncertainties with grace and preparedness. Join me on this journey of self-reflection and community resilience!In This Episode[0:54] - Reflecting on birthday goals, I compare personal challenges with greater ones like Hurricane Helene.[2:57] - Hear how my sister's neighborhood's struggles with isolation and resourcefulness during a flood.[5:14] - I emphasize the importance of emergency preparedness, including having cash and non-perishable food.[7:33] - I share community resilience stories after crises and listener responses to our freezer incident.[11:21] - We once lost milk due to a freezer cleanout, and I discuss insurance for food spoilage.[13:26] - Listen as I share a funny story about struggling with parking and reflect on self-reliance lessons.[16:24] - I recount having scratched my car in the garage and learning about asking for help when needed.[19:20] - I reflect on lessons learned from mishaps and encourage seeking help and being spiritually open.[21:45] - I turned 43 recently, and I embrace aging as a gift.[23:39] - I have set ambitious goals for reading and unplugged hours as part of my focus on health.[25:23] - In addition, I strive to limit phone use and read more, aiming for better bedtime habits.[27:28] - I am so excited about my goals for the coming year and invite you to share your stories!Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineBooksThe Unplugged Hours: Cultivating a Life of Presence in a Digitally Connected World by Hannah BrencherSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on LinkedInCrystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out BetterHelp: https://betterhelp.com/CRYSTALPAINE* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com* Check out Seed and use my code Seed.com/CRYSTAL and use code 25CRYSTAL for a great deal: https://seed.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Meghan Ryan Asbury was in studio last week to record this week's episode all about the topic of her new book: You Are Not Behind: Building a Life You Love Without Having Everything You Want! We all encounter this feeling at some point in our live: the sense of inadequacy that can stem from our lives not aligning with expectations we had for where we'd be, expectations we feel like we're not living up to from others, or just the general sense that everyone else has it more together or their lives are moving along at a stronger/faster/better pace than ours.Meghan shares her journey of writing this book during a pivotal time when her own life felt anything but perfect and where so many dreams and hopes she'd had for the future were not coming to fruition.In this conversation, we discuss the detrimental impact of comparison and how it permeates our thoughts and influences our sense of contentment. Her insights resonate deeply, especially when she reminds us that the grass isn't always greener on the other side. We explore the importance of recognizing our unique journeys and the necessity of grieving lost hopes, which can ultimately lead us to greater healing.Whether you’re in your twenties, thirties, forties, or beyond, this episode offers wisdom for anyone feeling behind in life. Meghan encourages us to embrace our current season, invest in community, and cultivate gratitude amidst the unknowns of the future.In This Episode[0:35] - I am talking today with Meghan Ryan Asbury, author of the book You Are Not Behind.​​[1:51] - Meghan's book journey began by questioning why people feel behind.[4:28] - I share how this book is relevant for all ages.[6:42] - Comparison is often a root cause of feeling behind.[9:46] - Hear how Meghan confronted her belief that obedience guarantees happiness.[11:50] - Meghan accepts that the Bible defines good as singleness, suffering, and poverty, not the American Dream.[13:16] - Coping mechanisms for happiness only work temporarily.[16:41] - It's so important to allow yourself to grieve so that you can heal.[19:37] - Meghan holds both pain and hope together, trusting God's promises despite feeling disappointed.[22:28] - Find hope in God's promise to make all things new and comfort her pain.[25:31] - Community, argues Meghan, helps combat feelings of being behind by fostering connection and healing.[27:21] - Vulnerability and effort lead to meaningful connections, even in different life seasons.[29:37] - Meghan trusts that God will provide and rejects a scarcity mindset when comparing to others.[32:42] - Meghan reflects on past choices, trusting God's faithfulness while living fully and hoping for the future.Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineBooksYou Are Not Behind: Building a Life You Love Without Having Everything You Want by Meghan Ryan AsburySocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on LinkedInCrystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out BetterHelp: https://betterhelp.com/CRYSTALPAINE* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com* Check out Seed and use my code Seed.com/CRYSTAL and use code 25CRYSTAL for a great deal: https://seed.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

This week, Jesse and I bring you a mix of newsy updates, a now-funny story about a freezer disaster, and intriguing tidbits that spark some lively discussions! We reflect on Jesse's recent 44th birthday, diving into how the world has changed since he was born at just 27 weeks. The advancements in technology are astounding!We also explore the topic of re-using birthday candles, inspired by a recent Instagram post I share that invoked a plethora of comments and opinions. This light-hearted conversation spirals into a discussion about frugality and the limits some of us draw in our quest to save money. I invite you to write in with your own thoughts because I am curious: are there things that you would never do just to save a buck? I’ll share my own, and I would love to hear yours!We also have some updates from our InsideTracker experience, including a tip about vitamin D for Jesse and how I'm upping my iron. I share my excitement about a highly-anticipated book I just picked up from the library - Kristin Hannah’s novel The Women. I also provide some updates on my thoughts on Hannah Brencher’s The Unplugged Hours, which I mentioned last episode. As always, we'd love to hear your thoughts an input after you listen!In This Episode[0:35] - It's time for a hodge-podge episode filled with all sorts of fun perspectives and stories.[1:53] - Do you reuse birthday candles? A question inspired by a meme I shared on Instagram.[3:57] - After having glued a birthday candle back together, I reflect on when frugality goes too far.[6:13] - Are there people who enjoy spending money?[9:24] - Jesse's premature birth story.[11:29] - Jesse was in the NICU for a couple of months. We talk about how being premature impacted him for years to come.[15:47] - A listener suggests that Jesse take vitamin K2 with vitamin D.[17:42] - My favorite protocol for increasing iron.[19:28] - Hear about how, excited about a tax refund, Jesse and I once bought meat from a local farm.[22:46] - Our freezer stopped, resulting in spoiled meat upon our return from a trip![24:52] - We had to refreeze everything, which worsened the smell, and eventually gave the freezer away.[26:29] - I recently got The Women by Kristin Hannah from the library and am excited to read it![27:49] - The Unplugged Hours by Hannah Brencher challenges readers to stay unplugged for 1,000 hours a year.[29:44] - I often feel distracted by political news, and The Unplugged Hours has inspired me to limit my phone usage habits.[32:37] - My goal includes unplugged time throughout the day.Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineInsideTrackerInstagram Post About Birthday CandlesInstagram Post of Newborn JesseInstagram Reel with Hannah BrencherBooksThe Women: A Novel by Kristin HannahThe Unplugged Hours: Cultivating a Life of Presence in a Digitally Connected World by Hannah BrencherSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on LinkedInCrystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out BetterHelp: https://betterhelp.com/CRYSTALPAINE* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com* Check out Seed and use my code Seed.com/CRYSTAL and use code 25CRYSTAL for a great deal: https://seed.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands