Ep. 202 — Faith and Science in Harmony: Encouraging Girls to Explore God’s Creation with Sherri Seligson

Holy Week is more than a season on the calendar—it’s a proclamation of our faith. As Christian families, the way we remember, reflect, and celebrate the events leading to Jesus’ resurrection shapes our understanding of the Gospel and deepens our walk with Him.  In this special Easter Week episode, co-hosts Rachael and Natalie explore the significance of Holy Week traditions and how they serve as a bold declaration of faith. From Good Friday reflections to Easter morning celebrations, they discuss ways to anchor family traditions in the truth of the resurrection. Drawing from Scripture, they highlight how our girls—just like the women at the empty tomb—are called to be proclaimers of the Good News, courageously sharing Christ’s victory over sin and death.  Through Biblical encouragement, practical ideas, and insights from American Heritage Girls Founder & Executive Director, Patti Garibay, this conversation will inspire you to embrace Holy Week as an opportunity to strengthen your family's faith. Whether your celebrations include a Passover meal, sunrise worship, or simple moments of gratitude, let this season be a testament to the hope we have in Jesus.  Tune in and be encouraged to make this Holy Week a time of deep remembrance, joyful celebration, and bold proclamation of Christ’s love and redemption.  Find an American Heritage Girls Troop near you, visit americanheritagegirls.org       Add even more Biblical wisdom to your parenting quiver, visit raisinggodlygirls.com

Culture often pits faith and science against each other—but as believers, we know they are intentionally and beautifully woven together by our Creator for His people to explore and enjoy. Yet, studies show that by age six, many girls already perceive themselves as less capable in STEM-related fields than boys—a gap that only widens over time. How can we, as parents, counter this message and inspire our daughters to see science as an avenue for both discovery and worship?  In this episode, American Heritage Girls Founder & Executive Director Patti Garibay welcomes back marine biologist, science author, and veteran homeschooling mom Sherri Seligson to explore how faith and science go hand in hand. Sherri shares her journey from studying shark behavior at Walt Disney’s Living Seas to equipping families with Biblically grounded science education. She unpacks why engaging in STEM is vital for girls—not just for career opportunities, but for deepening their faith and confidence in God's design.  From overcoming barriers in STEM to cultivating awe through nature, Sherri offers practical encouragement for parents looking to integrate faith and science in their daughters' education. Plus, she gives us a glimpse into her latest book, Wonders of the Ocean Realm, revealing how the intricacies of marine life point directly to the Creator. If you want to encourage your daughter to explore science while strengthening her faith, this episode is for you!  Learn more about Sherri’s work and Wonders of the Ocean Realm at sherriseligson.com  Find an American Heritage Girls Troop near you, visit americanheritagegirls.org       Add even more Biblical wisdom to your parenting quiver, visit raisinggodlygirls.com

Science and faith—are they really at odds? In a world that often pits these two against each other, how can we empower our daughters to embrace both with confidence? This week on the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, co-hosts Melissa and Natalie dive into the fascinating intersection of faith and STEM. From history’s greatest scientists (who were also devout Christians!) to real-life role models shaping today’s scientific landscape, this conversation will equip parents to nurture both curiosity and conviction in their daughters.  Does your girl love coding, engineering, or building things from scratch? Maybe she’s fascinated by space or the mysteries of the deep sea. Wherever her passion lies, we want to help you reinforce that scientific discovery and deep faith can go hand in hand. We’ll share inspiring stories, Biblical encouragement, and practical ways to support your STEM-loving girl in her God-given gifts.  Plus, don’t miss a powerful Raising Godly Girls Minute from American Heritage Girls Founder & Executive Director, Patti Garibay, reminding us that the deeper we dig into science, the more we see the hand of our Creator.  Looking for resources? We’ll introduce the Raising Godly Girls Guide to Caring for Creation, a free e-book that helps girls understand their role as stewards of God’s world with research-backed confidence. And if your family is craving a STEM-infused adventure, you’ll want to hear about an exciting opportunity from ACE Adventure Resort.  Tune in, be encouraged, and discover how to help your daughter stand firm in faith—whether she’s designing bridges, solving equations, or reaching for the stars.  Find an American Heritage Girls Troop near you, visit americanheritagegirls.org       Add even more Biblical wisdom to your parenting quiver, visit raisinggodlygirls.com

Is science at odds with faith? It’s a question your daughter may face for the first time in a classroom, an online debate, or even among friends. How can you equip her to stand firm in her faith while engaging with science confidently and thoughtfully?  In this episode of the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, co-hosts Melissa and Natalie dive into the “Faith vs. Science” debate and the common misconceptions that fuel this tension. They’ll unpack why faith and science aren’t actually in opposition—and how understanding God as the author of science can help your daughter navigate tough conversations with wisdom, grace, and boldness.  You’ll hear practical insights on helping your girl process scientific claims through a Biblical Worldview, boost her confidence in defending her beliefs (1 Peter 3:15), and embrace science as a tool for discovering God’s incredible design. Plus, you won’t want to miss AHG’s unique approach to fostering a love of science in girls—through hands-on learning and a foundation of faith.  Don’t let your daughter feel unprepared when she encounters the “Faith vs. Science” challenge for the first time. Tune in for a conversation that will equip you both to tackle this topic with truth and confidence!  Find an American Heritage Girls Troop near you, visit americanheritagegirls.org       Add even more Biblical wisdom to your parenting quiver, visit raisinggodlygirls.com

Raising a daughter with a heart of compassion and Christ-like love means helping her see the dignity, value, and worth of every person—including those who are differently abled. But as parents, how do we guide our girls in developing genuine empathy and understanding? How can we equip them to navigate friendships with peers who have disabilities with confidence, kindness, and a Biblical Worldview?  In this episode of the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, host Patti Garibay, Founder & Executive Director of American Heritage Girls, welcomes Shauna Amick, disability rights advocate, mother of a child with Down syndrome, and a key member of Joni & Friends, the global ministry founded by Joni Eareckson Tada. Together, they explore how families can instill in their daughters the heart of Christ when it comes to inclusion, friendship, and honoring those with disabilities.  We’ll dive into Shauna’s powerful personal story—how her daughter’s diagnosis transformed her faith and deepened her understanding of God’s purpose in suffering. She shares insights on how parents can model and teach empathy, drawing from both scripture and her work with Joni & Friends. We’ll also discuss practical ways to help young girls befriend and uplift peers with disabilities, address common fears or misconceptions, and reinforce the truth that every life is created in God’s image.  Patti and Shauna also highlight the long-standing partnership between American Heritage Girls and Joni & Friends, including the development of the All God’s Children Badge Program, AHG’s Serving Persons Impacted by Disabilities National Day of Service Initiative, and the new children’s book A Paintbrush for Joni.  If you’re a parent, grandparent, or mentor looking for Christ-centered wisdom on raising a compassionate, service-minded daughter who sees all people through God’s eyes, this episode is a must-listen.  To learn more about disability ministry resources that can transform your family’s approach to inclusion and service, visit joniandfriends.org.  Find an American Heritage Girls Troop near you, visit americanheritagegirls.org       Add even more Biblical wisdom to your parenting quiver, visit raisinggodlygirls.com

As parents, mentors, and faith leaders, we all want to raise girls who embody Christ’s love and compassion. But how can we practically support and resource girls with special needs and their families? In this episode of the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, co-hosts Rachael and Natalie explore how we can nurture empathy, inclusion, and support for differently-abled girls—offering both spiritual encouragement and hands-on ways to serve.  We’ll reflect on God’s heart for those society often overlooks, from Mephibosheth’s place at King David’s table to Jesus’ deep care for the disabled and marginalized. Plus, we’ll hear wisdom from American Heritage Girls Founder & Executive Director, Patti Garibay, in a Raising Godly Girls Minute on helping our daughters develop empathy for neurodiverse friends.  This episode is packed with practical ways to serve, including how AHG Troops can implement the Serving Persons Impacted by Disabilities Service Spotlight, organize respite care for caregivers, and partner with special needs ministries to make a lasting impact.  If you’re looking for faith-based parenting insights, disability ministry resources, or encouragement to guide your daughter in loving and serving all of God’s children, this conversation is for you.  Listen now and be inspired to raise a godly girl who sees, loves, and serves others as Christ does.    Find an American Heritage Girls Troop near you, visit americanheritagegirls.org       Add even more Biblical wisdom to your parenting quiver, visit raisinggodlygirls.com

In a world that often overlooks those who experience life differently, the Church has a unique and powerful opportunity—to create spaces of true belonging. This week on the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, co-hosts Rachael and Natalie dive into an essential conversation about the role of the Church, families, and communities in embracing differently-abled girls.  For too long, individuals with intellectual or physical disabilities have been separated, sometimes unintentionally, from the larger Body of Christ. But that’s changing. Churches and ministries across the country are recognizing the need to move beyond mere inclusion to fostering a deep sense of belonging. Together, we’ll explore what this shift looks like in practice, from the development of special needs ministries to the impact of simple, everyday acts of Christ-like love.  Patti Garibay, American Heritage Girls Founder & Executive Director, shares a Raising Godly Girls Minute to highlight the importance of introducing our daughters to differently-abled friends early in life. Research shows that children develop social biases as young as preschool age—but by intentionally engaging with those who experience the world differently, our girls can grow into compassionate, Christ-reflecting young women.  We’ll also reflect on the Biblical call to embrace all members of God’s family. First Corinthians 12 reminds us that every believer—regardless of ability—has been given spiritual gifts to serve and build up the Church. When we create environments that allow differently-abled girls to participate fully, we not only honor them but also witness the creativity and wisdom of God in ways we might otherwise miss.  From discussing impactful programs like Tim Tebow’s Night to Shine to highlighting how American Heritage Girls Troops can offer a welcoming place for girls of all abilities, this episode is filled with practical ways to champion belonging. Whether you're a parent, a church leader, or simply someone who wants to reflect God's heart for all His children, this conversation will encourage and equip you to make a difference.  Join us as we consider: How can we better love, support, and celebrate our differently-abled friends? And how can we teach the next generation to do the same?  Listen now and take the next step in creating a world where every girl knows she belongs.  Find an American Heritage Girls Troop near you, visit americanheritagegirls.org       Add even more Biblical wisdom to your parenting quiver, visit raisinggodlygirls.com   

Loneliness is an ache that too many of us—moms, daughters, grandmothers—carry in silence. In a world more connected than ever through technology, why do we often feel so alone? How can we guide our girls toward meaningful, faith-filled relationships when we ourselves sometimes struggle to find them?  In this powerful episode of the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, host Patti Garibay sits down with author and faith leader Elisa Morgan to explore the reality of loneliness and how God’s presence offers true companionship. Elisa, former CEO of MomCo and co-host of God Hears Her, shares wisdom from her own journey and insights from her books, including You Are Not Alone and The Beauty of Broken.  Together, Patti and Elisa dive into the impact of isolation on girls and mothers alike, uncovering the difference between loneliness and solitude, the role of the church in fostering community, and how Scripture can be an anchor in our most isolating moments. You’ll also hear practical ways to help your daughter build Christ-centered friendships and discover her worth in God’s eyes.  If you’ve ever wrestled with loneliness or wondered how to help your daughter navigate feelings of isolation, this episode is for you. Tune in for encouragement, hope, and a reminder that we are never truly alone—God is always with us.  Learn more about Elisa Morgan and her work at elisamorgan.com  Find an American Heritage Girls Troop near you, visit americanheritagegirls.org       Add even more Biblical wisdom to your parenting quiver, visit raisinggodlygirls.com 

Loneliness can be a silent struggle, especially for our daughters. As moms, mentors, and faith leaders, how do we help a girl who has withdrawn from meaningful relationships and doesn’t know how to step back into community? In this episode of the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, co-hosts Rachael and Natalie unpack the reality of social isolation’s deep impact on girls today—how fear, anxiety, and lies from the enemy can keep them locked away in heart-seclusion.  You’ll hear about the science behind social isolation, its long-term effects on mental and emotional well-being, and—most importantly—how we can gently coax our girls out of loneliness and into the rich, Christ-centered relationships they were made for. Through practical wisdom from American Heritage Girls Founder & Executive Director Patti Garibay, Biblical encouragement, and real-life strategies, we’ll explore the essential spheres of relational connection: the family, the church, and the wider community.  Whether your daughter is struggling with friendships, hesitant to re-engage after hurt, or feeling lost in the digital age of false connection, this conversation will equip you to guide her back toward life-giving relationships. Plus, don’t miss the announcement of AHG’s newest resource, The Raising Godly Girls Guide to Loneliness—your go-to tool for recognizing the signs of isolation and shepherding your girl into thriving, Christ-honoring community.  Hit play, be encouraged, and start the journey of helping your girl rediscover the joy of real connection!  Find an American Heritage Girls Troop near you, visit americanheritagegirls.org       Add even more Biblical wisdom to your parenting quiver, visit raisinggodlygirls.com 

Loneliness is more than just a passing feeling—it’s a growing crisis among today’s girls. In this episode of the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, co-hosts Rachael and Natalie dive deep into the reality of loneliness and isolation and how they are impacting the mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being of young women.  Did you know that the U.S. Surgeon General has labeled loneliness a public health crisis, ranking it alongside obesity and addiction? Even in a world more connected than ever through technology, girls are feeling increasingly alone. But why? And more importantly, what can we do about it?  Rachael and Natalie explore the devastating effects of isolation, from struggling self-worth to the inability to form deep, meaningful relationships. They highlight the difference between merely being around people and truly connecting with them—because public aloneness is real, and it’s taking a toll on our daughters. Drawing from Biblical wisdom, they share powerful Scriptures that remind us of God’s unwavering presence and His design for deep, life-giving relationships.  If you’ve ever worried that your daughter is withdrawing, struggling to find her place, or feeling unseen in a crowded room, this conversation is for you. You’ll also hear a Raising Godly Girls Minute from American Heritage Girls Founder & Executive Director Patti Garibay, offering a hopeful antidote to the loneliness epidemic.  Plus, discover how American Heritage Girls provides a place for girls to belong, connect, and form friendships that last a lifetime. Whether through AHG Troops, faith-based activities, or mentorship, AHG is fostering a culture where girls can grow in confidence, faith, and community.  Listen in for encouragement, practical wisdom, and a reminder that loneliness doesn’t have to be the norm. Your girl is seen, loved, and created for meaningful connection.  Find an American Heritage Girls Troop near you, visit americanheritagegirls.org       Add even more Biblical wisdom to your parenting quiver, visit raisinggodlygirls.com