270. Conspiracy Theories and a crazy travel story!

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] Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

As we teased last week, Jesse and I discuss our latest experience with InsideTracker! I mentioned this on Instagram a few weeks ago when I got my bloodwork done and many people had questions on how it works and what we've learned from it.In this podcast, we talk about why we did the blood tests twice, what we've learned from it each time, and how we've changed our lives and habits as a result of each blood test. We discuss the surprising insights and actionable advice we received, from dietary adjustments to lifestyle changes, and how these recommendations have shaped our daily routines!This is a really fun episode where Jesse and I share lots of personal stories and insights, give each other a hard time for our quirks, and share about some fascinating books that we have been reading including Through the Eyes of a Lion by Levi Lusko and The Warrior Poet Way by John Lovell.In This Episode[0:35] - Jesse and I are talking all about our experiences with InsideTracker this week![1:32] - I recommend reading Through the Eyes of a Lion, a powerful book by Levi Lusko.[4:09] - Hear me tease Jesse about his phone usage and joke about his age![6:53] - Jesse shares how The Warrior Poet Way by John Lovell offers lessons on fatherhood and leadership.[9:15] - Jesse emphasizes the importance of preparation, sharing insights from the Navy SEAL book The Pledge to America.[11:46] - We move into discussing InsideTracker, with Jesse explaining that it's a tool for tracking health metrics and optimizing personal wellness plans.[12:59] - Hear how InsideTracker offers various testing options, including a full panel and home kits.[14:42] - I discuss the affordability of health tests compared to holistic doctor visits and highlight my own cortisol findings.[17:53] - After discovering elevated cortisol levels, I made some lifestyle changes such as more outdoor time and better sleep.[20:04] - I have overall improved my sleep habits and diet, focusing on reducing stress and feeling better overall.[22:14] - I recount retaking the test a year later to compare progress and track health improvements.[23:12] - Jesse describes how InsideTracker’s optimized range helps him identify areas to work on beyond normal results.[24:07] - I highlight the app’s daily recommendations like olive oil, high-intensity workouts, and sunshine.[27:47] - Hear how the test revealed my anemia, leading to dietary recommendations focused on iron and sleep.[29:41] - I commit to eating red meat daily, acknowledging its effectiveness in working against my anemia.[31:29] - I discuss dairy and bean intake suggestions from my results and invite feedback from listeners on similar programs!Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineInsideTrackerBooksThrough the Eyes of a Lion: Facing Impossible Pain, Finding Incredible Power by Levi LuskoThe Unplugged Hours: Cultivating a Life of Presence in a Digitally Connected World by Hannah BrencherThe Pledge to America: One Man’s Journey from Political Prisoner to U.S. Navy SEAL by Drago DzieranThe Warrior Poet Way: A Guide to Living Free and Dying Well by John LovellSocial 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] Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Welcome back! Listen in this week for a crazy story as Jesse and I take you behind the scenes of our recent adventure-packed week! We have been to a staggering SEVEN states in just NINE days, and I am so excited to share the chaos and joy that followed!From attending the CrossFit Games to exploring NYC, we have certainly had our fair share of logistical challenges and unforgettable moments, and we start by discussing the CrossFit Games, where our daughter's boyfriend RJ competed. It was a thrilling experience, and you will hear all about the highs and lows of cheering him on through a grueling series of events!I also recount the heartwarming and sometimes nerve-wracking moments of traveling with our kids, including their interactions with family and the surprising ease with which our youngest adapted to being away from home! After our CrossFit adventure, I also had the chance to jet off to New York City for a brief but magical trip. From Central Park’s beauty to the glamor of Fifth Avenue, I take you through the highlights of my NYC excursion and how it felt to step into a world so different from our usual routine!You will also definitely want to stay tuned until the very end of the episode for a sneak peek at our next episode in which we will be diving into the results of our recent InsideTracker blood test and explore some new breakfast ideas that we have been loving!In This Episode[0:35] - Jesse and I are recounting a busy week traveling to seven states, visiting CrossFit Games with our daughter Kaitlynn's boyfriend, RJ![3:54] - RJ is a skilled CrossFit athlete who reached the games by excelling through various competition stages.[5:47] - To attend the CrossFit games, we arranged complex travel plans, splitting family members across different flights and destinations.[7:08] - Hear how returning home involved challenges and uncertainties, but we managed to find good deals and made it work![9:24] - Leaving our younger children behind was hard, but we had a great time, and the kids adjusted well with grandparents' care.[12:01] - Despite being small, David handled the plane well, enjoying interactions with other passengers and having fun with beach balls at the event![14:01] - I discuss how the CrossFit staff was supportive and accommodating towards David.[17:47] - Jesse and I explain CrossFit for those unfamiliar with it.[20:09] - I really enjoyed seeing RJ's different sides, particularly his ability to compete while unwell and his interactions with our family.[21:19] - Jesse shares how we enjoyed their time with RJ's family and how the kids interacted like siblings.[22:40] - The competition brought together diverse nationalities, with 29 countries represented.[24:18] - I was moved by the athletes’ live streams and their supporters back home.[27:12] - After picking up the kids, I drove back and then flew to New York for a friend's award ceremony, enjoying LaGuardia’s unique atmosphere.[30:55] - Hear how, in New York City, I was amazed by Central Park's size and the vibrant local activity.[33:14] - I enjoyed a picturesque lunch at a famous boathouse in Central Park and felt that the experience was worth the high cost.[35:39] - While walking down Fifth Avenue, I admired the upscale stores and wondered about the clientele who shop there regularly.[37:36] - I stayed at a luxurious hotel in Times Square, feeling out of place among the well-dressed guests.[39:20] - The next episode will cover our Insidetracker blood test results and introduce a free breakfast ideas guide!Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineCrossFit GamesInsideTrackerSocial 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] Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Join me for this episode of the show as I sit down with the Alyssa Joy Bethke, who is here to encourage us with deep, soul-refreshing insight. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or just plain tired of the daily grind, Alyssa's insights might be exactly what you need to hear!In this episode, we take some time to dive into her new book, When Doing It All Is Undoing You: Meeting God in Your Unmet Expectations, a book filled with so much wisdom and conviction.Alyssa shares her journey of dealing with the pressures of life, from managing a family of five and the ups and downs of ministry to handling a massive move from the dreamy shores of Maui to Tennessee.What really stands out, however, is her vulnerability about the moment that she realized that she was coming undone, leading her to embrace a season of soul care – truly a powerful reminder that we don’t have to do it all and what to do when life feels to full but we know we need to step back, acknowledge our feelings, and tend to our hearts.Alyssa and I also explore her practical tips for processing emotions using the three Ns: Notice, Name, and Navigate, which Alyssa learned from her friend, trauma therapist Tristan Collins. Alyssa’s approach is both grounding and freeing, reminding us that it’s okay to slow down and listen to what our bodies are telling us.Tune in to discover how to find true refreshment for your soul and why it’s so important to let go of the illusion of control. This conversation is one you won’t want to miss, especially if you’re ready to step into a season of deep, transformative rest. In This Episode[0:35] - I have Alyssa Joy Bethke on the show today, author of the new book When Doing It All Is Undoing You![5:29] - Alyssa's husband went viral on YouTube, leading to an unexpected ministry.[9:13] - After moving, Alyssa experienced burnout while managing family life and homeschooling.[11:20] - Alyssa faced struggles with homeschooling, leading her to seek guidance and focus on soul-care.[14:33] - Soul-care and self-awareness is not just superficial activities.[17:26] - Alyssa reflects on the importance of lamenting, grieving, and moving through life's disappointments.[19:58] - Learn about a framework for self-awareness, emphasizing the connection between body, mind, and spirit.[22:33] - Notice, name, and navigate what you're feeling![23:45] - Chip Dodd's The Voice of the Heart explains that anxiety masks underlying fears and that naming these fears can break the cycle of anxiety.[25:43] - Alyssa asserts that fears often focus on the future, but God's love is constant.[28:01] - Many Christians mistakenly believe that following God should lead to a comfortable life free of grief or pain.Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineBooksWhen Doing It All Is Undoing You: Meeting God in Your Unmet Expectations by Alyssa Joy BethkeSatisfied: Finding Hope, Joy, and Contentment Right Where You Are by Alyssa Joy BethkeThe Voice of the Heart: A Call to Full Living by Chip DoddSocial 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] Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

If you are gearing up for school to start (or just ready to begin some new rhythms in the fall), this week's episode is all about how to set yourself up for a successful school year. We share four strategies that have worked so well for us over the years and get very practical on how to make them happen. The first strategy is one that not everyone will agree with, but when it comes to a smoother school year, this has made such a difference for us!! What is that strategy? It's teaching our kids to take ownership of their responsibilities -- especially when it comes to things related to school. We talk about how we've made this happen and how it's worked for different kids with different personalities. We also talk about how we are encouraging this even with David, who has significant cognitive delays and disabilities. We then move on to sharing about how setting up our days well the evening before and the morning of, can impact our entire day -- and week! Simple things like prepping the night before by laying out clothes, packing lunches, getting everything we need for the morning set out, and going to bed earlier make the mornings so much more calm and organized, which leads to a better day for everyone!I also revisit the idea of slow productivity, which is all about intentionally slowing down, evaluating what truly needs to be done, and finding ways to simplify. By reducing the chaos and clutter in our schedules, we can make room for what truly matters and create a school year filled with intention and cherished memories! Whether you have school-age kids or not, I hope the advice and ideas in this episode give you inspiration and food for thought. In This Episode[0:35] - This episode is all about strategies to set yourself up for a successful fall.[2:31] - Listening to audiobooks during morning commutes has become a new family routine, and we have been enjoying Destiny of the Republic.[7:11] - I'm also reading You Are Not Behind which explores finding contentment despite unmet expectations.[10:22] - Our recent decluttering and re-organizing projects.[15:57] - Why and how we have our kids fully in charge of their homework and school-related things.[17:34] - It's important to teach responsibility to children, by encouraging small tasks and praising their efforts.[22:41] - One way we've gradually taught kids to handle tasks independently.[26:20] - A successful morning for us starts the night before.[28:32] - I start the day with quiet time, avoiding electronics and engaging in a morning routine that sets my day up for success.[30:20] - How to practice slow productivity by simplifying schedules, delegating tasks, and reducing pressure for constant productivity.Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineBooksDestiny of the Republic: A Tale of Madness, Medicine, and the Murder of a President by Candice MillardYou Are Not Behind: Building a Life You Love Without Having Everything You Want by Meghan Ryan AsburySlow Productivity: The Lost Art of Accomplishment Without Burnout by Cal NewportSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on LinkedInCrystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook [email protected] Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Jesse and I are touching upon something a bit political this week, but fear not (that is, in fact, the point of this episode!) because it’s not in the way that you might be thinking. We are not discussing who we’re voting for or who you should vote for, but why we need to rise above all of the fear-mongering and quietly “rebel” in the way we live our lives. As Jesse points out, fear sells. It’s nothing new. It’s a classic marketing tactic. But with the development and advancement of technology like AI, it is easier than ever to create things like “screenshots” of social media posts that aren’t real and share them on social media, with many people accepting them as true without fact-checking. Fake tweets, doctored photos, and misleading statements are just a few examples of how fear is being manufactured to stir up emotions and incite reactions.Listen in as we explore how political campaigns and media often exploit fear to sway public opinion, making us feel like we’re in a constant state of crisis. Jesse and I discuss the implications of living in a fear-driven culture and how and why it’s important to rebel against the fear through educating ourselves, questioning what we’re fed, setting boundaries on our media consumption, and ultimately looking to the Lord.We challenge you to reflect on how fear might be influencing your decisions and interactions. Are you letting it dictate your actions or steal your joy? Let’s talk about quietly rebelling against this fear narrative by choosing hope, living fully in the present, and fostering meaningful conversations!In This Episode[0:35] – Jesse and I are discussing politically charged fear-mongering today![2:28] – I describe our annual Bull Shoals Lake vacation in Arkansas, a long-standing tradition with our family.[4:28] – Our trip wasn’t at all what we’d envisioned, but it turned out to be a really memorable time.[7:20] – I share how I enjoyed an unexpected benefit of going to bed early during the vacation and feeling so rested![9:38] – I am currently reading Slow Productivity by Cal Newport.[14:08] – We talk about our enjoyment of a high-tech bird feeder with live camera feed and snapshots.[17:52] – In response to a question from a listener, we talk more about the collagen protein powder we love.[21:19] – We move into discussing rebelling against the narrative of fear.[24:51] – Jesse reflects on fear-based politics throughout history and how social media amplifies such tactics, emphasizing that fear is often exaggerated.[26:43] – Don’t make decisions based upon fear.[29:03] – Jesse argues that a powerful antidote to fear is education.[29:37] – It might be a good idea to take breaks from media consumption to avoid letting fear and anxiety take over.[31:14] – An Instagram post of mine encourages living fully in the present, rejecting fear, and trusting in hope and faith over political fear.[34:03] – I reflect on anger as a reaction to fear and encourage us all to take a step back from heated online arguments.Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineThe Crystal Paine Show – 27. Digital Minimalism (with Cal Newport)The Crystal Paine Show – 108. How to Love Someone You Disagree WithFeatherSnapBooksSlow Productivity: The Lost Art of Accomplishment Without Burnout by Cal NewportSocial 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] Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

I am so thrilled to welcome Natalie Runion back in the studio for today’s episode. If you remember my last conversation with her, then you likely remember how it left me deeply moved and inspired, and this time is no different. Natalie joins me to discuss her new book The House That Jesus Built: Leading Our Churches Back to God's Original Blueprint, and I'm excited to get to learn from her again.Natalie’s latest work picks up where her previous book Raised to Stay leaves off, with this new book addressing the reconstruction of faith, focusing on rebuilding a church that’s true to its biblical roots. Natalie shares how the journey of deconstructing faith doesn’t have to mean discarding it but can instead lead to a more authentic and healthy church environment.Join us we explore what makes a church truly healthy, with Natalie emphasizing that it’s not about the size or programs but the genuine presence of the Holy Spirit. We discuss practical markers of a thriving church community, including how to handle conflict biblically and the importance of having genuine leaders.We also touch on the concept of finding ministry opportunities right in our everyday lives and how even the smallest acts of kindness can be significant. Natalie challenges us to rethink what it means to serve and engage with our church community, urging us to be a source of support and encouragement rather than simply seeking it.I hope that you will listen in for this insightful conversation that promises to be both thought-provoking and encouraging. You might just find yourself inspired to look at your own church community in a new light, so don’t miss it! Be sure to also read Raised to Stay if you haven’t already and pre-order The House That Jesus Built!In This Episode[0:35] - I welcome Natalie Runion back to the show![1:57] - Raised to Stay tackles faith deconstruction, emphasizing rebuilding rather than discarding.[4:00] - Church, Natalie argues, is a community of broken people with shared faith; focusing on biblical purposes can manage expectations and foster connections.[6:13] - A healthy church focuses on repentance, worship, and outreach, with the presence of the Holy Spirit as the true measure of health.[8:20] - True church leadership requires shepherds called to protect and guide, avoiding celebrity culture.[11:02] - Large churches can thrive when multiple shepherds, mentored by the lead pastor, actively care for the congregation.[13:23] - Natalie points out that addressing abuse in the church requires discernment, although leaving may be necessary if it's unsafe to speak up.[15:31] - Ministry opportunities are often found in everyday actions, like helping neighbors, rather than on grand stages.[17:13] - True ministry focuses on seeking the Holy Spirit's presence, even in ordinary settings, rather than pursuing platforms.[19:15] - Ministry also often means stepping outside our comfort zones, like humbling ourselves or prioritizing church attendance despite obstacles.[21:37] - Natalie feels that shifting focus from what we receive at church to how we can help others makes attending church worthwhile.[24:06] - Simply being present and showing kindness in church can be as valuable as active participation.[28:17] - Hear how Natalie's father supported her and prioritized her spiritual needs, influencing her approach to raising spiritually curious and honest children.[31:03] - Natalie discusses parenting challenges and describes her strategy of engaging her 11-year-old in church through serving.[33:01] - Natalie is raising her daughters to be Christ followers and not just churchgoers.Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineThe Crystal Paine Show - 215. Hope and Healing from Church Hurt & DisappointmentNatalie RunionBooksRaised to Stay: Persevering in Ministry When You Have a Million Reasons to Walk Away by Natalie RunionThe House That Jesus Built: Leading Our Churches Back to God's Original Blueprint by Natalie RunionSocial 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] Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

This episode is a little departure from our normal, but after I accidentally found myself in hot water over something I posted on Instagram, I thought it might be better to do a podcast episode to share what I learned and how I changed my views as a result of the unexpected debate.S0 buckle up as Jesse and I dive into conspiracy theories today! You may not see eye-to-eye with me or Jesse (we both have different opinions), but I hope this conversation causes you to think and learn... or at least get a laugh at how much I didn't know!The controversy erupted from my Instagram stories after watching the new film, Fly Me to the Moon. Jesse and I discuss the importance of questioning narratives without necessarily being a conspiracy theorist and the healthy skepticism that can lead to personal growth.We also, on a lighter note, reflect on recent travel misadventures, including a series of flight delays and unexpected challenges Silas and I had during a trip to Florida. And Jesse recounts his recent trip, highlighting dining at Michie Tavern, and David's newfound skill of escaping his playpen! We also discuss parenting challenges and the humorous moments we've encountered with our kids, like Micah's evolving vocabulary and David's curiosity about our jacuzzi!Throughout the episode, I invite listeners to explore different perspectives and encourage open, respectful dialogue, even when opinions diverge. So join us for a (hopefully!) thought-provoking conversation filled with laughter, reflection, and a bit of healthy dialogue.In This Episode[0:35] - Tune in as we discuss a controversial topic and share some travel stories![2:13] - Jesse went to Virginia for a baseball camp with Silas and David, and they had a great time![4:55] - Silas stayed in dorms, experienced college life, and enjoyed rustic dining at Michie Tavern.[5:41] - David learned to climb out of his playpen and had fun doing so in the hotel![6:31] - We share how when David returned home, he tried to climb into the Jacuzzi, so we had to remove the knobs.[8:58] - Micah is narrating his life now, but it's challenging to understand his new words.[9:59] - While Jesse was away, I took the girls and friends to see Fly Me to the Moon.[12:03] - The movie, inspired by Marketing the Moon, took creative liberties and depicted fictional events.[14:41] - I learned from my childhood to question things and not blindly believe everything I am told.[17:02] - Some questions I had about the original moon landing that sparked a firestorm of controversy on Instagram.[19:50] - Jesse discusses how NASA technology, developed for space, improved quality for consumer America, including television.[20:51] - Hear how research has since changed my perspective.[23:26] - I believe it's healthy to question things and seek information from multiple perspectives.[27:39] - I express gratitude for those who corrected my misinformation and encouraged open discussions with evidence.[28:52] - Engaging in debates with different viewpoints sharpens your thinking and broadens your perspective, Jesse points out.[31:40] - I share how Silas and I recently experienced travel mishaps but ultimately had a successful trip to Florida.[34:07] - We experienced flight delays due to a bird strike and bathroom emergencies on the plane.[37:23] - Despite travel delays, I made it to dinner on time and enjoyed the unexpected adventure.[39:45] - Jesse and I embrace differing viewpoints in our family, which leads to interesting and valuable discussions!Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineFilmsFly Me to the MoonBooksMarketing the Moon: The Selling of the Apollo Lunar Program by David Meerman Scott & Richard JurekSocial 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] Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Welcome back, dear listeners, to an episode that you won't want to miss! Jesse and I are diving into some truly fascinating territory today, starting with a much-requested topic: the Oura Ring. I have been wearing mine since February, and it’s completely transformed my daily routine and overall health.If you’re curious about what an Oura Ring is, think of it as a high-tech Fitbit but in ring form, tracking everything from your sleep patterns to your recovery scores, and I share all the juicy details on how it’s made such a significant impact on my life! From going to bed earlier to balancing intense workouts with gentle movement, the Oura Ring has been a game-changer. If you’re looking for a comprehensive health tracker, this might just be it!We spend some time covering some listener feedback, with a listener having written about the Quest protein bars that we mentioned a couple of episodes ago. She has just discovered the s’mores flavor, and I am excited to see how they stack up against our beloved chocolate chip cookie dough ones.We also hear from a listener with some fantastic audiobook recommendations after our recent episode on audiobooks. She suggests checking out William Kent Krueger’s works, including This Tender Land, which she and her husband loved. Perfect timing for those summer road trips!We also offer an exciting update on our letter dates. For our date night this week, Jesse and I, for the letter I, watched The Imitation Game, a film that left us deep in thought. A complex, emotional story set during World War II, we have a lot to unpack about it without giving away too much!In This Episode[1:20] - Jesse and I are discussing the life-changing impact of the health-tracking Oura Ring![3:15] - Listener Sarah shared about discovering s'mores-flavored Quest bars from Walmart.[5:36] - Another listener, Elizabeth, appreciates audiobook recommendations and suggests books by William Kent Krueger such as This Tender Land.[6:33] - I have been reading Liturgy of the Ordinary, which explores everyday life as liturgy.[8:02] - I am only five chapters into the book, but I share my thoughts so far.[10:48] - Learn about Martie, an online discount food store that is especially good for those with dietary restrictions.[12:18] - Jesse and I, for our “I” date, recently watched The Imitation Game, a complex and haunting film about wartime decisions.[14:28] - Watching a Cold War documentary revealed new, unsettling information about atomic bomb testing and consequences.[16:33] - The documentary highlighted the devastating effects of the atomic bomb on Hiroshima and Truman's stress.[19:20] - I reveal how my Oura Ring tracks sleep data accurately, influencing my bedtime routines and overall health.[22:15] - I describe how going to bed early improves my sleep quality and productivity, as confirmed by my Oura Ring.[23:58] - The Oura Ring also monitors recovery, guiding my activity levels throughout the day effectively.[26:28] - I explain how prioritizing gentle movement boosts my energy and improves my sleep and recovery.[27:54] - In closing, the Oura Ring tracks cycles and sleep with precision, influencing healthier habits daily.Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineOura RingQuest Protein Bars Bundle with Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough and S'mores FlavorsMartieBooksWilliam Kent Krueger (Amazon author page)This Tender Land by William Kent KruegerLiturgy of the Ordinary: Sacred Practices in Everyday Life by Tish Harrison WarrenFilmsThe Imitation GameSocial 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] Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

I'm excited to get to share my podcast episode with Davey Blackburn, the author of Nothing Is Wasted: A True Story of Hope, Forgiveness, and Finding Purpose in Pain. This is a really open conversation about his story of loss, forgiveness, healing, and hope and I think it will encourage anyone who is struggling with some dark and heavy things right now.In 2015, Davey’s wife Amanda and their unborn child were murdered. In this episode, he shares more about what it was like to walk through that horrific loss, the real and raw emotions he felt, and how changing his perspective from bitterness to compassion gave him the ability to forgive the perpetrators.He candidly discusses his initial rage and the complexities of forgiveness – both of others and himself, taking us through the challenges of rebuilding amidst deep loss, including the unexpected closure of the church he and Amanda founded. Through it all, Davey shares how he felt God’s presence even in the darkest moments.One of the most impactful parts of this interview for me was when Davey shares about how empathy for those who caused him unimaginable pain and stepping into their stories transformed his perspective on grace and redemption. His insights are a powerful reminder of God's ability to bring beauty from ashes, reshaping our understanding of suffering and resilience! I was so blessed by my time with Davey and really appreciate his willingness to be so open and vulnerable, and whether you're grappling with loss, betrayal, or trauma, this episode promises to inspire and encourage you to find purpose in your own journey! In This Episode[0:35] - Today, I am interviewing Davey Blackburn, author of Nothing Is Wasted![1:08] - Davey, based in Indianapolis, leads Nothing Is Wasted Ministries, aiding those in trauma.[4:44] - We discuss Davey's real and raw emotions that he chronicles in the book. [5:51] - Davey reflects on forgiveness -- forgiving others and himself.[11:43] - We talk about compassion and empathy toward others, shaped by an understanding of trauma.[15:22] - Hearing and understanding others' stories has helped Davey learn compassion and empathy.[17:25] - Davey describes forgiving those who murdered Amanda and their emotional courtroom interactions.[23:49] - The importance of deep grief and leaning into faith during hardships.[29:27] - Grappling with life's paradoxes and finding strength in Jesus.[32:35] - We learn about the mission of Nothing Is Wasted and where they can be found online.Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineNothing Is WastedBooksNothing Is Wasted: A True Story of Hope, Forgiveness, and Finding Purpose in Pain by Davey BlackburnSocial 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] Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands