When Success Hides Anxiety // Sissy Goff

In this episode, we sit down with counselor and author Sissy Goff to talk about the hidden ways anxiety shows up in our daughters. From the pressure to be “the good girl” to the overwhelming expectations of school, sports, and social media, we unpack how perfectionism and performance can mask deep struggles. Together, we explore practical tools for parents to recognize the signs, model grace, and create safe spaces where kids learn that they don’t have to try harder—they can lean into God’s love and presence.Key TakeawaysHigh-performing, “good girls” often carry hidden anxiety that adults can easily miss.Success and perfectionism can be fueled by anxiety, not just motivation or talent.Parents can watch for subtle cues—like withdrawing from fun family activities or constantly deferring to peers.Modeling failure, laughter, and grace as a family helps kids loosen perfectionistic pressure.Small boundaries and simple practices (like limiting who to encourage each day) can redirect kids from burnout.The way parents talk to themselves shapes how they talk to their kids—self-compassion matters.Shifting from “try harder” language to “let’s pray and grow together” reflects the gospel of grace.Website: raisingboysandgirls.comInstagram:@sissygoffFacebook:Raising Boys and GirlsYouTube:Raising Boys and Girls========================================================We LOVE that you’ve decided to join us this week for the Living Wholehearted Podcast. We hope you enjoyed the conversation, tips, and resources to help you transform every relationship that matters most to you. If you think this will help someone you know, make sure you send it their way or share on socials. Tag us @living_wholehearted and @terramattson! Don't forget to FOLLOW/SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss an episode and help spread the word by leaving us some stars on a review. Thanks for partnering with us to help more leaders, just like you, who want to live and lead with integrity at home, work and in the community. Go to livingwholehearted.com and sign up to receive our free leadership tips and updates delivered to you in our monthly newsletter. And, if you’re a girl mom, check out mycourageousgirls.com.  Until next time, be the leader you would follow! Grateful for you,Jeff & Terra To connect with Jeff & Terra Mattson and Living Wholehearted, go to: INSTAGRAM@TerraMattson@Living_Wholehearted@MyCourageousGirls FACEBOOK@WeAreLivingWholehearted@MyCourageousGirls WEBSITESLivingWholehearted.comTerraMattson.com MyCourageousGirls.com RESOURCESShrinking the Integrity Gap Shrinking the Integrity Gap e-Course Courageous: Being Daughters Rooted in GraceDear Mattsons Helping Moms Raise Confident DaughtersSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/living-wholehearted-podcast-with-jeff-and-terra/donations

In this episode, we sit down with Erin Kerry, a mental health advocate, integrative nutrition coach, and mom who knows firsthand what it means to live with anxiety while holding onto faith. Together, we explore the intersection of mental and physical health, the power of grace when we feel broken, and how to shift from shame to self-compassion. Erin shares her journey of learning to partner with God in healing—body, mind, and spirit—and offers practical wisdom for anyone wrestling with the weight of anxiety, identity, or performance.Key TakeawaysFaith and mental health can coexist—struggling with anxiety doesn’t mean you lack faith.The body keeps the score—our physical health often reflects our inner world, and healing requires an integrated approach.Naming your anxiety is the first step toward disarming its power.Grace is not passivity—it’s active participation with God in the process of renewal.Identity precedes performance—you are loved and whole before you do anything to prove it.Community and honest conversation break the stigma around faith and mental health.Parenting through anxiety requires compassion—for our kids and for ourselves.Website: erinbkerry.comInstagram:@sparkingwholenessFacebook:Sparking Wholeness========================================================We LOVE that you’ve decided to join us this week for the Living Wholehearted Podcast. We hope you enjoyed the conversation, tips, and resources to help you transform every relationship that matters most to you. If you think this will help someone you know, make sure you send it their way or share on socials. Tag us @living_wholehearted and @terramattson! Don't forget to FOLLOW/SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss an episode and help spread the word by leaving us some stars on a review. Thanks for partnering with us to help more leaders, just like you, who want to live and lead with integrity at home, work and in the community. Go to livingwholehearted.com and sign up to receive our free leadership tips and updates delivered to you in our monthly newsletter. And, if you’re a girl mom, check out mycourageousgirls.com.  Until next time, be the leader you would follow! Grateful for you,Jeff & Terra To connect with Jeff & Terra Mattson and Living Wholehearted, go to: INSTAGRAM@TerraMattson@Living_Wholehearted@MyCourageousGirls FACEBOOK@WeAreLivingWholehearted@MyCourageousGirls WEBSITESLivingWholehearted.comTerraMattson.com MyCourageousGirls.com RESOURCESShrinking the Integrity Gap Shrinking the Integrity Gap e-Course Courageous: Being Daughters Rooted in GraceDear Mattsons Helping Moms Raise Confident DaughtersSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/living-wholehearted-podcast-with-jeff-and-terra/donations

In this episode, we sit down with Dave and Ann Wilson to talk honestly about the real struggles couples face in marriage. From unmet expectations and old wounds to finding healing through vulnerability, grace, and God’s love, we unpack what it means to speak life into your spouse—even when it feels easier to criticize. Together, we explore the hope and redemption available when we lean into the hard work of marriage and invite Jesus into the center of it all.Key TakeawaysMarriage is meant to be challenging—don’t give up; growth comes through the struggle.Unhealed childhood wounds often resurface in marriage, shaping conflict and connection.Vulnerability and emotional honesty are essential for real intimacy.Speaking life over your spouse can transform a marriage more than criticism ever could.God’s grace provides the foundation to rebuild trust and hope after brokenness.Couples need to pursue healing for themselves to show up whole in their relationship.Facebook: @DaveAnnWilsonInstagram: @DaveAnnWilsonYouTube: @DaveAnnWilson========================================================We LOVE that you’ve decided to join us this week for the Living Wholehearted Podcast. We hope you enjoyed the conversation, tips, and resources to help you transform every relationship that matters most to you. If you think this will help someone you know, make sure you send it their way or share on socials. Tag us @living_wholehearted and @terramattson! Don't forget to FOLLOW/SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss an episode and help spread the word by leaving us some stars on a review. Thanks for partnering with us to help more leaders, just like you, who want to live and lead with integrity at home, work and in the community. Go to livingwholehearted.com and sign up to receive our free leadership tips and updates delivered to you in our monthly newsletter. And, if you’re a girl mom, check out mycourageousgirls.com.  Until next time, be the leader you would follow! Grateful for you,Jeff & Terra To connect with Jeff & Terra Mattson and Living Wholehearted, go to: INSTAGRAM@TerraMattson@Living_Wholehearted@MyCourageousGirls FACEBOOK@WeAreLivingWholehearted@MyCourageousGirls WEBSITESLivingWholehearted.comTerraMattson.com MyCourageousGirls.com RESOURCESShrinking the Integrity Gap Shrinking the Integrity Gap e-Course Courageous: Being Daughters Rooted in GraceDear Mattsons Helping Moms Raise Confident DaughtersSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/living-wholehearted-podcast-with-jeff-and-terra/donations

In this heartfelt conversation with author Clarissa Moll, we explore the realities of grief, parenting through loss, and the hope that sustains us. Together, we talk honestly about the loneliness of grief, how the church can step into its calling as a healing community, and the ways parents can support their children while tending to their own broken hearts. Clarissa reminds us that resilience is learned, but resurrection is a gift only God can give—and both shape how we walk through sorrow with open hearts and anchored hope.Key Takeaways:Grief often isolates us, but the church can be a place of belonging and healing when it leans into its role as a supportive community.Practical, proactive offers of help (like meals, errands, childcare) serve grieving families better than vague questions.Children grieve in ways consistent with their personalities—some express it outwardly, others through activity or art.Parents don’t have to do this alone—teachers, coaches, friends, and church leaders can all form a vital circle of support.There is no set timeline for grief; prolonged changes in eating, sleeping, or behavior may signal a need for additional help.Resilience is a skill we can learn, but resurrection is God’s unique work—reminding us that our hope is never wasted.Grief, while painful, can reorient our hearts to deeper intimacy with God and compassion for others.Website: www.clarissamoll.comInstagram: @mollclarissaSubstack: clarissamoll.substack.com========================================================We LOVE that you’ve decided to join us this week for the Living Wholehearted Podcast. We hope you enjoyed the conversation, tips, and resources to help you transform every relationship that matters most to you. If you think this will help someone you know, make sure you send it their way or share on socials. Tag us @living_wholehearted and @terramattson! Don't forget to FOLLOW/SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss an episode and help spread the word by leaving us some stars on a review. Thanks for partnering with us to help more leaders, just like you, who want to live and lead with integrity at home, work and in the community. Go to livingwholehearted.com and sign up to receive our free leadership tips and updates delivered to you in our monthly newsletter. And, if you’re a girl mom, check out mycourageousgirls.com.  Until next time, be the leader you would follow! Grateful for you,Jeff & Terra To connect with Jeff & Terra Mattson and Living Wholehearted, go to: INSTAGRAM@TerraMattson@Living_Wholehearted@MyCourageousGirls FACEBOOK@WeAreLivingWholehearted@MyCourageousGirls WEBSITESLivingWholehearted.comTerraMattson.com MyCourageousGirls.com RESOURCESShrinking the Integrity Gap Shrinking the Integrity Gap e-Course Courageous: Being Daughters Rooted in GraceDear Mattsons Helping Moms Raise Confident DaughtersSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/living-wholehearted-podcast-with-jeff-and-terra/donations

In this episode, we sit down with Katherine Wolf to talk about what it means to live wholeheartedly when life doesn’t go as planned. Katherine shares her journey of surviving a massive stroke at 26, the long road of recovery, and how God reshaped her calling through suffering. Together we explore “invisible wheelchairs,” radical acceptance, parenting through pain, and the difference between curing and true healing. It’s an honest, hope-filled conversation about finding purpose in the dark and leaning on God’s presence when everything else feels uncertain.Key Takeaways The “good things of God” are spiritual realities—peace, joy, His presence—rather than guaranteed comfort or ease.Everyone carries “invisible wheelchairs,” unseen limitations that invite compassion and empathy.Radical acceptance allows us to move forward while still holding the scars of suffering.Suffering can refine, not erase, our gifts and calling.Healing goes deeper than cure; it is about wholeness of the soul.Hope offers an escape from the paralyzing “what if loop.”In suffering, the ministry of presence and tears often speaks louder than words.Website: www.hopeheals.comInstagram: @hopehealsFacebook: Hope HealsX/Twitter: @hopehealsYouTube: Hope Heals========================================================We LOVE that you’ve decided to join us this week for the Living Wholehearted Podcast. We hope you enjoyed the conversation, tips, and resources to help you transform every relationship that matters most to you. If you think this will help someone you know, make sure you send it their way or share on socials. Tag us @living_wholehearted and @terramattson! Don't forget to FOLLOW/SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss an episode and help spread the word by leaving us some stars on a review. Thanks for partnering with us to help more leaders, just like you, who want to live and lead with integrity at home, work and in the community. Go to livingwholehearted.com and sign up to receive our free leadership tips and updates delivered to you in our monthly newsletter. And, if you’re a girl mom, check out mycourageousgirls.com.  Until next time, be the leader you would follow! Grateful for you,Jeff & Terra To connect with Jeff & Terra Mattson and Living Wholehearted, go to: INSTAGRAM@TerraMattson@Living_Wholehearted@MyCourageousGirls FACEBOOK@WeAreLivingWholehearted@MyCourageousGirls WEBSITESLivingWholehearted.comTerraMattson.com MyCourageousGirls.com RESOURCESShrinking the Integrity Gap Shrinking the Integrity Gap e-Course Courageous: Being Daughters Rooted in GraceDear Mattsons Helping Moms Raise Confident DaughtersSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/living-wholehearted-podcast-with-jeff-and-terra/donations

In this timely and honest conversation, we sit down with pastor and author Joshua Ryan Butler to talk about how the church can engage with politics in a way that reflects the heart of Jesus. Drawing from his book Party Crashing, we explore the tensions of modern and postmodern political frameworks, the spiritual stakes of polarization, and how unity in Christ can be a witness in a fractured world. We reflect on what’s happened post-election, how online and offline spaces shape our convictions, and what it means to be a faithful presence in our communities. Together, we lean into the hope and formation that comes through real relationships, local engagement, and a posture of love.Key TakeawaysUnity is sacred: Jesus prayed for the unity of the Church before going to the cross—how we relate across differences matters deeply to Him.Real-life relationships ground us: Online discourse is often dominated by postmodern extremes, but face-to-face relationships tend to be more grounded and bridge-building.There’s more than just red, blue, or silence: We’re not limited to partisanship or passivity—creative, faithful political engagement is possible and needed.Jesus reconciled enemies: Following Jesus means learning to walk together across significant ideological divides, like zealots and tax collectors in the same community.Faithful presence > flashy platforms: Lasting impact comes through everyday faithfulness and local civic engagement, not just national elections.Posture matters as much as position: How we show up—with humility, curiosity, and love—often speaks louder than what we believe.Hope in a bigger story: Remembering God’s sovereignty through history can calm our anxiety and remind us that the Church will endure.Website: https://joshuaryanbutler.com/Instagram: @joshbutler.pdxFacebook: @JoshuaButlerpdx========================================================We LOVE that you’ve decided to join us this week for the Living Wholehearted Podcast. We hope you enjoyed the conversation, tips, and resources to help you transform every relationship that matters most to you. If you think this will help someone you know, make sure you send it their way or share on socials. Tag us @living_wholehearted and @terramattson! Don't forget to FOLLOW/SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss an episode and help spread the word by leaving us some stars on a review. Thanks for partnering with us to help more leaders, just like you, who want to live and lead with integrity at home, work and in the community. Go to livingwholehearted.com and sign up to receive our free leadership tips and updates delivered to you in our monthly newsletter. And, if you’re a girl mom, check out mycourageousgirls.com.  Until next time, be the leader you would follow! Grateful for you,Jeff & Terra To connect with Jeff & Terra Mattson and Living Wholehearted, go to: INSTAGRAM@TerraMattson@Living_Wholehearted@MyCourageousGirls FACEBOOK@WeAreLivingWholehearted@MyCourageousGirls WEBSITESLivingWholehearted.comTerraMattson.com MyCourageousGirls.com RESOURCESShrinking the Integrity Gap Shrinking the Integrity Gap e-Course Courageous: Being Daughters Rooted in GraceDear Mattsons Helping Moms Raise Confident DaughtersSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/living-wholehearted-podcast-with-jeff-and-terra/donations

In this episode, we sit down with Sally Breedlove and Willa Kane, two authors of Eighth Day Prayers. Together we explore how listening to God first transforms our leadership, our relationships, and our daily rhythms. From reluctant leadership to scripture-soaked prayer, Sally and Willa share how anchoring ourselves in God’s Word and the rhythms of the church calendar can create margin, cultivate hope, and deepen our joy. This is a conversation about slowing down, making space for God’s voice, and discovering the gift of community in prayer.Key TakeawaysListen first, speak second: Lasting leadership begins by listening to God before we speak or act.Reluctant leaders bring strength: Those who never sought influence often carry a unique humility and integrity.Scripture-soaked prayer sustains us: Simple, accessible rhythms of prayer keep us grounded in truth and hope.The church calendar roots our lives: Living by God’s seasons—Advent, Lent, Easter, and beyond—offers balance and perspective in a busy world.Saying no is leadership too: Boundaries create the space for faithful, Spirit-led influence.Collaboration is a gift: When pride is set aside, shared work can become joy-filled and deeply fruitful.Beauty belongs in faith: Prayer practices that are both true and beautiful invite us—and others—into God’s presence.Website: eighthdayprayers.orgInstagram: @eighthdayprayersFacebook: Eighth Day Prayers========================================================We LOVE that you’ve decided to join us this week for the Living Wholehearted Podcast. We hope you enjoyed the conversation, tips, and resources to help you transform every relationship that matters most to you. If you think this will help someone you know, make sure you send it their way or share on socials. Tag us @living_wholehearted and @terramattson! Don't forget to FOLLOW/SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss an episode and help spread the word by leaving us some stars on a review. Thanks for partnering with us to help more leaders, just like you, who want to live and lead with integrity at home, work and in the community. Go to livingwholehearted.com and sign up to receive our free leadership tips and updates delivered to you in our monthly newsletter. And, if you’re a girl mom, check out mycourageousgirls.com.  Until next time, be the leader you would follow! Grateful for you,Jeff & Terra To connect with Jeff & Terra Mattson and Living Wholehearted, go to: INSTAGRAM@TerraMattson@Living_Wholehearted@MyCourageousGirls FACEBOOK@WeAreLivingWholehearted@MyCourageousGirls WEBSITESLivingWholehearted.comTerraMattson.com MyCourageousGirls.com RESOURCESShrinking the Integrity Gap Shrinking the Integrity Gap e-Course Courageous: Being Daughters Rooted in GraceDear Mattsons Helping Moms Raise Confident DaughtersSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/living-wholehearted-podcast-with-jeff-and-terra/donations

In this episode of The Living Wholehearted Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Kristin Valerius, a pediatric psychologist and faith-filled leader, to talk honestly about parenting teens in an anxious world. Together, we explore how anxiety can be a signal of what we value most, why parents don’t need to rescue kids from every hard feeling, and how repair—not perfection—builds lasting connection. If you’ve ever wondered how to help your teen (and yourself) navigate big emotions with grace, resilience, and faith, this conversation will encourage and equip you.Key TakeawaysAnxiety as information – Anxiety isn’t just a problem; it reveals what we value and can guide us toward growth.The tipping point of anxiety – It becomes unhealthy when it blocks daily functioning or life-giving activities.Validation before solutions – Teens feel calmer and more open when parents reflect their emotions before jumping into advice.Repair matters more than perfection – Messing up is inevitable; owning it models humility, grace, and belonging.Parents must regulate themselves too – Self-care, honesty about limits, and modeling resilience are essential for healthy homes.Connection in their world – Entering your teen’s passions (even video games or music you don’t love) creates trust and closeness.Hold the long view – Parenting teens can feel unrewarding, but grace reminds us that growth is a process, not a final arrival.Website: www.sundstromclinic.com========================================================We LOVE that you’ve decided to join us this week for the Living Wholehearted Podcast. We hope you enjoyed the conversation, tips, and resources to help you transform every relationship that matters most to you. If you think this will help someone you know, make sure you send it their way or share on socials. Tag us @living_wholehearted and @terramattson! Don't forget to FOLLOW/SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss an episode and help spread the word by leaving us some stars on a review. Thanks for partnering with us to help more leaders, just like you, who want to live and lead with integrity at home, work and in the community. Go to livingwholehearted.com and sign up to receive our free leadership tips and updates delivered to you in our monthly newsletter. And, if you’re a girl mom, check out mycourageousgirls.com.  Until next time, be the leader you would follow! Grateful for you,Jeff & Terra To connect with Jeff & Terra Mattson and Living Wholehearted, go to: INSTAGRAM@TerraMattson@Living_Wholehearted@MyCourageousGirls FACEBOOK@WeAreLivingWholehearted@MyCourageousGirls WEBSITESLivingWholehearted.comTerraMattson.com MyCourageousGirls.com RESOURCESShrinking the Integrity Gap Shrinking the Integrity Gap e-Course Courageous: Being Daughters Rooted in GraceDear Mattsons Helping Moms Raise Confident DaughtersSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/living-wholehearted-podcast-with-jeff-and-terra/donations

In this episode, we sit down with licensed counselor, author, and speaker Debra Fileta to explore what it truly means to heal from the inside out. Together, we unpack why our attempts at change often fail and how pausing, gaining insight, and facing our past can lead to lasting transformation. We talk about the deeper roots beneath our habits, how trauma resurfaces when life finally feels safe, and why triggers might actually be God’s invitation to heal. Join us as we offer a hope-filled, practical, and deeply faith-rooted conversation that will equip you to reset your life from the inside out.Key TakeawaysLasting change begins beneath the surface—true transformation requires addressing thoughts, feelings, and beliefs, not just behaviors.Pausing is powerful—silence and stillness create space to hear from God and gain deeper insight.Triggers are not setbacks—they’re signs of where healing is still needed, and God’s invitation to go deeper.Childhood wounds still shape adult behavior—healing comes when we invite Jesus into those early places of pain.Insight leads to alignment—when your thoughts, feelings, and actions align with God’s truth, deep healing follows.Spiritual maturity includes emotional maturity—leaders can’t afford to ignore their inner world.Shame stalls healing, but gratitude invites it—reframing struggles with grace opens the door to growth.Website: www.debrafileta.comInstagram: @debrafiletaFacebook: facebook.com/TrueLoveDatesTwitter/X: @DebraFiletaYouTube: Debra Fileta YouTube Channel========================================================We LOVE that you’ve decided to join us this week for the Living Wholehearted Podcast. We hope you enjoyed the conversation, tips, and resources to help you transform every relationship that matters most to you. If you think this will help someone you know, make sure you send it their way or share on socials. Tag us @living_wholehearted and @terramattson! Don't forget to FOLLOW/SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss an episode and help spread the word by leaving us some stars on a review. Thanks for partnering with us to help more leaders, just like you, who want to live and lead with integrity at home, work and in the community. Go to livingwholehearted.com and sign up to receive our free leadership tips and updates delivered to you in our monthly newsletter. And, if you’re a girl mom, check out mycourageousgirls.com.  Until next time, be the leader you would follow! Grateful for you,Jeff & Terra To connect with Jeff & Terra Mattson and Living Wholehearted, go to: INSTAGRAM@TerraMattson@Living_Wholehearted@MyCourageousGirls FACEBOOK@WeAreLivingWholehearted@MyCourageousGirls WEBSITESLivingWholehearted.comTerraMattson.com MyCourageousGirls.com RESOURCESShrinking the Integrity Gap Shrinking the Integrity Gap e-Course Courageous: Being Daughters Rooted in GraceDear Mattsons Helping Moms Raise Confident DaughtersSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/living-wholehearted-podcast-with-jeff-and-terra/donations

As parents, we’re navigating a world of constant noise—externally from screens and schedules, and internally from emotional overload. In this episode, we sit down with Sarah Boyd, author of Turning Down the Noise, to talk about how overstimulation impacts both parents and kids, and how we can reclaim calm, connection, and emotional maturity in our homes. From recognizing early warning signs to creating healthy digital rhythms, this conversation offers both spiritual encouragement and practical tools for the journey.Key TakeawaysCatch overstimulation early. Notice signs before they lead to emotional blowups.Limits are a gift. Embracing them brings more peace and presence.Screens drain energy. Even background media impacts our brains.Connection over perfection. Simple rituals and shared interests go far.Model emotional regulation. Kids learn calm by watching us.Reduce noise, build resilience. Less input creates space for growth.Parent with grace. Shame isn’t helpful—start with compassion.Website: resilientlittlehearts.comInstagram: @resilientlittleheartsFacebook: Resilient Little Hearts========================================================We LOVE that you’ve decided to join us this week for the Living Wholehearted Podcast. We hope you enjoyed the conversation, tips, and resources to help you transform every relationship that matters most to you. If you think this will help someone you know, make sure you send it their way or share on socials. Tag us @living_wholehearted and @terramattson! Don't forget to FOLLOW/SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss an episode and help spread the word by leaving us some stars on a review. Thanks for partnering with us to help more leaders, just like you, who want to live and lead with integrity at home, work and in the community. Go to livingwholehearted.com and sign up to receive our free leadership tips and updates delivered to you in our monthly newsletter. And, if you’re a girl mom, check out mycourageousgirls.com.  Until next time, be the leader you would follow! Grateful for you,Jeff & Terra To connect with Jeff & Terra Mattson and Living Wholehearted, go to: INSTAGRAM@TerraMattson@Living_Wholehearted@MyCourageousGirls FACEBOOK@WeAreLivingWholehearted@MyCourageousGirls WEBSITESLivingWholehearted.comTerraMattson.com MyCourageousGirls.com RESOURCESShrinking the Integrity Gap Shrinking the Integrity Gap e-Course Courageous: Being Daughters Rooted in GraceDear Mattsons Helping Moms Raise Confident DaughtersSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/living-wholehearted-podcast-with-jeff-and-terra/donations