Crystal Paine Show

348: Reimagining Church as Family with JJ Jones

What does it really mean for the church to be a family? In this episode of The Crystal Paine Show, I am joined by my friend Dr. JJ Jones, co-author of Reimagining Church as Family, for a conversation to help us think differently about how to help others feels seen, welcomed, and truly included in our churches! Listen in as JJ shares how years of research and ministry experience led him and his co-author Rich Griffith to rethink some of the traditional approaches to family ministry. Too often, as he discusses, our programs, language, and even the ways in which we structure church life assume a traditional nuclear family, and that can unintentionally leave single parents, divorced parents, single adults, foster and adoptive families, families raising children with disabilities, and others feeling like they don’t quite belong. The two of us talk about what it looks like to move beyond simply supporting someone during a crisis and actually walking with them for the long haul. We discuss the importance of examining the words that we use, listening to people’s stories, and asking what the church can do differently so that people don’t feel like outsiders in God’s family.. We also get practical about what church members and leaders can do to enact change such as creating more intergenerational spaces, inviting someone to sit with you, sharing a meal, making accommodations, mentoring younger believers, and simply being willing to have the sometimes-awkward conversations that lead to real connection! Maybe most importantly, we talk about following Jesus toward the people who may feel overlooked or pushed to the margins, and I truly hope this conversation encourages you to look around your own church community with fresh eyes and ask: Who might be here but still feel alone, and what could I do to change that? Enjoy my conversation with JJ, and, as always, please feel free to reach out with your thoughts! In This Episode [0:36] - I introduce my friend Dr. JJ Jones and explore the inspiration behind his book Reimagining Church as Family. [1:15] - JJ explains how research exposed gaps in traditional family ministry and inspired a more inclusive approach for him. [4:24] - Hear me highlight the church’s responsibility to support nontraditional families. [6:41] - JJ shares how churches often initially support nontraditional families but then fail to follow up. [7:55] - JJ challenges churches to embrace nontraditional families and help everyone experience belonging within God’s family. [10:05] - I highlight how harmful labels such as “broken home” can undermine hope, dignity, and belonging.. [13:04] - JJ encourages churches to listen directly to diverse families and rethink how their messages could unintentionally exclude them. [15:55] - Intergenerational groups can help create a sense of belonging by bringing believers of different ages and experiences together. [18:30\ - JJ recommends intergenerational groups and shared worship as some practical steps toward becoming a more inclusive church family. [20:11] - JJ explains how apprenticeships and shared worship can connect generations while helping overlooked families experience real belonging. [23:16] - JJ urges churches to empower single parents and other families to lead worship and contribute gifts. [25:21] - Listen as JJ explains how simple invitations and listening can help newcomers and single parents feel welcomed into a church community. [28:34] - JJ highlights specialized communities which support isolated special-needs families while also meeting their unique needs. [30:47] - I encourage listeners to embrace awkwardness, extend kindness, and take first steps toward connection. [32:16] - JJ calls upon churches to build relationships and support families through difficult, ongoing journeys. [34:59] - I reflect upon how curiosity, prayer, and compassion changed my judgment into love and understanding. [37:12] - JJ points to Jesus’ example of extending grace to marginalized people and welcoming them as family. Links & Resources Crystal Paine Books Reimaging Church as Family by Various Authors Social Media Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom) Crystal Paine on Twitter Crystal Paine on Goodreads Money Saving Mom Money Saving Mom on Facebook Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group crystal@moneysavingmom.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

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347: Back Up and Running (All About My 10K)

The podcast has been MIA for a bit, but I am so happy to be back to share a story I have been excited to share on the show! Earlier this year, my daughter Kathrynne asked if I wanted to run a 10K with her, but there was one minor problem: I wasn’t a runner. I had never run more than a couple of miles without stopping, and running had never really clicked for me. In fact, I had spent years believing I simply wasn’t capable of running, but I said yes to her before I really had time to think about it and then had less than ten weeks to figure out how to run 6.2 miles. Tune in as Jesse and I talk about what happened between that phone call and crossing the finish line. I talk about the training plan that helped me go from barely running two miles to completing a 10K without stopping, why most of my training runs were intentionally easy, and the research that I did to figure out everything from running shoes to hydration and fueling. I also share what surprised me most about race day. I expected the physical challenge, the nerves, and the uncertainty of running in an actual race, but what I didn’t expect was how much I would enjoy running alongside other people and how different the experience would feel from all those quiet solo runs I had grown to love. Ultimately, however, this episode isn’t really about running. It’s about the things we tell ourselves we can’t do and what happens when we stop accepting those assumptions as facts. For years, I had told myself, “I’m not a runner” and “I can’t do that.” Completing the 10K challenged those beliefs in a way I didn’t expect and gave me a newfound confidence that has spilled into other areas of my life, and believe it or not, now I am training for a half marathon! Come listen in as I share what this experience taught me about preparation, persistence, our bodies, and being willing to discover that we’re capable of far more than we may realize! As always, please feel free to reach out. Maybe you have a running story of your own you’d like to share? I’d love to hear it! In This Episode [0:36] - We explain why we have been absent for a while, but we are happy to be back! [2:09] - I recently ran a 10K, and Jesse took part in a Crossfit competition! [3:11] - Hear me narrate the circumstances that led to me participating in the 10K. [6:46] - I reflect on how I never considered myself a runner despite growing up with runners in my family, including my dad. [9:00] - I reveal how proper fueling, quality gear, and easy runs helped me build a sustainable running foundation. [11:23] - I talk about how helpful the Runna app was for me and also offer two weeks of it for free with the code “Crystal2.” [14:00] - Gradual training and careful preparation gave me the confidence to complete her first 10K successfully. [17:50] - Hear how I minimized race-day surprises by carefully planning my gear, hydration, pacing, and expectations. [20:01] - Running with others made the race unexpectedly exhilarating and helped me celebrate a long-held personal achievement! [23:01] - Completing the 10K gave me the newfound confidence to challenge limiting beliefs and pursue a half marathon. [26:36] - Jesse commends me for my newfound motivation to participate in running. [27:19] - Jesse and I strongly encourage listeners to challenge limiting beliefs and discover what they’re capable of accomplishing. Links & Resources Crystal Paine Runna App Social Media Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom) Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning) Crystal Paine on LinkedIn Crystal Paine on Twitter Crystal Paine on Goodreads Money Saving Mom Money Saving Mom on Facebook Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group crystal@moneysavingmom.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

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346: Grieving the Loss of the Life You Thought You’d Have with Jodi Snowdon

Today’s topic is a bit emotionally heavy and difficult, but it’s nonetheless incredibly important. I am joined by Jodi Snowdon, author of Depth: Growing Through Heartbreak to Strength, and she joins me for a very vulnerable conversation to reflect on how grief shows up in many forms of life - miscarriage, divorce, loss of loved ones - and how often people feel unsure of how to support someone in those moments. Listen in as she shares her own experiences of devastating loss and how they helped reshape her faith, emotional resilience, and understanding of God’s presence in suffering. Together, the two of us discuss the importance of allowing space for grief instead of avoiding it and how honest emotional processing, support from your community, and spiritual struggle can become a part of healing over time. Jodi also explains the STRENGTH acrostic from her book and offers some practical ways to walk through heartbreak by seeking God in the middle of pain, allowing yourself to fully grieve, and resisting the urge to numb or suppress emotions. She speaks openly about how healing is not linear and how counseling, community, and even simple daily practices such as prayer and journaling helped her begin to heal. We also discuss how suffering can shape character in unexpected ways, deepening empathy and even becoming a place where purpose can grow. A big part of our conversation focuses on how to support others who are grieving, especially in moments when people often feel afraid to say or do the wrong thing. Jodi and I talk through miscarriage, divorce, and other griefs, highlighting the importance of directly acknowledging loss, avoiding well meaning but ultimately minimizing and unhelpful language, and showing up with acts of care rather than silence. We also touch upon the power of remembering important dates, checking in long after the initial loss, and recognizing that grief doesn’t follow a timeline that others can see or understand, especially since everyone grieves differently. By the end of my conversation with Jodi, I truly hope that listeners will walk away after listening with both compassion for those in pain as well as a clearer sense of how to show up in small, meaningful ways that remind someone that they are not forgotten. I hope that you enjoy and get some insight from my conversation with Jodi, and, as always, please feel free to reach out with your thoughts! I would love to hear from you! In This Episode [0:35] - Welcome Jodi Snowdon to the podcast! [2:08] - Through some truly devastating losses, Jodi discovered healing, deeper faith, and purpose in helping others. [4:32] - Jodi believes that suffering can deepen faith when people honestly seek God instead of withdrawing from Him. [6:40] - Jodi explains grieving honestly, seeking God, and processing emotions instead of numbing pain. [9:08] - Learn how support groups can transform pain into meaningful purpose and connection. [11:08] - Jodi has come to believe that heartbreak can build empathy, self-awareness, and freedom from shame. [13:36] - Hear how gratitude, forgiveness, and sharing personal pain can help others heal through their own grief. [16:01] - Hear how supporting miscarriage grief requires validating the loss and offering compassionate, thoughtful, and practical care. [19:13] - Jodi explains how compassion, acknowledgment, and presence help validate miscarriage grief and prevent isolation. [22:03] - Memorializing miscarriage through rituals and naming can help parents process enduring grief and loss. [24:40] - Jodi asserts that nonjudgmental support and inclusion reduce divorce-related shame, rejection, and loneliness. [27:11] - Jodi believes that intentional boundaries, support, and truth help divorced parents deal with loneliness and family transitions. [30:48] - I point out that clear, specific offers of help make it easier for grieving people to accept support. [31:51] - We talk about how divorce brings layered grief, rejection, and ongoing emotional triggers that support can help ease. [34:26] Listening and practical ideas empower better support for people experiencing grief! [36:13] - Jodi and I discuss how consistent support and remembering anniversaries can help grieving people feel seen, loved, and not forgotten. [38:15] - God redeems heartbreak, using grief to grow and equip people with empathy. Links & Resources Crystal Paine Jodi Snowdon Casting Crowns - “Praise You in the Storm” Depth Podcast Episode 53: Hopelifter - Kathe Wunnenberg Watermark - “Glory Baby” Books Depth: Growing Through Heartbreak to Strength by Jodi Snowdon & Kathe Wunneberg Grieving the Child I Never Knew: A Devotional Companion for Comfort in the Loss of Your Unborn or Newly Born Child by Kathe Wunnenberg Social Media Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom) Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning) Crystal Paine on LinkedIn Crystal Paine on Twitter Crystal Paine on Goodreads Money Saving Mom Money Saving Mom on Facebook Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group crystal@moneysavingmom.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

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345: Our Glamping Adventure

Jesse and I welcome you this week as we reflect on our recent glamping trip, an anniversary trip that Jesse had secretly planned and that nearly didn’t happen! Hear all about how, after finally figuring out childcare for the kids, we were ready to leave when everything unraveled all at once: sore throats, emergency doctor appointments, positive strep tests, and even an unexpected COVID diagnosis. We suddenly found ourselves trying to decide whether to cancel a trip we had been looking forward to for months while also making sure everyone at home would be okay. Thankfully, the Airbnb hosts were unbelievably kind and let us reschedule which turned out to be the best thing that could’ve happened! What waited for us a few months later was truly one of the most unique places I have ever stayed. Jesse booked this incredible glamping dome tucked into the Tennessee hills overlooking Center Hill Lake, and the entire place felt almost unreal, with clear curved walls open to the sky, decks hanging over the hillside, a hot tub in the middle of nature, and a shower that somehow made me feel like I was outside while still enjoying modern comforts. Listen in as we talk about the hilariously overheated first hour after arriving, the clever sprinkler system that cooled the dome down, and why we immediately understood why people become obsessed with glamping. We also share the quieter parts of the trip that ended up meaning the most: playing Scrabble, watching the sunrise over the water, hiking down to the lake, sitting around the fire with nowhere else to be, and realizing how rare it is to experience true quiet. There was no packed itinerary, no distractions - just space to talk, laugh, process life, and reconnect after years of constant responsibilities. Also, because apparently every memorable trip needs at least one disaster, we also tell the story of how Jesse managed to put a massive scrape down the side of my car while leaving the property, something that I will probably reference forever considering my long history of being the one who usually hits things. Enjoy our conversation all about this truly unforgettable trip, and, as always, please feel free to reach out! Maybe you have your own glamping story to share? In This Episode [0:36] - Jesse and I are finally sharing the story of our recent glamping trip! [2:53] - Unsure whether to cancel or not with kids being sick, we debated traveling while juggling sick kids and mysterious packing instructions. [4:49] - Hear how, after rescheduling, I was amazed by the surreal glamping dome overlooking the Tennessee hillside! [7:31] - Hear about how our unique glamping dome offered stunning lake views, outdoor luxury, and an unexpectedly hot interior. [9:51] - Jesse shares having discovered the dome’s greenhouse-like heat required sprinklers and repairs to cool the interior. [11:16] - Once the high temperatures dropped, we fully embraced the peaceful hot tub retreat and unplugged outdoor atmosphere. [13:38] - Hear how, between stargazing, Scrabble, and luxurious showers, we officially became devoted glamping fans! [16:35] - Surrounded by silence and nature, we reconnected without distractions and embraced the slower pace. [18:51] - I share how our peaceful getaway ended abruptly when Jesse scraped the car pulling out of the property. [21:04] - Despite my dented car, the relaxing overnight escape still felt restorative and memorable. [23:19] - Jesse and I reflect on our restorative glamping getaway and invite listeners to share future trip recommendations! Links & Resources Crystal Paine Social Media Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom) Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning) Crystal Paine on LinkedIn Crystal Paine on Twitter Crystal Paine on Goodreads Money Saving Mom Money Saving Mom on Facebook Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group crystal@moneysavingmom.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

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344: Raising Capable & Confident Kids with David Thomas and Sissy Goff

This episode's guests might take the cake for most frequent guests on the podcasts – Sissy Goff and David Thomas! Throughout this insightful conversation with them, there is a question that I keep coming back to - are we protecting our kids or are we accidentally preventing them from becoming capable? That is the primary focus of not only our conversation today but also of their book – Capable: How to Teach Your Kids the Strengths, Skills, and Strategies to Build Resilience! Listen in as we unpack why so many loving, thoughtful parents are exhausted from carrying responsibilities their children are actually ready to begin taking on themselves. From chores and homework to conflict resolution, independence, and even sleeping in their own beds, we talk honestly about how resilience is built, and it is not through perfection or pressure but instead through practice, discomfort, and trust. One of the most eye-opening parts of this conversation is our discussion around “coddling.” We don't talk about it in a judgmental way but in the very real sense that fear can quietly shape our parenting more than we realize. We talk about why boundaries do not damage attachment, why kids need opportunities to safely take on challenges, and how confidence grows when children are allowed to solve problems instead of being rescued from every single difficult moment. We also get practical, with Sissy and David sharing some simple, age-appropriate ways that parents can begin shifting responsibility to their children, whether they’re toddlers, elementary-aged kids, teenagers, or even young adults. We discuss natural consequences, teaching children to ask for help, encouraging self-advocacy, and how overmonitoring can unintentionally communicate, “I don’t think you can handle this.” This episode is all about becoming a steadier parent, and we discuss the importance of modeling courage ourselves, letting our kids see us try new things, fail, recover, and grow. If you’re listening as a parent thinking, “I didn’t do this soon enough,” I think you’ll find a lot of hope in this conversation too. I hope that you enjoy this conversation with Sissy and David, and, as always, please feel free to reach out to me with your own thoughts! In This Episode [0:35] - Welcome Sissy Goff and David Thomas back to the podcast! [1:43] - Resilience grows when children face manageable challenges instead of parents constantly preventing discomfort. [4:06] - Sissy and David point out that healthy boundaries and accountability build secure attachment without coddling. [7:39] - Sissy asserts that overprotection based on fear can unintentionally limit children’s confidence, independence, and emotional growth. [10:08] - Parents should gradually shift everyday responsibilities onto their children that they're already close to being able to do on their own. [13:38] - It's important for parents to manage their own anxieties as a model for their kids. [15:08] - Hear David exemplify how trying unfamiliar things helps parents model resilience, perseverance, and empathy for struggling children. [18:34] - Simple everyday responsibilities help young children discover their abilities and build lasting confidence. [20:02] - David argues for the importance of honoring each child’s developmental pace and trusting that they will grow into capabilities in their own time. [22:35] - I discuss how teaching children to communicate needs and ask for help builds lifelong emotional and problem-solving skills. [24:01] - David and Sissy believe that children build confidence and resilience via independence, responsibilities, and experiences outside of their comfort zones. [26:11] - I add that encouraging self-advocacy helps children build confidence and handle challenges independently. [29:37] - It's important to remember that each parent-child relationship carries unique dynamics that impact expectations, behavior, and emotional growth. [32:01] - Sissy explains how kids benefit from experiencing natural consequences alongside empathy, encouragement, and supportive guidance. [33:44] - Small, gradual lessons in responsibility help children become confident, capable, and adaptable adults. [37:04] - Children ultimately thrive when parents nurture their existing strengths instead of putting extra pressure on them. [38:36] - David reminds us that growth happens at different paces and that it’s never too late to encourage independence. Links & Resources Crystal Paine Books Capable: How to Teach Your Kids the Strengths, Skills, and Strategies to Build Resilience by Sissy Goff & David Thomas Social Media Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom) Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning) Crystal Paine on LinkedIn Crystal Paine on Twitter Crystal Paine on Goodreads Money Saving Mom Money Saving Mom on Facebook Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group crystal@moneysavingmom.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

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343: The Surprising Lessons I’m Learning from Training for a 10k

Funnily enough, this episode of The Crystal Paine Show was originally supposed to be about my 22-hour getaway with Jesse and then naturally became much more an episode about running and how I have been training for a 10k! Listen in as Jesse and I share how a two-week break from the podcast turned into a reflection on just how full life has been lately! From the chaos of baseball season to the unexpected intensity of my 10K training, things have truly been hectic. Between juggling travel ball schedules and long practices with Jesse and Silas, I have also been dealing with a completely new challenge for myself: running longer distances than I ever thought I could! What began as a simple goal has turned into a deep learning experience around pacing, breathing, fueling, and even rethinking how I understand my own body, and I talk openly in this episode of the show about how I’ve had to slow down, correct my breathing habits, and even explore things such as mouth taping after dealing with laryngitis and realizing how much my old habits were holding me back from my full potential. I share how, as I have trained, I have been so surprised by how much running has changed not just my fitness but also my mindset. I am really learning that endurance is just as mental as it is physical and that sometimes finishing a run is less about speed and more about choosing to keep going one small step at a time. I also share how tools such as the RUNA app and Strava have helped me structure my training and actually understand what it means to train smart instead of just hard. It has been such a fascinating journey discovering firsthand how much strategy goes into something as simple as going for a run! Beyond the physical side, I also reflect on what it means to take on something new in my forties and how running has unexpectedly opened up new ways of seeing my neighborhood, my routines, and even my own limits. From exploring unfamiliar streets to learning how to manage discomfort, this journey has become about more than just race day. It’s about growth, curiosity, and learning to trust myself in the process. Jesse and I also discuss how this experience connects to bigger life themes such as stepping into new and even initially uncomfortable challenges, embracing uncertainty, and letting our kids see us do hard things. I hope that you enjoy this episode, and, as always, please feel free to reach out with your thoughts! We would love to hear from you! In This Episode [0:35] - Baseball season overwhelmed our schedule, pausing the podcast temporarily. [3:37] - Hear how training for a 10k has been exhausting but also has taught me pacing and breathing. [6:02] - I talk about how running has also exposed poor breathing habits, leading to Laryngitis and a shift toward nasal breathing and better pacing. [9:39] - I explain how mouth-taping has helped me retrain nasal breathing and has improved sleep and morning symptoms. [12:01] - Jesse and I discuss how conscious nasal breathing improves congestion, sleep quality, and overall stress regulation. [15:38] - I enthuse about how running has become transformative for me via consistency, endurance building, and mindful pacing over speed. [18:09] - I reveal how the Runna app creates personalized training plans that highlight structured pacing and prevention of injury. [19:32] - For me, running has become a deeply mental challenge where fueling, hydration, and self-talk determine whether I finish strong! [22:07] - Jesse and I talk about how training beyond race distance helps build endurance, confidence, and better performance on the day of the race. [25:12] - Hear how post-race plans will be decided later on but will focus on growth, exploration, and flexible running goals! [28:11] - I reflect on how what began as a casual activity has turned into a truly meaningful way to explore surroundings and daily life more intentionally. [30:28] - Jesse remarks that embracing uncertainty in challenges can be motivating, but lack of preparation can also cause setbacks. [33:32] - Hear how race strategy focuses on maintaining a steady personal pace using training data and body awareness instead of competition. [36:28] - My running journey has truly grown into a broader reflection on self-growth, balance, and learning to “run your own race.” Links & Resources Crystal Paine Runna App Fartlek App (Apple) Fartlek App (Google) Strava App Books Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art by James Nestor Social Media Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom) Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning) Crystal Paine on LinkedIn Crystal Paine on Twitter Crystal Paine on Goodreads Money Saving Mom Money Saving Mom on Facebook Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group crystal@moneysavingmom.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

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342: Discovering Your Communication Type with Jason VanRuler

I am truly so excited for this episode because, honestly, it felt like a little therapy session for me, and I really hope that it gives you some aha moments too! I am talking with Jason VanRuler about his book Discovering Your Communication Type: The Five Paths to Deeper Connections and Stronger Relationships, and right from the start as I read it, I was hooked. I could see how the insights would help me with my husband, my kids, and my friendships because it’s practical, relatable, and so surprisingly accessible - like someone finally saying, “Here’s how this actually works,” without all the jargon! Jason walks us through the five communication styles that make up his PATHS model - Peacemaker, Advocate, Thinker, Harbor, and Spark - and he explains how our words are driven by different motivations: maintaining peace, standing up for what’s right, being logically correct, protecting feelings, or bringing energy and momentum. He and I get into how knowing your style (as well as the styles of those around you) can truly change your conversations, especially when conflict or stress shows up. I had one of those aha moments when I realized that I have been showing up in relationships in ways I think are expected of me, instead of who I am actually wired to be, and yes, that includes my husband and me missing each other mid-conversation more than I’d like to admit. We also discuss how these patterns can also have strong impacts on parenting, friendships, and even self-care, and one story that hit me hard was realizing that holding out my “I got this, let me help you” sign often keeps people at arm’s length because vulnerability feels too risky. Learning to express my needs without fear has been such a huge game-changer. Listen as Jason shares some practical tips for seeing differences as gifts, understanding where misunderstandings come from, and how intentional awareness can make every conversation more meaningful. By the end, I felt so inspired to rethink how I show up, listen, and allow people in without expecting them to mirror me exactly. If you have ever wanted a roadmap for connecting more authentically with the people in your life (family, friends, colleagues, or even yourself), then this episode is full of insights that really stick, and be sure to grab a copy of Discovering Your Communication Type! In This Episode [0:35] - Today’s conversation is with Jason VanRuler, author of Discovering Your Communication Type. [2;28] - I open up and admit that Jesse and I sometimes misunderstand one another mid-conversation. [3:47] - Jason explains his five paths. [5:19] - I reflect on having realized that I balance advocacy with a learned harboring to meet others’ expectations. [7:49] - Early-life communication patterns often resurface during stress, helping to explain misunderstandings in adult interactions. [9:14] - Jason notes that awareness of our communication style allows us to give and receive meaningfully. [11:58] - Hear how I have recognized that accepting care for myself felt as vulnerable as asking for it. [14:07] - Hear how Jason realized expressing needs clearly allows others to love and support more fully. [17:02] - Sharing vulnerability with multiple people enriches life and strengthens relationships. [19:43] - Jason and I talk about how understanding and valuing different communication styles strengthens relationships and lessens conflict. [22:02] - Effective communication requires listening, understanding others’ perspectives, and adjusting your approach for each situation! [25:45] - Jason reflects that healthy relationships require patience, mutual effort, and embracing others’ timelines. [29:08] - Hear how writing prompted Jason to recognize the value of outside perspectives for self-awareness. Links & Resources Crystal Paine Books Discovering Your Communication Type: The 5 Paths to Deeper Connections and Stronger Relationships by Jason VanRuler Social Media Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom) Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning) Crystal Paine on LinkedIn Crystal Paine on Twitter Crystal Paine on Goodreads Money Saving Mom Money Saving Mom on Facebook Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group crystal@moneysavingmom.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

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341: Five Exciting Updates at Our House

Listen in this week as Jesse and I share five exciting updates from the Paine house as of late! Some of our updates are more practical, some are deeply personal, and a few honestly caught me completely off guard, and Jesse comes into the conversation without knowing what I am going to share, which makes it even more fun as we walk through what’s been happening behind the scenes in our world! I start off with something that might sound minor but honestly felt pretty significant to me - a recent dentist visit that went surprisingly well after years of being told something was wrong with my teeth. After working with a functional medicine doctor and trying oil pulling (something that I was very skeptical about), I had a completely different experience at my last appointment. It made me think more about the connection between oral health and overall health and whether some of the small habits that I have added might actually be making a difference. From there, we share an update about our son David as he prepares to start kindergarten this fall. If you have been following our story, then you know how remarkable that moment feels for our family. David's team has been working closely with us to create a plan that supports his unique needs, and hearing the goals that they have set for him is both exciting and emotional. David continues to surprise everyone with his determination and personality, and we talk about some of the ways that he’s already showing just how capable that he is! Another unexpected development is that I agreed to run a 10K with our daughter. That decision has launched me into a whole new world of running, training, and learning far more about shoes and socks than I ever expected. I also share how an unexpected invitation is taking me to Guatemala this summer, something that’s been on my heart since we adopted David, and finally, the biggest update of all: I finished writing my next book! I reveal the title, share the story behind how it came together, and explain why this project feels especially meaningful to me. I hope that you enjoy this episode, and please feel free to reach out with your thoughts! In This Episode [0:35] - Jesse and I are sharing five recent updates from our home! [2:30] - Hear how, despite brushing obsessively, discussing my dental history revealed more serious oral health concerns. [3:52] - I share how, after months of oil pulling, my dentist visit finally showed unexpectedly healthy teeth. [7:26] - Realizing oral health affects overall health, I have begun flossing far more often. [8:28] - David will start kindergarten with extensive support, continually surprising everyone with his determination! [11:57] - Although full days can be tiring, we are so excited for David’s growth and the support surrounding him! [13:58] - Hear how I impulsively agreed to run a 10K and am now learning how to train. [16:37] - I discuss how a salesperson encouraged me to try specialty socks, and I loved them so much that I bought two pairs! [18:14] - Hear how new running shoes improved my comfort and endurance, helping me run three miles without stopping. [20:59] - Unexpectedly invited on a church trip, I’m finally visiting Guatemala, a longtime personal dream! [23:46] - I reveal that, after nearly two years of work, I finally completed the manuscript for my upcoming book. [26:43] - I also reveal the title of my new book – The 7 Habits of Financially Healthy Women. [29:22] - Early preorders of the upcoming book include access to a live Q&A call with me! Links & Resources Crystal Paine Books The 7 Habits of Financially Healthy Women: How to Stop Stressing, Begin Where You Are, and Build the Future You Want by Crystal Paine Sign up for the free live Q&A call with Crystal when you pre-order! Social Media Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom) Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning) Crystal Paine on Goodreads Money Saving Mom Money Saving Mom on Facebook Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group crystal@moneysavingmom.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

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340: How to Love Your Morning Even If You’re Not a Morning Person with Jennifer Dukes Lee

I am so thrilled to have today’s guest on the show because not only does she have brilliant insights to share, she is also a very dear friend as well as my acquisitions editor! Jennifer Dukes Lee is the author of the book How to Love Your Morning: Faith-Filled Habits to Build a Life of Joy and Purpose One Day at a Time, and she joins me for this episode to talk about just that - how to love your morning! Jennifer offers a truly refreshing perspective that mornings aren’t about the time on the clock but are rather about the mindset that you bring into the day. You don’t have to wake up at 5 a.m. or have two hours of quiet to start well. It’s about the little intentional choices that you make such as greeting God in prayer, practicing gratitude, or reflecting on scripture. She reframes mornings as sacred opportunities even on the hardest days and gives practical ways to create rhythms that fit your life, whether you’re caring for kids, grieving, exhausted from night shifts, or just overwhelmed. We talk about how small, realistic habits such as setting out clothes the night before, keeping a prayer list by the coffee (or, in my opinion, espresso) maker, or even just stepping outside for a moment of sunlight can truly change your day by setting it on the right track. Listen in as Jennifer shares stories from women across different life stages, as well as historical and everyday figures, showing that there’s no one “perfect” morning routine. I especially love how her book makes it so accessible; it’s permission-giving, practical, and so encouraging! We also discuss the accompanying six-session Bible study that helps you explore mornings in scripture, offering a chance to go deeper, alone or with friends. Jennifer’s insights reminded me why approaching the day with intention, hope, and God at the center can reshape not just your mornings but your overall life! If you have ever wished that mornings felt less stressful, more meaningful, or simply more joyful, then this episode is definitely for you! Tune in, and please, as always, feel free to reach out to me with your thoughts! In This Episode [0:35] - I welcome my good friend Jennifer Dukes Lee to the show to talk about her book How to Love Your Morning! [1:52] - Jennifer explains how being a morning person is mindset-focused, not defined by the hour you wake. [4:05] - Jennifer encourages shifting stressful routines into meaningful rituals such as prayer, gratitude, or scripture reflection. [6:23] - Even during grief or sleepless nights, morning rituals can help you face the day with presence and strength. [9:52] - I point out that impactful mornings rely on small, realistic habits, not two-hour perfect routines. [11:13] - Simple, sacred practices like prayer and stepping outside invite God into the start of each day. [14:49] - I reflect on how stacking small, accessible habits onto daily tasks helps create meaningful morning rhythms. [17:39] - I also reflect on how giving up coffee was initially difficult because it felt like giving up part of my morning ritual. [19:00] - Jennifer encourages listeners to begin their mornings with meaningful habits, movement, nourishment, and healthy sleep routines. [22:55] - Preparing for my morning the night before has been a big gamechanger. [25:16] - Jennifer highlights how even just one intentional habit can create calmness and inspiration for the whole morning. [28:28] - Mornings don’t need to be the same for everyone; effectiveness depends on what fits your life. [31:19] - Scripture reveals mornings to be spiritually important; starting the day with hope aligns us with God’s design. [34:54] - Doing morning practices with friends can help strengthen accountability and boost everyday joy. Links & Resources Crystal Paine Books How to Love Your Morning: Faith-Filled Habits to Build a Life of Joy and Purpose One Day at a Time by Jennifer Dukes Lee How to Love Your Morning Bible Study: 6-Session Guided Journey to Build a Life of Joy and Purpose One Day at a Time (Devotional Study to Start Your Day and Wake Up Thanking God for Every Sunrise by Jennifer Dukes Lee Social Media Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom) Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning) Crystal Paine on LinkedIn Crystal Paine on Twitter Crystal Paine on Goodreads Money Saving Mom Money Saving Mom on Facebook Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group crystal@moneysavingmom.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

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339: Jesse Chaperoned a Trip to Denver

Although we inadvertently took a few weeks off from the podcast, we are back, and overall, the most accurate way to describe life lately is “full.” Between spring breaks, kids popping in and out of the house, and multiple trips layered on top of one another, quiet moments have been pretty rare around here. Listen in this week as Jesse and I do something we hadn’t actually had time to do yet: sit down and process everything that’s happened over the past few weeks. We talk about the whirlwind of travel – his father-son ski trip to Utah with Silas, my church retreat, and, of course, the titular school trip to Denver that Jesse chaperoned, which he describes as “the most servant-oriented trip I’ve been on.” Of course, though, life did not slow down when the trips ended. In fact, we walked straight from the airport into a memorial service for three young men whose lives were tragically cut short. One of them had been very close to our family, and the loss really hit our girls – and all of us – deeply. A big part of this episode, however, as previously mentioned, focuses on Jesse’s time serving alongside students at the Denver Dream Center. Hear how they spent their days hiking in the mountains and their evenings working in inner-city Denver, sharing meals with people experiencing homelessness and connecting with people who were rebuilding their lives after incarceration. Listen as Jesse shares and reflects on some stories about the conversations that happened there such as moments where the goal wasn’t to “fix” anyone but simply to listen, learn names, and recognize the humanity in front of you! Jesse and I also discuss how even just small choices can shape the direction of a life (for better or worse) and how courage often looks like doing something that feels strange, risky, or unsupported. Sometimes, the most meaningful moments come when we step outside the safe little spaces we’ve built for ourselves and choose to do the thing that scares us most. I hope that you enjoy this heartfelt conversation with Jesse! In This Episode [0:35] - We have been absent for a few weeks because of a lot of chaos! [3:45] - Jesse notes how we haven’t recorded since the trips, which became a major part of his story. [4:00] - I reflect on how, after returning home, we attended a tragic memorial before juggling several trips and retreats. [7:26] - Hear how Silas chose a Denver school trip where students hiked Colorado and served the homeless. [10:24] - What is the ultimate goal of the Denver Dream Center? [13:24] - Jesse and I talk about how serving others begins with seeing their humanity, learning their stories, and offering dignity and hope! [16:35] - Serving others ultimately means seeing people’s humanity, learning from them, and connecting without superiority or judgment. [19:33] - I express my belief that experiences such as Silas’s trip help young people rethink priorities and what's truly important. [20:16] - Even small choices and courageous ones can reshape the direction of someone's life. Links & Resources Crystal Paine Social Media Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom) Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning) Crystal Paine on LinkedIn Crystal Paine on Twitter Crystal Paine on Goodreads Money Saving Mom Money Saving Mom on Facebook Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group crystal@moneysavingmom.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

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338: Do This First Thing Every Morning with Addison Bevere

I am so excited to be bringing this conversation with repeat guest Addison Bevere to you! Addison is the author of the book Words with God: Trading Boring, Empty Prayer for Real Connection, and his work has really stayed with me since our last discussion. I have, in fact, told so many people about how his heart for faith feels grounded, honest, and alive, and, in this new episode, we talk about his new prayer journal that accompanies his book which is designed as a 40-day invitation to build a more real rhythm with God rather than trying to achieve perfect performance. After all, prayer should not be performative! One of the themes that keeps coming up throughout our conversation is the idea that prayer isn’t about getting the words right, and I reflect a bit about my own experience learning to slow down and practice rest as a spiritual discipline, something I never really thought much about before. Addison explains how many people feel they are “bad at prayer” because they approach it through shame or expectation rather than connection, and, instead, he frames prayer as simply showing up honestly and paying attention. We also unpack how quickly our mornings can be hijacked by screens, anxiety, or the pressure to immediately start producing, with Addison sharing a simple but powerful practice: when you wake up, breathe, rest in the moment, and allow your mind and heart to settle before grabbing your phone. He explains how early morning brain states may be uniquely open to reflection, creativity, and spiritual awareness, and I also reflect on how this practice has helped me move from feeling overwhelmed by life’s demands to seeing them as opportunities to respond with love and intention. Addison highlights the importance of writing down fears, burdens, or questions that can help name what we are carrying and create space for clarity. If you have ever felt unsure how to pray, struggled with slowing down, or longed for a deeper sense of closeness with God, this conversation offers a gentle, practical framework for beginning. I hope that you enjoy this conversation with Addison, and, as always, I would love for you to reach out with your thoughts! In This Episode [0:35] - Welcome Addison Bevere back to the show! [2:07] - Addison believes that prayer thrives on relationship, not performance, and frees us from shame. [5:48] - Showing up honestly before God each morning is more important than fighting distraction or cultural pressure. [8:16] - Addison asserts that morning openness invites rest and awareness, while phone use often replaces calm with anxiety. [11:02] - Listeners are encouraged to breathe, rest, and avoid phones after waking to help nurture creativity. [13:24] - Surrendering control each day leads to clarity, compassion, and wisdom. [16:57] - Addison reminds us that remembering answered prayers and embracing limits helps foster humility, trust, and deeper spiritual growth. [19:39] - I describe relying on the Holy Spirit to guide parenting and daily conversations for me. [21:58] - Hear how morning listening helps Addison speak compassionately rather than react from a place of insecurity. [24:49] - I reflect on how starting the day slowly helps me reflect and reconnect with God and my body. [25:51] - According to Addison, writing fears or pain gives language to emotions, helping awareness and release. [27:22] - Hear how anxiety can help signal inner needs, helping discern God’s guidance vs. condemning voices. [30:44] - True prayer invites closeness with God and others, avoiding religious rigidity. Links & Resources Crystal Paine The Crystal Paine Show - 211. Trading Boring, Empty Prayer for Real Connection (with Addison Bevere) Books Words with God: Trading Boring, Empty Prayer for Real Connection by Addison D. Bevere Words with God Prayer Journal: 40 Days of Getting Real with God by Addison D. Bevere Social Media Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom) Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning) Crystal Paine on LinkedIn Crystal Paine on Twitter Crystal Paine on Goodreads Money Saving Mom Money Saving Mom on Facebook Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group crystal@moneysavingmom.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

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337: My First Colonoscopy

Just as a forewarning, this week's episode might be a little bit TMI, but I did mention it coming up in a recent episode – my recent colonoscopy! While I don't get into the especially gritty details, I talk openly with Jesse about my experience because I really wanted to share the full story. I kept hearing from people who were scared of the procedure or avoided it because of what they’d heard about the prep, and I was nervous too, especially after reading all the horror stories online, but I found that preparation and good guidance made a bigger difference than I had expected! Listen in as I walk you through why I had the procedures in the first place, including my long history with chronic anemia and how my doctors wanted to look for possible root causes rather than just treat symptoms. A big part of the episode is the prep experience because honestly, that’s what people tend to dread the most. However, I talk about starting a low-residue diet days early, sticking to very bland foods, and what it actually felt like to move into the clear-liquids phase. I share how hunger, brain fog, and low energy showed up for me and how surprisingly manageable the laxative process was compared to what I feared. I also mention small practical things that helped such as choosing certain drinks and realizing that some flavors quickly became unappealing once prep started. I then walk you through the procedure day itself - checking in, getting an IV, anesthesia, and what it felt like waking up after sedation. The sedation was so strong and peaceful that I can understand why people describe it as a really good nap. In fact, I kind of didn't want to wake up! I also reflect on how disorienting that it felt trying to talk afterward when my brain wasn’t putting words together correctly. I also, of course, touch upon recovery, what my results looked like so far, and why I truly believe that these screenings are worth it, so if you have been afraid of getting a colonoscopy, I really hope that this episode with Jesse makes it feel a lot more approachable! As always, please feel free to reach out! I would love to hear your thoughts! In This Episode [0:35] - This episode shares my colonoscopy and endoscopy experience, addressing fear, prep, and cancer detection. [4:44] - Hear how I underwent procedures mainly because chronic anemia persisted since childhood and pregnancy complications occurred. [7:16] - Hear how low hemoglobin and ferritin levels led my doctor to recommend colonoscopy and endoscopy for diagnosis. [10:42] - I reflect on how I began a strict low-residue diet early, avoiding fiber, fruit, vegetables, and acidic foods. [13:52] - Hear how the clear-liquid phase felt surprisingly difficult, causing intense hunger, weight loss, and constant emptiness. [16:36] - I share how clear-liquid days drained my energy. [18:39] - I avoided mixing Miralax with my favorite drinks because prep may have made those drinks unappealing later. [20:32] - Preparing for laxatives, I found the worst fears exaggerated; one nauseous hour passed and then relief. [23:49] - Hear how mixing Miralax with Gatorade surprisingly tasted fine, and calories plus electrolytes improved my energy. [26:00] - I share how I chugged 36 ounces of prep fluid over two hours, experienced mild thirst, and slept mostly well. [29:43] - I describe how the anesthesiologist warned of a “spicy” feeling before sedation, and I instantly lost consciousness. [32:47] - Hear how I was completely out under propofol sedation, awakening groggy but unaware of the procedure. [34:56] - Waking from propofol felt hypnotically peaceful, and my body stayed unusually difficult to rouse. [37:18] - Hear how I wanted more sleep after waking, felt groggy, spoke coherently, but couldn’t fully process conversation. [39:27] - Hear how, post-procedure, I was so disoriented that I dropped food in the car but still ate it! [42:22] - Recovery was quick, and results looked good, although biopsies and stool tests are still pending. Links & Resources Crystal Paine Crystal’s Colonoscopy Instagram Highlights Social Media Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom) Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning) Crystal Paine on LinkedIn Crystal Paine on Twitter Crystal Paine on Goodreads Money Saving Mom Money Saving Mom on Facebook Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group crystal@moneysavingmom.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

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336: The Life-Changing Art of Self Brain Surgery with Dr. Lee Warren

I have been eagerly looking forward to doing this episode ever since I got my hands on Dr. Lee Warren’s new book, The Life-Changing Art of Self-Brain Surgery. The title alone had Jesse asking, “Wait… self-brain surgery?” Honestly, I actually had the same thought, but what Lee shares in this conversation completely blew me away. He is a brain surgeon, and he has discovered that the same principles he uses in the operating room can be applied by each of us to literally change our own brains - via our thoughts! Most of what runs through our minds every day is false, negative, or repetitive, keeping us stuck, but when we intentionally practice new ways of thinking, we can rewire our brains in real time and reshape the life that follows, and, in this episode of The Crystal Paine Show, Lee and I talk about why our culture often convinces us that we are powerless to change, why 80% of our thoughts are false, and how the simple act of noticing and choosing our thoughts can literally transform our neurochemistry, our bodies, and our perspective! Lee and I dive into practical tools - from prayer and meditation to quiet reflection - that help filter out the noise and build mental habits that help make us calmer, more resilient, and more intentional. We also explore the deeply human side of change - the grief, loss, and impossible days that can feel like they could crush us. Listen in as Lee shares his personal story of losing his son and welcoming a grandchild on the same day and how recognizing that two truths can exist at once (joy and sorrow) was life-giving and transformative. Tune in this week and see how science and scripture beautifully reinforce each other and how small, consistent actions can rebuild your mind, your habits, and your hope. If you have ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or powerless to change your thoughts and your life, then this episode will very likely challenge you, encourage you, and give you hope that real change isn’t just possible; it’s built into how you’re wired! As always, please feel free to reach out! I would love to hear your thoughts! In This Episode [0:35] - Welcome to the show, Dr. Lee Warren, author of The Life-Changing Art of Self-Brain Surgery! [1:13] - Lee argues that our thoughts physically influence our brains, giving us real agency over our lives. [4:46] - It's important to pause to examine thoughts because doing so allows for rational thinking to replace fear and rewires healthier habits. [7:21] - I reflect on how replacing false, negative thoughts with truth changed my brain, behavior, and parenting. [8:31] - What we focus on filters our perception, giving us responsibility over how life appears to us. [10:56] - Lee explains how consistently practicing positive focus rewires the brain - building calm, wise, and grounded habits. [14:38] - Lee argues that healing ultimately comes from focusing on the future, not dwelling on past trauma or suffering. [18:02] - Trauma breaks beliefs, not you, and small courageous actions retrain the brain for resilience! [21:31] - Lee has learned how deep sorrow and real beauty can exist simultaneously, revealing hope even in darkness. [24:10] - I point out how many face a pit of grief where summoning the strength to act feels impossible. [25:07] - Hear how, for Lee, necessity forced action, showing how focused thoughts instantly change neurochemistry and emotional response. [28:28] - Lee explains how changing your thoughts intentionally produces real-time brain and body changes, proving that mental rewiring is literal. [30:05] - Lee and I discuss how you can only control your own responses and perspective, not others or circumstances. [31:45] - Ultimately, you can only control yourself, not others or circumstances. [33:19] - Lee reminds us that emotions are chemical events, not facts, and controlling your thoughts directs your emotional response. [35:22] - Recognizing your agency in daily choices shifts perspective and builds gratitude for what you can control. [36:35] - Lasting change requires lifelong practice and retraining learned patterns to create healthier mental habits! Links & Resources Crystal Paine Books The-Life Changing Art of Self-Brain Surgery: Connecting Neuroscience and Faith to Radically Transform Your Life by W. Lee Warren, MD Social Media Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom) Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning) Crystal Paine on LinkedIn Crystal Paine on Twitter Crystal Paine on Goodreads Money Saving Mom Money Saving Mom on Facebook Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group crystal@moneysavingmom.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

335: My Grandma Hobbies Era

This week on The Crystal Paine Show, I want to talk about something that has unexpectedly changed my life this year - what I jokingly call my “grandma hobbies era.” When I first shared that phrase online, it stirred up more feelings than I ever expected. Some people really loved it, but some were really bothered by it. For me, it’s a playful way to describe something deeply meaningful: choosing activities that slow me down, calm my body, and help me feel present again! Two years ago, if I had heard myself talking about puzzles, watercoloring, baking, or crocheting a scarf, I probably would have thought something had gone very wrong. Back then, my life was full of adrenaline, constant urgency, and never-ending to-do lists. I didn’t realize how tightly I was living until I started to loosen my grip, and with the encouragement of my functional medicine doctor, I began intentionally creating space - working fewer hours, building in white space, and letting go of the need to always be “on,” and in that space, I found myself drawn to simple, creative things that didn’t demand anything from me other than just my attention. Listen in this episode as Jesse and I open up honestly about what it has been like to step out of fight mode and learn how to rest, and I share how scary it felt to reduce my work hours as the CEO of a company, how much anxiety that stirred up, and how it revealed an idol of control that I hadn't even realized I had. I also share the surprising ways that God met me in that place - financially, emotionally, and spiritually - when I ultimately chose to trust instead of hustle. Jesse and I also talk about what it feels like when your calendar finally has breathing room, when your to-do list doesn’t fill the page, and when people start to feel like opportunities instead of interruptions. We laugh about puzzles, sourdough, and my very flexible relationship with recipes, but even more than that, we talk about what it means to live from a calmer place and show up more fully to the people and work we love! Please tune in this week, especially if you are tired, running on adrenaline, or craving a slower, richer way to live. Maybe it’s time to find your own version of a “grandma hobby.” I hope that this conversation encourages you, and, as always, I would love to hear from you, so please feel free to reach out! In This Episode [0:35] - This episode is about how the phrase “grandma hobbies” is a playful, positive term for calming activities that have unexpectedly improved my life! [3:07] - I talk about how leaning into energizing “grandma hobbies” helps me re-regulate my nervous system and move out of constant fight mode. [6:44] - Jesse and I discuss how living constantly in fight-or-flight exhausts the body because it was designed only for short-term survival. [7:30] - I explain how calming, repetitive hobbies redirect my focus and gently regulate my nervous system without adrenaline or urgency. [9:42] - I reflect on how letting go of rigid rules revealed how I was addicted to adrenaline and uneasy with newly open space. [11:11] - Hear how cutting back hours exposed my fear, control, and misplaced belief that success depended solely on me. [14:40] - I argue how choosing trust over hustle showed me that rest, not control, leads to freedom. [17:26] - Hear how working less has made my life richer, calmer, and more present across work, relationships, and creativity. [20:28] – Jesse and I talk about how working fewer hours has improved my energy, sleep quality, and overall well-being by preventing constant exhaustion. [21:31] - Jesse and I discuss how intentional stillness via simple, calming activities helps restore awareness, reduce stress, and regulate the nervous system! [24:36] - I am finding that simple creative hobbies create space, restore calm, and help me show up with joy and love! Links & Resources Crystal Paine Social Media Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom) Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning) Crystal Paine on LinkedIn Crystal Paine on Twitter Crystal Paine on Goodreads Money Saving Mom Money Saving Mom on Facebook Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group crystal@moneysavingmom.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

334: Don’t Burn Your House Down with Lindsey Maestas

Several years ago, Lindsey Maestas challenged me to see Jesse not as another task on my never-ending list but rather as a person again - a moment that stuck with me, and in this season of raising a big family and carrying a lot of weight, I realized how easily my marriage had slipped to the back burner. So for this episode, I invited Lindsey on to talk about what it really looks like to choose your marriage when life is busy or you are tired, hurting, or feeling like life is difficult. Using her book Don’t Burn Your House Down as the basis of our conversation, Lindsey and I talk about the quiet disappointments that build up such as when a gift feels impersonal or you feel completely unseen and why those moments often point to deeper needs, not deal-breakers. Lindsey shares why love doesn’t “just happen,” how unspoken expectations create distance, and what to do when your spouse hears your requests as criticism or failure. We uncover the anxious–avoidant cycle, the danger of keeping emotional receipts, and why fighting fire with fire only burns the house down even faster. One of my favorite parts of this episode is honestly when we shift away from heavy conversations and talk about rebuilding friendship. Laughter, play, small acts of service, and even silly moments can soften hearts in ways that words sometimes can’t, and Lindsay explains the power of what she calls “micro attractions” - the tiny daily choices that quietly say, “I see you.” We also talk about why trying to change your spouse almost never works and how real change begins when you look honestly at yourself. This conversation is for anyone who feels lonely in their marriage, overwhelmed by life, or just wants to build a stronger marriage. It’s not about pretending things are fine but rather about choosing hope, humility, and connection again, even when it feels easier to quit. In This Episode [0:35] - Join me in welcoming Lindsey Maestas, author of Don’t Burn Your House Down! [2:34] - Lindsey believes that love and connection in marriage require daily, intentional choices, even during difficult periods. [4:30] - Despite struggles, couples can find hope, tools, and renewed commitment in marriage. [7:29] - Lindsey has seen how small daily disappointments reveal deeper needs for care, attention, and consideration. [9:20] - While you can't change my spouse, you can choose to love and communicate well. [11:48] - Lindsey has learned that conflict often stems from unspoken expectations, and clarity requires open explanation. [14:15] - Our anxious–avoidant patterns trap us, and breaking them requires addressing and naming the cycle. [17:05] - Lindsey asserts that rebuilding friendship, play, and shared joy often reconnects hearts more than repeated conversations. [20:16] - I add how, amid daily chaos, couples need to remember to nurture joy and play in their marriage. [21:14] - Hear how fighting fire with fire fuels resentment, whereas forgiveness and grace restore connection. [24:19] - Ultimately, marriage reveals our flaws and calls us to become more like Christ. [27:14] - Shifting expectations from spouse to God relieves pressure and highlights small acts of love. [29:02] - Lindsey explains how micro gestures such as noticing, serving, and affirming help build the strongest foundation in marriage. [32:00] - Lindsey points out how letting go of resentment can lead to relational growth. [34:00] - Becoming our best selves honors God, strengthens marriage, and revitalizes energy and joy. Links & Resources Crystal Paine Books Don’t Burn Your House Down: Prioritizing Your Marriage, Your Spouse, and Yourself for a Deeper Connection by Lindsey Maestas Social Media Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom) Crystal Paine on LinkedIn Crystal Paine on Goodreads Money Saving Mom Money Saving Mom on Facebook Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group crystal@moneysavingmom.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

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333: Why I Started Wearing a Continuous Glucose Monitor

Join me and Jesse this week as I share what it has actually been like wearing a continuous glucose monitor as a non-diabetic, why I decided to try it, and what I’ve learned about my body in the process. It all starts in the middle of a very real “snowpocalypse” with canceled plans, sick kids, and a scrapped anniversary trip, which somehow turned into the perfect time to slow down, rest, and pay closer attention to my health! I walk you through the basics of what a continuous glucose monitor is, how the non-medical versions work, and why my functional medicine doctor encouraged me to use one for a few months. I also dig into why I chose the brand that I did, what it cost, how easy it was to install and remove, and what it actually feels like to wear one day to day. (It’s way less intense than I expected, and I forgot it was even there most of the time!) The real value for me, though, has been the data. Seeing my blood sugar in real time completely changed how I think about food, especially carbs, protein, and movement. Listen in as I share how I assumed that I had major blood sugar issues only to find out that my levels were actually pretty stable and that most of my past “crashes” were likely from under-eating and not getting enough protein. I break down the biggest patterns that I noticed such as why carb-only snacks spike my blood sugar, why starting meals with protein matters, and how even a short walk after eating can make a measurable difference. Jesse and I also get into some surprisingly practical discoveries such as why eating the same foods in a different order changes the outcome, how workouts affect glucose levels, and why three muffins in one evening sounded fun but did not feel great later. This episode isn’t about perfection or rules. No; it’s about curiosity, small experiments, and using real feedback from my own body to make better choices, so if you have ever wondered how your habits actually impact your energy, focus, or overall health, then this episode is basically me being your guinea pig so you don’t have to be! Tune in, and, as always, I would love to hear from you, so please feel free to reach out! In This Episode [0:35] - We’re in the middle of a snowstorm, prepped for possible power loss! [3:30] - Hear how my anniversary with Jesse was planned, but Micah suddenly complained of ear pain before we could leave. [4:41] - Hear how both kids tested positive for strep, with Micah also having COVID and an ear infection. [7:37] - I discuss how I avoided strep but feel that I might have borderline laryngitis, so I’m resting at home and taking vitamins. [8:53] - I explain how continuous glucose monitors for non-diabetics give real-time data to help me understand my body. [11:23] - I chose the Stello monitor because it’s accessible, affordable, and shows data without alarms! [12:55] - The sensor is easy to insert, a tiny filament under the skin, not a needle. [16:24] - Hear how the monitor sits in fluid around my muscle, stays secure with tape, and is barely noticeable! [18:01] - I discuss how my device lasted nine days, was easy to remove, and unexpectedly revealed stable blood sugar. [20:04] - I explain how eating consistently, especially protein first, stabilizes my blood sugar, while carb-only snacks cause spikes. [22:48] - Eating carbs alone spikes my blood sugar unless I exercise immediately afterward. [24:25] - Hear how I learned that eating protein first stabilizes blood sugar, whereas carb-first meals cause spikes. [27:12] - I explain how combining carbs with protein prevents spikes, but carbs alone raise my blood sugar. [28:45] - Hear how moving shortly after meals helps stabilize blood sugar, especially if I first eat carbs. [31:45] - The order of eating foods such as protein before vegetables significantly affects blood sugar. Links & Resources Crystal Paine Stelo Social Media Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom) Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning) Crystal Paine on LinkedIn Crystal Paine on Twitter Crystal Paine on Goodreads Money Saving Mom Money Saving Mom on Facebook Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group crystal@moneysavingmom.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

332: One Man’s Journey from Abuse & Addiction to Forgiveness and Redemption with Stephen McWhirter

Trust me, you are not going to want to miss this episode’s honest and vulnerable conversation with Stephen McWhirter, author of the memoir Radically Restored: How Knowing Jesus Heals Our Brokenness. I have really been looking forward to sharing this episode because his story is raw, unsettling at times, and deeply hopeful, and it challenged me in ways that I couldn't have expected. Listen as Stephen opens up about growing up in a home where faith was loudly preached in public but painfully contradicted in private. We talk about what it does to a child when the person who represents God also causes pain and how that kind of hypocrisy can lead to anger, rebellion, and addiction for years, and Stephen openly shares his long road into substance abuse, the surprising moment when everything began to change, and how his encounter with Jesus didn’t happen in a church pew but rather alone, surrounded by darkness and drugs where grace met him anyway. Stephen walks us through forgiveness in a unique way, and we talk about abuse, safety, boundaries, and the very real cost of forgiving someone who caused deep wounds, especially when that person is a parent. His story of forgiving his father (not once but over a lifetime) is one of the best parts of the conversation. We also spend some time talking directly to parents, friends, and loved ones who feel helpless watching someone they care about struggle, with Stephen offering hope for those carrying quiet shame, hidden addictions, or unanswered prayers, reminding us that repentance brings things into the light. If you are wrestling with forgiveness, addiction, trust, or the question of whether God is actually good, then this episode is absolutely for you, and if you’re the one praying for someone else and wondering if it matters, I truly hope that this conversation gives you real hope that restoration is possible, sometimes even in ways that we could never expect or plan for ourselves. Be sure to grab a copy of his book as well! In This Episode [0:35] - This episode is an interview with Stephen McWhirter, author of Radically Restored: How Knowing Jesus Heals Our Brokenness! [1:39] - Stephen opens up about how his father’s public faith hid private abuse, fueling rebellion and addiction. [4:18] - Alone with drugs, Stephen realized that salvation required belief, not effort. [6:57] - Stephen believes that God met him outside church and used his story uniquely. [10:04] - For Stephen, obediently forgiving his father was unimaginably difficult. [12:48] - At his father’s deathbed, forgiving him aloud released Stephen and reshaped his understanding of grace. [15:37] - Stephen argues that forgiveness involves tearing up debt and opening the door to healing. [17:15] - Stephen asserts that a parent’s words matter most, but peers can powerfully redirect someone who is struggling. [19:52] - Hear how Stephen longed for honest apologies and repentance because hiding only deepens damage and prevents healing. [23:12] - Stephen believes that repentance brings hidden sin into light. [26:13] - Stephen shares how his mother's faith taught him that prayer is active trust, especially when loving someone feels helpless. [29:50] - Hear how knowing God’s character transformed Stephen's controlling prayers into trust that His will is genuinely good. [32:16] - Be sure to grab a copy of Stephen's book! Links & Resources Crystal Paine The Crystal Paine Show - 329: Why I Am Not Setting Goals in 2026 Books Radically Restored: How Knowing Jesus Heals Our Brokenness by Stephen McWhirter The Case for Christ: A Journalist’s Personal Investigation of the Evidence for Jesus by Lee Strobel Social Media Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom) Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning) Crystal Paine on LinkedIn Crystal Paine on Twitter Crystal Paine on Goodreads Money Saving Mom Money Saving Mom on Facebook Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group crystal@moneysavingmom.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

331: My Fun List for 2026

Welcome to another episode of The Crystal Paine Show! This one is a follow-up to the episode where I shared why I’m not setting goals for 2026, and if you haven’t listened to that one yet, I recommend you do so first because it gives some important context for everything I’m sharing here. Today, Jesse and I give you a peek into my “fun list” - the low-pressure, no-fail, creatively inspired approach I’m taking this year instead of traditional goals, and I am sharing how it’s already reshaping my life just eight days into 2026 (as of when we recorded this)! I talk about the various ways that I have been learning to exist without constant urgency. Years of nonstop goal-chasing left my nervous system overworked, and letting go of that pace has forced me to ask, “Who am I without projects defining my worth?” I share how sitting quietly, arriving early, and simply having space between tasks has actually been strangely calming and unexpectedly healing. We also dive into some very practical examples: everything from decluttering and organizing our home, creating better systems for the spaces which we already have, helping our kids take more ownership, to discovering joy in cooking, exploring new crafts like watercolor and embroidery, and simply enjoying small daily rituals like tea, walks, movies, and shows! Along the way, I also reflect on how my fun list allows me to enjoy life without pressure—no measuring, no stress, just inspiration. Listen in as I share how I am approaching social media differently this year, letting Instagram be a life-giving place again, and how I’m enjoying reading fiction for the sake of enjoyment, not just achievement. I really hope this episode inspires you to experiment with your own fun list, give yourself permission to slow down, and find joy in both the small and creative moments of life, and, of course, as always, we would love to hear from you! In This Episode [0:35] - This episode is a follow-up to episode 329 and discusses my “fun list” for 2026! [1:28] - Hear how I visited a gastroenterologist due to chronic anemia, navigating confusion about colonoscopy and endoscopy. [4:59] - Jesse and I discuss how replacing rigid goals with a flexible “fun list” reduces pressure and avoids feelings of failure for me. [7:03] I discuss how fun lists inspire without pressure, unlike goals, which feel heavy and failure-laden for me. [10:22] - Not setting goals challenges my identity, revealing how much I tied worth to productivity. [13:32] - Hear how introducing myself without listing projects initially felt strange, highlighting how much I normally juggle. [15:02] - Letting go of constant goal-chasing calms my nervous system and creates healing space. [19:15] - Jesse and I talk about how embracing a fun list allows enjoying activities such as assembling puzzles without pressure, timelines, or discomfort with unfinished tasks. [20:18] - I am realizing that I cherish simple pleasures and keep them flexible, trusting that rest enhances rather than hinders productivity. [23:42] - I want to explore watercolor, embroidery, knitting, and possibly consider moving for more space. [25:39] - Hear how managing bedrooms and sibling dynamics shows the challenges of space and kids' competitive relationships. [27:35] - I talk about how creating home systems and decluttering improves daily life and prepares for a potential move. [30:58] - I am aiming to enjoy cooking, gym routines, and short trips without pressure or strict goals. [33:44] - I reflect on having rediscovered Instagram joy by posting freely and creatively, without focusing on strategy or metrics. [36:09] - The final thing on my fun list is to read more fiction. Links & Resources Crystal Paine The Crystal Paine Show - 329: Why I Am Not Setting Goals in 2026 Social Media Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom) Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning) Crystal Paine on LinkedIn Crystal Paine on Twitter Crystal Paine on Goodreads Money Saving Mom Money Saving Mom on Facebook Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group crystal@moneysavingmom.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

330: How Understanding the Compassion of Christ Changes Us with Sherri Hughes-Gragg

Welcome to 2026, everyone! To kick off the new year, I am joined in the studio today by Sherri Hughes-Gragg, an author whose writing has truly changed the way that I read scripture and experience God. Her Advent devotional stopped me in my tracks this December, and her newest book, The Compassionate Christ, feels like exactly what many of us need as we head into a new year! Listen in as Sherri shares her story of growing up in a deeply legalistic Christian environment where rules mattered more than relationship, and doubt wasn’t just unwelcome but was dangerous. We talk about what it’s like to keep up appearances while you are privately unraveling and how years of trying to be “good enough” created a crushing sense of failure, especially in parenting. Her reflections are tender, unfiltered, and grounded in compassion – not only for herself but for her children and anyone who has carried spiritual shame longer than they should have. Hear how a turning point came when Sherri began studying scripture through its Middle Eastern cultural and historical context, including time spent learning in Israel. She explains how this lens transformed familiar passages and healed some long-held fears of hers, especially around the crucifixion and the belief that God turns away in our darkest moments. One moment in particular - Jesus’ words from the cross - reframed everything she thought she knew about God’s presence and faithfulness. We also discuss how understanding God’s compassion changes everyday life: how we parent, how we handle frustration, how we engage people with whom we deeply disagree, and how we resist the urge to play Holy Spirit in someone else’s life. This episode with Sherri isn’t about winning arguments but is about what freedom can look like when fear loosens its grip and how compassion could be one of the most powerful things we offer the world right now! In This Episode [0:35] - I am interviewing Sherri Hughes-Gragg, author of The Compassionate Christ. ​​[1:45] - Sherri reflects on how growing beyond fear-based faith, studying Scripture’s context revealed a far kinder, compassionate Jesus. [4:45] - Sherri withdrew while doubting God’s existence, maintaining appearances until her honesty triggered some intervention. [6:28] - At Christian college, conformity replaced authenticity, leaving no safe space for doubt or being myself. [9:33] - Sherri discusses how impossible religious standards left her feeling daily failure, burdened, and regretful. [12:20] - Understanding God’s compassion challenges legalism and calls Sherri to treat even people with whom we disagree with dignity. [15:32] - Sherri asserts that listening quietly for God means trusting Him with others, including her adult children. [17:49] - As fear exhausted Sherri, studying the scripture’s Middle Eastern context and Jesus’ actions changed everything. [19:26] - Hear how studying in Israel sparked a new, healing understanding of scripture’s cultural context for Sherri. [22:36] - During edits of her book, Sherri caught herself overindulging details. [23:12] - Learning Jesus’ cry referenced Psalm 22 revealed God’s faithfulness, not abandonment, even on the cross. [26:56] - Experiencing God’s love over punishment brought daily peace and reshaped how Sherri parents her kids and treats others. [28:30] - I share how recognizing God’s compassion helps me meet frustration with empathy. [30:33] - Sherri's greatest hope is changed relationships - with God and each other - so the church reflects Jesus’ kingdom on earth. Links & Resources Crystal Paine Books The Compassionate Christ: Draw Near to the Risen Savior (A 31-Day Devotional Retelling of Stories from the Life of Jesus by Sherri Hughes-Gragg Social Media Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom) Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning) Crystal Paine on LinkedIn Crystal Paine on Twitter Crystal Paine on Goodreads Money Saving Mom Money Saving Mom on Facebook Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group crystal@moneysavingmom.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

329: Why I Am Not Setting Goals in 2026

Tune in for our final episode of 2025 as Jesse and I talk about the top books we read, some major shifts in how I want to show up in life, and why I'm not setting any goals for 2026. I share my top four reads from the year - books that challenged me, inspired change, and gave me perspectives that I didn’t even know that I needed. From Is Your Daughter Ready? by Kari Kampakis, which offers guidance on raising daughters through modern challenges, to The Fight for Us by Rebekah and Gabe Lyons, which made me face the reality of a lopsided marriage and rethink how my priorities shape our relationship, each book left a lasting mark. Habits of the Household opened my eyes to the rhythms and habits already present in our family life, helping me reframe intentionality in small, practical ways, and The Many Lives of Mama Love gave me a raw, compassionate look at addiction, incarceration, and motherhood, pushing me to expand my understanding of struggles that so many face unseen. Alongside these book reads, I am also unpacking a major personal shift: I am not setting any goals for 2026. For someone who has been goal-oriented since childhood, this feels like an especially huge step for me, but after reflecting on a lopsided marriage, watching Jesse take such brave steps with his own coaching and health journey, and seeing how chronic stress has been silently wearing me down for decades, I realized that constant planning and pushing has been a default, not a necessity. My blood work and coaching experiences showed me how disconnected I had truly become from my own body, always running on adrenaline, cortisol, and extreme stress while mistaking calm endurance for health. I have ultimately decided that 2026 is about creating real breathing room - intentionally cutting back on commitments, slowing down, and filling my life with creative and meaningful practices rather than arbitrary deadlines. I am really learning to treat rest as a spiritual discipline, to stop using work as a crutch, and to allow space for real healing, connection, and reflection. I hope that you will listen to this episode as I share the books that shaped my year and the mindset shift that’s shaping the next! In This Episode [0:35] - I am sharing my top 2025 reads, and I explain skipping goals for 2026! [3:35] - Here about how I chose books that impacted me deeply; I highlight Is Your Daughter Ready? and The Fight for Us. [6:32] - I discuss the impact that the book The Fight for Us had on me. [10:13] - Habits of the Household encouraged intentional family rhythms and shaped her upcoming 2026 book. [11:54] - I discuss how The Many Lives of Mama Love revealed addiction, incarceration, and motherhood with raw human insight. [14:14] - Jesse focused on historical fiction and military novels this year, gaining detailed Vietnam War knowledge from Jack Carr. [16:44] - I talk about how The Women explored Vietnam War nurses’ experiences, PTSD, and women’s challenges during the war. [19:55] - Hear how Jesse’s coaching and functional medicine journey sparked major life changes and health improvements. [22:50] - Overworking and chronic stress left my body constantly in fight mode, risking future collapse. [23:27] - Early-life coping patterns influenced decades of stress, now being reversed via conscious effort. [26:42] - Extreme stress had been normalized, hiding true health despite outward calm and endurance. [28:37] - I reflect on how chronic stress pushed me into survival mode, disconnecting me from bodily signals and rest. [31:40] - I realized that I had been so disconnected that I entirely missed the changing seasons. [32:37] - Life on autopilot made me overlook reality, leaving me feeling rushed, exhausted, and ungrounded. [35:32] - I share how overplanning caused stress. [37:37] - Choosing no goals allows focus on creative work while reducing hours and pressure. [40:59] - Living intentionally now highlights mindfulness and purpose but with far less stress than before. [41:24] - Practicing rest as a spiritual discipline frees me from overwork and supports deep healing. Links & Resources Crystal Paine The Crystal Paine Show - 307. How to Fight Less and Thrive More in Marriage (with Gabe and Rebekah Lyons) The Crystal Paine Show - 323. Raising Daughters That Are Ready for Adulthood with Kari Kampakis Books Is Your Daughter Ready?: 10 Ways to Empower Your Girl for an Age of New Challenges by Kari Kampakis The Fight for Us: Overcome What Divides to Build a Marriage That Thrives by Rebekah Lyons & Gabe Lyons Habits of the Household: Practicing the Story of God in Everyday Family Rhythms by Justin Whitmel Earley The Many Lives of Mama Love: A Memoir of Lying, Stealing, Writing, and Healing by Lara Love Hardin Cry Havoc: A Tom Reece Thriller by Jack Carr The Women by Kristin Hannah Social Media Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom) Crystal Paine on Twitter Crystal Paine on Goodreads Money Saving Mom Money Saving Mom on Facebook Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group crystal@moneysavingmom.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands