Crafting the lifestyle you want—it sounds dreamy, doesn't it? Well, it's not just a dream. It's about making choices every day that align with your vision. Once you take that leap, the next steps become a whole lot clearer.Here's a secret: there's power in doing the next right thing. It's not always about huge leaps; it's about consistent moves in the right direction. Each small step builds momentum and leads you closer to your goals.Sometimes the biggest risk is taking no risk at all. Change is where growth happens. It's stepping out of that comfort zone, trying new things, and discovering what truly matters to you.Life is not about gaining possessions or reaching societal benchmarks. It's about relationships, experiences, moments of joy, and being true to yourself. Hear us when we say - You deserve to be happy.We hope as you listen to this episode, you are encouraged to take the next step towards the life you want. Thank you for being on this journey with us!Episode Highlights: What will you wish you would have done today when you look back?Stepping out of our comfort zone.Crafting the lifestyle you want.Make one decision, and the next decision gets easier.Do the next right thing.The biggest risk might be taking no risk at all.There’s no one size fits all.Don’t be scared of change.The things that truly matter in life.You deserve to be happy.Links Mentioned in Episode/Find More on Ryan and Shannon:Follow Shannon on InstagramFollow Ryan on InstagramVisit Shannon’s WebsiteThis show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

How do you find balance in raising confident and independent kids while still serving them?Teaching confidence and independence involves knowing when to step back and when to step in. It's about offering guidance and support while allowing them the space to try, fail, learn, and try again.Encouraging them to try new things and praising their efforts—whether big or small—can do wonders. Celebrate their victories, but also teach them how to handle challenges and setbacks gracefully. Remind them that mistakes are stepping stones to success, not stumbling blocks.It's natural to want to shield our kids from life's challenges, but fostering independence is so important. Start with age-appropriate responsibilities and gradually increase them. Letting them make choices (even if it means a mismatched outfit occasionally) helps them learn decision-making skills. Allow them space to solve problems on their own but be there as a safety net when needed.As parents, our goal isn't to do everything for our kids but to empower them to become capable, self-assured individuals who can navigate the world confidently. It's a journey that requires patience, guidance, and a whole lot of love.You're doing an amazing job, friends. Keep believing in your kids, keep fostering their confidence and independence, and watch them blossom into incredible individuals.Episode Highlights: Finding balance in parenting.Raising kids with confidence.Capitalizing on the challenges.Our kids are more capable than we think.Links Mentioned in Episode/Find More on Ryan and Shannon:Follow Shannon on InstagramFollow Ryan on InstagramVisit Shannon’s WebsiteOrder your copy of The Entitlement Trap Here!This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

How can we lean into our children’s nature and learn to nurture it?When our kiddos come into the world, they bring along their unique set of characteristics and tendencies. These inherent qualities are like pieces of a puzzle that make up their nature. It's the starting point, the foundation upon which their personality takes shape.But here's the thing: while nature provides the initial blueprint, it's the nurturing environment that helps fill their buckets, allowing those innate qualities to flourish and grow. As parents, caregivers, and mentors, we are like gardeners tending to a precious garden. We create the nurturing soil, provide the right nutrients, and offer the care and support needed for those traits to bloom.Imagine our kids' nature as a bucket waiting to be filled with experiences, knowledge, and love. It's up to us to add to that bucket—to nurture their nature—by surrounding them with positive influences, guiding them with values, and offering opportunities for exploration and growth. Each interaction, every conversation, and every moment spent together adds up.Parenting is a learning journey—one where we adapt and grow alongside our kids. So, friends, let's keep filling their buckets with love, encouragement, and experiences that help them become the best versions of themselves. Episode Highlights: Life’s too short to take it too seriously.How much can our nurturing impact their nature?Understanding our children’s nature.Nurturing their gifts.Focusing on inner workings vs final results.Filling their buckets.Don’t get caught up in the rat race.Truly seeing our kids for who they are.Links Mentioned in Episode/Find More on Ryan and Shannon:Follow Shannon on InstagramFollow Ryan on InstagramVisit Shannon’s WebsiteThis show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

What is the key to instilling healthy eating habits in our families?With so many options and our ‘on-the-go’ lifestyles, eating healthy can be overwhelming. As we navigate school drop off, work, school pick up, appointments, and our kiddos’ practices, we often don’t have much time to think about what we’re going to eat for dinner.. And with fast food restaurants on seemingly every corner, it can be easy just to give in and make the ‘easy choice’.So, how do we plan ahead and set ourselves up to make healthy choices? Well, the truth is, there are many different strategies and plans that work for different families… but in this episode, we will share some of our favorite ways to eat healthy while also making allowances for the occasional sugary treat.Healthy habits and eating is all about balance. When we master the mindset of ‘food is fuel’, it makes healthy choices much easier. So sit back and relax, and let us share some of our favorite tips and advice to help you raise healthy kids.Remember - it’s never too late to start.. If you find yourself thinking that you may not have been instilling healthy habits or providing nutritious meals for your children, there's no need to stress. You're doing your best, and we're here to offer support and guidance if you're unsure where to start. Your kids are fortunate to have you!Episode Highlights: Food is fuel.Our gut has a huge impact on our health.The goal of eating good food.The 80/20 rule.Eating to feel good.Creating good habits.Fill your home with healthy options.Let’s talk about protein.Handling picky eaters.Raising grateful kids.Introducing foods to kids at a young age.Explaining the benefits of different foods to your kids.It’s never too late to start implementing healthy foods and habits.Links Mentioned in Episode/Find More on Ryan and Shannon:Follow Shannon on InstagramFollow Ryan on InstagramVisit Shannon’s WebsiteThis show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

What are some of your family values?In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life. However, as parents, it's our responsibility to instill values and principles in our kids that will guide them as they grow and ultimately help shape the world around them. One way we have chosen to do this is by creating a family pledge. A family pledge is a powerful tool that can serve as a compass, guiding your family on a path toward unity, shared values, and purpose.At the heart of our family pledge is the aspiration to raise kids that will be leaders and not followers… kids that will change the world around them. We believe that by equipping them with the right values, a strong sense of purpose, and a deep connection to our family and faith, we are giving them the tools they need to make a positive impact on the world.So, why not take the time to create a family pledge today and set your family on a path of purpose and positive change? Follow the link below if you’d like to get a FREE printable of our Family Pledge!Episode Highlights: About our Family Pledge.How we created our Family Pledge.Breaking down the meaning of our pledge.God’s in control.Jesus is the greatest role model.Being service-oriented.We are here to make the world a better place.Links Mentioned in Episode/Find More on Ryan and Shannon:Follow Shannon on InstagramFollow Ryan on InstagramVisit Shannon’s WebsiteGet Your FREE Family Pledge PDF Here!This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

Did you know that Halloween is one of the busiest nights in the ER?In this short and sweet spooktacular episode, we're diving into the secrets of making Halloween a safe and fun experience for your kiddos. Join us as we share tricks and treats for keeping your kids safe during trick-or-treating. From safety tips to candy inspection techniques, we've got all the mummy-approved advice you need. So, grab your broomstick, listen in, and get ready for a safe night of Halloween fun with the family!Episode Highlights: Talking about some of our favorite past costumes.Halloween is one of the busiest nights in the ER.Ways to stay safe on Halloween.Links Mentioned in Episode/Find More on Ryan and Shannon:Follow Shannon on InstagramFollow Ryan on InstagramVisit Shannon’s WebsiteThis show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

Does your family have a bedtime routine?If you've ever been on the rollercoaster ride of bedtime routines with your little ones, you know that it can be a mixed bag of cozy moments, laughter, and maybe a hint of chaos. For some of us, bedtime is an enjoyable time to recap the day with our kids, while for others, it's a bit like an action-packed movie where our patience is put to the test. But whether your evening routine is all smiles or involves a fair amount of negotiation, there's a shared bond that comes from this daily routine.So, whether your bedtime routine is a harmonious symphony of sleepytime serenity or a chaotic whirlwind of pajamas, toys, and bedtime stalls, it's all part of the parenting journey. The ups and downs, the giggles and the grumbles – they're all part of this beautiful dance.Tune in today as we discuss the ups and downs of putting kids to bed!Episode Highlights: We are on different sides of the bedtime spectrum.Bedtime routines and habits.What do you remember about bedtime from your childhood?Being your kids’ safe place to land.Shifting your perspective around bedtime.Finding your routine.Let’s talk about melatonin.Links Mentioned in Episode/Find More on Ryan and Shannon:Follow Shannon on InstagramFollow Ryan on InstagramVisit Shannon’s WebsiteThis show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

How do we raise our kids to be strong men and women of God in the state of the world today?As parents, it’s so easy to be consumed with worry when we think about our kids and the challenges they face. The world is much different than it used to be, and it seems that our kids face more challenges than ever before.God didn’t promise us a world free of problems, but if we look to Him for guidance, He will carry us through our trials. In this short and sweet episode, we are sharing a beautiful and empowering message from Alex Cravens.Let’s raise up Daniels, Davids, Esthers, and Peters! You guys are amazing and we love you!Episode Highlights: What we’re consuming matters.God has a plan for us.Raising kids in the current state of the world.Alex Cravens - Don’t Feel Sorry.They were made for such a time as this.God will strengthen you.Links Mentioned in Episode/Find More on Ryan and Shannon:Follow Shannon on InstagramFollow Ryan on InstagramVisit Shannon’s WebsiteShan’s Instagram Post with Alex Cravens’ Don’t Feel SorryThis show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

Do you feel confident in your ability to care for your kiddos when they’re sick?The truth is, friends, so many mamas feel helpless when their kids are sick… But I want to help educate you so that you can be calm and confident when sickness makes its way into your household.First off, you are so much more capable than you probably allow yourself to believe. No one knows your child like you do, and no one loves your child like you do. You are their safe place. Let that sink in. In this episode, I’m sharing some of my favorite home remedies for when sickness hits. We’ll talk about when to worry and when not to worry, address what prevents parents from educating themselves, and share encouragement. I recently asked my community what prevents parents from educating themselves on how to handle sickness at home. The most common answer I got was that they just didn’t know where to begin. With the overwhelming responses I got, I decided to create a FREE Webinar to educate mamas. Save your seat in the link below! Let me help you gain the confidence you need to care for your kiddos in the safety of your home.Episode Highlights: Tangible tools to aid your health at home.When to worry and when not to worry.Helping parents avoid turning to Google in medical situations.What prevents you from educating yourself?We have a responsibility as parents to educate ourselves.You are fully capable.There are actually very few emergencies.Home remedy: Lemon, honey, garlic tea.Save a seat at my webinar!Links Mentioned in Episode/Find More on Ryan and Shannon:Follow Shannon on InstagramFollow Ryan on InstagramVisit Shannon’s WebsiteSave Your Seat for My Webinar! Use my Mary Ruth Vitamin Code: ST20This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

Have you thought about getting your kids phones?It’s a decision many parents dread. When is it the ‘right time’ to let them have a phone? How do we protect them from scary things on the internet? There are so many questions that run through our minds.We recorded today’s episode to share some of the tips we’ve learned about navigating internet and device usage and some of the resources and devices we’ve found to be helpful during this transition.What works for you and your kids might be different from what works for us and our kids, that family at church, or the family down the road.  Living in a time like this, our goal should be to be different! Don’t worry about what other parents are doing - YOU know what’s best for your family.We hope that this episode will be helpful to you in some way and ultimately, you will be reminded that you are doing the best you can do, and your kiddos are so blessed to have you looking out for them!Episode Highlights: Ryan’s story about collect calls.The dangers of exposing our kids to the internet.The social aspect of phones.Being intentional about what comes into your home.You have to decide what’s best for your family.Don’t be afraid to be the parent that’s ‘different’.Setting our kids up for success.Keeping open communication.Links Mentioned in Episode/Find More on Ryan and Shannon:Follow Shannon on InstagramFollow Ryan on InstagramVisit Shannon’s WebsiteLink to the Gabb WatchLink to the Gabb PhoneLink to the Apple WatchGet SMART Family Internet Safety Guide use code: ST40 for 40% off!Is My Child Ready for a Smartphone? GuideThe Ultimate Comparison of the Best Smartphones for Kids in 2023Check out Andrea Davis on Instagram @betterscreentime Follow @defendyoungminds on InstagramThis show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

Do you know your spouse’s love language?We all know that marriage is a journey filled with ups and downs, joys and challenges. But there's a secret ingredient that can make this journey even more beautiful and fulfilling: understanding and speaking your spouse's love language. Understanding your spouse's love language allows you to communicate your love more effectively. When you express love in the way they understand and appreciate, it bridges gaps in communication and fosters emotional intimacy. It shows that you care enough to invest in their happiness and well-being, strengthening the bond between you.When both partners feel loved and cherished, marital satisfaction naturally increases. Fulfilling each other's emotional needs leads to a happier and more contented partnership.We hope you’ll join us as we discuss this important topic and share some of what we’ve learned throughout our years of marriage. Remember, friends, love is a language, and when you speak it fluently, the love between you and your spouse can flourish and endure even the toughest of times.Episode Highlights: We’re just here with you, trying to figure this out.Facing challenges and growing through it.Do you know your spouse’s love language?Prioritizing your marriage.Speaking your spouse’s love language.Being on your spouse’s team.Links Mentioned in Episode/Find More on Ryan and Shannon:Follow Shannon on InstagramFollow Ryan on InstagramVisit Shannon’s WebsiteThe 5 Love Languages by Gary ChapmanThis show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

What is your parenting style?We know there are so many different styles of parenting, and there isn’t one universal style that works for everyone. Every child is different and has their own unique needs. Around here, we’ve found that gentle parenting is the most beneficial for our family.So what is gentle parenting, really? And why does it work? We believe that some forms of discipline promote fear, and fear never leads to good behavior. When kiddos feel safe, loved, and respected, they are more likely to behave. Positive reinforcement really goes a long way!In our episode today, we are sharing more about our parenting style, some tricks we’ve found that work for us, and some good old-fashioned encouragement to parents. At the end of the day, you know what’s best for you and your kiddos. God chose you to be their parents, and that means you are the best one for the job! Episode Highlights: Encouraging Moms to lean into gentle parenting.Discipline is not punishment.Kids don’t behave out of fear.There are different types of parenting.We aren’t defined by our past.It’s never too late to make a change.Kids need to be kids, and adults need to be adults.What example are we trying to set?Investing in our kids.The Positive Parenting Bench.Letting your kids know you’re hearing them.Links Mentioned in Episode/Find More on Ryan and Shannon:Follow Shannon on InstagramFollow Ryan on InstagramVisit Shannon’s WebsiteThis show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

What would you say if we told you that there’s a lot you can do in your home for your kids’ sickness?We know it can be so nerve-wracking when our kids get sick. Sometimes, as parents, we can be left feeling ill-equipped to handle sickness... But the truth is, there is so much that can be handled in our home. In this episode, we are sharing some of our best advice and tips for what to do when sickness hits our home. We dive into assessing sickness and knowing when to seek help from a professional. As we often say - you know your child better than anyone else. Don’t discredit your God-given intuition. You are the most capable person to be taking care of your children.See the notes below for my Back-to-School Guide and Mary Ruth’s Vitamins code, and keep an eye on my Instagram for more information. Episode Highlights: You can never take health for granted.Doing our best as parents.Building up our kids’ immune systems.There’s always so much for us to learn.There is no one-size-fits-all in healthcare.Very few things are actually an emergency.Get out in the sunshine.Consistent bedtimes are important.Feeding nutrient-dense foods.There’s a lot you can do in your home for sickness.You are capable.Shan’s top vitamins and supplements.Links Mentioned in Episode/Find More on Ryan and Shannon:Follow Shannon on InstagramFollow Ryan on InstagramVisit Shannon’s WebsiteFREE Back-to-School Wellness GuideUse my Mary Ruth's Organics Code: ST20Click this link and use code PODCAST for 20% off of my course!This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

Are you struggling? You’re not alone.Dear friend - the reality is - everyone struggles. We all face adversity in life, but it’s how we respond to it that sets us up for success. It is in life's greatest challenges that we discover our true strength and resilience. Someone in our online community recently reached out to us and asked, ‘Do you ever struggle?’. It is important to remember that you are just seeing others’ ‘highlight reels’ on social media. When we engage in constant comparison, we often measure ourselves against unrealistic standards. People tend to showcase their best moments, highlight reels, and successes on social media. This can create an illusion that everyone else is leading a perfect and joyful life while our own lives fall short.In this episode, we are touching on struggles and ways that we can be intentional about how we get through these rough times.  We share about finding someone to talk to, leaning into our struggles, and changing our perspective. It is often in times of struggle that we learn some of life’s greatest lessons. So, no matter where you are today or what is going on in your life - we want to encourage you. You are not alone, sweet friend.Episode Highlights: People are struggling all around us.If you’re not struggling, you’re not human.Comparison is the thief of joy.Finding someone to talk to.Leaning into our struggles.Our thoughts are powerful.Changing our perspective.Don’t be afraid to change.Resilience is built when you feel safe.Serving others fills your bucket.Never underestimate the power of a kind gesture.Links Mentioned in Episode/Find More on Ryan and Shannon:Follow Shannon on InstagramFollow Ryan on InstagramVisit Shannon’s WebsiteThis show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

What could you live without?Today, we are diving back into the topic of minimalism. Minimalizing the amount of things we have has played a huge role in creating room for things that matter more to us. It has created more freedom to travel and spend quality time with family.That storage unit or room in your house is likely a burden to you. There is a balance between keeping sentimental items and flat-out keeping everything. In this episode, we will share about how we decide what to keep and what to get rid of and answer some of our community’s most asked questions about our lifestyle.The bottom line is this - You have the control over your things. We can either let our things dictate our lives, or we can take hold of the reins and get rid of what is burdening us. It is so freeing to let go of things that have been piling up and causing more stress in the grand scheme of things. We invite you on this journey with us to discover how embracing simplicity, decluttering your life, and focusing on what truly matters can lead to enhanced mental clarity, reduced stress, increased freedom & flexibility, and a more intentional and fulfilling lifestyle.Episode Highlights: Less is more.Family keeping everything.Stuff adds to your stress.Do you keep awards & keepsakes?Freedom and flexibility of not having a lot of stuff.Navigating gifts from family & friends.Valuing experiences over things.Links Mentioned in Episode/Find More on Ryan and Shannon:Follow Shannon on InstagramFollow Ryan on InstagramVisit Shannon’s WebsiteThis show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

Are you feeling a little extra weight on your shoulders with this upcoming school year?Whatever schooling looks like for you this year - we hope this episode will uplift you and encourage you in the thick of it. There are so many schooling options out there, and guess what? - There’s no ‘right’ or ‘wrong’.Each decision we make as parents leads to a different path, and there are lessons to be learned in all of it. In this episode, we share about our schooling experiences and how we take our kids’ input into consideration when we are decision-making, navigating relationships with our kids, and following our gut as parents.Ultimately, if we are intentional about how we parent our children, they will be just fine! We have a tendency as parents to overthink things, but the key is to follow our hearts and trust God to sort out the rest. Don’t forget - you are in control. You are the parents, and you have their best interests at heart.  Above it all - your influence & involvement in their life will have more impact on them than anything else.Episode Highlights: Schooling looks different for everyone.Involving our kids in decision-making.Our reason for homeschooling and the benefits we’ve loved.Don’t be afraid to follow your gut.You just have to get in their world.It’s never to late to work on your relationship with your kids.You are in control.Links Mentioned in Episode/Find More on Ryan and Shannon:Follow Shannon on InstagramFollow Ryan on InstagramVisit Shannon’s WebsiteThis show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

What are our kids’ thoughts on traveling?Last week, you got to hear Ry and I talk about our travel experiences, but what about our kids? Today, we have our two oldest daughters on the show to answer some of the most asked questions our community had for them.From meeting friends to sleeping arrangements, the girls will share some of the most favorite and least favorite things about our lifestyle and some of the things they’ve learned along the way. We are so thankful for the opportunities we’ve had to move and travel with our kids, and it’s been one of our greatest blessings to watch them learn and grow through each experience.If you are listening to this and wondering if this lifestyle is for you, we would love to encourage you to try it out! Maybe moving isn’t for you, but traveling may be just the thing your heart needs. The worst thing that can happen is that you will determine it’s not for you - but we assure you that you will make precious memories along the way!Episode Highlights: Meet our two oldest girls.Limiting interruptions during positive interactions.The girls share their favorite & least favorite things about traveling.Meeting friends all over the world.What have the girls learned in their travels?Sleeping arrangements in our travels.Links Mentioned in Episode/Find More on Ryan and Shannon:Follow Shannon on InstagramFollow Ryan on InstagramVisit Shannon’s WebsiteThis show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

When you travel -  do you like to plan ahead or take it one day at a time?We’ve found that a mix of the two that works for us. We like to plan a loose itinerary but leave some wiggle room. Our trip has been great so far, and now we are headed to Switzerland!  During our trip, we’ve learned a lot about European culture and enjoyed soaking in all of the extra family time. In today’s episode, we’re sharing about our trip and some more of our favorite travel tips.Whether you’re planning your first trip overseas, or even to the next state over - we hope listening to this episode will encourage you to soak in every moment with your family and keep your focus on your ‘why’ in it all.Episode Highlights: Quick recap of our trip.The European culture values families.We’re off to Switzerland.Planning our trip to Europe.Your why is important.What do we bring on a trip?Safety is the number one priority.Tips for moms traveling with babies.Constructing the itinerary. Encouragement for families who want to travel.Links Mentioned in Episode/Find More on Ryan and Shannon:Follow Shannon on InstagramFollow Ryan on InstagramVisit Shannon’s WebsiteThis show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

Have you ever been nervous about traveling with your kids?Over the last couple of years, we have grown so passionate about traveling. While we’ve learned a lot about how to make traveling with kids go more smoothly, it was super intimidating in the beginning. We wanted to record this episode to share some of our favorite tips and tricks with you!We’ll share about how we’ve saved money to spend on experiences, some of our best tips for packing light, and how to entertain your kids during long flights. Sometimes there are hiccups along the way, but as parents, our kids will feed off of our energy. If we can learn to sit back and enjoy the process, our kids will too.Some of our absolute favorite memories have happened during our travels, and we have grown so much closer as a family. We hope this episode encourages you to go out, make memories, and explore the world with your families!Episode Highlights: We’ve got the travel bug!Let’s talk about traveling with kids.Saving for experiences rather than things.Tips for packing light.Entertaining kids on flights.Partnering with your spouse.Encouragement for parents who want to travel.Links Mentioned in Episode/Find More on Ryan and Shannon:Follow Shannon on InstagramFollow Ryan on InstagramVisit Shannon’s WebsiteThis show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

Do you ever struggle to find time to work out?The benefits of working out extend far beyond just physical fitness. Exercise has a huge impact on our mental, emotional, and overall well-being. In this episode, we will share with you the various reasons why working out is so important, encourage you to prioritize physical activity and unlock a healthier, happier version of yourself.Finding time to work out as a busy mom can be so tough, but with determination and planning, it can be done. If you wake up even 30 minutes to an hour earlier in the mornings, that can sometimes be a sweet spot for moms. Remember that investing in your health and well-being is not only beneficial for you but also for your family. By incorporating exercise into your routine, you'll have increased energy, reduced stress levels, and improved overall well-being.  It's never too late to start—whether it's a brisk walk, a gym session, or a yoga class, you can find an activity that brings you joy and make it a part of your routine. Remember, the journey to a healthier, happier you begins with that first step towards an active lifestyle.If you’re unsure where to start - you can find the link to my go-to workout below!Episode Highlights: How childhood habits affect us as adults.How do you make time to work out?Sweating is the healthiest detox for our bodies.Being a healthy example for our kids.Teaching our kids to have a healthy relationship with their bodies.It’s not about how you look, it’s about how you feel.Health looks different for everyone.What actually serves us?What are your values?Links Mentioned in Episode/Find More on Ryan and Shannon:Follow Shannon on InstagramFollow Ryan on InstagramVisit Shannon’s WebsiteGet Your Free PDF Workout & Affirmation Cards Here!This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.