Raising Godly Girls

What does it mean to be beautiful in a culture that constantly shifts the standard? How can moms raise daughters to be confident in who God made them to be—without getting caught up in the world’s obsession with image and appearance? In this episode of the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, co-hosts Rachael and Melissa open up about their own girlhood experiences with beauty standards shaped by pop culture, from magazine quizzes to celebrity beauty icons. Together, they explore how those early messages still linger today—and how our daughters now face even greater pressure in the age of social media.  With honesty, humor, and heartfelt faith, Rachael and Melissa reflect on the growing trend of “Get Ready With Me” videos that invite girls as young as eight to model their beauty routines for an online audience. Drawing wisdom from American Heritage Girls Founder & Executive Director Patti Garibay’s Raising Godly Girls Minute, they confront how easily young girls begin to equate their worth with how they look, rather than who they are in Christ. Through the lens of Romans 12:2, they offer a compelling call to raise girls who are not conformed to the patterns of this world, but who are transformed by the renewing of their minds—anchored in Biblical truth and Godly confidence.  Listeners will be invited into a grace-filled, practical conversation about where beauty and faith intersect. From vulnerable anecdotes about personal image struggles to actionable conversation starters for moms and daughters, this episode provides a roadmap for shaping a Christ-centered understanding of beauty. You'll hear how small moments—like bedtime chats or quiet prayers—can become holy ground for heart-deep conversations, and how even something as simple as an AHG badge can become a meaningful tool for discipleship.  If you’ve ever wondered how to help your girl navigate a world obsessed with filters, fashion, and false standards, this episode will encourage you to pause, pray, and speak truth into her heart. Join us as we explore how to raise girls who know their worth, not by how the world sees them, but by the eyes of a loving God who calls them fearfully and wonderfully made.   Find an American Heritage Girls Troop near you, visit americanheritagegirls.org       Add even more Biblical wisdom to your parenting quiver, visit raisinggodlygirls.com

What defines beauty in a girl’s life—and who gets to decide? In a culture obsessed with appearance and constant self-curation, helping our daughters root their sense of worth in something lasting and true can feel like an uphill climb. In this heartfelt episode of the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, co-hosts Rachael and Melissa invite moms to rethink what it means to help our girls embrace a Biblical view of beauty—one that’s grounded not in trends, but in truth.  From glitter-filled childhoods to the pressures of tween and teen years, Rachael and Melissa reflect on their own beauty journeys, the beauty mishaps that shaped them, and how those moments can lead to deeper conversations about identity, confidence, and self-worth. Drawing inspiration from American Heritage Girls Founder & Executive Director Patti Garibay’s Raising Godly Girls Minute and the powerful truth of 1 Samuel 16:7—"People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart"—this episode offers both encouragement and practical ideas for having heart-to-heart conversations with your girl.  You’ll hear honest stories about raising daughters in today’s image-driven world, plus thoughtful talking points you can use to anchor your girl in the reality that true beauty flows from a heart being transformed by Christ. Whether your daughter is entering the “glow up” years or just starting to become aware of how she’s perceived by the world, this conversation will equip you to speak life, confidence, and God’s definition of beauty into her.  Rachael and Melissa also share how American Heritage Girls helps affirm each girl’s God-given worth through programming that encourages spiritual growth, leadership, and character development. You’ll even hear about glittery dress-up nights and wrinkled uniforms—proof that the beauty of girlhood isn’t always picture-perfect, but it’s always purposeful in God’s hands.  This episode is a must-listen for any mom navigating the ever-changing waters of body image, peer pressure, and cultural beauty standards. Let it remind you that our girls don’t need to meet the world’s definition of beautiful. They were already fearfully and wonderfully made—and it’s our joy to help them believe it.  Explore more resources to raise girls rooted in Christ at raisinggodlygirls.com.  To find or start an AHG Troop in your area, visit americanheritagegirls.org. 

Motherhood is holy ground. It’s also some of the hardest, most heart-stretching work a woman can be called to. In this special Mother’s Day episode of the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, American Heritage Girls Founder & Executive Director Patti Garibay welcomes Whitney Newby—author, artist, and founder of Brighter Day Press—for a heartfelt conversation about the beauty and sacred responsibility of raising children to know and follow Jesus.  Whether you’re a mom who feels steady in her calling or one who’s running on empty, this episode is for you. Patti and Whitney unpack the real struggles moms face—especially the difficulty of maintaining consistent time with the Lord—and speak hope into that tension. With honesty and grace, Whitney shares wisdom from her devotional Lift Your Eyes, reminding moms that God sees, sustains, and strengthens us in every season: from the tear-filled days to the joy-soaked moments and the countless in-between.  Together, Patti and Whitney explore how the promises of Scripture can anchor a mother’s heart, how to find life-giving rest in Christ, and how to build rhythms of faith into your family’s everyday routine—even when life feels chaotic. You’ll also hear encouragement for spiritually leading your children when you feel inadequate or overwhelmed.  This episode is a soul-deep breath of fresh air for moms in every stage. If you’ve ever asked, “Is God enough for what I’m facing today?”—tune in, and let this conversation point your eyes back to the only One who truly is.  Learn more about Whitney’s gospel-centered family discipleship resources at brighterdaypress.com  Find an American Heritage Girls Troop near you, visit americanheritagegirls.org       Add even more Biblical wisdom to your parenting quiver, visit raisinggodlygirls.com

In a world that often undervalues nurturing and quiet strength, this episode invites you and your daughter into something deeply countercultural—and deeply Biblical: the practice of spiritual mothering.  Whether your daughter grows up to become a biological mom or not, God has already placed a calling on her life to nurture others spiritually. This kind of influence doesn’t require a specific title, age, or life stage—it simply requires faithfulness. Today, co-hosts Rachael and Natalie unpack what it means to raise a girl who sees herself as a vessel for Christ-centered mentorship, encouragement, and wisdom.  You’ll hear a powerful Raising Godly Girls Minute from American Heritage Girls Founder & Executive Director, Patti Garibay, reflecting on the lasting legacy of spiritual mothers in her own life and the lives of AHG girls across the country. Plus, you’ll explore Titus 2 in a fresh way, be inspired by women of faith like Elisabeth Elliot and Ida Scudder, and gain practical ideas for modeling and encouraging spiritual mothering in your home and community.  As moms, we don’t always know who our daughters will listen to in every season—but we can plant seeds, cultivate community, and prepare her heart to both receive and give Godly wisdom. Tune in for an encouraging, Scripture-rich conversation that will help you and your girl lean into God’s Plan A for womanhood.  Find an American Heritage Girls Troop near you, visit americanheritagegirls.org       Add even more Biblical wisdom to your parenting quiver, visit raisinggodlygirls.com

This Mother’s Day, the Raising Godly Girls Podcast is celebrating the heart, humor, and holy calling of motherhood. Join co-hosts Rachael and Natalie as they explore the countless roles a Christian mom takes on—from counselor to chauffeur, snack ninja to spiritual mentor—and the sacred mission embedded within each one. With honesty, wit, and a whole lot of grace, Rachael and Natalie share personal stories of heartbreak and joy on the road to motherhood, reminding listeners that no matter what season you're in, God is using you in mighty ways.  Motherhood isn’t a one-size-fits-all journey, and this episode honors every kind of mom—biological, adoptive, foster, step, godmother, grandmother, and spiritual mentor. Whether you’re up to your elbows in toddler laundry, navigating the complexities of teens, or watching your daughter prepare to launch into adulthood, this episode reminds you that you are not alone and your work matters. Drawing from John 4:35 and 1 Thessalonians 4:11, our hosts highlight the eternal echoes of quiet faithfulness in the day-to-day grind.  You’ll also hear a powerful Raising Godly Girls Minute from American Heritage Girls Founder & Executive Director, Patti Garibay, encouraging moms to view their children not as interruptions but as the most important work. With deep conviction and refreshing vulnerability, Natalie opens up about the temptation to prioritize ministry over motherhood—and the Holy Spirit’s loving correction that brought her back to her first mission field: her children. Rachael offers wisdom from her own season of longing and loss, and both hosts uplift moms who are currently walking through the unseen and often thankless moments of Christian parenting.  Plus, discover how American Heritage Girls comes alongside moms in their calling. Whether through Troop life, badgework, or special events like a Mother-Daughter Tea, AHG equips and empowers moms to disciple their daughters with intentionality and joy. You’ll also learn about the many free resources available to AHG Members, including RightNow Media, the Heart of Womanhood Patch Program, and exclusive content from Sight & Sound TV.  This Mother’s Day week, we’re reminding every mom that she is not “just a mom”—she is a vessel of God’s strength, a nurturer of souls, and a faithful witness to His character. So whether you're thriving, just surviving, or somewhere in between, take a moment to rest, reflect, and be reminded: God sees you, He strengthens you, and He’s using you in your girl’s life in ways you may never fully grasp.  Find an American Heritage Girls Troop near you, visit americanheritagegirls.org       Add even more Biblical wisdom to your parenting quiver, visit raisinggodlygirls.com

Raising girls to stand firm in Biblical truth has never been more urgent. In today’s culture, truth is often seen as relative, faith is regularly deconstructed, and identity is shaped more by screens than by Scripture. On this episode of the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, guest host Erin Marco, American Heritage Girls Director of Marketing & Communications, sits down with Abigail DeJarnatt, Founder and CEO of Counteract USA, to discuss how Gen Z girls can live with bold conviction and unshakable grace in a world that challenges their faith at every turn.  After witnessing her generation wrestle with doubt, isolation, and cultural confusion, Abigail followed God’s call to launch Counteract USA—a movement dedicated to equipping young Christians to stand on the unchanging truth of God’s Word. This inspiring conversation explores the cultural lies young women are believing, the crisis of worldview among Gen Z, and how parents can provide their daughters with the tools, community, and confidence to respond with both courage and compassion.  From the battleground of social media to the lunchroom conversations at school, Abigail shares practical advice for helping girls articulate their faith and live it out daily. She and Erin talk about the importance of pairing truth with grace, building a faith-filled support system, and encouraging girls to take part in worldview discussions that matter. Whether your daughter is questioning her beliefs, struggling to find her voice, or simply trying to walk faithfully in a confusing culture, this episode is filled with encouragement and equipping for the journey ahead.  Listeners will also get a behind-the-scenes look at how Counteract USA uses small groups and strategic online content to disciple young believers and foster real, Christ-centered conversations. Abigail’s story is a powerful reminder that no generation is too lost to be led, and no girl is too young to be used by God.  If you’re passionate about raising a girl who shines brightly in a dark world, don’t miss this hope-filled and empowering episode. Subscribe today so you never miss a moment of encouragement, equipping, and Gospel-centered truth.  Learn more about Abigail and her work with Counteract USA, visit counteractusa.org  Find an American Heritage Girls Troop near you, visit americanheritagegirls.org       Add even more Biblical wisdom to your parenting quiver, visit raisinggodlygirls.com

In a world where Scripture is often twisted to fit the moment, how can families raise girls who rightly divide the Word of Truth? On today’s episode of the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, co-hosts Rachael Culpepper and Natalie Ambrose take a deep dive into the importance of Biblical context in shaping a girl’s worldview. From commonly misused verses to the cultural pressures to “live your own truth,” this conversation is a heartfelt and insightful reminder that the Bible must be read with reverence, understanding, and humility—especially in today’s cultural moment.  You’ll hear personal confessions, parenting reflections, and real-life stories that highlight the difference between casually quoting Scripture and truly living it out. Rachael and Natalie remind us that Scripture isn’t a collection of motivational sound bites, but a living Word—historically rooted, theologically rich, and transformational when understood correctly. Listeners will walk away with practical ways to help their daughters read and apply the Bible, from understanding genre and first-audience context to adopting a learner mindset that invites the Holy Spirit to shape their hearts.  This episode also features an impactful Raising Godly Girls Minute from American Heritage Girls Founder & Executive Director Patti Garibay, exploring how “a text without context is a con” and encouraging girls—and their parents—to approach the Word of God with humility and wisdom. Patti’s message underscores the need to engage Scripture not as ammunition for arguments, but as a guide for holy living and a tool for developing deep spiritual maturity.  Rachael and Natalie also explore the role of American Heritage Girls in helping girls grow a strong, Scripture-centered foundation. From AHG’s Faith Awards and badge program to partnerships with trusted ministries like Bible Belles, Summit Ministries, and Museum of the Bible, this episode casts a vision for a girlhood rooted in God’s Word. AHG doesn’t just teach Biblical literacy—it fosters a lifelong love for God, His Word, and His design for every area of life.  If you’ve ever wondered how to equip your daughter to face today’s culture with biblical clarity, this episode is for you. Join us as we unpack the layers of Scripture, laugh a little, and leave inspired to lead our girls with grace, truth, and unshakable confidence in God’s Word.  Find an American Heritage Girls Troop near you, visit americanheritagegirls.org        Add even more Biblical wisdom to your parenting quiver, visit raisinggodlygirls.com

In today’s episode of the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, co-hosts Rachael Culpepper and Natalie Ambrose tackle one of the most powerful tools we can equip our daughters with—the Word of God. When the world feels confusing and chaotic, Scripture offers the clarity, confidence, and courage our girls need to stand firm in their faith. But what does it look like to actually help your daughter hide God’s Word in her heart?  Rachael and Natalie share honest reflections on their own spiritual growth and how they’ve come to realize that knowing God’s Word isn’t enough—it must become a part of daily life. From childhood memories of Bible Bowls and memory verses to navigating real-life conversations with their own kids, they explore the spiritual muscle that develops when Scripture moves beyond head knowledge into heart conviction.  You’ll hear from American Heritage Girls Founder & Executive Director Patti Garibay as she offers simple and effective Scripture memory tips—like tying verses to daily activities, creating routines, and using bedtime as a sacred moment to settle hearts with truth. Plus, Rachael and Natalie break down how to help your girl respond to culture by filtering messages through God’s Word, reminding us that Scripture isn’t outdated—it’s alive, active, and the sword of the Spirit in our daughters’ hands.  Rooted in the Biblical Worldview that American Heritage Girls holds, this episode encourages parents to make Scripture a core part of family life. Whether through AHG’s Faith Awards Program, the AHG Creed R.E.A.L. Life Bible Study, or everyday conversations around the dinner table, the goal is to build a strong foundation—so when life gets loud, your daughter knows where to turn for truth.  Join us as we discuss how to help your girl develop her spiritual strength and see God’s Word not just as information, but as transformation.  Find an American Heritage Girls Troop near you, visit americanheritagegirls.org       Add even more Biblical wisdom to your parenting quiver, visit raisinggodlygirls.com

What does it mean to be a leader? The world often defines leadership in terms of power, influence, or personal success. But true leadership, the kind that reflects Christ, is rooted in servanthood, humility, and a willingness to follow God’s calling with courage and conviction.  In this episode, Patti Garibay is joined by Tami Heim, President and CEO of the Christian Leadership Alliance, to explore how parents and mentors can equip young women to step into leadership with confidence and faith. Research shows that many girls desire to lead, yet fear holds them back—fear of being labeled, fear of rejection, fear of standing out. Tami shares her passion for developing leaders who combine mission-critical competency with Christ-like character and explains how we can nurture those same qualities in our daughters.  This conversation challenges the common misconceptions about leadership and offers practical wisdom for guiding girls to embrace their unique, God-given leadership styles. From the small responsibilities of childhood to the greater callings of adulthood, leadership is not about seeking status, but about using our gifts to serve others.  Whether your daughter is a natural leader or hesitant to step forward, this episode will encourage and equip you to help her lead in a way that honors God.   Learn more about Tami Heim and her work with the Christian Leadership Alliance at christianleadershipalliance.org.  Find an American Heritage Girls Troop near you, visit americanheritagegirls.org      Add even more Biblical wisdom to your parenting quiver, visit raisinggodlygirls.com

The world often tells girls they have to choose between being confident or being kind, between being bold or being humble. But what if God calls them to both?  In this episode of the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, co-hosts Rachael and Melissa explore the tension between boldness and bossiness, helping moms guide their daughters toward Christ-honoring leadership. Drawing on Biblical wisdom and personal experiences, they explore how girls can harness their God-given confidence to lead with humility, wisdom, and a heart for service.  You’ll also hear from American Heritage Girls Founder & Executive Director Patti Garibay on how to encourage strong-willed girls without suppressing their gifts. Plus, Rachael and Melissa share practical ways to shape leadership in everyday moments—whether it’s helping your daughter navigate friendships, handle disagreements with grace, or step up when others need guidance.  Raising a confident, Christ-centered leader starts with intentional conversations. Join us as we discuss how to cultivate boldness without arrogance and leadership without pride.  Want to help your daughter grow into a leader who serves God and others? American Heritage Girls provides a Christ-centered environment where girls develop leadership skills through mentorship, teamwork, and faith-based experiences.   Find an American Heritage Girls Troop near you, visit americanheritagegirls.org      Add even more Biblical wisdom to your parenting quiver, visit raisinggodlygirls.com 

Confidence in girls is on the decline, and with it, their willingness to step into leadership. In a world that often equates leadership with ambition, self-promotion, and social clout, how can we help our daughters embrace leadership that is humble, Christ-centered, and purpose-driven?  In this episode of the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, co-hosts Rachael and Melissa explore how God uniquely equips each girl to lead in her own way—whether she’s a bold, visionary leader or a quiet, compassionate one. Drawing from Biblical examples like Moses, Gideon, and Abigail, they unpack what it means to lead with faith and integrity, rather than striving for popularity or power.  You’ll also hear insights from American Heritage Girls Founder & Executive Director Patti Garibay on how servant leadership transforms both the leader and those she influences. Plus, Rachael and Melissa share practical ways to nurture leadership in everyday moments—whether it’s during the drive home from school, in a Troop setting, or after a tough situation where your daughter feels called to take a stand.  Looking for a Christ-centered way to develop your daughter’s leadership skills? American Heritage Girls provides girls with hands-on experiences to grow as leaders through badge work, service projects, and opportunities that stretch and strengthen their confidence.  Find an American Heritage Girls Troop near you, visit americanheritagegirls.org      Add even more Biblical wisdom to your parenting quiver, visit raisinggodlygirls.com

Easter is the cornerstone of our faith—a time to reflect on Jesus’ sacrifice and the victory of the empty tomb. As we enter this sacred season, we’re bringing back one of our Best of Raising Godly Girls episodes, a powerful conversation with Linda Lacour Hobar, author of The Mystery of History.  Originally hosted by Patti Garibay in March of 2024, this episode takes us deep into the historical events of Holy Week, from the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy to the roles of Pontius Pilate and Herod Antipas. Linda shares eye-opening insights that bring Scripture to life, helping us teach our daughters the historical truth of the Bible and shape their Biblical Worldview.  Whether you’re listening on your own or with your girl, this is a perfect way to prepare your heart for Resurrection Sunday. Join us for this Raising Godly Girls favorite and discover practical ways to share the profound truths of Christ’s resurrection with the next generation.  Learn more about Linda and her work, The Mystery of History, at themysteryofhistory.com   Find an American Heritage Girls Troop near you, visit americanheritagegirls.org      Add even more Biblical wisdom to your parenting quiver, visit raisinggodlygirls.com

Forgiveness isn’t always easy. Whether it’s the sting of betrayal or the weight of our own mistakes, we all wrestle with what it means to fully forgive and be forgiven. But the good news of Easter is that Jesus’ resurrection proves His sacrifice was enough—enough to cover every sin, heal every wound, and restore every broken heart.  In today’s episode, co-hosts Rachael and Natalie take a deep dive into the life-changing power of Christ’s resurrection and what it means for your daughter’s faith. Drawing from Scripture, personal reflection, and practical parenting wisdom, they explore how you can help your girl embrace forgiveness—both in receiving God’s grace and in extending it to others.  Listen in as they discuss the emotional depth of Holy Week, the profound conversation between Jesus and Peter in John 21, and how resurrection hope isn’t just for eternity—it’s for today. Through personal stories, Biblical insight, and resources like The Case for Christ for Kids, this conversation will equip you to nurture a heart of grace and restoration in your girl.  As Easter approaches, let’s move beyond simply celebrating the resurrection—let’s live it out in our families, extending the same forgiveness that Jesus so freely offers. Because when a girl understands the full power of Christ’s victory, she steps into the confidence of a redeemed and restored life.  Find an American Heritage Girls Troop near you, visit americanheritagegirls.org       Add even more Biblical wisdom to your parenting quiver, visit raisinggodlygirls.com 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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