Hope For The Journey with Monica Schmelter

In this episode of 'Hope for the Journey', Monica Schmelter and Heather Creekmore discuss the struggles of body image among Christian women. They explore Heather's personal journey with body image issues, the impact of societal standards, and the realization that these struggles can be rooted in idolatry . The conversation emphasizes the importance of recognizing body image as a sin problem, the e...

In this episode of Hope for the Journey, host Monica chats with Darla Nelson, author of the book "I'm Fine, Really. " They dive into the dangers of the phrase "I'm fine" as a coping mechanism, and how it can lead to hiding our true emotions and experiences. Darla shares her own story of struggling with stress and anxiety, and how she's learned to prioritize self-care and God-reliance. They discuss...

In this powerful episode, host Monica and Kenza Haddock take an honest and compassionate look at  narcissism —the kind that often hides beneath charm, compliments, and early connection . Together, we unpack what narcissistic behavior really is, why it can be so harmful, and how it impacts women who are seeking healing and wholeness in the second half of life. They begin by breaking down...

In this episode of Hope for the Journey, Monica Schmelter discusses breaking free from health anxiety with guest Jamie Hampton, co-host of the Praying Christian Women podcast. They explore personal experiences with health anxiety, the impact of internet research, and the importance of faith and community in overcoming fears. Jamie shares her journey through anxiety, the role of worship and prayer,...

In this episode of Hope for the Journey, Monica Schmelter discusses the gifts that cost nothing but mean everything, especially during the holiday season. She emphasizes the importance of kindness, forgiveness, peace, friendship, love, and family, culminating in the ultimate gift of Jesus Christ . Through personal anecdotes and biblical references, she encourages listeners to reflect on these gift...

In this episode of Hope for the Journey, Monica Schmelter discusses the importance of embracing the holiday spirit by doing less and enjoying more. She emphasizes that holiday magic comes from being present rather than overdoing it and shares practical strategies for women over 40 to reclaim joy during the holiday season . Monica encourages listeners to set boundaries, focus on what truly matters,...

The holiday season often arrives wrapped in expectations —traditions to uphold, gatherings to organize, and memories we hope to recreate. But life is never static. Children grow. Circumstances shift. Loved ones move across states… or even across oceans. In this episode of Hope for the Journey, Monica Schmelter explores how e mbracing flexibility can transform our holiday experience an...

If the holiday season is already feeling heavy - if your scheduled is already overbooked - y ou are NOT alone. Hope is closer than you think. Acclaimed author Cynthia Ruchti joins Monica to talk about the Spirit of Christmas - a unique look at the Christmas story - that may change your perspective on the Christmas season. For example, if you've been celebrating Christmas the same way year after ye...

  Episode Title: Breaking the Grip of Anxiety with Dr. Michelle Bengtson Description: In this powerful episode, board-certified clinical neuropsychologist Dr. Michelle Bengtson shares her personal and professional insights on overcoming anxiety’s relentless grip. Drawing from decades of clinical experience and her own journey through anxiety and depression , Dr. Bengtson offers a unique...

One of the biggest challenges stepmoms face is figuring out where they actually fit in. Are you a parent? A friend? A bonus mom? Or just… in the background? In this episode, we unpack the confusing, ever-shifting role of a stepmom in a blended family. From navigating parental boundaries to defining your emotional responsibilities, we explore how to find your place in a way that feels authen...

In this episode of Grace Beyond Failure , we explore the hidden strength found in our most broken moments. Whether you're wrestling with personal setbacks, professional disappointments, or simply feeling stuck, this conversation will remind you don't have to let failure have the final say — it’s the beginning of a brand-new start. We dive deep into what it means to give yourself grace,...

When Denette Schaer lost her 17-year-old son in a tragic accident, her world was shattered. What followed was a journey through the deepest valleys of grief—a place where time stood still, and the future felt unimaginable. In this powerful episode, Denette shares her story with raw honesty and quiet strength, recounting the pain of unimaginable loss and the slow, sacred process of healing. T...

Ever felt selfish or guilty for setting boundaries? You’re not alone — but it doesn’t have to be that way. In this episode, we explore how to set clear, compassionate boundaries without the emotional baggage. Learn why boundaries are a form of self-respect, how to communicate them with confidence, and why guilt has no place in your growth. Whether it’s with family, friends,...

My guest today shares that change is sometimes spelled H-A-R-D . Yet if we remain open to what God is doing in our lives change can bring the transformation that we want and need. Whether it's a cross country move, a new job, or relationship loss change is always right there with us. Change can bring disruption and doubts but if we can hold on to hope change can guide us into a brand new season. O...

Today, Shakia a beautiful, professional, single mom raising 3 children . What you can't see is that Shakia was sexually abused by several members as a young child. This along with other circumstances led her down the path and drugs and addiction. Her story will bring you hope as Shakia faced the hard things with the help of Blue Monarch Ministries. Shakia's story is proof positive that it is NEVER...

Is it ever too late to find love ? In today's episode, we explore the journey of finding love later in life — and the courage it takes to let go of the past in order to move forward. Whether you're healing from old heartbreaks, rediscovering yourself after a long relationship, or simply wondering if love has a timeline, this conversation will remind you that your story isn't over . Stephanie...

Cyndi Galley was a pastor working in ministry and at one point took her eyes off of what God was doing in her life. Instead, Cyndi started to look at other people and what they had. The more she looked the more she found herself wanting to be married. After all, it seems most everybody else was married. Then it happened - she met a man. A fine-looking man at that. He wasn't a Christian man, but he...

In this raw and compassionate conversation, licensed counselor Kimberly Haar pulls back the curtain on her own devastating journey as a domestic violence survivor . Assaulted and kidnapped by her ex-husband and witnessing the man she loved shot 10 times; she offers a lifeline of hope to those wrestling with seemingly unrecoverable pain. Drawing from both personal and professional experience, she r...

Rebuilding your life after divorce—and learning to co-parent well—can be incredibly challenging. That’s why I’m joined by Tammy Daughtry, founder of Co-Parenting International and someone who has walked this path herself. In this episode, Tammy shares practical strategies for navigating co-parenting in a way that puts your children first and supports their emotional well-be...

Over 3 million Americans are full time parents to their grandchildren. In today's episode we explore the growing reality of grandparents stepping into the role of full-time parents to their grandchildren. Stacy Sanchez shares her personal journey of how one day DHS showed up on her porch with her grandson. She had no time to prepare for becoming a full-time parent to her grandson she just ste...

When an adult child walks away from their values, faith, or family, the heartbreak can be overwhelming. In this episode, Laine Lawson Craft and I talk directly to parents carrying the silent weight of a prodigal. I invited Laine to join our conversation because she had not one or two, but three prodigals . Laines speaks from her heart and her experience is so encouraging and helpful. Whether your...

Loving someone with an addiction is one of the most painful and complex experiences a parent can face—especially when that child is now an adult. In this episode, Monica and Donna King explore what it truly means to "let go" without giving up. Donna shares her journey of navigating addiction with her daughter. She shares practical insights and emotional support for setting boundaries, preser...

In this heartfelt episode, we explore the raw and often nonlinear journey of healing after sudden loss. Our guest, Jillian Chambers, a young widow, bravely shares her story of unexpected grief, the overwhelming aftermath, and the quiet, complicated process of rebuilding life without the person she thought she'd grow old with. Through tears, setbacks, and small moments of clarity, she reminds us th...

We often equate independence with strength — but what if circumstances put us in a place where we have to accept the help from others? When Rhonda Robinson's husband went through 2 years of health issues that left him unable to work, she learned in a whole new way what it was like to be in need. With 7 children at home this family was in crisis. Their small local church recognized the need a...

In this powerful and deeply personal episode, I sat down with Stephanie, a breast cancer survivor whose journey from diagnosis to recovery is nothing short of inspiring. With courage, vulnerability, and unshakable spirit, she opens up about the moment she heard the words “you have cancer,” the battles she faced through treatment, and how she found strength through Christ and in places...