Mama Mentors

Mama Beth welcomes Dr. Mike Myers to unpack how vaccines work, why the 2025–26 measles outbreak is surging, and what parents need to know now. Drawing from his new book, The Vaccine Bible—the “Fannie Farmer cookbook” for vaccines—Dr. Myers offers clear, jargon-free guidance on MMR, childhood immunizations, and preventing measles, polio, pertussis, tetanus, and severe flu. They address vaccine hesi...

In this episode of Mama Mentors, we dive deep into the world of child motivation and purpose development. Discover essential motivational tools tailored for young and older children, focusing on how to foster pride and confidence in their abilities. Learn how to use encouraging language to inspire your little ones and support their passions through child-led learning, where they define their own "...

Psychologist Ally Phillips joins Beth Graham to challenge modern helicopter parenting. In this powerful conversation, Ally shares why protecting kids from every struggle actually hurts them—and introduces her "3 Rs" framework: Resourcefulness, Resiliency, and Respect. Drawing from her own experiences as a mother and survivor, Ally explains how letting children experience disappointment, failure, a...

Join us on this enlightening episode of Mama Mentors as we explore how to effectively encourage faith-building in your children’s lives. We discuss the importance of allowing children to question and even step away from their faith, while ensuring that it is modeled as an intrinsic part of everyday living. Learn how to introduce faith joyfully and attractively to young minds, and discover the powe...

In this compelling episode of Mama Mentors, we dive deep into the complex topic of favoritism in parenting. Discover what favoritism looks like, why it’s crucial to recognize, and the potentially destructive effects it can have on family dynamics. Through heartfelt personal stories, we highlight how parents can make each child feel special and valued, regardless of gender, personality, or circumst...

In this insightful episode of Mama Mentors, the Mamas explore essential strategies for helping older children adjust to the arrival of a new baby. Preparation is key—learn how addressing transitions beforehand can ease the stress of adding a new family member. We discuss the importance of involving older siblings in the preparations for the baby, and how building a supportive network with friends...

Join us in this enlightening episode of Mama Mentors as we sit down with counselor Jarrod Hoffman, who shares his expertise in guiding young men through challenges such as lack of purpose, motivation, and self-confidence. We delve into the pervasive issue of pornography and how Jarrod's personal journey led him to a transformative career in counseling. Discover practical advice on the right age to...

Join us in this enlightening Mama Mentors episode featuring attachment theory specialist Blaise Haylock. Discover the fundamentals of attachment theory and learn how to foster secure attachments between children and their primary caregivers. Blaise shares insights on healing from childhood attachment injuries while nurturing healthy connections with your children. We explore signs of potential att...

Join us in this enlightening episode of Mama Mentors as AI specialist Rowena Spencer dives into the emotional implications of AI technology on children. We explore the potential dangers of AI toys, the importance of distinguishing between human friendships and chatbots, and the challenges of supervising kids in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. Discover why staying connected with your children...

In this episode of Mama Mentors, join Mama Beth and Mama Martha as they tackle the essential question: "How do I keep from being so attached to my child that they fail to become independent kids/adults?" Discover the true meaning of independence and the challenges technology poses in developing it. Learn how to cultivate a healthy relationship with your child through every life stage, enabling the...

In this episode of Mama Mentors, host Mama B dives into James’s question: “How do you keep up with parenting trends?” Her answer? Don't sweat it—focus on timeless principles instead of getting lost in every new fad. Mama B shares how social media and the lure of shiny trends can lead to stress and guilt, stressing the importance of consistency, secure attachment, and unconditional love as some tru...

Discover how to raise a new generation of leaders in this insightful Mama Mentors episode. Consider different leadership styles beyond the traditional, such as spiritual and home leadership. Learn key strategies like cultivating confidence, practicing servant leadership, and honing communication skills. Delve into fostering resilience, establishing values, encouraging risk-taking, and teaching chi...

Join the Mama Mentors podcast as we explore the heartwarming Christmas traditions that shape our families. In this episode, we share intentional and 'accidental' customs, rooted in rich histories and diverse heritages, such as Polish traditions. Discover how these meaningful practices came to be through planning, serendipity, and cultural influences, creating cherished memories and connecting gene...

In this heartfelt episode of Mama Mentor's, we dive into the challenge of being present as parents amidst modern economic pressures that require both partners to work. Discover how this dynamic affects our patience and availability during critical moments when our children seek attention. Our Mamas share innovative strategies for involving kids in everyday tasks, like cooking dinner, turning chore...

In this encouraging episode of Mama Mentors , we explore practical, meaningful ways to teach children gratitude—one of the most impactful character traits they can learn. We share real family stories, sweet and funny memories, and the everyday habits that helped gratitude become a natural part of our homes. You’ll learn easy ways to model thankfulness—like expressing gratitude to friends, stranger...

Every parent faces moments when doing what’s right for their child means going against the grain. In this heartfelt Mama Mentors episode, Maureen Yarborough shares her story of advocating for her son’s education, challenging expert opinions, and finding strength in a mother’s intuition. It’s an honest conversation about courage, conviction, and the love that drives parents to do the hard things. h...

Every parent has been there—the grocery store meltdown. In this Mama Mentors episode, Mama Betsy shares how she turned a trip to the store into a powerful teaching moment. Learn practical strategies to prevent, manage, and teach through tantrums without anger or giving in. We dive into how to set clear expectations, stay calm under public pressure, and handle embarrassment when all eyes are on you...

Parenting has changed dramatically in just a generation. In this episode, we look at the differences between how we raised our kids and how children are being raised today. From the rise of child-led parenting and heavy reliance on experts to the reluctance to set boundaries or allow kids to fail, today’s approaches often look very different from the past. We also talk about responsibility, resili...

Traveling with kids can be exciting—but when bedtime rolls around, sleep often feels impossible. In this episode of Mama Mentors , Mamas Beth and Holly share practical tips for helping children sleep while away from home. From maintaining familiar bedtime routines to encouraging daytime activity, creating a calming wind-down period, and moderating expectations, you’ll learn how to set your child (...

Deciding whether or not to have kids is one of life’s biggest questions. In this episode, we dive into the common fears and objections people face when thinking about parenthood. Do you need to feel completely ready before becoming a parent? How can you process the worries that come with this decision? And was it easier for earlier generations to choose family life? Drawing from our own experience...

In this special Mama Mentors episode, five of our Mamas share real stories about teaching their children perseverance. Today, it’s easy to let kids avoid responsibility or give up when things get hard. But perseverance is a skill they’ll carry for life. The Mamas talk about everyday habits and choices that help kids build determination, resilience, and the confidence to keep going—even when challe...

Parenting a special needs child comes with unique challenges, deep joys, and life-changing lessons. In this heartfelt episode, Julie Adam shares her journey of adopting Lola Ruth, a tiny Bulgarian orphan with Down syndrome, and the struggles of being a special needs parent. From navigating adoption hurdles to facing unexpected medical challenges, Julie opens up about her faith, resilience, and the...

You may be surprised to learn that many of the ways we respond to our loved ones are based on fear rather than love. Transformational life coach AnnMarie Chereso tells us how we can change this tendency. We talk about how women are particularly sensitive to others' energy, and what that means for their role in the world. How does you guide your older children to seek first an "exquisite" life? Wha...

Need a few moments to yourself? Before turning to screen time, let’s explore some thoughtful options! In this episode, Mama Martha shares how she approached limited screen use while raising her children—and what she's learning now with her young granddaughter. We dive into research on the effects of screen time on toddler brain development and the value of setting healthy limits. Plus, we discuss...

Are you concerned that your child always starts the school year playing catch-up? Studies show that for some children, as much as 40% of their learning evaporates during summer months. This doesn't have to be the case! Veteran teacher, Mama Lisa shares ideas for maintaining and building upon what your child has learned during the school year. Let us hear your ideas, too, for fun summer learning ac...