Anchored with Purpose | Faith, Family, Purpose, Dreaming, Planning, Overcoming Anxiety, Overcoming Overwhelm

The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren
YouVersion Bible App
Bible in a Year Podcast with Fr. Mike Schmitz
From Lent to Lifestyle devotional

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76| When You Put God First, Everything Aligns| ft. Mindy Backsen

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 10:15:00 GMT

In this faith-filled conversation, Melissa sits down with Mindy “Mindo” Backsen, a wife and mom from North Dakota whose story is rooted in obedience, surrender, and trusting God when the next step feels uncertain. Mindy shares how she left a demanding career in insurance, stepped into social selling and coaching, and discovered that true alignment happens when Christ is first, not second.

Together, they talk about how overconsumption, urgency, and striving quietly steal our peace, and how Scripture, quiet time with God, and fixing our eyes on Jesus bring clarity in confusing seasons. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, spiritually dry, or unsure of your next step, this episode will remind you that you are not stuck. You are being invited deeper. And God is working, even in rebuilding seasons.

Links Mentioned

Mindy’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mindybacksen
Mindy on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindy.backsen
Christian Women Building Business Together: https://christianwomenbuildingbusiness.com/

Key Takeaways

Peace comes from alignment with Christ.
You may not have control, but you do have a good God.
Overconsumption of voices creates confusion.
Discernment check: Is this bringing peace or pressure?
Uncertainty is part of life, but your certainty can be Christ.
You are not stuck.
Small, obedient steps compound over time.
Stop giving away your power to distractions and negativity.
The stirring for more is not random. God multiplies obedience.

Chapters & Timestamps

00:01 Welcome + Meet Mindy Backsen
00:49 Mindy’s story: career, motherhood, and feeling called to “more”
02:37 The leap of faith and surrender
04:22 Putting Christ first and finding alignment
07:47 Seeking God wholeheartedly (Jeremiah 29)
10:37 What steals peace: urgency and overconsumption
13:30 Discernment: peace vs pressure
15:40 Navigating uncertainty and divine redirection
18:23 You are not stuck: fixing your eyes on Jesus
21:45 Being an ambassador of Christ in daily life
23:42 The stirring for more and small obedient steps
28:20 Where to find Mindy
29:15 Teaser: the “divine detour” story

Catholic women podcast, Christian women podcast, faith and purpose, surrender to God, peace in motherhood, spiritual dryness, Christian encouragement, trusting God in uncertainty, discernment peace vs pressure, how to hear God’s voice, quiet time with God, daily faith habits, renewing your mind scripture, fix your eyes on Jesus, Peter walks on water, Jeremiah 29:11-13, Proverbs 3:5-6, Isaiah 60:22, Matthew 5 salt and light, loaves and fishes obedience, Christian mindset coaching, overwhelm and anxiety faith, overconsumption and clarity, rebuilding season faith, obedience to God, Anchored with Purpose podcast

75| How to Hear God’s Voice When You Feel Stuck and Overwhelmed

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 10:15:00 GMT

Have you ever wondered, “How do I actually hear from God?” Or felt stuck asking, “What is my purpose?”

In this faith-filled episode, I’m answering two powerful questions from women in our community and chances are, you’ve asked them too.

If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, unsure of your direction, or disconnected from God’s voice, this episode will remind you that your purpose is not something you have to figure out alone. It is something you walk into with God, one step at a time.

We talk about how God speaks, often in quieter ways than we expect, how to recognize His guidance in your everyday life, and how to release the pressure of having everything figured out.

If you are craving clarity, peace, and direction, this episode is for you 💙

💡 Key Takeaways

Purpose is often found in everyday faithfulness, not just big moments
God is already guiding your path, you are not alone in figuring it out
God speaks most clearly through Scripture and daily relationship with Him
Quiet time helps you hear God in a noisy world
The desires on your heart may be invitations from God
Open and closed doors can be God’s direction and protection
Your purpose unfolds over time, not all at once
Ask God for your next right step instead of the full plan

⏱️ Chapters

00:00 Welcome and the questions we are answering
02:00 Why we feel stuck in our purpose
03:30 What purpose really looks like
05:00 How God speaks through Scripture
08:30 Creating space to hear God in the quiet
11:00 Recognizing God through your desires
13:30 Open and closed doors as direction
16:00 When you still do not know your purpose
18:30 The next right step prayer
21:00 Final encouragement and invitation

🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned

If this episode spoke to you, I would love to hear from you 💙
What is one small step you feel God inviting you to take?

Be sure to subscribe and leave a review so more women can find this message

Catholic podcast for women, Catholic mom podcast, how to hear God’s voice Catholic, Catholic purpose and vocation, Catholic personal development, how to know God’s will Catholic, faith and purpose for Catholic moms, daily Catholic faith routine, Catholic spiritual growth for women, trusting God’s plan Catholic, discerning God’s voice, Catholic mindset and personal growth, overcoming overwhelm with faith, living your God given purpose

74| Turning Pain Into Purpose with Dr. Brandi Kelly

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 09:30:00 GMT

What if the hardest moments in your life could become the very thing that helps others find hope?

In this powerful and deeply moving conversation, Melissa Wilkinson sits down with Dr. Brandi Kelly - educator, former superintendent, leadership coach, and founder of the Spark Hope Community. Dr. Kelly shares the heartbreaking story that shaped her life when she lost her younger brother in a tragic accident at just 15 years old.

Rather than allowing grief to define her story, Brandi chose a different path. Through decades of leadership in education, personal healing, and deep faith, she discovered that hope is not just a feeling - it is a daily practice and a choice.

Dr. Kelly also shares how burnout and health struggles led her to step away from her high-pressure superintendent role and into a new calling - helping women leaders reconnect with purpose, reflection, and faith through the Spark Hope Community.

If you have ever felt overwhelmed, stretched thin, or unsure of your purpose, this conversation will remind you that you are not alone and hope is always possible.

Links Mentioned in the Episode

Dr. Brandi Kelly Website, Lead with Hope Podcast, Spark Hope Community and Free HOPE Leadership Clarity Assessment:
https://sparkhopeedu.com

Key Takeaways from This Episode

• Hope is not passive. It is a daily choice that requires intentional action.
• Difficult seasons can become the foundation for a meaningful purpose.
• Leadership becomes healthier when we create space for reflection and pause.
• Journaling, prayer, and Scripture can help us hear God more clearly.
• Women leaders thrive when they have safe spaces for connection and encouragement.
• Your story and your struggles may be the exact encouragement someone else needs.

Want to build a daily faith practice that lasts? Join my plan on the Bible App: From Lent to Lifestyle: http://bible.us/r/He5

Episode Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Brandi Kelly
00:45 Trigger warning and episode overview
01:30 The tragic loss of Brandi’s younger brother
05:40 Choosing hope after trauma
07:00 Learning to ask God for daily direction
08:45 Stress, burnout, and stepping away from leadership
11:30 Facing uncertainty after leaving the superintendent role
12:40 Writing the book Lead with Hope
13:00 The origin of the Spark Hope framework
14:30 The HOPE system: habits, optimism, purpose, excellence
15:10 Mindset struggles, perfectionism, and people pleasing
16:20 Creating the Spark Hope Community for women leaders
18:30 Why reflection is essential for leadership
20:50 Daily practices: Bible reading, journaling, and prayer
23:00 Reviewing your journal and celebrating growth
24:50 Scheduling reflection into your life
25:20 The power of community for women leaders
27:45 Creating safe spaces for vulnerability
28:00 Encouragement for women feeling overwhelmed
29:40 Turning pain into purpose
30:00 Where to connect with Dr. Brandi Kelly

Anchored with Purpose podcast, Melissa Wilkinson podcast, Dr Brandi Kelly, Spark Hope community, Christian leadership for women, faith based leadership, hope after trauma, women leadership community, Christian personal growth for women, leadership mindset, journaling and faith practice, Christian leadership podcast, turning pain into purpose, faith based personal development, women leaders support community

73| From Lent to Lifestyle: How to Build a Daily Faith Practice That Lasts

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Wed, 11 Mar 2026 17:10:06 GMT

This episode is deeply personal and full circle for me.

After 2,470 consecutive days in the YouVersion Bible App, I’m officially a content partner, and my brand-new devotional plan is live: From Lent to Lifestyle: Creating a Daily Faith Practice that Lasts.

In this episode, I share the behind-the-scenes story of attending the Beyond a Billion celebration in Oklahoma City, hearing from Bobby Gruenewald and Craig Groeschel, boldly asking to become a content partner, and why I created this Lent devotional for women who want a simple, sustainable daily faith rhythm.

If you’ve ever struggled with consistency in your prayer life or wanted to move from seasonal motivation to lasting transformation, this episode is for you.

📖 Ready to Start the Plan?

Download the free Bible App and begin:

From Lent to Lifestyle: Creating a Daily Faith Practice that Lasts

👉 Download the Bible App and follow Anchored with Purpose: https://www.bible.com/organizations/9555df54-34ac-4b14-bc38-ee830fb1060b

👉 Start the Plan: http://bible.us/r/He5

🎉 Join me and the Anchored with Purpose community for a group reading beginning March 6th (my birthday!): 👉 Join the group reading here: https://bible.com/reading-plans/67833/together/79255031/invitation?token=j8NKyJUpHTU-Lwp3gH22ow&source=share

Don’t do this alone. Start it with a friend, your small group, or read alongside us in the discussion section inside the app.

⚓️ Key Takeaways

• Small daily consistency creates long-term spiritual growth
• The YouVersion Bible App has over one billion downloads and will always remain free
• Bold obedience opens unexpected doors
• Lent is a starting line, not a finish line
• Sustainable rhythms matter more than spiritual intensity
• Reading plans together deepens both faith and relationships
• YouVersion challenges and badges can help motivate consistency

⏱ Chapters

00:00 – A Full Circle Moment
01:30 – 2,470 Days in the Bible App
04:00 – Beyond a Billion: Inside the Celebration
06:30 – Hearing from Bobby Gruenewald & Craig Groeschel
09:00 – The Bold Ask That Changed Everything
11:30 – Why I Created From Lent to Lifestyle
14:00 – What You’ll Experience Inside the Plan
16:30 – How to Download the Bible App & Join
19:00 – Why You Shouldn’t Do This Alone
22:00 – Join Me March 6th for a Birthday Group Reading
24:30 – Lent Challenge Badge & YouVersion Challenges Explained
27:30 – Please Rate, Review & Tag Me
29:00 – What Will Your Streak Be?

Let’s move from Lent to lifestyle - together.

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72| Purpose Over Pressure: A Faith-Filled Path Out of Burnout ft. Misty Lakes

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 15:17:18 GMT

In this conversation, Melissa sits down with life and business coach Misty Lakes to talk about Godfidence, which is confidence rooted in Christ instead of hustle culture. Misty shares her journey from direct sales into coaching, how God faithfully led her step by step, and why putting Him at the center of our lives and businesses changes everything.

Together, they unpack why so many women feel burned out from wearing too many hats, how guilt sneaks in when our priorities are misaligned, and a simple but life changing visual tool that helps women realign their time, energy, and focus.

Resources mentioned in this episode:
• Journey to Be Godfident Devotional & Course: https://www.mistylakes.biz/store
• 40 Day Social Media Fast by Wendy Speake: https://a.co/d/7OBkm7e
• Misty Lakes Coaching & Collective: https://www.mistylakes.biz/coaching

Key Takeaways

Godfidence means rooting your identity, confidence, and decisions in who God says you are — not in hustle, pressure, or people-pleasing.
God should be the CEO of your life and business, guiding decisions both big and small.
Burnout often comes from wearing too many “good” hats at the same time — not from doing one thing poorly.
The Target Exercise helps visually prioritize what matters most: God, personal wellbeing, family, and then everything else.
Your family is your first ministry, and your relationship with God deserves protected, intentional time.
Social media often consumes time without reflecting what we actually value.
Intentional boundaries create peace and reduce guilt.
Purpose brings peace; pressure brings burnout.
Faith and business were never meant to be separate — alignment brings flow and fruit.

⏱ Chapters

00:00 – Welcome & Meet Misty Lakes
02:30 – From Direct Sales to Coaching: Trusting God Step by Step
06:30 – How God Prepares Us Long Before We See the Plan
07:00 – What Is Godfidence? Confidence Rooted in Christ
10:00 – Letting God Be the CEO of Your Life
11:00 – Why Women Feel Burned Out and Overwhelmed
13:00 – The Target Exercise: A Visual Way to Prioritize What Matters
15:00 – Taking Hats Off Without Guilt
17:30 – Temple Time: Honoring God by Caring for Yourself
19:30 – Being Intentional With Time, Energy, and Boundaries
21:00 – Social Media, Scrolling, and Mental Clarity
23:45 – Why Faith and Business Shouldn’t Be Separate
27:30 – Obedience, Stewardship, and God’s Blessing
30:00 – Purpose Over Pressure: A Client Transformation Story
33:30 – How to Connect with Misty & Her Community
34:45 – Closing Encouragement

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71| Lent for the Busy Catholic Woman

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 11:15:00 GMT

If Lent already feels like one more thing on your to-do list, this episode is for you.

In this encouraging and Scripture-rooted episode, Melissa Wilkinson speaks directly to the busy Catholic woman who feels tired, distracted, spiritually behind, or overwhelmed before Lent even begins. Instead of a picture-perfect or performance-based Lent, Melissa walks through what real Lent looks like in real life.

Rooted in Joel 2:12, Matthew 4, and Matthew 6, this episode reframes Lent as a season of return, not perfection. Through the three pillars of Lent — prayer, fasting, and almsgiving — Melissa offers simple, sustainable ways to grow closer to God without adding pressure to an already full life.

If you’ve ever quit Lent by week two, struggled to stay consistent with prayer, or felt like you’re not doing “enough,” this conversation will remind you that God is not asking you to impress Him. He is inviting you to return.

Lent is not about performance. It is about presence.

Key Takeaways

Lent is about returning to God, not proving yourself (Joel 2:12).
The desert is not punishment — it is preparation (Matthew 4).
Jesus says “when you pray, when you fast, when you give alms” — not if (Matthew 6).
Prayer for a busy woman can be simple and repeatable.
Fasting helps reveal attachments and create space for God.
Almsgiving stretches the heart outward in love.
You can begin again at any time — God’s mercies are new every morning (Lamentations 3:22–23).
Your real life — your SUV, your kitchen, your routines — can be holy ground.
Choose one prayer practice, one meaningful fast, and one intentional act of love.
Lent is about consistency, not perfection.

Chapters:

00:00 — Lent for the Busy Catholic Woman

01:59 — The Desert Is Preparation, Not Punishment

03:30 — Why Lent Feels Overwhelming

05:00 — Prayer: Abide, Don’t Perform

08:30 — Fasting: Detach and Create Space

11:30 — Almsgiving: Stretching the Heart in Love

13:45 — When Week Two Hits

16:30 — Making the Rosary Sustainable

18:45 — Your Real Life Is Holy Ground

20:30 — A Simple Lenten Framework

22:00 — Lent Is About Intimacy, Not Impressiveness

Book Melissa to Speak at Your Event

Website

Facebook

Instagram

Anchored with Purpose Tribe

Email

Dream Workshop Wait List

70| When the World Feels Scary, This Is How We Stand Firm in Faith

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 17:03:07 GMT

When the world feels unstable and heartbreaking, it’s hard not to carry that weight in your heart and home. In this episode, Melissa speaks into the fear and emotional exhaustion many women are experiencing as they watch growing struggles within our government, rising division, and devastating stories of families being torn apart and people being detained through immigration enforcement. Entire communities are living with uncertainty, and as moms, that fear hits especially close to home.

But Scripture reminds us that seasons of unrest are not new to God’s people. Throughout biblical history, God’s children have faced turmoil, persecution, and uncertainty. In every generation, He has given the same instruction: put on the Armor of God.

Melissa also shares practical ways to spiritually cover your children. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed by everything happening in the world, this episode will remind you that you are not powerless and you are spiritually protected and equipped to stand firm.

✨ Key Takeaways

• Difficult and uncertain times are not new. God’s people have always had to learn how to stand firm in seasons of fear and unrest.

• Our greatest battle is spiritual. The enemy uses chaos, fear, and division to steal our peace and distract us from faith.

• The Armor of God in Ephesians 6 is a daily spiritual practice that protects our hearts, minds, and homes.

• The Belt of Truth helps us anchor in God’s Word before absorbing headlines and social media.

• The Breastplate of Righteousness guards our hearts from bitterness, anger, and hardened thinking.

• The Shoes of the Gospel of Peace help us carry calm into our homes instead of panic.

• The Shield of Faith is what we lift when anxiety and fear about the future rise up.

• The Helmet of Salvation reminds us to protect our minds and set healthy boundaries with media.

• The Sword of the Spirit, God’s Word, is how we fight fear and lies with truth.

• Praying over your children and blessing them with holy water is a powerful way to spiritually cover your family.

Book Melissa to Speak at Your Event

Website

Facebook

Instagram

Anchored with Purpose Tribe

Email

Dream Workshop Wait List

⏱️ Episode Chapters

00:00 — When the World Feels Heavy
03:30 — This Is a Spiritual Battle
06:30 — The Belt of Truth
10:00 — The Breastplate of Righteousness
13:00 — The Shoes of the Gospel of Peace
17:00 — The Shield of Faith
20:30 — The Helmet of Salvation
24:00 — The Sword of the Spirit
30:00 — Armoring Your Children
34:00 — Standing Firm in Uncertain Times

Armor of God for moms, Ephesians 6 explained, Christian response to fear, praying for your children, spiritual warfare for women, Catholic mom faith encouragement, finding peace in uncertain times, Christian anxiety help, faith over fear, daily faith practice for moms

41| Anchored in Faith: The Foundation That Holds Everything Together

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 22 Jul 2025 08:10:00 GMT

Faith isn’t just one area of your life—it’s the foundation for everything else. In this episode of Anchored with Purpose, Melissa dives deep into the Faith & Spiritual Life Anchor, part of the Anchored in Every Area series.

Between work, kids, laundry, and to-do lists, faith can easily get crowded out. But as Matthew 7:24–25 reminds us, when we build our lives on the rock of Christ, we can withstand any storm. Melissa shares statistics about Mass attendance, prayer, and Bible reading, and explains why consistent faith practices bring lasting joy, purpose, and resilience.

You’ll also hear her personal journey of staying anchored in faith through life’s busy and dry seasons, and get practical tips for making faith an intentional part of your daily rhythm.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

Why faith is the foundation for every other area of your life
The importance of weekly Mass and how few Catholics currently attend (only 17% in the U.S.)
Practical ways to anchor your faith: Scripture, prayer, sacraments, worship, and community
Melissa’s favorite tools and resources for staying connected to God
How to rebuild your faith one small step at a time

Links & Resources Mentioned:

YouVersion Bible App: https://www.bible.com/
Bible in a Year with Fr. Mike Schmitz: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-bible-in-a-year-with-fr-mike-schmitz/id1539568321
Great Adventure Catholic Bible: https://a.co/d/dvnNWBD
Walking with God: A Journey through the Bible: https://a.co/d/ilDHslE
MassTimes.org – Find Mass & Reconciliation near you: https://masstimes.org/
Anchored with Purpose Faith Journal
Join the conversation in the Anchored with Purpose Tribe Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1B7c5RBreV/

Journal Prompts:

When was a time God showed up for me when I least expected it?
What’s currently keeping me from spending more time with God?
How do I want my spiritual life to feel in the next 3 months?

Reflection Questions:

Am I treating faith like a checklist or a relationship?
Where am I trying to do life in my own strength?
What would shift if I truly let God lead every part of my life?

39| Why Fun & Recreation Matter for a Faith-Filled Life

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 19:33:55 GMT

Let’s be real—when life is packed with laundry, meetings, ministry, and motherhood, fun and recreation are usually the first things to go. But what if making time for fun isn’t selfish… what if it’s sacred?

In this episode of our Anchored in Every Area series, Melissa dives into why Fun & Recreation is one of the most overlooked life anchors—and why it’s absolutely essential to your joy, health, and spiritual life. From playing family games and throwing water balloons, to understanding what the Bible actually says about rest and delight, Melissa invites you to reclaim fun as holy.

You'll hear:

Why “recreation” literally means to re-create
Four science-backed reasons fun makes you healthier and more grounded
Scriptures that reveal God’s design for joy and delight
Real-life ideas to intentionally add fun back into your rhythm
Why rest and laughter aren’t indulgent—they’re worshipful

👣 Let this episode encourage you to take a walk, play the game, dance in your kitchen, or sit on the porch with a book—because joy is a fruit of the Spirit, not an afterthought.

Resources & Links Mentioned:

📝 Grab your free Life Anchor Evaluation: https://anchored-with-purpose.kit.com/ec1b0df5ec
🎉 Join the Anchored with Purpose Tribe on Facebook: facebook.com/groups/anchoredwithpurpose
📩 Email Melissa: melissa@anchoredwithpurpose.com
📲 DM on Instagram: @melissajwilkinson or @anchoredwithpurpose

Key Scriptures Shared:

Ecclesiastes 3:13 – “…find satisfaction in all their toil—this is the gift of God.”
Psalm 16:11 – “You will fill me with joy in your presence…” Genesis 2:2-3 – God rested and made that day holy—so should we.

Journal Prompts:

What fills me up that I’ve been putting off?
When was the last time I did something just because I wanted to?
What would “holy recreation” look like in this season of life?

Listener Invitation: If this episode blessed you, tag Melissa @anchoredwithpurpose and share what fun you’re bringing back into your life this week. Or better yet, send it to a friend who needs a little joy. ❤️

36| Anchored in Every Area: 10 Life Anchors That Hold You Steady

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 07:56:00 GMT

Welcome to a brand new series on the Anchored with Purpose podcast: Anchored in Every Area – 10 Life Anchors That Hold You Steady.

In this powerful first episode, Melissa Wilkinson introduces the concept of Life Anchors—the key areas of life that help you stay grounded, focused, and aligned with God's purpose, even when the waves of life come crashing in.

Whether you’ve heard her mention them before or you’re hearing this term for the first time, this is the perfect starting point. You’ll discover:

What a Life Anchor really is
Why these anchors are essential for faith-filled women navigating busy, purpose-driven lives
How these 10 anchors are connected to your identity, stability, and calling
A preview of the transformative journey ahead in the coming episodes

This episode sets the stage for a deeply intentional and grace-filled season. Get ready to reflect, realign, and root yourself in what matters most.

🧭 What You’ll Learn:

The meaning behind “Life Anchors”
The 10 core areas that shape your life’s direction and spiritual well-being
How God uses each anchor to hold you steady in every season

🌊 Perfect For:

Women seeking balance and spiritual growth
Catholic moms craving clarity and peace
Anyone who feels like life is pulling them in too many directions
Listeners ready to create a purpose-driven rhythm rooted in faith

🔗 Resources & Links:

📅 Book your Anchored Insights Discussion session here Or just shoot me an email — I’d truly love to connect! melissa@anchoredwithpurpose.com

26| Faith Over Fear: Real Talk About Mental Health for Women | featuring Caris Snider

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 08 Apr 2025 08:35:00 GMT

Book a FREE Anchored Insights Discussion:

https://calendly.com/melissa-anchoredwithpurpose/45min

In this heartfelt episode of the Anchored with Purpose podcast, Melissa Wilkinson sits down with Caris Snider, speaker, coach, and author of the Anxiety Elephants book series. Together, they dive into an honest conversation about anxiety, motherhood, faith, and how sharing our stories leads to healing.

Caris vulnerably shares her personal journey through anxiety—how she masked her pain, the moment she broke down, and the power of finally asking for help. You'll hear how God met her in the middle of the mess, how writing became a tool of healing for both her and her readers, and why it’s essential to teach our children to name and process their emotions too.

If you’ve ever felt alone in your anxiety or unsure how to help your children with theirs, this episode will bring you encouragement, practical tools, and the reminder that you are never alone. Healing is possible—and it starts with vulnerability, faith, and community.

Connect with Caris:

Website: https://www.carissnider.com/

FREE Coping Skills Calendar: https://www.carissnider.com/subscribe

Books: https://www.carissnider.com/books

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carissnider/#

🔑 Key Takeaways:

You are not alone—many women silently struggle with anxiety.
Vulnerability opens the door to healing and deeper connection.
Sharing your story can empower someone else to speak up.
Faith plays a crucial role in managing anxiety and finding purpose.
Children benefit from learning how to name, feel, and process big emotions.
Community and asking for help are powerful tools for healing.
Comparison (especially on social media) can trigger anxiety.
Simple tools like breathing, grounding, and gratitude can shift your mindset.
Mess doesn’t mean failure—it’s part of the process.

📌 Practical Tips from Caris:

Try deep breathing exercises to calm your nervous system.
Practice grounding techniques when anxiety feels overwhelming.
Drink water—hydration impacts your brain and mood.
Replace comparison with gratitude journaling.
Teach your kids that emotions are not wrong.
Choose progress over perfection—especially in parenting.

💬 Favorite Quotes (Sound Bites):

“Sharing is actually right, and it is freeing.”
“I was a master of the mask.”
“It takes your friendship to another level when you’re real.”
“Comparison is a thief—it steals our joy and confidence.”
“Children remind us that messiness is okay.”
“It’s brave to ask for help—and even braver to model that for our children.”

🕒 Episode Chapters:

00:00 – Introduction to Anxiety and Purpose 02:10 – The Struggle of Sharing Personal Stories 06:31 – The Journey to Writing Anxiety Elephants 09:03 – Creating Resources for Kids, Teens & Adults 13:55 – How Faith Anchored Caris Through Anxiety 17:18 – Vulnerability & the Freedom to Be Real 22:41 – Asking for Help: The Turning Point 29:03 – Women, Anxiety & Raising Emotionally-Aware Kids 37:38 – Practical Strategies for Managing Anxiety 42:12 – Finding Hope, Healing, and Purpose in the Struggle

🎯 Keywords: anxiety, faith and mental health, parenting, children and emotions, women and anxiety, Christian mental health, community support, sharing stories, vulnerability, asking for help, self-care, Christian motherhood, emotional well-being, social media, Christian personal growth, gratitude, coping strategies, Christian women empowerment

24| When Life Pulled Me Away from God—And How I Found My Way Back - Show Notes

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 08:54:00 GMT

In this heartfelt episode of Anchored with Purpose, I take you on a journey through my personal faith story—the highs, the struggles, and the pivotal moments that shaped my spiritual life. From growing up in a Catholic home with deep-rooted traditions to questioning my beliefs in college, I share the moments that tested and ultimately strengthened my faith.

You'll hear about:

The vibrant and soulful Mass experiences from my childhood.
My first powerful encounter with the Holy Spirit at a youth event.
How college, secular influences, and personal disappointments shook my faith.
The struggles of balancing faith with a demanding career and motherhood.
The moment that reignited my passion for God and how it transformed my daily life.
The book that nearly led me away from Catholicism and the one line that made me stay.

If you've ever felt disconnected from your faith or wondered how to reclaim your spiritual journey, this episode is for you. It's real, raw, and full of encouragement for anyone looking to deepen their connection with God.

Resources Mentioned:

The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren
Walking with Purpose (Catholic women's Bible study)
The Word Among Us (Daily Mass readings & devotionals)

Let’s Connect! If this episode resonated with you, I’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your faith journey with me on Instagram @melissajwilkinson or inside the Anchored with Purpose Tribe Facebook community.

Subscribe & Review If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps bring more faith-filled conversations to women just like you.

Thank you for being part of this journey. Let’s keep growing in faith together!

Links

Podcast:https://www.martinewilliams.com/podcast

22| From Overwhelmed to Empowered: The Mindset Shifts That Change Everything | Featuring Martine Williams

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 10:31:00 GMT

Where you can find Martine:

IG: Martine31williams

Website: Martinewilliams.com

Free Clarity Call:

In this engaging conversation, Melissa Wilkinson and Martine Williams discuss the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship, particularly for mompreneurs. They delve into the common issue of burnout, emphasizing that while it is prevalent among women juggling multiple roles, it is not a normal state of being. Martine shares her journey into life coaching, the importance of defining personal success, and the detrimental effects of comparison and societal expectations.

The discussion encourages listeners to embrace their unique journeys, set realistic expectations, and prioritize self-care. In this conversation, Martine and Melissa explore the importance of setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, and the role of faith and community in preventing burnout. They discuss practical strategies for managing energy, the significance of surrounding oneself with supportive individuals, and the necessity of taking small steps towards recovery from burnout. The dialogue emphasizes the need for women to honor their own needs and to create space for joy in their lives.

Takeaways

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction and Dream Realization

02:59 - The Journey of Entrepreneurship and Life Coaching

06:00 - Understanding Burnout in Women

08:55 - Defining Success and the Pressure to Go Big

11:58 - The Impact of Comparison and the 'Shoulds' in Life

14:58 - Embracing Seasons of Life and Setting Realistic Expectations

18:30 - Finding Joy in Everyday Moments

18:57 - The Power of Setting Boundaries

24:00 - Aligning with Your Priorities

25:06 - Faith and Community as Support Systems

28:59 - Taking Small Steps to Combat Burnout

Keywords

entrepreneurship, mompreneur, burnout, life coaching, success, hustle culture, comparison, self-care, motherhood, personal development, boundaries, self-care, faith, community, burnout, energy management, personal growth, women empowerment, mental health, prioritization

Links

Book your FREE Discovery Call

Book Your FREE Discovery Call Here!

21| Accelerate Your Growth: Why Coaching Works | Featuring Kimberly Makela

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 09:25:00 GMT

In this engaging podcast episode, Melissa Wilkinson interviews Kimberly Makela, a seasoned life coach, about the transformative power of coaching. They discuss the journey to becoming a coach, the differences between coaching, mentoring, and therapy, and how coaching can help individuals gain clarity and take action towards their goals.

Kimberly shares inspiring transformation stories from her coaching practice, emphasizing the importance of investing in oneself. The conversation also explores the benefits of group coaching and the Anchored with Purpose Group Coaching program, encouraging women to prioritize their personal development and take the leap into coaching.

Takeaways

Coaching is goal-oriented and future-focused, unlike mentoring or therapy.
Clarity and action are key components of effective coaching.
Transformation is a fundamental goal of coaching.
Investing in coaching can lead to significant personal fulfillment.
Group coaching offers collaborative learning and accountability.
Group Coaching can be a cost-effective way to experience personal development.
Women often put themselves last; it's time to prioritize self-investment.
The Anchored with Purpose program helps women achieve balance and clarity.
Having a coach can accelerate the achievement of personal goals.

Chapters

00:00 - The Journey to Coaching

02:49 - Understanding Coaching: Definitions and Differences

05:59 - Gaining Clarity and Taking Action

09:03 - Transformation Stories: Real-Life Examples

12:02 - Investing in Yourself: The Importance of Coaching

14:58 - Group Coaching vs. One-on-One Coaching

17:51 - The Value of the Anchored with Purpose Program

21:01 - Final Thoughts: Empowering Women to Invest in Themselves

Keywords

coaching, personal development, transformation, accountability, clarity, group coaching, investment in self, women's empowerment, life coaching, goal setting

Links

Book Your FREE Discovery Call!

19| Why Accountability is the Missing Piece in Your Personal Growth Journey

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 18 Feb 2025 09:33:00 GMT

In this conversation, Melissa emphasizes the transformative power of accountability and community in achieving personal and professional goals. She shares her experiences with accountability partners and mastermind groups, highlighting how these relationships foster support, motivation, and success.

Melissa introduces her group coaching program, designed for faith-driven women, which aims to provide structure, encouragement, and practical tools for personal growth and goal achievement.

Takeaways

Accountability partners significantly increase goal achievement rates.
Mastermind groups create a powerful synergy for success.
Community support is essential for personal growth.
Group coaching offers a structured path to transformation.
Faith-driven environments enhance motivation and accountability.
Setting clear goals is crucial for progress.
Regular check-ins with accountability partners boost success rates.
Personal development requires action, not just information.
Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals inspires growth.
Dreaming big is encouraged in supportive communities.

Chapters

00:00 - The Power of Accountability

04:22 - Mastermind Principle and Community Support

07:45 - The Importance of Group Coaching

10:08 - Overview of the Group Coaching Program

14:54 - Invitation to Join the Journey

Keywords

accountability, mastermind, group coaching, personal development, community support, faith-driven women, goal setting, transformation, self-care, motivation

Links

Busy Mom Meal Prep: Live Demo

18| Overcoming Exhaustion & Finding Balance: A Wellness Guide for Women - featuring Cassie Groeschl

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 11 Feb 2025 09:20:00 GMT

Follow Cassie Groeschl:

IG: @wellnessthatfits

FB Group: Wellness That Fits Community

In this engaging conversation, Melissa Wilkinson and Cassie discuss the journey of balancing motherhood, work, and wellness. Cassie shares her personal transformation from a busy corporate dietitian to a wellness coach for moms, emphasizing the importance of reassessing priorities, overcoming guilt associated with self-care, and implementing effective time management strategies. They delve into practical tips for meal prep, aligning calendars with personal values, and creating quality time with family, all while maintaining a focus on health and wellness.

In this conversation, Melissa and Cassie discuss the importance of working with registered dietitians versus nutritionists, the impact of nutrition on energy levels and mental clarity, and the significance of specific foods for brain health. They also explore the role of probiotics in gut health, the importance of starting small in health improvements, common mistakes women make in their health journeys, and the value of community support. Cassie shares insights on meal prep and announces an upcoming live demo to help women simplify their meal preparation process.

Takeaways

Cassie's journey reflects the struggles of busy moms.
Reassessing values is crucial for personal fulfillment.
Self-care is essential, not a luxury.
Mindset shifts can help prioritize health goals.
Meal prep saves time and promotes healthy eating.
Aligning calendars with values enhances time management.
Quality time with family is vital for well-being.
Guilt over self-care can be overcome with practice.
Small habits can lead to significant changes.
Creating a supportive environment fosters wellness. Working with a dietitian provides tailored, science-based advice.
Nutritionists are not regulated, while dietitians are certified professionals.
Proper nutrition is crucial for energy levels and mental clarity.
Leafy greens and whole grains significantly impact cognitive function.
Probiotic-rich foods support gut health and overall well-being.
Starting with small, manageable health goals is key to success.
Avoiding an all-or-nothing mentality can prevent burnout.
Community support is vital for maintaining health and motivation.
Meal prep can be simplified to make healthy eating more accessible.
Regularly consuming nutrient-dense foods can enhance energy and mood.

Sound Bites

"I was too exhausted at the end of the day."

"You can't pour from an empty cup."

"Self-care is thrown around so much."

"Meal prep can give you so much time back."

"Nutrition plays a role in energy levels."

"Start small to prioritize your health."

"Avoid the all or nothing approach."

"You are not alone in feeling stuck."

"Meal prep can be simple and stress-free."

Chapters

00:00 - Journey to Wellness: Cassie's Transformation

03:00 - Reassessing Priorities: The Shift to Part-Time Work

05:59 - Overcoming Guilt: The Importance of Self-Care

08:52 - Mindset Matters: Prioritizing Health and Wellness

11:55 - Meal Prep Magic: Strategies for Busy Moms

15:02 - Aligning Calendars with Values: Time Management Tips

18:04 - Creating Quality Time: Balancing Family and Self-Care

24:46 - Navigating Nutrition: The Role of Dietitians vs. Nutritionists

27:17 - Nutrition's Impact on Energy and Mental Clarity

30:12 - Foods for Brain Health and Energy

33:15 - Probiotic-Rich Foods and Gut Health

35:52 - Small Steps to Prioritize Health - 39:36

Common Mistakes in Health Improvement

43:23 - Finding Community and Support

44:50 - Upcoming Meal Prep Live Demo

Keywords

wellness, self-care, meal prep, time management, busy moms, health goals, prioritizing values, motherhood, nutrition, work-life balance, nutrition, dietitian, health tips, energy levels, mental clarity, probiotics, gut health, meal prep, community support, women's health

Links

14| Creating a Vision for Your Life

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 14 Jan 2025 09:00:00 GMT

Dream Workshop on January 29th at 6PM EST - Register here! https://anchored-with-purpose.kit.com/7a0ee549f2

Keywords

vision board, personal development, dreaming big, faith-based goals, visualization, workshop, goal setting, motivation, psychology, Canva

In this conversation, Melissa Wilkinson shares her experiences and insights on the importance of vision boards and personal development. She discusses her journey of creating effective vision boards, the psychological benefits of visualization, and the structure of her dream workshops. Emphasizing the integration of faith in the dreaming process, she encourages listeners to dream boldly and trust in God's guidance. The conversation highlights the significance of setting goals and the transformative power of visualization in achieving them.

Takeaways

Vision boards should represent what you want in life.
Faith is an important part of the visioning process.
Visualization improves motivation and goal achievement.
The brain's RAS filters information to prioritize goals.
Writing down goals increases the likelihood of achieving them.
Vision boards are scientifically supported tools.
You can create a vision board using Canva.
The dream workshop helps you clarify and visualize your dreams.

Chapters

00:00 - The Journey of Dream Workshops

05:40 - The Psychology of Vision Boards

10:56 - Creating a Vision Board: The Process

Links

Book Melissa to Speak at Your Event: https://anchored-with-purpose.ck.page/c46fe9287e

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anchoredwithpurpose

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissajwilkinson/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anchoredwithpurpose/

Anchored with Purpose Tribe: https://www.facebook.com/groups/anchoredwithpurpose

Dream Workshop Wait List: https://bit.ly/dreamworkshop25

09| A Christmas Miracle, being a Bad Catholic, and Finding God in our Journeys: featuring Trisha Espinoza

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 10 Dec 2024 09:13:00 GMT

FREE Chapter of Bending Palms! https://trishaespinoza.com/christmas-miracle

Check out Trisha here: https://trishaespinoza.com/

Summary

In this episode of the Anchor with Purpose podcast, Melissa interviews Trisha Epinoza, host of the Bad Catholic Podcast.

Trisha shares her profound faith journey, detailing her struggles with trauma and the transformative power of faith. She discusses her transition from a successful career in television to becoming an executive coach, emphasizing the importance of helping women find their purpose.

Trisha also recounts a miraculous Christmas story involving her father's health, illustrating the power of prayer and belief. Throughout the conversation, she reflects on her doubts and the lessons learned, ultimately inspiring listeners to embrace their own journeys of faith and healing.

In this engaging conversation, Trisha shares her journey of embracing her identity as a 'bad Catholic' and the importance of owning one's story, including the messy parts. She discusses her podcast, where she explores faith and authenticity, encouraging listeners to accept themselves as they are. Trisha also highlights her coaching approach, focusing on helping women integrate their faith into their personal growth journeys. The conversation touches on dreaming big and the importance of not questioning one's aspirations. Trisha shares her upcoming projects, including a memoir and a suite of courses aimed at empowering women.

Takeaways

Trisha's faith journey was significantly impacted by trauma.
She experienced a 30-year break from her faith after a traumatic event.
Recognizing the need for change led her back to faith.
Her career shift was driven by a desire to help others.
Trisha's story emphasizes the importance of personal growth and healing.
The Christmas miracle story highlights the power of prayer.
Doubt is a natural part of the faith journey.
Authenticity in sharing struggles can empower others.
Trisha's mission is to help women find their God-given purpose.
Healing often comes through storytelling and connection. Own all parts of your story, including the messy ones.
Being a 'bad Catholic' can mean being authentic and true to oneself.
It's important to accept others for who they are in faith.
Coaching should focus on the client's journey, not the coach's opinions.
Listening to your inner voice is crucial for personal growth.
Dreaming big starts with authenticity and not questioning your desires.
Structure can help women navigate their personal growth journeys.
The Holy Spirit guides us in our coaching and mentorship.
Sharing stories can inspire and empower others.
Building a community of support is essential for growth.

Sound Bites

"I had nothing to do with it."

"It was such a beautiful experience."

"It actually happened."

"Own all of your story, all of it."

"God meets you where you are."

"I want to give women some structure."

"He has given me so much to work with."

"I really appreciate it, thank you."

"We went from BFF to family."

Chapters

00:00 - Faith Journey: From Trauma to Transformation

05:01 - Career Shift: From Television to Coaching

09:59 - The Power of Prayer: A Christmas Miracle

19:55 - Reflections on Doubt and Faith

25:22 - Owning Your Story

26:15 - The Bad Catholic Podcast

29:14 - Authenticity in Faith

33:30 - Coaching with Faith

37:39 - Dreaming Big

40:20 - Upcoming Projects and Goals

Keywords

faith, trauma, transformation, coaching, prayer, miracles, personal growth, women's empowerment, storytelling, healing, faith, authenticity, coaching, podcast, personal growth, women empowerment, dreaming big, spirituality, Bad Catholic, leadership

Links

Book Melissa to Speak at Your Event: https://anchored-with-purpose.ck.page/c46fe9287e

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anchoredwithpurpose

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissajwilkinson/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anchoredwithpurpose/

Anchored with Purpose Tribe: https://www.facebook.com/groups/anchoredwithpurpose

Dream Workshop Wait List: https://anchored-with-purpose.kit.com/24a9254a6d

07| A Spiritual Guide for Mothers | featuring Dana Gebo

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 26 Nov 2024 09:03:00 GMT

Resources:

Weekly Planning for Christian Moms Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/ie/podcast/weekly-planning-for-christian-moms-time-management/id1772674374

Weekly Planning for Christian Moms FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/8qfyD8VtJqwhU5jJ/

Summary

In this episode of Anchored with Purpose, Melissa Wilkinson interviews Dana Gebo, a time management expert for moms. Dana shares her journey into time management, emphasizing the importance of spiritual nourishment for mothers. She discusses common challenges moms face in prioritizing their spiritual time and offers practical tips for incorporating faith into daily routines.

The conversation highlights the significance of modeling spiritual practices for children and the necessity of pre-planning to create space for both family and faith. Dana also shares her personal practices for spiritual growth and encourages moms to cut out distractions to prioritize their relationship with God.

Takeaways

Filling your cup with God is essential for moms.
Moms often prioritize everything else over their spiritual time.
Time with God doesn't have to look perfect or traditional.
Incorporate faith into daily activities like cooking or driving.
Pre-planning your week can alleviate stress and overwhelm.
Having a plan B for spiritual time is crucial.
Modeling spiritual practices for children is important.
Cutting out distractions can free up time for God.
Using apps can help integrate scripture into daily life.
Small shifts in routine can lead to significant changes.

Sound Bites

"Filling our cups with God is essential."

"Make a plan B for your spiritual time."

"Cut out what takes your time."

"Your kids will learn from your habits."

"Start with a simple pre-planning step."

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction and Journey to Time Management

03:03 - Filling Your Cup: Spiritual Nourishment for Moms

05:53 - Overcoming Challenges in Spiritual Time

09:05 - Incorporating Faith into Daily Routines

12:13 - Time Management: Creating Space for Faith and Family

14:54 - Practical Time Management Tips for Moms

18:11 - Personal Practices for Spiritual Growth

21:03 - Modeling Spiritual Practices for Children

23:53 - Building a Time Management System

Keywords

time management, spiritual growth, motherhood, faith, planning, Christian moms, self-care, family life, daily routines, overcoming challenges

Links & Further Resources:

Book Melissa to Speak at Your Event: https://anchored-with-purpose.ck.page/c46fe9287e

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anchoredwithpurpose

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissajwilkinson/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anchoredwithpurpose/

Anchored with Purpose Tribe: https://www.facebook.com/groups/anchoredwithpurpose

Anchored with Purpose Faith Journal: https://a.co/d/gPxT8zR

Looking for a coach? Email me: melissa@anchoredwithpurpose.com

05| Turning Tech Into a Tool, Not a Distraction: Making Your Phone Work for You

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 12 Nov 2024 09:15:00 GMT

Resources:

Bible App: https://www.bible.com/users/mjwilkinson41

Verses: http://bit.ly/1I0jeIU

Summary

In this conversation, Melissa discusses the importance of managing phone usage to enhance productivity and reduce distractions. She shares personal experiences and research findings on how constant notifications can hinder focus and productivity.

Melissa provides practical tips on how to turn off non-essential notifications, create a functional home screen, and use technology intentionally to achieve a balanced life. She emphasizes the need for setting boundaries with technology to protect mental health and encourages listeners to take actionable steps towards more purposeful phone use.

Takeaways

Turning off phone notifications can lead to greater freedom.
The average person checks their phone 96 times a day.
Constant distractions can reduce productivity by 40%.
Using productivity apps can help boost focus.
Turning off non-essential notifications can increase productivity by 50%.
Creating a functional home screen can enhance productivity.
Visual reminders can increase motivation significantly.
Setting boundaries with technology is crucial for mental health.
Using focus modes can help manage distractions effectively.
Intentional use of technology can lead to a more balanced life.

Sound Bites

"I turned off the sound of my phone for the first time."

"Keep your most useful apps front and center."

"I don't have email notifications coming up on my phone."

"Technology can serve us well if we're intentional."

Chapters

00:00 - The Freedom of Disconnecting from Work

02:49 - Understanding Phone Usage and Productivity

06:08 - Managing Notifications for Better Focus

09:02 - Creating a Functional Home Screen

11:54 - Using Technology for Balanced Living

16:04 - Setting Boundaries with Technology

19:52 - Recap and Call to Action

Keywords

phone management, productivity, notifications, technology, work-life balance, focus, digital tools, mental health, intentional living, smartphone usage

Links

Book Melissa to Speak at Your Event: https://anchored-with-purpose.ck.page/c46fe9287e

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anchoredwithpurpose

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissajwilkinson/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anchoredwithpurpose/

Anchored with Purpose Tribe: https://www.facebook.com/groups/anchoredwithpurpose

Anchored with Purpose Faith Journal: https://a.co/d/gPxT8zR

Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!

“I love the Anchored with Purpose Podcast!! It’s helping me focus on what truly matters.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards finding their purpose, achieving their dreams, growing closer in their relationship with God and focusing on their family. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!

04| Household Harmony: How Chores Can Help Moms and Kids Thrive

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 05 Nov 2024 09:14:00 GMT

Get my FREE Daily Checklist for Kids here: https://anchored-with-purpose.ck.page/f2def03940

Earn $30 when you sign up for Greenlight. With the money app and debit card for kids and teens, we can send our kids money instantly, assign chores, and teach them to earn, save, and invest. https://share.greenlight.com/146304981

Summary

In this conversation, Melissa Wilkinson discusses the significance of chores in childhood and how they contribute to a child's sense of responsibility and family contribution. She shares her personal experiences with chores growing up and how she has implemented a chore system for her own children, including the introduction of an allowance and the use of a debit card to teach money management. The conversation emphasizes the life lessons learned through chores and the importance of creating a balanced household where everyone contributes.

Takeaways

Chores help children feel responsible and contribute to the family.
Implementing a chore chart can help kids stay organized.
Allowance can motivate children to take on more responsibilities.
Teaching kids about money management is crucial.
Involving kids in household chores prepares them for adulthood.
Chores can be adjusted based on family schedules and needs.
Using tools like chore charts and debit cards can simplify the process.
Kids can learn valuable life lessons through chores.
Encouraging kids to invest teaches them financial literacy.
A clean house contributes to a positive family environment.

Titles

The Chore Chart Revolution

Building a Balanced Household

Sound Bites

"This is something that we have worked on in our home."

"I felt responsible and a little bit grown up."

"They've both been packing their own lunches since kindergarten."

Chapters

00:00 - The Importance of Chores in Childhood

02:51 - Implementing Chores for Kids

06:13 - Allowance and Responsibility

09:05 - Teaching Money Management

11:53 - Life Lessons Through Chores

14:48 - Creating a Balanced Household

Links

Book Melissa to Speak at Your Event: https://anchored-with-purpose.ck.page/c46fe9287e

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anchoredwithpurpose

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissajwilkinson/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anchoredwithpurpose/

Anchored with Purpose Tribe: https://www.facebook.com/groups/anchoredwithpurpose

https://calendly.com/melissa-anchoredwithpurpose/45min

Keywords

kids, chores, parenting, responsibility, money management, life lessons, household duties, family contribution, allowance, teaching values

50| Keeping the Faith When the World Feels Scary

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 23 Sep 2025 08:18:00 GMT

In this episode of Anchored with Purpose, Melissa shares encouragement for holding onto faith when the world feels heavy. With recent tragedies close to home and across the country, it’s easy to feel shaken or overwhelmed. But even in heartbreaking times, we can anchor ourselves in prayer, community, and the goodness of God.

Key Takeaways:

Why it’s okay to bring your honest questions and grief to God
How prayer connects us to Him and to each other
The simple but powerful impact of asking, “How can I pray for you?”
Using the Anchored with Purpose Planner to track prayer requests and celebrate weekly wins
Choosing to focus on the good as an act of faith and resilience

Get your FREE copy of the Anchored with Purpose planner here: https://anchored-with-purpose.kit.com/befd76a8d2

Chapters: 0:00 – When the world feels scary and life feels heavy 2:00 – Wrestling with God in hard times 4:40 – The power of prayer and community 7:00 – Writing down prayer requests in the planner 9:20 – Weekly wins: focusing on the good 12:00 – A word of encouragement for Spring Grove and beyond 14:30 – Closing prayer and blessing

48| How to Build Habits Without Burnout

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 08:38:00 GMT

Our lives are shaped by our habits — for better or for worse. The small choices we make every day either anchor us in peace and purpose or leave us drifting and overwhelmed.

In this episode of Anchored with Purpose, Melissa unpacks why habits matter, how they connect to our faith, and the simple, practical ways to start building habits that actually last. Drawing on insights from The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey and Atomic Habits by James Clear, Melissa shares how to:

See habits as stewardship of the gifts God has entrusted to us
Shift from goal-chasing to identity-based habits that stick
Use habit stacking to add new rhythms without adding extra time
Shape your environment so your habits become easy and natural
Track and celebrate habits with a planner (and why that matters!)
Embrace progress over perfection when habits slip

Friend, your habits are shaping your life right now — but with God’s help, you get to choose the kind of life you’re building, one small step at a time.

🗓️ Get your FREE Anchored with Purpose Planner for the last 4 months of the year! https://anchored-with-purpose.kit.com/befd76a8d2

40| Is Your Work Aligned with Your Purpose?

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 08:05:00 GMT

Whether you're a corporate leader, a stay-at-home mom, a small business owner, or somewhere in between—this episode is for you. In today’s conversation, Melissa walks through the ups and downs of her own career journey—from managing a $28 million store with 200 employees to becoming a stay-at-home mom, launching a successful direct sales business, and stepping into full-time ministry.

She reminds us that our worth doesn’t come from a paycheck, title, or promotion, but from God—and that when we align our work with His purpose, everything shifts. You’ll hear powerful scriptures, surprising stats, and get practical journal prompts to help you anchor your work life in faith.

Whether you’re feeling stuck, burnt out, or fired up and ready to go, this episode will encourage you to seek faithfulness over hustle and follow God’s lead in every season.

📖 Scriptures Mentioned:

Colossians 3:23-24
Proverbs 16:3 & 16:9
Ecclesiastes 3:1
Romans 8:28

📊 Stats Shared:

Only 33% of Americans feel engaged in their work (Gallup).
Christians who feel called to their work report higher spiritual well-being (Barna).

✍️ Journal Prompts:

What does success mean to me right now?
What gifts has God given me that I’m not currently using?
Am I clinging to a job or business out of fear or false identity?
What would I pursue if I wasn’t afraid?

💡 Action Steps:

Pray about your current season and ask God to show you where He’s working.
Make a list of your strengths and how you're using them.
Consider a mentor or coach to walk with you through transition.

🎁 Want support? Book a free 45-minute Anchored Insights Discussion at

or email melissa@anchoredwithpurpose.com.

56| Global Bible Month: Simple Ways to Stay Anchored in Scripture

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Thu, 06 Nov 2025 16:04:30 GMT

This month, we’re celebrating something powerful — Global Bible Month with the YouVersion Bible App. With more than one billion downloads, the Bible App has put God’s Word into the hands and hearts of people all over the world — including right here in our community.

In this episode, Melissa shares how daily Scripture — whether through a physical Bible or the Bible App — has grounded her, guided her, and helped her stay anchored through busy seasons, motherhood, and life’s unexpected moments.

You’ll hear simple, practical ways to spend time with God each day, how to use features inside the YouVersion app like streaks, prayer prompts, and Bible plans, and why even one verse a day can reshape your heart and your home.

📲 Download the Bible App: Download The Bible App Now - 100% Free

💁🏻‍♀️ Join me on the Bible App: https://www.bible.com/users/mjwilkinson41

📖 Read the Rebuilt Faith Bible Plan: https://www.bible.com/en/reading-plans/62006

Get your FREE Anchored with Purpose Planner: https://anchored-with-purpose.kit.com/befd76a8d2

🎧 Episode Chapters

00:00 — Welcome & Why Global Bible Month Matters 01:05 — When Life Feels Loud & Full 02:20 — “Scripture Gives Time Back” 04:00 — The Bible App as a Lifeline 05:15 — Searching Scripture by Emotion or Topic 07:00 — Verse of the Day & Daily Devotions 08:40 — Sharing Scripture in Everyday Conversations 09:45 — Guided Prayer & Tracking Prayer Requests 11:20 — Streaks + Staying Consistent 13:15 — Bible Reading Plans 16:07 — Reading Plans With Friends 17:25 — My Favorite Physical Bible 18:20 — The “Rebuilt Faith” Plan 20:10 — Habits, Grace, & James Clear Wisdom 22:00 — Gratitude for the YouVersion Milestone 23:30 — Your Invitation to Join the Challenge

YouVersion Bible App, Global Bible Month, Bible reading habit, daily Scripture routine, Christian morning routine, Catholic Bible plan, Rebuilt Faith YouVersion plan, Bible App streaks, faith habits for moms, verse of the day devotional

12| Do This Before Setting Goals This Year - Year in Review

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 31 Dec 2024 09:12:00 GMT

Life Evaluation Tool: https://anchored-with-purpose.kit.com/ec1b0df5ec

Dream Workshop: https://bit.ly/dreamworkshop25

In this conversation, Melissa guides listeners through a comprehensive life evaluation process using the Wheel of Life. She emphasizes the importance of self-assessment in various life areas, including faith, health, relationships, and personal growth.

The discussion includes practical steps for reflecting on the past year, celebrating achievements, and setting meaningful goals for the future. Melissa encourages listeners to embrace the journey of personal growth and offers support through coaching and workshops.

Takeaways

The Wheel of Life helps identify areas of imbalance.
Self-assessment fosters gratitude for thriving areas.
Reflecting on the past year aids in goal setting.
Celebrating wins is crucial for motivation.
Identifying struggles can lead to personal growth.
Setting a 'word of the year' can guide focus.
Monthly evaluations keep progress on track.
Coaching provides accountability and support.
Dream workshops encourage bold goal setting.
Balance and abundance are achievable through faith.

Sound Bites

"How connected are you feeling to God?"

"This is our first big step."

"This is where I help my coaching clients."

"God desires balance and abundance for you."

"I'm here to help you with all of this."

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Life Evaluation

07:48 - Exploring the Wheel of Life

10:04 - Reflecting on the Year

22:44 - Setting Goals for the Future

Get your FREE Word of the Year Guide here: https://bit.ly/wordoftheyear25

Keywords

life evaluation, Wheel of Life, personal growth, goal setting, reflection, faith, family, purpose, coaching, self-assessment

Links

Book Melissa to Speak at Your Event: https://anchored-with-purpose.ck.page/c46fe9287e

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anchoredwithpurpose

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissajwilkinson/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anchoredwithpurpose/

Anchored with Purpose Tribe: https://www.facebook.com/groups/anchoredwithpurpose

Dream Workshop Wait List: https://bit.ly/dreamworkshop25

29| Behind the Scenes of My Weekly Planning Routine

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 13:35:32 GMT

Where are my planner girls at?! 🙋🏻‍♀️ If you light up at the thought of fresh pages, colorful pens, and a new month to organize, this episode is for YOU. And if planning feels a little overwhelming, don’t worry—I’m breaking it down to make it simple and fun. 🌈

In this episode, I’m sharing:

Why planning isn’t just about productivity—it’s about living intentionally and stewarding your time well.
A powerful scripture (Ephesians 5:15–16) to guide your time management with faith.
How I plan my year, month, and week—from my giant dry-erase wall calendar to my digital and paper planners.
How color-coding and 15-minute increments help me stay focused and reduce decision fatigue.
Why leaving margin is one of the best gifts you can give yourself (yes, white space is holy too!).
Fun brain science facts on how planning boosts dopamine and motivation 🎉
And why I’ll take planner dopamine over doom-scrolling any day! 🙌

✨ Whether you're a seasoned planner or just getting started, you’ll walk away from this episode feeling empowered to take back your time and use it to build a life that’s anchored in purpose.

Mentioned in This Episode:

Ephesians 5:15–16 — “Be careful then how you live, not as unwise but as wise…”
My favorite planning tools: big dry-erase annual calendar, Google calendar, and a 15-minute increment paper planner
Want help building a planning system that works for your life? Book an Anchored Insights coaching call with me!

COMING SOON: 🎉 The Anchored with Purpose Planner is launching in late 2025—and all my coaching clients will get their own copy!

If this episode helped you, would you share it with a friend who loves a good planner too? And remember… stay anchored with purpose.

10| How One Word Can Transform Your Year

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 17 Dec 2024 09:10:00 GMT

Get your FREE Word of the Year Guide here: https://bit.ly/wordoftheyear25

Summary

In this episode of Anchored with Purpose, Melissa Wilkinson discusses the transformative practice of choosing a 'Word of the Year' to guide personal growth and intention. She emphasizes the importance of this practice over traditional New Year's resolutions, sharing insights on how to select a word, reflect on past experiences, and align daily actions with one's chosen word. Through personal anecdotes and scriptural connections, Melissa illustrates how this practice can lead to a more purposeful and fulfilling life.

Takeaways

A word of the year simplifies goal setting.
Choosing a guiding word increases follow-through.
Reflecting on the past year helps in choosing a word.
Prayer is essential in selecting your word.
Connecting your word to scripture enhances its meaning.
Vision casting is crucial for aligning with your word.
Sharing your word with others creates accountability.
Regular evaluation of your word keeps you aligned.
Past words can reveal personal growth and changes.
It's about progress, not perfection.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to the Word of the Year

06:08 - Steps to Choose Your Word of the Year

11:47 - Vision Casting and Alignment

17:59 - Reflecting on Past Words and Their Impact

Keywords

Word of the Year, goal setting, personal growth, faith, intention, mindfulness, scripture, purpose, vision casting, reflection

Links

Book Melissa to Speak at Your Event: https://anchored-with-purpose.ck.page/c46fe9287e

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anchoredwithpurpose

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissajwilkinson/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anchoredwithpurpose/

Anchored with Purpose Tribe: https://www.facebook.com/groups/anchoredwithpurpose

www.anchoredwithpurpose.com

Dream Workshop Wait List: https://bit.ly/dreamworkshop25

Trailer - Anchored with Purpose

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Sun, 20 Oct 2024 18:03:43 GMT

Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or like you've lost a piece of yourself in the busyness of life? Do you crave peace, a clear sense of purpose, and a deeper connection with God?

Welcome to the Anchored with Purpose podcast! I’m your host, Melissa Wilkinson, and I’m here to help you reignite your faith, strengthen your family, and boldly pursue your dreams.

As a Catholic, wife, mom of two, and entrepreneur, I know how hard it can be to balance it all while staying true to your faith. That’s why I created Anchored with Purpose—to support and guide you on this journey of faith, family, and living a life filled with purpose, intention and joy.

Each week, I’ll share practical tips, inspiring stories, and faith-based strategies to help you build a daily faith practice, find peace in the chaos, and dream big with God at the center. Whether you’re struggling to find time for your spiritual life or seeking to reconnect with your faith, this podcast is your go-to resource for encouragement, growth, and community."

If you’re ready to anchor yourself in God’s purpose, create more time for what truly matters, and pursue your God-given dreams, hit that subscribe button and join me on this incredible journey. Let’s grow together, find peace, and live out our purpose, one step at a time."

Welcome to Anchored with Purpose—where faith meets family, and dreams become reality. I can’t wait to connect with you!

42| The Family Anchor: Building Faith, Love, and Presence at Home

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Wed, 30 Jul 2025 12:49:13 GMT

In this episode of the Anchored with Purpose Podcast, Melissa continues the “Anchored in Every Area” series by exploring one of life’s most foundational anchors—family.

Family was God’s idea from the beginning, designed to be a place of belonging, faith, and character formation. Yet in today’s fast-paced culture, family time often gets crowded out by endless schedules, sports, and obligations. Melissa shares practical ways to stay anchored in love, faith, and values at home, even when life gets messy.

You’ll learn:

Why family is central to God’s design
Eye-opening stats on the stress parents face and the decline of intentional family time
How to build intentional family rhythms (like morning blessings, weekly resets, and conversations that matter)
Why Melissa’s family intentionally chose not to join the travel sports lifestyle—and how that decision shaped their weekends and faith practices
Journal prompts and reflection questions to help you protect your family’s peace

If you’ve ever wondered how to strengthen your family anchor without chasing perfection, this conversation will encourage you to focus on what truly matters.

Links and Resources:

Barna Study: Faith Conversations in the Home
Pew Research: Parenting and Family Time Statistics
Join the Anchored with Purpose Tribe for support and encouragement - https://www.facebook.com/groups/anchoredwithpurpose
Jesus Calling for Kids: https://a.co/d/1epr0z3
Anxiety Elephants for Tween Boys: https://a.co/d/b92iFiC

60| Planning With Purpose: Faith, Focus & Flexibility

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 02 Dec 2025 19:39:05 GMT

🎉 It’s a big day on the Anchored with Purpose Podcast — the Anchored with Purpose Planner is officially available! 🎉

In today’s episode, Melissa unveils the planner she has been designing, refining, and dreaming about for more than 15 years. She shares the behind-the-scenes journey of searching for the perfect planning system, the hilarious “Frankenplanner” experiment, discovering the discbound system, and overcoming overwhelm with other planners on the market. As someone recently diagnosed with ADHD, Melissa explains how planning tools have been life-changing, and how this new planner is created specifically to help women live with peace, clarity, and intention — without guilt or overwhelm.

Inside this episode, you’ll learn what makes the Anchored with Purpose Planner different: weekly Scripture memory, monthly biblical themes, inspirational messages, time-blocking layouts, reflection pages, and the flexibility of a printable system that you can fully customize. Melissa also explains why she intentionally didn’t include every possible feature and how optional add-ons allow each woman to personalize her planning experience.

If you’re ready to plan your life with purpose and anchor your days in faith — this episode will get you excited to start.

🎙 The planner is available NOW — plus a FREE December download to try and use right away!

Key Takeaways

The Anchored with Purpose Planner is now available and ready to order 🎉
Planners have supported Melissa through decades of demanding seasons and helped with ADHD and executive functioning
The Anchored with Purpose Planner has been designed over 15 years and refined for more than a year in real-life use
The discbound system allows full customization and flexibility for planning in a way that fits real life
Weekly Scripture memory, monthly Scripture themes, inspirational messages, time blocking, and reflection pages create structure with peace
Too many planners are overwhelming — this one is intentionally simple, faith-centered, peaceful, and flexible
Optional add-on pages and free resources allow everyone to personalize their planning system
Permission to give yourself grace: the planner is a tool, not a boss

Chapters

00:00 — Welcome & planner launch celebration 🎉
00:45 — Melissa’s journey: why planning matters
01:35 — ADHD diagnosis & how planning supports executive functioning
02:20 — Searching for the perfect planner + the “Frankenplanner” story
04:30 — “People would pay you for this” — the seed planted
05:40 — Discovering the discbound system
08:45 — What makes the Anchored with Purpose Planner different
11:15 — Scripture, inspiration & monthly overview pages
12:05 — Time blocking & weekly reflection
12:50 — Why simplicity matters + avoiding overwhelm
13:45 — Catholic planners & finding the perfect middle ground
15:05 — Printable flexibility + optional add-ons
16:25 — Who this planner is for
17:10 — How to order + FREE December download
18:05 — Final encouragement & blessing

Helpful Links from This Episode

🛍 Order the Anchored with Purpose Planner: https://anchoredwithpurpose.com

📥 Download the FREE December Planner Pages: https://anchoredwithpurpose.com

🌀 Discbound System Resources: Levenger: https://levenger.com ARC by Staples: https://staples.com Martha Stewart Discs: available at Staples Happy Planner (similar system): https://thehappyplanner.com

📱 Follow Melissa on Instagram: https://instagram.com/anchoredwithpurpose

📺 Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@anchoredwithpurpose

Anchored with Purpose Planner, planner launch, faith-based planner, printable planner, discbound planner, Catholic women, Christian moms, intentional living, time-blocking planner, Scripture memory, ADHD planning tools, executive functioning, planning with faith, peace not panic

23| What’s Keeping You Stuck? The 3 Blocks Holding You Back (and How to Overcome Them)

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 09:05:00 GMT

Book Your FREE Discovery Call Here!

Have you ever felt like you're spinning your wheels, unsure of your next step? Maybe you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck in self-doubt, or struggling to find clarity in your purpose.

I get it, friend. I’ve been there.

In this episode, I’m sharing my personal journey of breaking free from fear and finally stepping into the calling God placed on my heart. For years, I felt called to start this podcast, but self-doubt and perfectionism kept me stuck. Sound familiar?

If you’ve been waiting for clarity or the “perfect plan” before you take action, this episode is for you. I’m diving deep into the three biggest things that are keeping you stuck and how you can begin to overcome them today.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

✨ The mindset shift that allowed me to finally move forward ✨ How self-doubt and fear of failure hold us back (and how to push through) ✨ The power of surrendering your plans to God and taking imperfect action ✨ The one prayer that gave me clarity and confidence in this next chapter.

If you’ve been feeling that nudge in your heart to dream bigger, grow in your faith, or pursue something new – but fear and overwhelm are holding you back – this episode will give you the encouragement and clarity you’ve been praying for.

Links

64| One Word Can Change Everything: Why Resolutions Fail & Words Transform

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 18:15:49 GMT

As the new year begins, most of the world rushes to make resolutions. However, research shows nearly 80% of them will be abandoned by mid-February. In this powerful episode, Melissa shares why she stopped setting resolutions and started choosing a Word of the Year instead - a simple, faith-filled practice that aligns your heart, habits, and purpose with God.

Melissa walks you through her Word of the Year journey from 2017 through 2025, explains how to choose your own word using her free guide, and reveals her 2026 word: Transformation - a year focused on renewing her mind, strengthening her body, and living as a true “living sacrifice” for God.

🧭 Key Takeaways

Why 80% of New Year’s resolutions fail — and what works better
What a Word of the Year is and how it shapes who you’re becoming
How Melissa’s past words prepared her for each new season
A step-by-step framework for choosing your own Word of the Year
How to anchor your word with a definition, Scripture, and vision
Melissa’s 2025 word (Impact) and how God multiplied her influence
Her 2026 word (Transformation) and the physical, spiritual, and mental renewal God is inviting her into

⏱ Chapters

00:00 – Why New Year’s resolutions don’t work 01:30 – What is a Word of the Year? 02:00 – Melissa’s Word of the Year journey (2017–2025) 02:45 – Why a word works when resolutions don’t 03:30 – How to choose your Word of the Year 04:45 – Example: 2025 Word — Impact 06:30 – Introducing 2026 Word — Transformation 07:00 – Vision for Transformation in body, mind & spirit 08:30 – Invitation to download the Word of the Year Guide

🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned

📝 Free Word of the Year Guide — Download here: 👉 https://anchored-with-purpose.ck.page/b78367e68c
📖 YouVersion Bible App — Download here: 👉 https://www.bible.com/users/mjwilkinson41
🎧 Previous Episode on Word of the Year — Listen here: 👉 https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/10-how-one-word-can-transform-your-year/id1775076672?i=1000680670747

43| Faith-Filled Relationships: Love, Boundaries, and Connection That Lasts

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 05 Aug 2025 07:22:00 GMT

Relationships are at the core of our lives—but they’re not always easy. In this episode of the Anchored with Purpose Podcast, Melissa dives into the different types of relationships we navigate every day—marriage, parenthood, friendships, extended family, and even workplace connections. You’ll discover why marriage takes intentional effort, practical ways to connect with your spouse (even on a budget!), how to build deep friendships as an adult, and how to set healthy boundaries with family. Melissa also shares wisdom on being a light in your workplace and ministry environments.

You’ll leave this episode encouraged and equipped with journal prompts, reflection questions, and biblical truth to anchor your relationships in love, grace, and faith.

Key Topics Covered:

Why marriage requires both work and grace (and what Ephesians 5 teaches us)
The power of simple, affordable date nights (yes, even from your couch!)
How to disciple your kids daily without pressure
Overcoming loneliness and building strong friendships as an adult
Setting boundaries with extended family while honoring them
Living out your faith in your workplace and volunteer roles
Reflection questions and journal prompts to help you grow in your relationships

Scripture References:

Ephesians 5:33
Proverbs 22:6
Ecclesiastes 4:9–10
Exodus 20:12
Matthew 5:16
Romans 12:18

Join the Conversation: Come be part of the Anchored with Purpose Tribe on Facebook for community, encouragement, and practical faith-building tips: https://www.facebook.com/groups/anchoredwithpurpose

08| Praying for Your Family: The Best Gifts You Can Give Them

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 03 Dec 2024 09:12:00 GMT

Resources:

The Power of a Praying Wife, by Stormie Omartian

The Power of a Praying Parent, by Stormie Omartian

Praying Circles around Your Children, by Mark Batterson

Summary

In this conversation, Melissa Wilkinson discusses the significance of praying for family members, particularly children and spouses. She shares personal experiences and insights on how prayer can protect and positively influence family dynamics. The conversation covers practical methods for praying, including specific resources and books that have impacted her prayer life. Melissa emphasizes the importance of starting small and gradually incorporating prayer into daily life, encouraging listeners to take actionable steps in their spiritual journey.

Takeaways

Praying for family, especially children, is crucial.
Prayer can create a protective barrier around loved ones.
Personalized prayers can be more impactful.
Using specific resources can enhance prayer life.
Spiritual connection between spouses leads to greater satisfaction.
Prayers for children can influence their choices and attitudes.
It's important to pray for deceased family members.
Start with one prayer practice and build from there.
Prayer can lead to noticeable changes in family dynamics.
Consistency in prayer is key to seeing results.

Chapters

00:00 - The Importance of Praying for Family

10:20 - Praying for Your Children

15:34 - Praying for Deceased Family Members

Keywords

prayer, family, children, spouse, spiritual connection, protection, faith, parenting, marital satisfaction, Catholic Church

Links & Further Resources:

Book Melissa to Speak at Your Event: https://anchored-with-purpose.ck.page/c46fe9287e

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anchoredwithpurpose

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissajwilkinson/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anchoredwithpurpose/

Anchored with Purpose Tribe: https://www.facebook.com/groups/anchoredwithpurpose

Anchored with Purpose Faith Journal: https://a.co/d/gPxT8zR

Looking for a coach? Email me: melissa@anchoredwithpurpose.com

25| From Breakdown to Dream Home: My Journey of Surrender and Trust

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 08:24:00 GMT

In this heartfelt episode of Anchored with Purpose, Melissa Wilkinson gets real about the breaking point that changed everything. She takes us back to March 2019—a month packed with launches, travel, business commitments, and the overwhelming weight of trying to do it all. But when the stress finally reached its peak, she found herself on her knees, surrendering to God in a way she never had before.

Melissa shares the raw emotions of that moment, the unexpected turn her family's dreams took, and the incredible way God worked behind the scenes. What looked like a breakdown was actually a breakthrough—leading her to a home, a season, and a purpose far greater than she could have imagined.

If you've ever felt overwhelmed, lost, or unsure of what God is doing in your life, this episode will remind you: He's working, even in the messy middle.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

🫣The moment Melissa knew she had hit a breaking point 🙏🏼 How surrendering to God led to unexpected peace 🏠 The surprising twist in her family’s dream of a beach house 🏘️ Why a simple drive down a different street changed everything 🙌🏼 A powerful reminder from Romans 8:28—God makes all things work together for good ❤️ Encouragement for anyone feeling overwhelmed or stuck in uncertainty

Subscribe & Review If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps bring more faith-filled conversations to women just like you.

Thank you for being part of this journey. Let’s keep growing in faith together!

Links

35| Habemus Papem! The first American Pope | ft. Peter & Tania Dill

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 10 Jun 2025 18:29:35 GMT

In this special episode, Melissa chats with Pete & Tania Dill to reflect on a truly historic and Spirit-filled moment in the life of the Church: the election of Pope Leo, the first American Pope.

From his humble and hope-filled first words, “Peace be with you,” to the unique blend of Vatican depth and missionary heart that he brings, Pope Leo’s papacy is already stirring hearts around the world. Together, Pete and I explore what his leadership could mean for the global Church—and especially for the American faithful.

We talk about:

The significance of a Pope from American soil 🌎
Why his message of peace is resonating so deeply, especially with young people
How his background in both Vatican diplomacy and mission work makes him a bridge-builder
The opportunity for a cultural shift toward missionary discipleship
Why Pope Leo’s intentional presence in media could reshape Catholic evangelization
What our hopes and prayers are for this next chapter in Church history

This episode is filled with faith, curiosity, and expectation. If you're wondering what this means for the Church—and what it could mean for your own call to mission—you’ll love this heartfelt conversation.

🙏 Topics Covered:

The emotional impact of seeing an American elected Pope
The symbolism and simplicity of his first public message
How missionary formation equips leaders to serve a global Church
Pete’s dream of a Church where every young person serves in mission
The need for authentic storytelling and media engagement
Melissa’s prayer for a Church that shares its faith boldly and consistently

🔗 Resources & Links:

Follow Pete Dill: https://www.instagram.com/pete.dill/
Backseat Media on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BackSeat-Media
What’s the Dill? Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/whats-the-dill/id1532299919

Where Does Jesus Live? Book Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F88P4WWC?ref_=pe_93986420_774957520

31| Packing with Purpose: Teaching Kids Independence and Saving Your Sanity

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 13 May 2025 08:28:00 GMT

In this super practical episode, Melissa shares her tried-and-true systems for packing and traveling with kids—especially for moms doing the heavy lifting when it comes to vacation prep. With years of experience on the road, Melissa spills her favorite tips to make family travel smoother, less stressful, and more enjoyable.

From her undying love of packing cubes to the hilarious misadventures of letting kids pack themselves (spoiler: someone packed zero pants and four swimsuits), this episode is full of wisdom, laughs, and permission to find what works for your family. Whether you're heading to grandma’s or going on a beach vacation, you’ll walk away with real-life strategies to create more peace and less chaos.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

Why packing cubes are Melissa’s “love language” and how they save time and sanity
How a simple system using laundry totes makes quick trips easier
The packing checklist method that teaches kids independence (and prevents wardrobe fails!)
Melissa’s genius tip to keep toiletry bags pre-packed and organized
How these small systems create margin for joy, rest, and actual vacation vibes

📅 Book your Anchored Insights Discussion session here Or just shoot me an email — I’d truly love to connect! melissa@anchoredwithpurpose.com

Book Your FREE Discovery Call!

27| Breaking Free from Limiting Beliefs: What God Says About You

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 15 Apr 2025 08:35:00 GMT

Do you ever find yourself stuck in the cycle of self-doubt, fear, or thoughts like “I’m not enough” or “I could never do that”?

In this episode of the Anchored with Purpose podcast, Melissa gets real about limiting beliefs—those sneaky, false narratives that hold us back from living fully in God’s purpose. Backed by both biblical truth and neuroscience, she dives into how our thoughts shape our reality and how you can begin to rewire your brain through truth, prayer, and intentional action.

✨ You’ll learn:

What limiting beliefs are and where they come from
How 80% of our thoughts being negative impacts our lives
What Scripture says about your identity and thought life
A 3-step process to recognize, replace, and reclaim your mindset
How faith-based affirmations and daily practices can truly transform your life

Melissa also shares powerful insights from Dr. Caroline Leaf and recent studies that confirm what Scripture has said all along—you can renew your mind and live in the freedom God has for you.

💡 "You are who God says you are, not who your fears say you are." – Melissa Wilkinson

✨ Ready to Break Free from the Lies Holding You Back?

If this episode struck a chord and you're tired of feeling stuck, I want to personally invite you to schedule a FREE 45-minute Anchored Insights Discussion with me. This is a safe, supportive space to identify the thoughts that are holding you back, gain clarity, and explore how we can rewrite your inner narrative together.

📅 Book your session here Or just shoot me an email — I’d truly love to connect! melissa@anchoredwithpurpose.com

🎧 Don’t forget to:

Share this episode with a friend who needs this encouragement
Subscribe so you never miss a dose of truth and purpose
Send me a DM or email to let me know what resonated most!

Until next time, friend… stay rooted, stay hopeful, and stay Anchored with Purpose. ⚓️

20| How to Use Lent to Grow Closer to God (Without the Overwhelm)

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 25 Feb 2025 10:39:00 GMT

In this conversation, Melissa Wilkinson shares profound insights on spiritual practices during Lent, focusing on the ideas like: praying for strangers, fasting from sugar or social media, joining a small group, or establishing a daily faith practice. Each practice is designed to deepen your relationship with God and foster a sense of community and accountability.

Links discussed in the episode:

40 Day Sugar Fast

40 Day Social Media Fast

The Circle Maker & Draw the Circle

The Purpose Driven Life

Rebuilt Faith

Anchored with Purpose Faith Journal

Takeaways

Praying for strangers fosters love and compassion.
Fasting redirects cravings towards God.
Social media fasting enhances presence and peace.
Joining a small group builds faith community.
Daily journaling helps track spiritual growth.
Fasting from sugar can lead to personal breakthroughs.
Prayer can be a silent act of love.
Community support is vital for spiritual growth.
Establishing a daily faith practice is transformative.
Lent is a time for preparation, not punishment.

Chapters

00:00 - The Power of Praying for Strangers

03:24 - Fasting: A Journey of Redirection

06:18 - Social Media Fasting: Finding Peace and Presence

11:56 - Building Community Through Small Groups

14:51 - Establishing a Daily Faith Practice

keywords

Lent, prayer, fasting, social media, community, faith, personal growth, spiritual practices, journaling, self-reflection

Links

37| Creating a Peaceful Home That Doesn’t Stress You Out

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 24 Jun 2025 14:09:49 GMT

Is your home supporting your peace—or quietly sabotaging it?

In this episode of the Anchored with Purpose Podcast, Melissa dives deep into the Home Anchor—one of the most underestimated but powerful life anchors. Through personal stories, research-backed insights, and practical tips, she helps you reconnect with your physical space as a place of peace, purpose, and presence.

You’ll learn:

Why clutter affects more than your countertops—it impacts your stress and focus.
How your home can become a sacred space (even without matching containers).
Simple systems for involving your whole family in daily and weekly rhythms.
How to turn a single decluttered room into a ripple of motivation.
Ways to physically and spiritually invite God into your home.

Whether your house feels like a tornado zone or you just need a refresh, this episode will encourage and equip you to create a space where God’s peace can truly reign.

Scripture References:

Proverbs 24:3–4 – “By wisdom a house is built...”
1 Corinthians 14:33 – “For God is not a God of disorder but of peace.”

Key Takeaway: You don’t need a perfect home. You need a purposeful one—one where God is welcome, and peace is possible.

Resources & Mentions:

Greenlight App – Get $30 Free - Greenlight Debit Card for Kids and Teens
Anchored with Purpose Faith Journal - Anchored with Purpose Faith Journal

📝 Journal Prompts

Take some time to reflect on these prompts after listening:

What part of my home currently causes me the most stress?
What one small space could I start with to create peace and momentum?
How am I currently inviting God into my home?
What family rhythms or responsibilities could we adjust together?

How do I want my home to feel when I walk through the door?

34| Mid-Year Reset: Reflect, Recommit & Reignite Your Goals

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 03 Jun 2025 07:09:00 GMT

Did you know that 92% of people never achieve their New Year’s goals? But here’s the good news: you don’t have to be one of them. In this mid-year check-in episode of Anchored with Purpose, Melissa shares the secret of the 8% who do reach their goals—spoiler alert: it’s not more time or talent, it’s reflection and adjustment.

Melissa walks you through the 10 Life Anchors (used in her coaching and journals) to help you rate and reflect on where you're thriving and where you need a reset. She dives into practical tools like the Life Evaluation Wheel and revisits the Word of the Year you prayerfully chose in January. (Don’t remember yours? That’s okay—we’ll help you find a new one for this season.)

You’ll also get thought-provoking journal prompts to help you realign your goals with God’s purpose and a reminder that it’s never too late to dream again. Whether you’re crushing it or feeling like you’ve veered off course, this episode will help you reflect, refocus, and take your next faithful step.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

Why the brain thrives on regular goal reflection
How to use the 10 Life Anchors as a mid-year compass
Why your Word of the Year still matters
How to use the Life Evaluation Tool monthly
Journal prompts to reignite purpose and momentum
How life coaching through Anchored with Purpose can support your reset

Links Mentioned:

📥 Download the FREE Life Evaluation Tool
✨ Get your FREE Word of the Year Guide
🎙️ Listen to the Word of the Year Episode
💬 Contact Melissa About a Dream Workshop

📅 Book your Anchored Insights Discussion session here Or just shoot me an email — I’d truly love to connect! melissa@anchoredwithpurpose.com

33| Rhythm Over Rigidity: Building a Summer That Works for Your Family

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 27 May 2025 07:38:00 GMT

Summer break can be a beautiful time for freedom and fun—but let’s be honest, it can also feel overwhelming, especially for moms juggling work, home, and kids. In this episode, Melissa Wilkinson gets real about the ups and downs of summer rhythms. From enrolling kids in camps and managing screen time, to working from home and navigating mom guilt, Melissa shares practical tips, personal stories, and permission to find your family’s sweet spot between structure and spontaneity.

You’ll learn:

Why your summer doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing (fully structured or totally free)
Creative ideas for camps (even attending multiple VBSs!)
How to balance work-from-home life with keeping kids engaged
Real-life wins and fails from Melissa’s past summers
Simple strategies to reduce screen time and increase family fun

Whether you're a stay-at-home mom, work from home mom, work outside of the home mom or just trying to make the most of summer without losing your mind—this episode is for you.

📅 Book your Anchored Insights Discussion session here Or just shoot me an email — I’d truly love to connect! melissa@anchoredwithpurpose.com

17| How Do I Hear God’s Voice in My Life?

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 04 Feb 2025 10:05:00 GMT

In this episode, Melissa Wilkinson shares her personal journey of faith and the lessons learned about how God communicates with us. She reflects on a significant moment in her life when she faced disappointment but ultimately found clarity and direction through prayer and scripture. Melissa discusses various ways God speaks to us, including through scripture, others, circumstances, and the Holy Spirit. She emphasizes the importance of stillness and discernment in hearing God's voice and encourages listeners to cultivate a daily practice of reflection and prayer.

Want a tool to help you with your Faith Practice? Get your copy of the Anchored with Purpose Faith Journal

Takeaways

Change can lead to unexpected blessings.
God often communicates through signs and circumstances.
The Bible is a living guide for our lives.
Divine intervention can come through others' words.
Stillness is essential for hearing God's voice.
Asking for confirmation can clarify our path.
God's guidance aligns with scripture.
Meditation and reflection improve decision-making.
Personal experiences can deepen our faith.
Listening to God requires practice and patience.

Chapters

00:00 - The Journey of Change and Faith

03:22 - How God Speaks to Us

08:39 - Practical Ways to Discern God's Voice

12:46 - Personal Experiences of Hearing God

14:13 - Closing Prayer and Encouragement

Keywords

faith, God, communication, discernment, prayer, scripture, personal growth, spirituality, listening, guidance

Links

15| Dreaming with God: Aligning Your Dreams with His Will & Purpose

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 21 Jan 2025 09:33:00 GMT

Dream Workshop on January 29th at 6PM EST - Register here!

In this conversation, emphasizes the significance of dreaming with God, highlighting how it reflects hope, trust, and faith. She discusses the importance of aligning dreams with God's will through prayer and action, and how this not only transforms individual lives but also sets a powerful example for families.

The conversation explores the challenges of navigating dreams when they don't unfold as expected, emphasizing the need for faith and patience in God's timing. Ultimately, it encourages listeners to choose dreams over fears and to take intentional steps towards realizing their God-given aspirations.

Takeaways

Dreaming reflects hope, trust, and faith in God.
Aligning dreams with God's will is essential.
Praying about dreams helps discern their origin.
Dreaming big sets an example for families.
Great lives are built on vision, not chance.
Dreams require faith, prayer, and action.
God's timing may differ from our plans.
Choosing dreams over fears leads to extraordinary outcomes.
Dreams are part of God's plan for our lives.
Taking intentional steps increases the likelihood of achieving dreams.

Sound Bites

"Dreaming is essential because it reflects hope."

"Sometimes God gets in the way to show us the way."

"Dreams are the fuel of greatness."

Chapters

00:00 - The Importance of Dreaming with God

06:31 - Navigating Dreams and God's Timing

12:40 - Faith, Prayer, and Action in Dreaming

16:58 - Choosing Dreams Over Fears

keywords

dreaming, faith, prayer, God's will, family legacy, purpose, vision, action, hope, trust

Links

13| Why Dreaming Big Matters (And Why It’s Not Too Late)

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 07 Jan 2025 09:12:00 GMT

Dream Workshop on January 29th at 6PM EST - Register here! https://anchored-with-purpose.kit.com/7a0ee549f2

In this conversation, Melissa emphasizes the significance of dreaming big and aligning those dreams with one's purpose. She shares personal experiences and biblical references to inspire listeners to overcome feelings of being stuck or too busy to pursue their dreams. The discussion highlights the importance of taking actionable steps towards achieving dreams, including participating in dream workshops that can help clarify goals and create a vision for the future.

Takeaways

Dreaming is essential for personal growth and fulfillment.
Setting big goals helps create a mental roadmap for life.
Aligning dreams with God's purpose leads to true satisfaction.
It's never too late to pursue your dreams, regardless of age.
Carving out time to focus on dreams can create significant change.
Inspiration can be drawn from the success stories of women who achieved their dreams later in life.
Dream workshops can provide clarity and actionable steps towards achieving goals.
Sharing dreams with others can create a supportive community.
Vision boards are powerful tools for manifesting dreams.
God has a unique plan for each individual, and pursuing dreams is part of that plan.

Chapters

00:00 - The Importance of Dreaming Big

02:54 - Overcoming Busyness and Self-Doubt

05:45 - Inspiration from Successful Women

09:08 - The Impact of Dream Workshops

Keywords

dreaming, goals, purpose, inspiration, women empowerment, faith, vision board, personal growth, overcoming obstacles, motivation

Links

Book Melissa to Speak at Your Event: https://anchored-with-purpose.ck.page/c46fe9287e

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anchoredwithpurpose

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissajwilkinson/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anchoredwithpurpose/

Anchored with Purpose Tribe: https://www.facebook.com/groups/anchoredwithpurpose

Dream Workshop Wait List: https://bit.ly/dreamworkshop25

06| Faith in the Family: Simple At-Home Practices for Growing Your Child’s Faith

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 09:01:00 GMT

Resources:

Jesus Calling Bible Stories: https://a.co/d/4bXHnxn

Jesus Calling: 365 Devotions for Kids: https://a.co/d/8boKz5L

77 Ways to Pray with Your Kids: https://a.co/d/avkMEjY

Summary

In this conversation, Melissa discusses the importance of at-home faith practices for families, emphasizing that parents play a crucial role in their children's spiritual development. She shares practical examples of how to incorporate faith into daily life, from simple prayers at mealtime to reading Bible stories at bedtime.

As children grow, these practices can evolve, allowing families to deepen their faith together. The conversation encourages parents to personalize their approach and take small steps towards building a meaningful faith practice at home.

Takeaways

At-home faith practices are essential for children's spiritual growth.
Parents are the primary influence on their children's faith formation.
Start with simple practices like family prayers and Bible stories.
Incorporate gratitude into daily routines to foster a positive mindset.
Faith practices can evolve as children grow older.
It's important to create a supportive and grace-filled environment.
Personalize faith practices to fit your family's unique needs.
Celebrate small steps in your family's faith journey.
Engage children in prayer by asking for their intentions.
Utilize resources like devotionals to enhance family faith practices.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to At-Home Faith Practices

10:59 - Growing Together: Evolving Faith Practices

17:37 - Personalizing Your Family's Faith Journey

Keywords

faith practices, family, children, prayer, spirituality, at-home, parenting, Christian, Bible, community

Links & Further Resources:

Book Melissa to Speak at Your Event: https://anchored-with-purpose.ck.page/c46fe9287e

Anchored with Purpose Podcast

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anchoredwithpurpose

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissajwilkinson/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anchoredwithpurpose/

Anchored with Purpose Tribe: https://www.facebook.com/groups/anchoredwithpurpose

Anchored with Purpose Faith Journal: https://a.co/d/gPxT8zR

Looking for a coach? Email me: melissa@anchoredwithpurpose.com

Ep. 38: You Were Made for More: Anchoring to Your God-Given Purpose

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Wed, 02 Jul 2025 17:40:28 GMT

Have you ever found yourself asking, “What is my purpose?” or wondering, “Am I doing enough?” You are not alone. In this powerful episode of the Anchored with Purpose Podcast, host Melissa Wilkinson explores how your God-given purpose is not a destination or a title—it’s already rooted in your identity in Christ.

With encouragement, Scripture, and personal insight, Melissa unpacks:

Why purpose is about obedience and identity, not achievement
How to uncover the “seeds of purpose” God has already planted in your life
The impact of holy discontent and how it can point you toward your calling
The SHAPE framework from The Purpose Driven Life
Why your purpose creates eternal impact, even when it's invisible

You’ll also be equipped with 6 journal prompts to help you reflect, dig deeper, and prayerfully discern your next faithful step.

Key Scriptures: 📖 Proverbs 19:21 📖 Ephesians 2:10 📖 Jeremiah 29:11 📖 Matthew 5:16 📖 1 Corinthians 14:33

Whether you're in a season of uncertainty or stepping into something new, this episode will remind you: you were handcrafted by a God who never wastes a thing. Every gift, story, and burden can be used for His glory.

✍️ Journal Prompts from This Episode

Use these to deepen your reflection this week:

What talents, passions, or burdens has God placed in my heart that may reveal my purpose?
Where in my current season am I already making an impact, even if it seems small?
What do I want the people in my life to remember about how I lived and loved?
What bold prayer am I circling, believing that God can use to shape a legacy beyond me?
What fear or hesitation do I need to surrender so I can walk in God’s purpose more fully?
Who has impacted my life deeply, and how can I carry that legacy forward?

📚 Resources Mentioned:

The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren
The Circle Maker by Mark Batterson

Anchored with Purpose Tribe on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/anchoredwithpurpose

59| Family Dinners, Less Stress: How Meal Prep Builds Connection, Confidence, and Health | ft. Cassie Groeschel

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 09:12:00 GMT

In this episode, Melissa brings back registered dietitian, wife, and mom of three, Cassie Groeschel, to talk all things meal prep, family meals, picky eaters, and raising kids who actually know how to cook.

Cassie shares how she went from burnt-out, multi-job-working mom to a woman who uses simple meal prep routines to buy back hours of her week and reclaim evenings with her family. She breaks down why meal prep doesn’t have to mean “half your Sunday in the kitchen,” how to use tiny pockets of time (like when the toast is in the toaster!) to prep, and why cooking is a lost life skill we desperately need to bring back for our kids.

You’ll hear practical, grace-filled strategies for:

How to meal prep in small pockets of time instead of marathon Sundays
Why cooking at home is tied to better health, connection, and confidence
Simple, age-appropriate ways to get toddlers, kids, and teens helping in the kitchen
How to handle picky eaters with more intention and less frustration
What to do before you overhaul your meals: pantry resets, life-season audits, and realistic goals
How Cassie’s Busy Mom Meal Prep Course helps you reduce decision fatigue, feed your family well, and stop dreading the “What’s for dinner?” question

If you’re a busy mom who is tired of scrambling at 5 p.m., wants her kids to learn real-life kitchen skills, and desires more peaceful, screen-free family dinners, this one will speak right to you.

🔗 Links Mentioned in This Episode

Cassie’s Website Learn more about Cassie, her work with families, and her resources: 👉 wellnessthatfits.com
Cassie on Instagram Follow Cassie for practical, realistic wellness and meal prep tips for busy moms: 👉 @wellnessthatfits
Cassie’s Podcast Wellness That Fits – launching around the time of this episode, where Cassie shares more about nutrition, family wellness, and realistic health strategies for busy women.
- https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/wellness-that-fits/id1845172688

⏱ Chapters & Timestamps

00:00 – Welcome Back, Cassie! Meal Prep, Family Time & Picky Eaters 00:47 – Cassie’s Story: Burnout, Multiple Jobs & Finding Meal Prep 03:31 – “I Don’t Have Time to Meal Prep”: Mindset Shifts That Change Everything 04:38 – Tiny Pockets of Time: Prepping Lettuce While the Toast Toasts 06:11 – Reducing Food Waste with Freezer Hacks (Spinach, Carrots & More) 07:39 – Cooking as a Lost Life Skill & Why It Matters for Our Kids 09:43 – From Convenience Culture to Food Literacy and Emotional Connection 10:52 – Life Skills Camp: Letting Kids Wash, Chop & Use Knives Safely 11:42 – Age-Appropriate Kitchen Tasks: Toddlers to Bigger Kids 13:37 – Teaching Food Safety, Raw Meat Handling & Modeling in the Kitchen 14:56 – Making It Fun: Music, Theme Nights & Confidence in the Kitchen 16:12 – Spiritual & Emotional Connection Around the Table (Gratitude & Prayer) 18:46 – Patience, Screens Off & Building Social-Emotional Skills at Mealtime 20:04 – Mindful Eating vs Screens: Brain-Gut Connection & Feeling Satisfied 22:03 – Picky Eaters: Lists, Favorites & Involving Kids in Decisions 24:26 – Kids Packing Their Own Lunches: Setting Them Up for Success 27:43 – Teaching Where Food Comes From: Grocery Trips & Food Literacy 28:44 – Kids Are More Capable Than We Think: Melissa’s Lunch Story 28:56 – Inside the Busy Mom Meal Prep Course: Life Season Audit 30:17 – Pantry Reset, Core Ingredient Prep & Diverse Meals from the Same Base 32:35 – Kid Lunches Formula: Protein + Grain + Fruit + Veggie 33:34 – Reducing Decision Fatigue: Sustainable, Nutritious Meal Planning 34:34 – Why Decision Fatigue Is Real & How Meal Prep Can Help 34:56 – Where to Find Cassie & Her Busy Mom Meal Prep Course (with Discount Code) 35:32 – Melissa’s Testimony: High-Protein, High-Iron Wins with Her Boys 36:14 – Encouragement, Impact & Cassie’s Upcoming Podcast 37:20 – Closing Encouragement: Stay Anchored with Purpose

Busy Mom Meal Prep Course + Discount Code Cassie’s course designed specifically for busy, stretched-thin moms who want to:
- Spend less time in the kitchen
- Feed their families nourishing meals
- Reduce dinner-time stress and decision fatigue
Use code PREP50 at checkout to receive $50 off the Busy Mom Meal Prep Course.

Busy mom meal prep, Christian moms cooking, family meal planning, picky eaters help, kids in the kitchen, teaching kids to cook, healthy family dinners, faith and family meals, dietitian tips for moms, easy meal prep ideas, screen-free family dinners, Catholic mom life, time-saving meal prep for families, decision fatigue dinner time, kid-friendly meal prep.

Grab the FREE sample of the Anchored With Purpose Planner 👉 https://anchored-with-purpose.kit.com/befd76a8d2

anchoredwithpurpose.com

Anchored with Purpose Faith Journal

Anchored with Purpose Instagram

53| Raising Kids in the Faith (Without the Pressure): Kristin DeVan on Real-Life Habits

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 08:06:00 GMT

Melissa sits down with Kristin DeVan—mom of four, campus minister, and longtime Nativity/Rebuilt ministry leader—to talk about raising kids in the Catholic faith, simple family faith habits, and building a home culture rooted in Jesus (without perfection or pressure). Kristin shares how serving as a kid ignited her calling, how liturgical seasons help families, practical ways to pray with little ones, and why small groups matter for moms. You’ll hear honest encouragement on burnout, boundaries, and keeping your cup filled while you pour into your family and church.

Get your FREE copy of the Anchored with Purpose planner here: https://anchored-with-purpose.kit.com/befd76a8d2

What you’ll learn

How early serving in church shaped Kristin’s calling and faith
Simple, realistic family faith rhythms (prayer before meals, bedtime intentions, worship music)
Using liturgical seasons (Advent, Lent) to engage kids who think in “seasons”
Why modeling matters more than perfection (parents as visible disciples)
Small groups for moms: going deeper, being known, and staying filled
Guarding against comparison and online perfection; choosing voices that encourage
Practical resources: saints books for kids, worship music (Forrest Frank), Hallow app

Chapters

0:00 – God-orchestrated friendship & fun-size besties
1:25 – Kristin’s story: serving at 8 years old → theology → campus ministry
8:55 – Nativity/Rebuilt snapshot: one church, one message, excellence
11:30 – Keeping faith central with four kids: simple, consistent habits
15:25 – Practical traditions: mealtime prayer, bedtime intentions, music, saints books
18:30 – Worship music & Scripture: memorizing through lyrics
20:30 – Real-talk: avoiding pressure and perfection; doing what fits your family
22:45 – Hallow app, rosary readiness, and meeting kids where they are
24:20 – Small groups for moms: virtual after-bedtime & going deep
26:10 – Encouragement for moms in every season: grace > perfection

Keywords: Catholic moms, Catholic family life, family faith practices, liturgical living for families, Catholic parenting, motherhood and faith, small groups for moms, Rebuilt Parish, Nativity Church, worship music for kids, saints for kids, prayer with children, Catholic women encouragement, balance for busy moms

52| Stop Waiting for January: Tips to Finish the Year Strong

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 07 Oct 2025 13:50:07 GMT

Can you believe there are less than 90 days left in the year? Most people will hit pause and coast through the rest of the season — but not you, friend. In this episode, Melissa Wilkinson shares faith-filled encouragement and practical strategies to help you finish the year strong. You’ll learn how to reflect on your goals, re-align your priorities, and take intentional steps toward the dreams God has placed on your heart.

Through Scripture, research, and personal stories, Melissa walks you through how to create small, consistent habits that build momentum before January even arrives — because better is the end of a thing than its beginning (Ecclesiastes 7:8).

Whether you’re feeling behind, overwhelmed, or just ready for a reset, this episode will help you find clarity, peace, and purpose as you close out the year with intention and grace.

💡 What You’ll Learn:

Why how you finish the year matters more than how you started it
How to reflect on your 2025 goals — and release the ones that no longer fit
Faith-based strategies to stay grounded when life feels busy
How to build “atomic habits” that help you end the year strong
The power of planning with purpose (and how to use your planner as a faith tool)
How to set one “next right step” each week for meaningful progress
Tips for prayer journaling, celebrating weekly wins, and planning with joy
How gratitude, faith, and focus work together to create momentum

🕒 Chapters & Time Stamps:

0:00 — Why finishing the year strong matters 2:00 — The truth about New Year’s resolutions and building momentum early 4:00 — Revisiting your goals and reflecting on what still matters 6:00 — Systems, not goals: Lessons from Atomic Habits 8:00 — The Anchored with Purpose Planner: building structure and faith into your days 10:00 — Melissa’s personal story: health goals, gym challenges, and finding motivation 14:00 — The power of small habits and daily discipline 17:00 — Using your planner to track prayers, gratitude, and wins 22:00 — Giving yourself permission to adjust your goals 25:00 — Dreaming with God: setting new intentions for the coming year 28:00 — The final challenge: plant one small seed before December 31st

🧩 Resources Mentioned:

Anchored with Purpose Planner: https://anchored-with-purpose.kit.com/befd76a8d2
Atomic Habits by James Clear: https://a.co/d/5y2MODN
The Dream Manager by Matthew Kelly: https://a.co/d/aiBBU8K Anchored with Purpose: anchoredwithpurpose.com

faith-based goal setting, finish the year strong, Christian motivation, end of year reflection, Catholic women podcast, faith and planning, building habits that last, Christian time management, journaling and prayer habits, momentum for the new year, intentional living, Anchored with Purpose podcast

51| From Burnout to Alignment: Emotional Intelligence for Women in Leadership

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 30 Sep 2025 08:08:00 GMT

In this faith-filled conversation, Melissa sits down with Dr. Tennille Woodward—educator-turned-speaker, leadership coach, and national conference presenter—to talk about women in leadership, emotional intelligence, and what it really takes to live and lead in alignment. Tenille shares how she moved from corporate finance to the classroom to the principal’s office, and now to the keynote stage, helping women own their influence (Maxwell: “leadership is influence”) at work, at home, and in their faith communities. They unpack burnout, how to notice the early rumble strips (shoutout to From Drift to Drive), why “taking up space” matters, and practical ways to give and receive feedback with grace. If you’ve ever wondered, “Am I really a leader?”—this episode says yes and shows you how to step forward with purpose.

Connect with Dr. Tennille Woodward: Website: growleadempower.com (coaching, speaking, workshops)

What you’ll learn:

Why every woman is a leader (influence at home, work, church)
The difference between performance and purpose—and a tiny shift you can make this week
How to spot burnout before it breaks you (the “rumble strips” metaphor)
Emotional intelligence as the key to stewarding influence (and how to grow it)
A simple way to practice healthy feedback (beyond “good job”)
What alignment looks like when your vision, values, and actions move in the same direction
Why it’s okay to “take up space”—and how to build the courage to do it

Chapters

0:00 — God-orchestrated meeting: Maxwell Conference + a wild connection story
2:45 — Tenille’s path: corporate finance → education → principal → leadership speaker
5:30 — “Leadership is influence”: why women already lead (even if they don’t claim it)
8:15 — Movie-themed archetypes: Scene Stealer, Plot Twister, Silent Extra
11:30 — Avoiding pendulum swings & finding alignment
15:00 — Emotional intelligence at home, work, and church
17:30 — Feedback that forms people (not just “good job”)
20:10 — Moms, boundaries, and the courage to say “no, thank you”
23:10 — From performance to purpose: one small shift this week
24:20 — Where to find Tenille + connect for coaching

Resources & mentions:

Chris Robinson, From Drift to Drive (burnout & “rumble strips”) - https://a.co/d/5pzcvnK
Melissa’s Free Planner: Weekly “Prayer Requests” box (top right) + “Weekly Wins” box (bottom right) to build faith, focus, and momentum: https://anchored-with-purpose.kit.com/befd76a8d2

Keywords: women in leadership, Christian women leadership, faith-based leadership, emotional intelligence for women, burnout recovery, boundaries for moms, leadership alignment, John Maxwell leadership, purpose-driven living, feedback culture, motherhood and leadership, female keynote speaker

03| From Overwhelm to Peace: Establishing Your Faith Practice

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 29 Oct 2024 09:07:00 GMT

Sign-Up for Anchored with Purpose Dream Workshop Waitlist – https://anchored-with-purpose.ck.page/24a9254a6d

Resources:

Anchored with Purpose Faith Journal: https://a.co/d/gPxT8zR

YouVersion Bible App: https://www.bible.com/users/mjwilkinson41

Finding Your Way Back to God: https://www.bible.com/en/reading-plans/1677

The Bible Memory App: http://bit.ly/1I0jeIU

The Dream Manager by Matthew Kelly –https://a.co/d/904Ewbw

Jesus Calling by Sarah Young - https://a.co/d/4udTpAF

The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren - https://a.co/d/2vEsvFr

Rebuilt Faith by Fr. Michael White & Tom Corcoran - https://a.co/d/1i8ou2Z

The Circle Maker by Mark Batterson - https://a.co/d/eJo5DWf

Summary

In this conversation, Melissa Wilkinson shares her journey of building a daily faith practice that brings peace and transforms lives. She emphasizes the importance of establishing a morning routine, practicing gratitude, incorporating devotionals, memorizing scripture, and the power of prayer and affirmations.

Melissa encourages listeners to take small steps towards deepening their faith and to connect with a supportive community.

Takeaways

Life can be overwhelming, but there is hope.
Establishing a morning routine can transform your faith practice.
Gratitude helps shift focus to blessings rather than problems.
Incorporating devotionals can deepen your understanding of scripture.
Memorizing scripture equips you for spiritual battles.
Prayer is essential for expressing our deepest desires to God.
Affirmations can positively impact your mindset and faith journey.
Start with one step and build your faith practice gradually.
Your faith journey is unique to you; give yourself grace.
Connecting with a community can provide support and encouragement.

Sound Bites

"You can build a faith practice that transforms your life."

"This time is just like that. It's a non-negotiable time."

"Gratitude shifts your focus to the blessings in your life."

Chapters

00:00 - Finding Hope in Overwhelm

02:50 - Establishing a Morning Routine

05:47 - The Power of Gratitude

09:11 - Incorporating Devotionals

11:55 - Memorizing Scripture

14:45 - The Importance of Prayer

21:00 - Affirmations and Their Impact

23:51 - Building Your Faith Practice

Keywords

faith, morning routine, gratitude, devotionals, prayer, affirmations, spiritual growth, journaling, scripture memorization, community support

Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!

Links

Book Melissa to Speak at Your Event: https://anchored-with-purpose.ck.page/c46fe9287e

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anchoredwithpurpose

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissajwilkinson/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anchoredwithpurpose/

Anchored with Purpose Tribe: https://www.facebook.com/groups/anchoredwithpurpose

62| Year in Review: Do This Before You Set Goals for the New Year

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Thu, 18 Dec 2025 15:23:24 GMT

Before you set a single goal for the new year, Melissa invites you to pause and complete a Year in Review / Life Evaluation—a simple, powerful reflection that brings clarity, context, and peace. She shares how she recently did this with her planner and prayer time, why reflection matters (with encouragement from Scripture and mentor Rick Warren), and how this process looks different when life feels more balanced than it once did. You’ll learn exactly how to review your year through highlights, goals met, lessons learned, struggles, places visited, and especially through the Anchored with Purpose Life Anchors—so you can see God’s faithfulness, measure your growth (including your Word of the Year: Impact), and step into the next season with intention. Plus, you can download the free Life Evaluation guide.

Key Takeaways

A Year in Review gives you clarity + context before you set goals for what’s next.
Scripture calls us to reflect and remember what God has done (Ecclesiastes 3:1; Psalm 77:11–12).
Reviewing your year through the Life Anchors helps you see where you were thriving—and where you want to grow.
Your “Word of the Year” becomes more meaningful when you evaluate real-life evidence of it (Melissa’s 2025 word: Impact).
Progress doesn’t always look like perfection - sometimes it looks like balance, growth, and grace.
Practical tools help: flipping through your planner, reviewing calendar/photos, and using a simple evaluation worksheet.
Your wins count - especially the quiet ones you might forget if you don’t write them down.
This reflection becomes fuel for choosing your next Word of the Year and setting goals rooted in your real life.
It’s okay if your review happens at your desk instead of a coffee shop - still do it (and yes, go grab the latte anyway).
The free Life Evaluation download is designed to make this process easy and doable.

Chapters

00:00 — Pause Before You Plan
01:16 — Why a Year in Review Matters (Clarity + Context)
02:19 — Last Year’s Perspective vs. This Year’s Balance
04:37 — Life Anchors Review: Faith Wins & Spiritual Growth
06:57 — Health & Family Wins (Gym, Intentional Time, Parenting Growth)
11:32 — Relationships & Community (Coffee Dates + Gym Friends)
13:54 — Money & Career Wins (Anchored with Purpose + Rebuilt + YouVersion)
20:45 — Personal Growth, Coaching, and Legacy Work
23:00 — Fun & Recreation (Wins You Forget Until You Flip the Planner)
27:46 — Home Wins (Kitchen Refresh + Creating Joy at Home)
30:05 — Highlights: Full Circle Mentor Moments + Big Events
34:45 — Goals Met + Biggest Accomplishments
36:59 — What Worked vs. What Didn’t
39:23 — Struggles, Grief, and Trusting God Through Uncertainty
40:42 — Lessons Learned + Rest (Because Your Body Keeps the Score)
42:10 — Places Visited + Why It Matters to Track Them
43:50 — Download the Free Life Evaluation + How to Use It
45:20 — Final Encouragement: You’ve Got This

Year in Review, Life Evaluation, Christian goal setting, faith-based planning, reflection prompts, end of year reset, Word of the Year, Wheel of Life, Life Anchors, Catholic personal growth, spiritual reflection, planner reflection, gratitude and growth, habits and systems, work-life balance, discipleship, making an impact, Scripture reflection, journaling prompts, goal setting with God, Anchored with Purpose planner

61| Reclaim Your Space with GRACE: Faith-Filled Organizing with Melinda Grace

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 09 Dec 2025 09:18:00 GMT

In this episode of the Anchored with Purpose podcast, Melissa sits down with professional organizer and author Melinda Grace, creator of the Reclaim Your Space with GRACE method. If your home feels overwhelming, your closets are overflowing, and your mind feels just as cluttered as your countertops, this conversation will feel like a deep breath.

Melinda shares how God led her from an acting career in New York and LA into professional organizing, and how she began to see that clutter isn’t just “stuff” — it’s deeply connected to our anxiety, faith life, and sense of purpose. She unpacks powerful stories of women whose lives changed as they cleared their homes: new jobs, big moves, finished books, and fresh courage to step into their callings.

You’ll also hear Melinda’s GRACE framework for decluttering (Gather, Release, Acquire, Cultivate, Enjoy), how to start where you’re most stuck, and why inviting God into the process can turn organizing from a dreaded chore into a soul-level reset. Whether you’re getting ready for the holidays, dreaming of a calmer new year, or just tired of feeling like you’re drowning in your own home, this episode will help you reclaim your space — and your peace — with grace.

Melinda’s Book: Reclaim Your Space with GRACE by Melinda Grace – https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FR9J9QN8

🎙 The Anchored with Purpose Planner is available NOW — plus a FREE December download to try and use right away!

Key Takeaways

Clutter is not neutral – research shows it increases cortisol and can contribute to anxiety, fatigue, and stress, especially for women.
Your home is a sanctuary – our physical spaces can either support or sabotage our ability to hear God, rest, and live our purpose.
Start where you’re stuck – notice which room, corner, or routine makes you feel the most overwhelmed and begin there.
Clutter and calling are connected – when women clear space, they often gain clarity and courage for big decisions (moving, writing a book, changing careers, etc.).
We attach emotions to objects – sometimes we’re really holding onto memories, guilt, or identity, not just “stuff.”
It’s okay to ask for help – inviting a friend, organizer, or coach into your space can be the breakthrough you need.
The GRACE framework makes decluttering doable:
- G – Gather: your goals, your supplies, your items, and even donation options
- R – Release: let go of what no longer serves your current season
- A – Acquire: only then bring in bins, baskets, and design touches
- C – Cultivate: practice your new “dance” and rhythms in the space
- E – Enjoy: pause to celebrate, rest, and thank God for the transformation
Faith belongs in the process – praying over what to keep, what to release, and where to donate can turn decluttering into a spiritual practice.
You’re doing better than you think – moms are carrying a huge mental load; organizing is meant to support you, not shame you.
Small changes matter – even tiny shifts like moving glasses closer to the water source or reworking a drawer can save time and mental energy daily.

Episode Chapters & Timestamps

00:00 – Welcome & Holiday Clutter Chat

02:00 – Meet Melinda: Faith, Family & Life by the Beach

05:00 – From Acting to Organizing: A Calling Rewritten

09:00 – When Decluttering Changes a Life

12:00 – Clutter, Cortisol & the Science of Stress

16:00 – Drowning at Home: Where Do I Even Start?

18:30 – “Start Where You’re Stuck” 22:00 – Why Letting Go Is So Emotional

24:30 – Praying Over Donations & Finding the Right Home for Your Stuff 28:00 – Faith, Purpose & Our Overloaded Homes 33:00 – The GRACE Framework for Organizing 41:00 – Melissa’s $400 Kitchen Refresh & “Dance” in the Home 45:30 – How to Work with Melinda & Where to Find Her

Links & Resources Mentioned

Melinda’s Book: Reclaim Your Space with GRACE by Melinda Grace – https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FR9J9QN8
Connect with Melinda Grace: Website: www.melindagrace.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melindagraceorganizing/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/melindagraceorganizing
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/melindagraceorganizing
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melinda-grace-0a3632329
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@melindagraceorganizing
Newsletter: https://melinda-grace-organizing.kit.com/7b63959d73
https://bit.ly/melindagraceorganizing
Grab Your Free Decluttering Checklist HERE -> https://melinda-grace-organizing.kit.com/80361b279f https://bit.ly/MGOdeclutteringlist

Refresh Your Kitchen with My Top 10 Organizing Hacks for Kitchens HERE -> https://melinda-grace-organizing.kit.com/7103328cf4 https://bit.ly/MGOkitchenreset
Easy, Printable Password Tracker HERE -> https://melinda-grace-organizing.kit.com/f3cb202522 https://bit.ly/MGOPasswordTracker

Connect with Melissa & Anchored with Purpose: Links

Christian home organization, Christian organizer, faith-based decluttering, reclaim your space with grace, Melinda Grace organizing, GRACE organizing method, clutter and anxiety, Christian minimalist lifestyle, organizing for overwhelmed moms, faith and home, Christian home reset, holiday decluttering, Christian women and mental load, GRACE framework, reclaim your space book

58| Holy Boundaries: Protecting Your Peace with Family This Holiday Season

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 18 Nov 2025 09:00:00 GMT

In this powerful conversation, Melissa sits down with Meghan Lemery-Fritz, LCSW — a licensed clinical social worker with over 25 years of experience — to talk about healthy boundaries, emotional safety, narcissistic family members, and how to protect your peace during the holidays as a Christian woman.

Meghan shares how her Catholic + charismatic upbringing, her mom’s late-in-life social work career, and even old HBO movies sparked her fascination with relationships and human behavior. From there, she unpacks what boundaries actually are (and what they’re not), why so many Christian women confuse self-abandonment with holiness, and how the Holy Spirit often speaks through our discomfort, intuition, and lack of peace.

You’ll hear practical, faith-filled guidance on:

What a healthy boundary really is (hint: it’s about your actions, not their behavior)
How to recognize when you’re dysregulated, drained, or ignoring your intuition
Why “being nice” and being kind are not the same — and how authenticity is actually more Christ-like
How to prepare for family gatherings with a clear plan, exit strategies, and time limits
What to do if you’re dealing with a narcissistic or emotionally unhealthy relative
Why it’s okay — and sometimes necessary — to go low contact or no contact
How to say no without over-explaining, and how to stop abandoning yourself in the name of “being a good Christian”

This episode is especially timely if you’re heading into Thanksgiving, Christmas, or extended-family events and already feeling anxious, guilty, or overwhelmed

Chapters

00:00 – Welcome & Introduction to Meghan Lemery-Fritz 00:39 – Meghan’s Family, Faith Background & Local Connection 02:11 – How HBO Movies, Bible Study, and Her Mom’s Career Shaped Her Calling 05:41 – Growing Up Catholic with a Charismatic, Scripture-Rooted Twist 07:29 – What Is a Healthy Boundary (and What It’s Not)? 10:00 – Are Boundaries Unloving? A Catholic Perspective on Dignity & Self-Respect 12:45 – Dysregulation, Intuition, and the Holy Spirit’s “Still Small Voice” 15:27 – People-Pleasing vs Inspiration: Are You a Cheerful Giver? 16:18 – Nice vs Kind: Serving from Ego vs Serving from the Spirit 18:39 – Self-Abandonment, Oxygen Masks, and Feeling “Dead Inside” 20:27 – Time in the Word, Quiet, and Why We Need Space to Heal 22:04 – Practicing “No”: Simple Phrases for Protecting Your Peace 23:25 – The Power of Authenticity: The Strongest Energy in the Room 24:44 – Holiday Triggers: Birth Order, Old Patterns, and Family Expectations 27:51 – Melissa’s Christmas Story & Redefining What the Day Looks Like 29:35 – Discomfort as Information: Listening to Your Body (Not Just “Anxiety”) 30:54 – Setting Clear Expectations: Offensive vs Defensive Boundaries 32:14 – Safe Words, Exit Plans, and Handling Intrusive Questions 33:44 – Hosting, Over-Functioning, and Letting Others Help 35:27 – “I Have Anxiety” vs “I Have Feelings”: Learning to Hold Space 36:16 – Narcissistic & Emotionally Unhealthy Family Members: First Steps 37:40 – Low Contact, No Contact & Moving Toward Safety as a Christian 40:14 – How You Feel Around Someone as a Clue to Personality Disorders 42:38 – Where to Find Meghan Online & Her Personality Disorder Content 44:41 – Melissa’s Closing Thoughts & Meghan’s Upcoming Podcast

🔗 Links Mentioned in the Episode

Meghan’s Telehealth Psychotherapy Practice Fritz & Tanger Psychotherapy (serving clients in Pennsylvania, Vermont, Colorado, New York, and New Hampshire) 👉 https://www.fritzstanger.com/
- https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/meghan-lemery-fritz-glens-falls-ny/1051148
Meghan on TikTok – Personality Disorders & Boundaries Short, powerful “crash course” videos on personality disorders, narcissism, boundaries, and emotional health 👉https://www.tiktok.com/@personalitydisordercoach?_r=1&_t=ZP-91B6y1NRN1D or Search “Personality Disorder Coach” on TikTok

Healthy boundaries Christian women, Catholic boundaries, Christian mental health, holiday family stress, narcissistic family member, personality disorders, emotional safety, people-pleasing, Christian women saying no, Catholic moms and boundaries, holiday triggers, Christian therapist boundaries, Holy Spirit and intuition.

Connect with Melissa:

57| Anchored, Not Anxious: How Weekly Planning Helps You Find Peace

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Wed, 12 Nov 2025 14:51:14 GMT

Ever feel like your to-do list is running you instead of the other way around? 🌀 The appointments, the kids’ activities, hosting responsibilities, family coming to town, holiday prep, and somewhere in there — you still need time to breathe?

In today’s episode, Melissa gets honest about overwhelm, anxiety, and the powerful practice that helps her reset and return to peace every single week: faith-first planning using the weekly spread inside the Anchored With Purpose Planner.

Inside this episode, you'll learn:

✨ Why God cares about how you use your time ✨ The science behind writing down tasks + reducing anxiety ✨ How to turn a mental spiral into calm clarity ✨ The one weekly focus that keeps you grounded ✨ How to brain-dump and sort tasks with intention ✨ Why scheduling tasks makes you 3x more likely to finish them ✨ Color-coding, time-blocking, and stepping into stewardship ✨ A gentle reminder that planning ≠ perfection — it’s progress

And most importantly — how your planner can become a place of peace, a sanctuary where you meet God, breathe deeply, and choose purpose over panic.

🧠 Key Takeaways

Your planner is not just paper — it's peace
Start your week with God, not your calendar
A weekly focus keeps you aligned with your calling
Scripture anchors your mind and heart
Writing tasks down frees your brain to breathe
Time-blocking turns intention into action
Celebrate wins — big and small — to cultivate gratitude & joy
Consistency over perfection

📌 Links Mentioned

Grab the FREE sample of the Anchored With Purpose Planner 👉 https://anchored-with-purpose.kit.com/befd76a8d2
Anchored With Purpose Faith Journal 👉https://a.co/d/bGAJpU5

📱 Let’s Connect

Tag me on Instagram when you're doing your weekly planning — I LOVE seeing your spreads and cheering you on! @anchoredwithpurpose or @melissajwilkinson

🎧 Listen + Share

If this episode blessed you, share it with a friend who needs peace, clarity, and a reminder that she doesn’t have to hustle — she can plan with God.

32| Serve, Tithe, Engage, Pray, Share: The STEPS to Living Your Catholic Faith

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 20 May 2025 08:36:00 GMT

Discipleship isn’t about perfection — it’s about saying “yes” to Jesus in the midst of your everyday life: in the carpool line, the chaos of kids’ schedules, and even when you're just barely hanging on.

In this powerful and practical episode, Melissa Wilkinson shares how busy women can take simple, meaningful steps to deepen their faith and become intentional disciples — no matter how full their plate is. Inspired by the book Rebuilt Faith by the founders of Rebuilt Parish, Melissa walks through the 5 STEPS to Discipleship:

✨ S - Serve Discover how using your God-given gifts to serve your parish (or even your neighbor) can transform not just your church, but your own heart.

✨ T - Tithe and Give Hear why giving isn't about obligation — it's about freedom and trust. Melissa shares practical ways to begin giving, even when money feels tight.

✨ E - Engage in Christian Community You’re not meant to walk this faith journey alone. Melissa shares her small group experience and how community has been pivotal in her spiritual growth — plus tips for starting your own.

✨ P - Practice Prayer and the Sacraments Explore simple, grace-filled ways to deepen your prayer life and return to the sacraments — even when you’re short on time (yes, even in the carpool line!).

✨ S - Share Your Faith When you live your faith out loud — even in small ways — you open the door for others to encounter Jesus.

With personal stories, real-life examples, and powerful Scripture references, this episode will inspire you to respond to God’s love right where you are — imperfectly, but intentionally.

Resources Mentioned:

Rebuilt Faith book by Michael White and Tom Corcoran

📅 Book your Anchored Insights Discussion session here Or just shoot me an email — I’d truly love to connect! melissa@anchoredwithpurpose.com

28| Why Philippians 4:6–8 Might Just Be Tattoo-Worthy (And How It Can Change Your Life)

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Thu, 24 Apr 2025 14:19:24 GMT

⚓️ Have you ever felt so passionately about something that you thought about tattooing it on your body? In this heart-to-heart episode, Melissa shares a personal reflection on one of her favorite Bible passages: Philippians 4:6–8 — the scripture she uses as a prayer framework and has even considered tattooing on her body!

She dives deep into the meaning behind this verse, exploring how it’s not just inspirational, but transformational. Melissa walks you through the scripture, verse by verse, sharing how God gives us a path out of anxiety through prayer, supplication, and thanksgiving — and how He promises peace that transcends understanding.

She also ties in neuroscience, quoting Dr. Caroline Leaf to show how our thoughts physically impact our brains. With practical takeaways, examples from her own life, and encouragement rooted in faith, Melissa challenges us to rethink what we focus on — and gives you simple habits to begin renewing your mind today.

Want some one-on-one time with Melissa? Schedule your FREE Anchored Insights Discussion and Melissa will spend time with you discussing your biggest goals, dreams, and how to overcome the limiting beliefs and challenges holding you back.

📖 Scripture Highlight

Philippians 4:6–8 (ESV)

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things."

🧠 Key Points & Takeaways

Why this scripture matters: Melissa shares why Philippians 4:6–8 is so meaningful to her personally and spiritually.
God’s peace explained: It’s not the absence of problems — it’s the presence of His protection.
Prayer framework: Learn how to use prayer, supplication, and thanksgiving to turn worry into worship.
The neuroscience connection: Dr. Caroline Leaf’s research confirms that our thoughts physically change our brains.
Philippians 4:8 in practice: What we think about matters — and God tells us exactly what to focus on.

🎧 Listener Reflection

Ask yourself:

What are you consuming (TV, music, podcasts) that might be increasing your anxiety?
Are you feeding your fear — or your faith?

📲 Connect with Melissa

Website: anchoredwithpurpose.com
Instagram: @anchoredwithpurpose
Facebook Group: Anchored with Purpose Tribe
Anchored with Purpose Faith Journal – Melissa’s tool to help you deepen your prayer life using Philippians 4:6–8.

🙏 Leave a Review

If this episode blessed you, share it with a friend and leave a review to help more mamas find peace, purpose, and practical faith!

02| Stuck in the Daily Grind? How to Begin Dreaming Big Again

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 29 Oct 2024 09:06:00 GMT

Sign-Up for Anchored with Purpose Dream Workshop Waitlist – https://anchored-with-purpose.ck.page/24a9254a6d

Resources:

Anchored with Purpose Faith Journal: https://a.co/d/gPxT8zR

The Dream Manager by Matthew Kelly –https://a.co/d/904Ewbw

Jesus Calling by Sarah Young - https://a.co/d/4udTpAF

The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren - https://a.co/d/2vEsvFr

Rebuilt Faith by Fr. Michael White & Tom Corcoran - https://a.co/d/1i8ou2Z

The Circle Maker by Mark Batterson - https://a.co/d/eJo5DWf

Summary

In this episode of Anchored with Purpose, Melissa Wilkinson emphasizes the importance of dreaming big, especially for women who often put their dreams on hold due to responsibilities.

She shares personal stories and research that highlight the benefits of dreaming, including increased life satisfaction and motivation. The episode encourages listeners to rediscover their dreams, take actionable steps towards achieving them, and participate in workshops designed to help them realize their aspirations.

Takeaways

Dreaming big is essential for a fulfilling life.
Over 60% of women have put their dreams on hold.
Dreaming can increase life satisfaction by 25%.
Visualization makes you 42% more likely to achieve your goals.
It's important to give yourself permission to want more.
Writing down dreams helps in achieving them.
Creating a vision board can help visualize goals.
As mothers, we often forget to dream for ourselves.
Workshops can help rediscover and achieve dreams.
Inspiring others starts with pursuing your own dreams.

Sound Bites

"Feeling lost, overwhelmed?"

"Dreaming doesn't have to stop just because life gets busy."

"When was the last time you let yourself dream?"

Chapters

00:00 - The Importance of Dreaming Big

09:11 - How to Start Dreaming Again

13:02 - Rediscovering Your Dreams Through Workshops

15:15 - Introduction to Anchored with Purpose

15:45 - Community and Support in Pursuing Dreams

Keywords

dreaming big, personal growth, motherhood, life satisfaction, vision board, faith, purpose, women empowerment, mental health, goal setting, overwhelmed mom, work at home mom, stay at home mom, catholic mom

Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!

Links

Book Melissa to Speak at Your Event: https://anchored-with-purpose.ck.page/c46fe9287e

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anchoredwithpurpose

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissajwilkinson/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anchoredwithpurpose/

Anchored with Purpose Tribe: https://www.facebook.com/groups/anchoredwithpurpose

01| Overcoming Overwhelm: Anchoring Yourself with Faith and Purpose

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 29 Oct 2024 09:05:00 GMT

Sign-Up for Anchored with Purpose Dream Workshop Waitlist – https://anchored-with-purpose.ck.page/24a9254a6d

Resources:

Anchored with Purpose Faith Journal: https://a.co/d/gPxT8zR

The Dream Manager by Matthew Kelly –https://a.co/d/904Ewbw

Jesus Calling by Sarah Young - https://a.co/d/4udTpAF

The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren - https://a.co/d/2vEsvFr

Rebuilt Faith by Fr. Michael White & Tom Corcoran - https://a.co/d/1i8ou2Z

The Circle Maker by Mark Batterson - https://a.co/d/eJo5DWf

Summary

In this inaugural episode of 'Anchored with Purpose', host Melissa Wilkinson shares her journey of balancing multiple roles as a woman, mother, and entrepreneur while seeking a deeper connection with her faith.

She discusses the challenges of losing oneself in daily responsibilities and the importance of rediscovering dreams and purpose. The episode outlines practical steps for cultivating gratitude and building a daily faith practice, emphasizing that faith is a journey that requires intentionality and support.

Takeaways

As women, we often juggle multiple roles and responsibilities.
It's common to lose sight of our dreams and connections.
Rediscovering faith can lead to a deeper sense of purpose.
Building a daily faith practice can transform your life.
Gratitude is a powerful tool for personal growth.
Engaging with your faith community can enhance your spiritual journey.
It's important to take small steps towards reconnecting with God.
Motherhood can be overwhelming, but you're not alone.
Finding your purpose requires intentional reflection and action.
Faith is a continuous journey that evolves over time.

Sound Bites

"We wear so many hats."

"It's easy to miss out on true connection."

"I felt like a piece of myself was missing."

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Anchored with Purpose

02:52 - The Struggle of Balancing Multiple Roles

05:47 - Rediscovering Faith and Purpose

09:05 - Practical Steps for Daily Gratitude and Growth

Keywords

faith, purpose, motherhood, personal growth, gratitude, connection, dreams, Catholic, women, spirituality, overwhelmed mom, stressed out mom, stay at home mom, work at home mom, wahm

Links

Book Melissa to Speak at Your Event: https://anchored-with-purpose.ck.page/c46fe9287e

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anchoredwithpurpose

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissajwilkinson/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anchoredwithpurpose/

Anchored with Purpose Tribe: https://www.facebook.com/groups/anchoredwithpurpose

16| Vision Board Myths Debunked

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 28 Jan 2025 10:47:00 GMT

Dream Workshop on January 29th at 6PM EST - Register here!

In this conversation, Melissa Wilkinson addresses common myths surrounding vision boards, emphasizing their role as tools for aligning personal dreams with God's purpose. She discusses the importance of dreaming big, the biblical basis for vision boards, and the necessity of taking action in faith. The conversation culminates in an invitation to a workshop aimed at helping individuals explore and articulate their God-sized dreams.

Takeaways

Vision boards are tools for aligning dreams with God's purpose.
Dreaming big is about fulfilling God's plan, not personal gain.
The Bible supports the concept of vision and dreams.
Writing down goals activates our brain's focus on opportunities.
Visualization paired with prayer enhances our alignment with God's will.
Taking action towards dreams demonstrates faith in God.
Vision boards are not substitutes for prayer or trust in God.
Commitment to God leads to the establishment of our plans.
Dreaming big can inspire others, including family.
Workshops can help individuals discover and articulate their dreams.

Chapters

00:00 - Debunking Vision Board Myths

09:09 - The Power of Dreaming Big

Keywords

vision boards, dreaming big, Christian faith, purpose, prayer, God's will, biblical principles, action, trust, workshop

Links

63| From Mess to Mission: Turning Your Story Into a Business That Serves Others | ft. Linds Paulson

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 08:59:00 GMT

In today’s episode, Melissa sits down with Lindsay Paulson, CEO of LP Consulting and host of the Mess to Mission podcast. Lindsay helps faith-filled, high-capacity women simplify their homes, systems, and businesses so they can operate with more peace and confidence. Lindsay shares her powerful mess to mission journey, including her pivot out of the hotel industry, what she learned scaling a construction company from a 3-person team to 22, and how deep personal loss shaped her mission-driven approach to business. Together, Melissa and Lindsay talk about where to start when God places a dream on your heart, why systems matter (especially early on), how to build rhythms that prevent burnout, and why asking for help is not weakness. You’ll walk away with practical, encouraging steps to simplify, start, and move forward with faith.

Key Takeaways

Start with what brings you joy and what lights you up. Your business can be built for your current season.
Your “mess to mission” story can become the very foundation of how you serve others.
Systems save you later. Lindsay’s ADE method helps you scale with sanity: Automate, Delegate, Elevate.
You can’t delegate what you haven’t outlined. Create simple processes and SOPs “like you’re explaining it to a kindergartener.”
You don’t need expensive tools to get started. Use free or low-cost resources first to avoid shiny object syndrome.
Build rhythms that support your family life: time blocking, admin days, and a strong “set your future self up for success” routine.
Play and rest are not optional. They’re how you refuel to avoid burnout and keep showing up with joy.
Comparison steals confidence. Don’t compare your day one to someone else’s day fifty.
Asking for help is a mindset shift. Delegation can bless you and support other small business owners too.
Don’t get stuck in perfection. People need your knowledge more than they need your “perfect” logo or the perfect shade of blue.

Chapter Titles & Timestamps

00:00 — Meet Lindsay Paulson (LP Consulting + Mess to Mission)
02:02 — Lindsay’s Mess to Mission Story and Her Big Pivot
09:50 — Mission-Driven Work: Nonprofits, St. Jude, and Redeeming Hope
10:59 — Where to Start When God Places a Dream on Your Heart
12:50 — Why Systems Matter and a Simple System You Can Start Today
15:32 — Shiny Object Syndrome and Choosing Tools That Fit Your Brain
18:19 — Faith and Business: Building Around Family, Not Burnout
22:51 — Rhythms for Family Life, Travel Seasons, and Preventing Burnout
29:08 — Why It’s Hard to Ask for Help and How to Shift Your Mindset
32:23 — Encouragement for the Woman Afraid to Take the Leap
34:37 — Where to Find Lindsay and Work With Her

Links Mentioned in the Episode

Lindsay’s Website: www.lindspaulson.com
Instagram: @linds.paulson
Mess to Mission Podcast: Available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts
Automation Academy (Monthly Subscription): Available on Lindsay’s website (www.lindspaulson.com )

🎙 The Anchored with Purpose Planner is available NOW — plus a FREE December download to try and use right away!

faith-based business, Christian women entrepreneurs, systems for small business, business systems and processes, project management for entrepreneurs, how to start a business as a mom, automate delegate elevate, time blocking for moms, business without burnout, simplify your business, operations consulting, business automation, women owned business, Mess to Mission podcast, faith and entrepreneurship, delegation for entrepreneurs, free business tools, Google Workspace for business, ClickUp free version, entrepreneurship for busy moms

69| In the Wilderness? Day 41 Is Coming | ft. Mya Hull

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 09:10:00 GMT

In today’s episode, Melissa sits down with her new friend Mya Hull, a former top 1% leader in Mary Kay who felt God stirring something deeper, even in the middle of success. Mya shares her origin story, what that leadership season taught her about identity, and the “holy discontent” that led her to lay down what looked good on paper in order to follow what God was calling her into next.

You’ll hear the powerful meaning behind “41”—the idea that we all walk through “40 seasons” of wilderness, waiting, testing, and transition… but day 41 comes, and God is faithful. Mya walks us through how her Ignite Your Joy workshop became the foundation for a faith-led community for women entrepreneurs, and how the 41 Sisterhood is helping women grow with joy, clarity, confidence, and obedience.

If you’re in a season of waiting, this conversation will leave you with hope and practical encouragement to stay rooted in Christ while you walk toward your own “41 moment.”

Follow Mya on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themyahull?igsh=ZzRoYjU1cTZxYTg4&utm_source=qr
Mya on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mya.hull
41 Sisterhood / Stan Store: https://stan.store/theMyaHull
Email Mya: themyahull@gmail.com
Free Purpose Bracket Resource: https://stan.store/theMyaHull/p/snag-your-free-purpose-bracket

Key Takeaways

Success can be a slippery slope: even good things (recognition, achievement, leadership) can quietly become an identity or an idol if we’re not careful.
Conviction is different than shame: Mya describes moments where God didn’t condemn her, but lovingly redirected her heart posture.
God often uses transition to get our attention: new environments can create space to hear Him clearly again.
Your gifts exist outside of your title: Mya shares the shift of separating her strengths from her previous business and realizing God could use them in a new way.
You don’t need all the steps to obey: sometimes God gives the idea first and the logistics later.
The “41” message is hope: wilderness doesn’t last forever, and God always keeps His promises.
Fasting from noise brings clarity: Mya talks about getting quiet (not isolating, but choosing solitude with God).
Your test becomes your testimony: God can use the very season you wish you could skip.

Chapters

00:00 – Welcome + why this conversation felt God-ordained 00:58 – Mya’s origin story: pastor’s kid, entrepreneur at 20, motherhood + transition 04:07 – Top 1% leadership: what success taught her about discipline, ambition, and identity 06:37 – “It can become an idol”: the heart shift behind achievement 09:04 – Holy discontent: when God starts stirring something deeper 09:31 – Transition + deeper Bible study: learning to truly hear God again 12:23 – Obedience without answers: “I’m supposed to lay this down” 15:55 – Recognizing your gifts outside your business + “keep writing” moment 19:05 – People’s opinions vs the story we tell ourselves 23:08 – What’s next: Ignite Your Joy workshop + purpose bracket tool 29:09 – Why community matters for solopreneurs 29:37 – The story behind 41: wilderness seasons + day 41 breakthrough 35:33 – Launching the 41 Sisterhood: community, workshops, coaching, real transformation 41:12 – Hope for the woman in the wilderness: how to hold faith until day 41 46:51 – Fasting from noise + staying rooted in Jesus 49:05 – Where to find Mya + how to join the community

Call to Action

If you’re in a “40 season” right now—waiting, wrestling, transitioning, or feeling like God is asking you to lay something down—friend, you are not alone. Day 41 is coming. Share this episode with a friend who needs hope, and be sure to follow Mya and check out the 41 Sisterhood if you’re craving community and clarity in this season.

Christian women entrepreneurs, faith-driven business, obedience over approval, leaving direct sales, identity in Christ, Christian business coach, faith and entrepreneurship, choosing joy in the wilderness, Christian women community, purpose and calling, surrender season, waiting on God, day 41, wilderness season faith, clarity confidence joy, Christian coaching community, rooted in Christ, Christian mindset, spiritual growth and business, hope in hard seasons

68| Perimenopause Explained with Rita Johnson: Why Your Body Feels So Different

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 09:40:00 GMT

Perimenopause is the topic so many women are whispering about over coffee, but rarely getting real answers. In this conversation, functional health practitioner Rita Johnson breaks down what’s actually happening in your body during perimenopause and why symptoms like weight gain, inflammation, sleep issues, digestive changes, and mood shifts are not “just aging.” Rita explains the powerful connection between gut health and hormone balance, why supplements can become expensive band-aids if you don’t address root causes, and the small daily habits that can make a big difference. You’ll also hear a balanced, faith-friendly discussion on hormone replacement therapy (HRT), including common misconceptions and what to look for if you’re considering it.

Links Mentioned

Rita’s Website: https://naturalfertilitycare.org/nutritional-therapy/
Rita’s Podcast (Health & Hormones): https://healthandhormones.org/
Divine Mercy Nutritional Care (Rita’s practice): [LINK]
Free Hormone Balancing Guide: https://birdsend.page/forms/9473/cDk9YT4KSn
Perimenopause Toolkit Workshop (live + replay option): https://healthandhormones.org/perimenopause-workshop/

Key Takeaways

Perimenopause is a remodeling season, not a dead end. Your body is shifting from higher to lower hormone output, and multiple systems are adapting along the way.
Symptoms vary widely, but your intuition matters. If you’re 35+ and feel like your body is “different” or unfamiliar, it may be perimenopause-related.
Gut health impacts hormones in two big ways: your ability to make hormones (nutrients, fats, absorption) and your ability to clear hormones (detox pathways).
Healthy bowel movements matter more than most women realize. Regularity and quality can be a key sign of hormonal balance and detox support.
Probiotics aren’t the only answer. Food-based probiotics (like fermented foods) may be a simple starting point, and deeper digestive support may be needed depending on the root issue.
“We can’t out-supplement bad habits.” Slowing down, chewing, sitting to eat, and praying before meals can help your body shift into “rest and digest.”
Workout intensity may need adjusting in perimenopause. Too much HIIT/cardio can strain adrenals for some women, while strength training and walking often support hormone health best.
Collagen and protein can be helpful, but keep it simple. Prioritize whole foods when possible, and use supplements strategically.
Synthetic fabrics and “toxin panic” can lead to overwhelm. Focus on your body’s non-negotiables instead of trying to fix everything at once.
HRT isn’t the same as birth control, but it matters what you’re being prescribed. Rita emphasizes bioidentical hormones and addressing root causes alongside symptom relief.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome + why we’re talking perimenopause now 00:38 Rita’s story: cycle tracking, infertility, and functional hormone work 02:45 Overlooked perimenopause symptoms and the “cotton to silk” body shift 05:34 Melissa’s personal symptoms: stress, weight gain, inflammation, labs, and restrictive plans 09:20 Gut health + hormone balance: why detox and digestion matter 11:08 What “healthy digestion” actually looks like (and what’s not normal) 14:40 What to do next: probiotics, fermented foods, enzymes, and targeted support 18:35 The power of slowing down: chewing, sitting, and praying before meals 19:37 Listener Qs: collagen, supplements, and what’s worth the hype 22:20 Coffee + protein: stabilizing blood sugar and protecting cortisol 23:53 Adrenals + workouts: when HIIT/cardio may be too much in perimenopause 28:01 Synthetic fabrics + toxin overwhelm: focus on your “non-negotiables” 31:15 HRT explained: when it helps, when it becomes a band-aid 35:59 Misconceptions, the early 2000s study, and bioidentical vs synthetic hormones 38:49 Where to find Rita + free hormone balancing guide 40:27 Perimenopause Toolkit Workshop (HRT, charting, intimacy, and self-navigation)

perimenopause symptoms, perimenopause weight gain, hormone imbalance in women, functional medicine for hormones, gut health and hormones, estrogen dominance, progesterone and perimenopause, adrenal health and cortisol, perimenopause workout routine, strength training in perimenopause, inflammation and hormones, digestion and hormone detox, healthy bowel movements, fermented foods probiotics, digestive enzymes for women, collagen for women over 35, protein for women over 40, coffee and cortisol, hormone replacement therapy HRT, bioidentical hormones, Catholic hormone health, NAPRO doctor hormones, FEMM hormone support, faith and wellness for women, women’s hormone coaching

67| Vision Is Not New Age: A Catholic Approach to Dreaming With God

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Thu, 22 Jan 2026 19:57:19 GMT

Vision boards. Visualization. Imagining your future.

For many Catholics, these words can feel uncomfortable or even off-limits. Is this New Age? Is it Christian? Is it something we should avoid altogether?

In this episode of the Anchored with Purpose Podcast, Melissa breaks down why vision is deeply biblical and deeply Catholic when done the right way — with God at the center. You’ll learn how visualization can actually become a powerful form of prayer, how Scripture invites us to imagine God’s future for our lives, and how vision boards can be used as a faith-filled tool for surrender, not control.

Melissa also weaves in wisdom from one of her favorite authors, Mark Batterson, and explains the clear difference between New Age manifestation and Catholic discernment.

If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s okay to dream big with God — this episode is for you.

🧠 What You’ll Learn in This Episode

Why vision is biblical, not trendy or New Age
How imagination is a gift from God
The difference between visualization as prayer vs. manifestation
Why surrender matters more than control when dreaming with God
How God provides provision where He gives vision
The Catholic mindset vs. the New Age mindset (side-by-side clarity)
How vision boards can become a visual prayer journal
The neuroscience behind focus, habits, and holy imagination
How vision connects to Melissa’s Life Anchors: faith, family, health, purpose, impact, relationships, and home

🎧 Episode Chapters

00:00 – Is Vision Biblical or New Age? 01:08 – Grounding Vision in Scripture 02:23 – Imagination as Prayer 04:32 – Dreaming with God, Not Apart from Him 06:48 – God Gives Vision and Provision 08:15 – Catholic Vision vs. New Age Thinking 09:18 – What a Catholic Vision Board Really Is 11:40 – The Neuroscience of Holy Focus 13:02 – Vision Through the Life Anchors 14:06 – Dream Big and Trust God’s Timing

🛠️ Practical Takeaway

This month, spend intentional time with Jesus and ask:

What do You want me to become this year?
What vision do You have for my life?
Where are You inviting me to trust You more deeply?

Then consider creating a simple, faith-filled vision board as a prayer tool.

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66| Earbuds In: A Catholic Conversation About Sex, Intimacy, and Marriage

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 13 Jan 2026 09:56:00 GMT

This is an “earbuds in” conversation, friend. Melissa sits down with Ellen Holloway, host of Charting Toward Intimacy (a leading Catholic intimacy podcast), for an honest, hope-filled conversation about sex, intimacy, and healing in marriage—in a way that’s fully aligned with the Catholic Church. Ellen shares her personal story (including the early struggles of marriage, learning Natural Family Planning, and healing from vaginismus), why so many Catholic women feel shame or confusion around sex, and practical steps to reconnect with your body, your spouse, and God. You’ll also hear powerful takeaways like a body scan prayer, the idea that sex can be prayer, and why scheduling sex isn’t unromantic—it’s often the most loving way to prioritize intimacy in real life.

Learn more at Ellen’s website: https://vinesinfullbloom.com/

Key Takeaways

You’re not “bad” for struggling with sex. Many emotions around intimacy are learned responses, not moral failures.
Shame thrives in silence. Intimacy is deeply vulnerable, so it’s often avoided—but it’s too important to ignore.
A powerful starting point: the Body Scan Prayer. Noticing your thoughts about each part of your body and asking God what He thinks can be deeply healing.
God calls your body “very good.” Parts of the body that carry the most shame are also parts that reflect God’s design for communion and relationship.
Healing takes time—and wins matter. Celebrate small progress instead of only focusing on the end goal.
Sex can be prayerful. Ellen encourages bringing God into your intimacy—praying about your sex life and (eventually) praying with your husband.
Spontaneity is not the standard. Scheduling sex is often a healthy way to prioritize connection (just like we schedule what matters most).
Libido can be rebuilt. Desire and pleasure aren’t “either you have it or you don’t”—there are practical steps forward.
There are safer ways to get support. Not every level of conversation is appropriate with close friends—sometimes a coach/community outside your circle is best.
Free next step: Ellen shares a free webinar on January 21 focused on rebuilding libido and learning key foundations for pleasure.

Chapter Titles + Timestamps

00:01 — Earbuds In Disclaimer + Episode Preview
00:37 — Ellen’s Story: Early Marriage Struggles, NFP, and Healing
05:05 — “Why Didn’t Anyone Teach Us This?” (Purity Culture + Pre-Cana Gaps)
07:06 — Why Intimacy Feels Misunderstood or Avoided
13:30 — Motherhood + Disconnection: What Feels “Off Limits” and Why
14:39 — The Body Scan Prayer (Asking God What He Thinks About Your Body)
20:20 — For the Woman Carrying Shame, Confusion, or Trauma
23:55 — God-Centered Intimacy: Sex as Prayer + Praying About Sex
30:24 — Free Webinar (Jan 21): Rebuilding Libido + Foundations for Pleasure
32:51 — Scheduling Sex: Debunking the “It Must Be Spontaneous” Myth
42:12 — Where to Find Ellen + Podcast + Webinar Sign-Up
43:22 — Closing Blessing + “Stay Anchored With Purpose”

Links Mentioned

Ellen’s website: https://vinesinfullbloom.com/
Ellen’s podcast: Charting Toward Intimacy (wherever you listen)
Free webinar sign-up (Jan 21): https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_9Q4qrEa3T7q3AoXzYniGzQ
Books/resources mentioned:
- Gregory Popcak, Holy Sex: https://a.co/d/663Dphl
- Edward Sri: https://a.co/d/eNMGodf
- Christopher West (Theology of the Body resources): https://a.co/d/74Yyby5
- The Power of a Praying Wife (Melissa mentions): https://a.co/d/7EtCjQL

Catholic marriage, Catholic intimacy, sex in marriage, Theology of the Body, natural family planning (NFP), fertility awareness, vaginismus, libido, orgasm, pleasure, shame, purity culture, healing, body scan prayer, praying with your husband, scheduling sex, spontaneous vs responsive desire, emotional intimacy, spiritual intimacy, Catholic women, marriage encouragement

65| You Are Not Behind: A Gentle Reset for the New Year

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Thu, 08 Jan 2026 17:57:28 GMT

January is loud. Everywhere you turn you hear, new year, new you, hustle harder, do more, become everything overnight. And if you do not get it all figured out in January, the year is basically over. In this episode, Melissa gently calls out the January Trap and shares why trying to carry a year’s worth of change into one month is the fastest way to burn out before February even hits.

Instead of hustling, this episode invites you to slow down, choose a Word of the Year, filter your goals through your Life Anchors, and create a simple, intentional plan using your Anchored with Purpose Planner so transformation happens one faithful step at a time.

✨ Key Takeaways

You are not behind if your goals or vision board are not done yet.
January is for setting the foundation, not becoming a completely new woman.
Your Word of the Year should guide what you focus on each month.
Planning is not procrastinating, it removes the mental load.
You do not need 10 goals, you need 3.
Big goals become achievable when they are broken into monthly action steps and scheduled into your real life.
Flexibility is not failure. You adjust and keep going.

⏱️ Episode Chapters

00:00 – Welcome + The January Hustle Culture Lie
01:11 – The January Trap and Why It Leads to Burnout
02:26 – Why Transformation Happens Slowly
04:50 – Using Your Word of the Year With the Life Anchors
07:14 – Choosing Only Three Goals for the Year
09:39 – Breaking Big Goals Into Monthly Action Steps
11:56 – Scheduling Your Goals Into Your Weekly Planner
14:21 – Flexibility, Grace, and God’s Provision

🛠️ Resources Mentioned

Anchored with Purpose Planner: https://anchored-with-purpose.kit.com/products/anchored-with-purpose-planner
Word of the Year Episodes: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/64-one-word-can-change-everything-why-resolutions-fail/id1775076672?i=1000743213795 https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/10-how-one-word-can-transform-your-year/id1775076672?i=1000680670747
Life Anchors Introduction Episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/36-anchored-in-every-area-10-life-anchors-that-hold/id1775076672?i=1000713214616
Anchored with Purpose Faith Journal: https://a.co/d/aUrUAKz

Choose your Word of the Year. Write down how that word should influence each of your Life Anchors. Pick your top 3 goals for the year. Then decide what you need to focus on this month to set your year up for success and schedule those action steps into your planner.

Transformation does not happen in a week. It happens through quiet obedience and small faithful steps.

January goals, Word of the Year, transformation, Christian goal setting, planning with purpose, Life Anchors, Anchored with Purpose Planner, faith based planning, burnout prevention, intentional living, Catholic moms, Christian women podcast, Catholic, Catholic women

54| When You Say Yes to God: One Year of the Anchored with Purpose Podcast

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 21 Oct 2025 13:11:58 GMT

Can you believe it’s been one year of the Anchored with Purpose Podcast? In this special anniversary episode, Melissa celebrates a year of showing up together — growing in faith, rediscovering purpose, and dreaming big again.

She shares heartfelt reflections, lessons learned, and encouragement for anyone who’s ever felt afraid to start before they were ready. From nervous beginnings to building a thriving community, Melissa reminds us that obedience matters more than perfection, your story can set someone else free, and God multiplies what we surrender.

Whether you’ve listened since day one or you’re just joining the Anchored with Purpose family, this episode will inspire you to keep trusting God with your next step and your big dreams.

Get your FREE copy of the Anchored with Purpose planner here: https://anchored-with-purpose.kit.com/befd76a8d2

In This Episode You’ll Learn:

The heart behind the Anchored with Purpose Podcast
Why obedience > perfection in any dream or calling
How God uses your story to impact others
What happens when you surrender control and say “yes” to God
Encouragement for stepping into your next season with faith and confidence

Connect with Melissa:

Instagram: @anchoredwithpurpose
Website: anchoredwithpurpose.com
Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and share your favorite episode!

11| Practical Steps for Surrendering Control to God in Daily Life featuring Kelly Lippenholz

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 24 Dec 2024 09:05:00 GMT

In this episode, Melissa Wilkinson and Kelly Lippenholz explore the theme of surrender in faith and daily life. Kelly shares her personal faith journey, the challenges of surrendering control, and the importance of community in navigating these struggles. They discuss practical steps to embrace surrender, the balance between personal dreams and God's will, and how to find peace amidst anxiety. The conversation emphasizes the transformative power of surrender and the unexpected blessings that can arise from it.

Visit Kelly’s website to download her FREE Purpose Questionnaire - https://www.kellylippenholz.com/

Join her Changemakers: Purpose Driven Women Community here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/3891546604496857

Listen to Kelly’s Podcast: Changemakers https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/change-makers-becoming-an-irresistible-community/id1647439376

Takeaways

Surrender is a mindset change, not just an action.
Engaging with God through quiet time is essential.
Surrendering control can lead to unexpected blessings.
Community support is crucial for personal growth.
Recognizing God's will can bring peace in uncertainty.
Surrendering requires intentionality and practice.
Finding purpose involves understanding your strengths.
Rushing through life creates unnecessary stress.
Emotional health is tied to spiritual growth.
Surrender Novena can be a helpful prayer tool.

Dream Workshop Wait List: https://bit.ly/dreamworkshop25

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Faith Journeys

08:01 - Surrendering Control in Daily Life

19:03 - Finding Peace Through Surrender

26:57 - The Role of Community in Surrender

Keywords

faith, surrender, personal growth, community, peace, Catholic women, emotional health, purpose, dreams, spirituality

Get your FREE Word of the Year Guide here: https://bit.ly/wordoftheyear25

Links

Book Melissa to Speak at Your Event: https://anchored-with-purpose.ck.page/c46fe9287e

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anchoredwithpurpose

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissajwilkinson/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anchoredwithpurpose/

Anchored with Purpose Tribe: https://www.facebook.com/groups/anchoredwithpurpose

Dream Workshop Wait List: https://bit.ly/dreamworkshop25

30| From Fight-or-Flight to Faith & Rest

Melissa Wilkinson - Life Coach for Catholic Women — Tue, 06 May 2025 13:49:26 GMT

In this powerful solo episode, Melissa Wilkinson uncovers what survival mode really is—and how it affects your mind, body, and soul. She vulnerably shares her own story of living in chronic stress without even realizing it, including a wake-up call diagnosis of shingles in her 30s. Melissa walks us through the physiological toll of fight-or-flight living, and more importantly, how we can begin stepping into sacred rhythms that bring rest, peace, and alignment with God.

Whether you're juggling motherhood, a career, or simply overwhelmed by the noise of life, this episode will help you: ✔ Understand what survival mode looks and feels like ✔ Learn how scripture calls us to REST, not hustle ✔ Discover practical ways to start your day with God ✔ Use tools like breathwork and rhythm-based routines to calm your nervous system ✔ Reclaim your peace and begin dreaming again

Key Scriptures Mentioned 📖 Exodus 33:14 – “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” 📖 Luke 5:16 – “Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” 📖 Psalm 46:10 – “Be still and know that I am God.”

Highlights & Takeaways

Survival mode is more than a mindset—it’s a physiological state driven by stress hormones like cortisol.
Melissa’s personal health crisis led her to realize how much stress was running her life.
Rest is not a reward for productivity—it’s a requirement for living in your God-given purpose.
Start simple: coffee, candle, and Christ. Build your morning faith time in small, sacred ways.
Breathing intentionally (box breathing or breath prayers) signals safety to your body and calms anxiety.
Rhythms > rigid routines. Build margin into your day for joy, stillness, and communion with God.

If this episode struck a chord and you're tired of feeling stuck, I want to personally invite you to schedule a FREE 45-minute Anchored Insights Discussion with me.

This is a safe, supportive space to identify the thoughts that are holding you back, gain clarity, and explore how we can rewrite your inner narrative together.

📅 Book your session here Or just shoot me an email — I’d truly love to connect! melissa@anchoredwithpurpose.com

Melissa’s Morning Ritual Tip ☕ Coffee. 🕯️ Candle. ✝️ Christ. Start your day in the quiet presence with God before the world demands your energy.

Try This 🧘‍♀️ Box Breathing: Inhale 4, hold 4, exhale 4. Repeat 3–5x. 🙏 Breath Prayer: “Jesus, be my peace. Anchor me in You.” 📔 Build your rhythm: Add spiritual routines into your planner. Include what grounds you, not just what “gets done.”