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Show overview

Our 1 Blessed Mess has published 20 episodes during 2025. That works out to roughly 15 hours of audio in total. Releases follow a weekly cadence.

Episodes typically run thirty-five to sixty minutes — most land between 34 min and 56 min — though episode length varies meaningfully from one episode to the next. None of the episodes are flagged explicit by the publisher. It is catalogued as a EN-US-language Kids & Family show.

The catalogue appears to be on hiatus or wound down — the most recent episode landed 1 year ago, with no new episodes in over a year. Published by Ben and Liz.

Episodes
20
Started
2025
Median length
46 min
Cadence
Weekly

From the publisher

Honest conversations about faith, family, life, and business. Ben and Liz have six kids, even more chickens, and a whole heap of chaos—but they wouldn’t have it any other way. Life is messy, unpredictable, and full of God’s blessings. Liz left a six-figure business to focus on raising their family and building an entrepreneurial home, while Ben, a designer/developer, helps keep their beautifully chaotic world running. With 4 teenagers and countless adventures, they tackle life’s challenges with faith, humor, and grace. On their podcast, they’ll encourage, challenge, inspire, and, most importantly, make you laugh as they share the ups and downs of finding God in the middle of it all.Learn more at https://www.our1blessedmess.com/

Latest Episodes

S1 Ep 20Ep. 20 - Worthy of Your Pain: Reconciling Suffering with Faith

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when faith collides with real-world suffering? We tackle this question head-on, diving deep into a conversation most would rather avoid. Pain is universal—no one escapes it—yet our Western church culture often lacks a robust theology for navigating life's darkest valleys.Through the lens of Job's ancient story, we uncover how God never explains the "why" behind suffering, offering instead His presence and character. This biblical truth challenges common misconceptions that obedience equals comfort or that faith shields us from hardship. Jesus himself promised trouble in this world, while Paul, Peter, and James all spoke of suffering as an expected part of the faith journey.Science confirms what scripture suggests: transformation often emerges from our deepest pain. Studies reveal that 50-60% of trauma survivors experience positive change through what psychologists call Post-Traumatic Growth—new possibilities, deeper relationships, increased personal strength, spiritual renewal, and greater appreciation for life.Whether you're currently walking through darkness or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers both comfort and challenge. God collects our tears, draws near to the brokenhearted, and promises His presence through the waters and fires of life. Consider sharing this episode with someone who needs to hear they're not alone in their suffering.Your Listening to our 1 blessed mess, with ben and lizSupport the show

May 6, 202557 min

S1 Ep 19Ep. 19 - The Shepherd's Voice: Tuning into God

Send us Fan MailThe ability to hear God's voice is a cornerstone of authentic faith, yet many believers struggle to recognize when the Lord is speaking to them. In this heartfelt conversation, Ben and Liz unpack Jesus's powerful metaphor of sheep recognizing their shepherd's voice, revealing how this ancient imagery perfectly illustrates our spiritual relationship with God today.Drawing from John 10, they explore how sheep know their shepherd through consistent exposure, trust, and relationship—not through inherent knowledge. This same pattern applies to our spiritual lives as we learn to attune our ears to God's guidance through Scripture, the Holy Spirit's promptings, and wisdom from godly community.The couple shares vulnerable stories from their own faith journey, including a remarkable moment when they both simultaneously felt God directing them to move to Florida during a church service—a prompting they initially resisted but later confirmed through multiple channels. This testimony demonstrates how God often speaks through layered confirmation, giving us assurance in significant life decisions.For those wanting practical help, Ben and Liz outline four essential tests for discerning God's voice: the Scripture test (alignment with God's Word), the character test (reflection of God's nature), the fruit test (producing love, joy, peace), and the community test (confirmation from mature believers). They complement these with actionable steps including creating regular quiet time, journaling spiritual impressions, and establishing prayer partnerships.Perhaps most comforting is their reminder that God shows tremendous patience with our learning process. Just as parents delight in a child's wobbly first steps without expecting immediate perfection, our heavenly Father rejoices in our growth as we develop spiritual discernment. The ultimate goal isn't perfect performance but genuine relationship—a connection where we recognize His voice amid life's competing noises.Ready to develop a more intuitive recognition of God's voice in your life? Listen now, and start your journey toward clearer spiritual discernment and deeper communion with the Shepherd who knows you by name.Your Listening to our 1 blessed mess, with ben and lizSupport the show

May 2, 202555 min

S1 Ep 18Ep. 18 - Cheerful Giving: How it Changes You

Send us Fan MailWhat happens in your brain when you give generously? Ben and Liz tackle the fascinating science behind "cheerful giving" and reveal how our brains actually release dopamine and endorphins during acts of generosity – the same reward chemicals we experience when receiving gifts ourselves!They share vulnerable stories of their giving journey, including a surprising mountain bike gift divinely orchestrated between Ben and a missionary friend, and a powerful moment when they each received the exact same financial amount to give while praying separately. These experiences reveal how giving stretches our faith while simultaneously connecting us more deeply with God's heart.Drawing from Randy Alcorn's Treasure Principle, they unpack six transformative frameworks for developing a cheerful giver's heart, including the fundamental understanding that "God prospers me not to raise my standard of living, but to raise my standard of giving." Studies confirm that generous people break free from the scarcity mindset that plagues our culture – the more you give, the more "enough" you feel you have.For those wanting to cultivate generosity, Ben and Liz offer practical steps anyone can implement: start where you are (consistency matters more than amount), practice gratitude daily, make giving decisions as a family, and build giving into your budget as a priority. The rewards? Joy that transcends circumstances, freedom from materialism's grip, modeling kingdom values for your children, and storing up eternal treasures.Mentioned in the Episode: Treasure Principle (affiliate link)Your Listening to our 1 blessed mess, with ben and lizSupport the show

Apr 25, 202552 min

S1 Ep 17Ep. 17 - Beyond Borders: Importance of Family Travel

Send us Fan MailHaving experienced international travel in our youth—Liz on a mission trip to Jamaica at age 12 and Ben as an exchange student in Russia at 15—we knew we wanted cultural exploration to be part of their family DNA. Despite the logistical challenges of traveling with half a dozen kids (including marathon 20-hour road trips), we discovered that the benefits far outweighed the occasional car sickness episodes and roadside diaper blowouts.The science behind our intuition is fascinating. Research confirms that travel experiences create more powerful memories than material possessions—something we verified when none of our children could remember Christmas gifts but could vividly recall details from family trips. Travel activates the brain's novelty-seeking reward system while increasing cognitive flexibility and empathy. We also discuss how experiencing different cultures aligns perfectly with biblical principles, from Abraham's journey to a new land to Jesus declaring the temple "a house of prayer for all nations."In this Episode we cover: • Science supports that travel memories are stored differently in our brains than gifts or material items• Experiencing different cultures increases cognitive flexibility and makes people more agreeable• Biblical precedents for travel include Abraham's journey and Paul's missionary trips• Traveling connects us with God's multicultural vision of "every tribe, tongue, people and language"• Children exposed to different faith expressions often develop stronger personal faith• Experiencing other cultures doesn't always depend on travel. Find multicultural experiences around your city• Practical tips include packing "busy bags" for kids, bringing healthy food options, and using audiobooks• Budget strategies involve traveling with other families, planning during off-seasons, and meal planning• Using credit card points can significantly reduce travel expenses without creating debt (if done correctly)• Teaching children flexibility and maintaining a "happy heart" when plans change builds resilience• Most Christians today (70%) live in Africa, Asia, and Latin America rather than the WestYour Listening to our 1 blessed mess, with ben and lizSupport the show

Apr 18, 202555 min

S1 Ep 16Ep. 16 - 8 Tips For Newlyweds: Crowdsourced Marriage Wisdom

Send us Fan MailWhat if the secret to a thriving marriage isn’t found in perfection, but in the messy, beautiful journey of serving one another? After 20 years of marriage, raising six kids in eight years, and now navigating life with four teenagers (plus seven chickens, two dogs, and our newest additions—two goats), we've gathered a kind of wisdom that only comes through lived experience.In this candid conversation, we’re sharing eight essential tips for building a strong foundation in marriage. From embracing what we call a “servitarian marriage”—where each of us makes a conscious effort to prioritize the other’s needs—to learning how to fight fair without ever mentioning “the D word,” we’ve found that practical, grounded advice speaks to both newlyweds and couples who’ve been in it for the long haul.We talk about why we’ve never stopped doing date nights (even when parenting has us running on fumes), how keeping short accounts through forgiveness keeps our hearts soft, and why laughter is one of our most important tools in tough seasons.We don’t shy away from the hard stuff, either. Financial disagreements? Yep—we’ve had our share. Coming from different economic backgrounds created tensions we’ve had to navigate with intention. We also share what we’ve learned about valuing all forms of intimacy—not just physical—and how establishing meaningful family traditions has brought us closer, offering a holistic approach to marriage that honors both its challenges and its joys.Maybe most importantly, we open up about our own missteps and the growth that followed—from early days when gaming addiction nearly drove a wedge between us, to the healing power of forgiveness when expectations weren’t met. And our bonus tip? Limit digital distractions. It’s a modern challenge that demands real boundaries and grace.Whether you’re just starting out or celebrating decades together, these eight tips (plus a little bonus wisdom) offer practical tools to help your marriage grow stronger through a posture of mutual service. Because in the end, it’s not about perfection—it’s about embracing the mess together and finding blessing in the journey.Mentioned in this Episode: Sacred Marriage (affiliate link)Love & Respect (affiliate link) The Great Sex Rescue (affiliate link)Sheet Music (affiliate link)Our Servitarian GuideOur Digital Detox GuideYour Listening to our 1 blessed mess, with ben and lizSupport the show

Apr 11, 20251h 10m

S1 Ep 15Ep. 15 - Family Digital Detox: Establishing Digital Boundaries & Restoring Human Connection

Send us Fan MailDownload a free 30 Day Digital Detox GuideThe digital revolution promised connection, but delivered an epidemic of isolation. In this deeply personal and science-backed exploration, we reveal how screen addiction is fundamentally altering our children's brain development and mental health. With depression rates among teens increasing 250% since smartphones became mainstream and self-harm hospitalizations for young girls rising by 188%, the evidence is clear: our digital lifestyle is exacting a devastating toll.But the most profound loss might be what psychologists call "mutual mind"—the synchronous face-to-face connection where our brains actually harmonize with others during interaction. Studies using hyperscanning reveal that during eye contact, our brainwaves synchronize in ways digital communication simply cannot replicate, creating feedback loops that strengthen bonds and build intimacy.In this Episode:• Since 2010, depression rates among teens have increased by 250% while suicide rates for girls ages 10-14 have risen by 167%• Social media, video games, and smartphones utilize a "variable ratio schedule" reward system that creates the same addictive brain patterns as gambling• Critical brain development in ages 10-15 makes this period especially dangerous for forming digital addictions• Face-to-face connection creates "mutual mind" where brains actually synchronize during interaction, something digital communication cannot replicate• 68% of parents admit to being frequently distracted by their phones when spending time with their children• Our family implemented guardrails: no smartphones until 16, no social media until leaving home, digital filters, and weekly digital Sabbaths• Complete digital fasts, while initially difficult, restored creativity, connection and joy in our family• We've created a free 30-day digital detox guide for families seeking balance We're not advocating becoming Luddites—we're encouraging intentional digital hygiene that prioritizes embodied, face-to-face connections. Download our free 30 day digital detox guide and join us in reclaiming what matters most: authentic human connection in an increasingly virtual world.Mentioned in this Episode: The Anxious Generation (affiliate link) Renovated (affiliate link)Your Listening to our 1 blessed mess, with ben and lizSupport the show

Apr 4, 20251h 24m

S1 Ep 14Ep. 14 - Raising Enjoyable Teens: Yes it's Possible!

Send us Fan MailEver wondered if enjoying the teenage years is actually possible? As parents of four (soon to be five) teenagers, we've discovered it's not just possible—it's happening in our home right now. Despite the cultural narrative that teen years are something to survive rather than savor, we've found these to be some of our most rewarding parenting seasons.In this episode we cover:• Understanding the unprecedented challenges teens face today including seven-plus hours daily on screens• The correlation between first-time obedience training and better teen outcomes, with 36% better conflict resolution• Why embodied, face-to-face time (at least 15 minutes daily) is critical for today's digitally distracted teens• The continued importance of physical touch, even with awkward teenagers• Setting appropriate digital boundaries and using accountability software• The "Dad Factor" and how father involvement dramatically improves teen outcomes across multiple metrics• Implementing "dad dates" and special trips as rites of passage that help teens transition toward adulthoodRemember that teenagers are like brownies - they might be crusty on the outside but they're still gooey in the middle. Don't grow weary of doing good, for in due season you will reap if you do not give up.For more info on how Active father figures make a difference in teens see https://americafirstpolicy.com/issues/fact-sheet-fathers-matter-pass-it-onYour Listening to our 1 blessed mess, with ben and lizSupport the show

Mar 28, 20251h 5m

S1 Ep 13Ep. 13 - Pharisee or Tax Collector: Why Admitting Our Depravity is Really Good

Send us Fan MailEver caught yourself thinking, "At least I'm not like THAT person"? This episode dives into the uncomfortable truth about our natural tendency toward self-righteousness and why it might be the biggest obstacle in our spiritual journey.Ben and Liz unpack Jesus' parable of the Pharisee and tax collector from Luke 18, revealing how easily we all slip into comparison-based spirituality. We're startled by research showing 93% of drivers rate themselves "above average" (statistically impossible), and how we consistently use irrational reasoning to justify our own morality while harshly judging others.The surprising good news? Acknowledging that "none of us are good" is actually liberating. When we stop trying to justify ourselves and embrace our need for mercy, we find freedom from the exhausting cycle of moral superiority. This humble posture not only transforms our relationship with God but allows us to extend genuine grace to others.Mentioned in this Episode: The Truth About Us (affiliate link) Study: Are we all less risky and more skillful than our fellow drivers?Study: The Illusion of Moral Superiority Study: Feeling "holier than thou": Are self-serving assessments produced by errors in self- or social prediction?Your Listening to our 1 blessed mess, with ben and lizSupport the show

Mar 21, 202545 min

S1 Ep 12Ep. 12 - All Your Thoughts on God: How Small Thoughts Create Big Impact

Send us Fan MailGod's thoughts about us and our thoughts about God hold tremendous power, shaping our identity, relationships, and entire worldview in ways we rarely recognize. But what if we allowed God to define Himself? Join us in this God thoughts episode as we discuss:• How small thoughts about God can have big impacts on how we view ourselves and the world• Creating healthy thought life means understanding God's true character• "Black" negative thought patterns vs "green" life-giving thoughts physically change our brain• Common misconceptions include seeing God as cosmic cop, distant watchmaker, or angry judge• God defines himself as "compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love"• The Hebrew concept of "hesed" (covenant faithfulness) describes God's reliable, enduring love• Practical transformation comes through daily meditation on scripture• Journaling revelations about God's character reinforces healthy thought patterns• Taking thoughts captive means actively catching and correcting distorted views• Who we love becomes our people—making our thoughts about God central to identityResources Mentioned in this episode:Switch On Your Brain (affiliate link)The God-Shaped Brain (affiliate link)God Has a Name (affiliate link)Renovation of the Heart (affiliate link)The Anxiety Reset (affiliate link)You Are What You Love (affiliate link)Renovated (affiliate link)We'd love to hear what topics you want us to discuss in future episodes! Contact us through our website at our1blessedmess.com or follow us on Instagram and Facebook to join the conversation.CORRECTION: Ben mistakenly says "Dallas Jenkins". He meant to say "Dallas Willard" in reference to the book Renovated. Your Listening to our 1 blessed mess, with ben and lizSupport the show

Mar 14, 202557 min

S1 Ep 11Ep. 11 - 2 Businesses, 1 Marriage: Life in a Double Entrepreneurial Home

Send us Fan MailLife in a dual entrepreneurial home is an intricate dance of responsibilities, creativity, and the occasional chaos that comes with raising a family. In this episode, we navigate the joys and challenges of our unique journey as we run two separate businesses while caring for our six children. Our conversation dives into the realities we face, strategies we've adopted, and how we've turned challenges into shared successes.• Discussing the concept of a double entrepreneurial household • Sharing our first steps into entrepreneurship • Balancing our distinct business schedules • The roles of help and outsourcing in our home • Understanding the challenges of traditional gender roles • Embracing the chaos and messiness of family life • Discussing the biblical perspective on entrepreneurship • Learning to communicate effectively as partners • Practical tips for creating a work-life balance Mentioned in this Episode:The E-Myth Revisited (affiliate link)Don't forget to subscribe and share this with someone who needs encouragement today!Your Listening to our 1 blessed mess, with ben and lizSupport the show

Mar 7, 202545 min

S1 Ep 10Ep. 10 - Un-bubblewrap your kids: Embracing the Antifragile nature of childhood

Send us Fan MailThis episode focuses on the importance of raising anti-fragile children who thrive on challenges and adversity. We discuss the dangers of overprotecting kids and share practical strategies to foster resilience, including allowing rough play and encouraging emotional growth through difficult experiences.• Discussing the concept of anti-fragility • Sharing personal parenting stories and challenges • Highlighting the importance of exposure to hardships • Practical tips for fostering resilience in children • Emphasizing emotional and spiritual growth through adversity • Encouraging parents to embrace life's messiness • Understanding the balance between protection and independence • The role of discomfort in developing grit and strength We wrap up by spotlighting how embracing challenges as growth opportunities not only strengthens our kids but also builds a community of support and authenticity. From stories of tree climbing and sibling wrestling to navigating friendships, we highlight the importance of transparency and empathy. Through playful activities that mimic life’s unpredictability, we champion the essence of anti-fragility. Join us in our online spaces, where we celebrate the beautiful messiness of life, and remember, if our chaos is blessed, yours can be too.Mentioned in this episode:Antifragile: Things That Gain from Disorder (affiliate link)Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance (affiliate link)Raising Passionate Jesus Followers (affiliate link)Your Listening to our 1 blessed mess, with ben and lizSupport the show

Feb 28, 202553 min

S1 Ep 9Ep. 9 - Sex Ed Family Devotions: A Rule of Life, Prioritizing Family God time

Send us Fan MailPracticing The Way Book (affiliate link)Rule of Life builder websitePsalms in 30 days Book (affiliate link) Dwell AppFamily devotions serve as both a source of laughter and a foundation for spiritual growth in our household of six kids. We share the humorous moments, the chaos, and the importance of creating a rule of life that prioritizes intentional living and meaningful connections during our family time.• The hilarity of navigating sensitive topics during devotions • Introducing the concept of a rule of life for intentional living • Importance of dedicating time for family devotions every morning • Kids affirming each other's character traits reflecting God’s attributes • Implementing a weekly screen-free day to balance family activities • A touching story about trusting God during a hurricane • Embracing the messiness of family life while fostering spiritual growthYour Listening to our 1 blessed mess, with ben and lizSupport the show

Feb 21, 202529 min

S1 Ep 8Ep. 8 - Will You Serve Your Spouse?: Egalitarian vs Complementarian vs Servitarian

Send us Fan MailClick here to get the book The Great Sex Rescue mentioned on this episode. (affiliate link)Click here to get a free pdf guide on being a servitarian This episode deepens the exploration of marriage dynamics through humor and personal stories while contrasting egalitarian and complementarian views. We advocate for a "servitarian" mindset, emphasizing love as mutual service and commitment over rigid roles, encouraging listeners to view their relationships through this lens of selflessness.• Reflecting on early memories of dancing and humorous moments• Exploring and defining egalitarianism and complementarianism• Introducing the concept of “servitarian” as a new perspective• Sharing personal anecdotes highlighting transformative moments in marriage• Emphasizing the importance of serving one another• Encouraging couples to embrace love in all its messiness• Promoting a resource for deeper exploration of scriptureYour Listening to our 1 blessed mess, with ben and lizSupport the show

Feb 14, 202533 min

S1 Ep 7Ep. 7 - Creative Legacy Conference: Recap, Speakers and What We Came Away With

Send us Fan MailView the Creative Legacy Website Through a joyful recap of their experiences at the Creative Legacy Conference, we explore the themes of creativity and calling. With insights from engaging speakers, personal stories, and valuable reflections, we encourage listeners to step out of their comfort zones and embrace their creative potential while fostering community among fellow artists.• Key highlights from various speakers and their inspiring messages • Importance of planning and creating intentional spaces for creativity • Liz's talk about transition and trading comfort for calling • Emphasizing the need to overcome fear in creative expression • Creating space for "Boredom" to fuel family creativity• The significance of community and collaboration in creative endeavors Join us in creating meaningful connections and igniting passion for creativity!Your Listening to our 1 blessed mess, with ben and lizSupport the show

Feb 7, 202534 min

S1 Ep 6Ep. 6 - My Right to Offense: Embracing Humility, Rejecting 'Righteous' Anger

Send us Fan MailGet Brant's Book "Unoffendable" (affiliate link)Who knew a rubber rat could spark such hilarity in our household? Join us as we share the chaos of losing Mama Jean, our beloved chicken, to a fox, and the unexpected levity that followed when Liz stumbled upon what she thought was a real rat during a cleaning spree. The ensuing family prank involving the rubber rodent added a much-needed dose of humor and surprise to our bustling lives, filled with homeschooling, running two businesses, and caring for our farm. Every day is an adventure, and these moments remind us of the vibrant tapestry of family life.Beyond the laughter, we explore meaningful discussions on unoffendability and cultural redemption. Inspired by the humorous yet profound writings of an extraordinary individual on the autism spectrum, we reflect on the modern epidemic of taking offense and how letting go of righteous anger can be liberating. Unpack the societal implications of holding grudges and learn from personal anecdotes like our "furniture story," which highlights how offense can seep into everyday relationships. Join us on this journey of humor, healing, and heartfelt conversations, and discover how embracing forgiveness can transform not just our own lives but the broader culture too.Your Listening to our 1 blessed mess, with ben and lizSupport the show

Jan 31, 202534 min

S1 Ep 5Ep. 5 - We Did a We Retreat: Create Space to Rekindle, Renew and Refocus

Send us Fan MailClick here to get a free We Retreat Guide pdf!Have you ever found yourself face-to-face with a snake in your chicken coop, and wondered what parenting and farming have in common? Get ready for a rollercoaster ride as we recount our snake saga—complete with startled kids and a paper-bagged snake in our living room. This amusing adventure is just one colorful page in our family's story of homeschooling six kids while juggling two businesses. Listen in as we tackle the chaos of homestead life and ponder whether we’re truly cut out for the farming world. Looking to reignite the spark in your relationship? Discover how our "we Retreat" concept can help you and your partner reconnect and realign your future goals. We share how stepping away from the daily grind for some intentional couple time has transformed our marriage. From long car rides to structured retreats, find out how carving out these moments has enhanced our clarity and connection amidst life's whirlwind, offering insights that could enrich your own partnership.On a mission for shared success, we delve into the art of setting "we goals" and aligning them with our financial plans for the future. Learn how regular check-ins and a sprinkle of faith have kept our family vision on track. As we share our journey, we encourage you to embrace your own beautiful mess alongside us—and maybe even find a little blessing in the chaos. Sign up to get a free We Retreat Guide pdf so you can plan your We Retreat!Your Listening to our 1 blessed mess, with ben and lizSupport the show

Jan 24, 202531 min

S1 Ep 2Ep. 2 - I Married a Mutant: Parenting, Autism, and Unexpected Joys

Send us Fan Mail(Welcome to our new podcast! We are dropping 4 episodes initial but stay tuned for a weekly release every Friday.)Can you imagine balancing the chaos of nearly five teenagers, homeschooling, and a flock of chickens, all while unraveling the mystery of a genetic mutation within your family? Join us on a rollercoaster adventure through our lively household, where towering laundry piles and staggering grocery bills are just the beginning. We take you on a journey of unexpected discoveries, sharing the moment we learned about Ben's unique genetic makeup and the peculiar hospital call that sparked our curiosity. Prepare for laughter, surprises, and a peek into the whirlwind that is our daily life.Ever wondered how a single diagnosis can shift your entire perspective on parenting? We candidly recount our emotional experiences navigating our son's autism diagnosis, transforming what initially felt like an insurmountable challenge into a celebration of his unique gifts, like his perfect pitch. Our stories include heartwarming and humorous insights into therapies that helped us embrace our son's individuality. This episode is a testament to finding joy in the unexpected and appreciating the quirks that make our family truly special.To find out more about the "Son‑Rise Program" mentioned in this episode, see https://autismtreatmentcenter.org/what-is-the-son-rise-program/Your Listening to our 1 blessed mess, with ben and lizSupport the show

Jan 18, 202530 min

S1 Ep 3Ep. 3 - First-Time Obedience Part 1: Transforming a Chaotic Home with Applied Wisdom

Send us Fan Mail(Welcome to our new podcast! We are dropping 4 episodes initial but stay tuned for a weekly release every Friday.)What if the secret to a harmonious household with six kids lies in the seemingly old-fashioned concept of first-time obedience? Discover how our chaotic, stressed-filled home turned into a place of peace and respect as we share our transformative journey with this strategy. Join us as we recount the vibrant, sometimes overwhelming, atmosphere of raising children close in age and how we stumbled upon the parenting technique that changed everything.Learn the ins and outs of implementing first-time obedience without turning your kids into robots. We'll tackle the potential pitfalls of this approach, sharing personal anecdotes and practical tips to maintain authority while nurturing independent thinking. We highlight the importance of swift responses, especially in safety situations, and offer humorous tales, including one about our daughter's theatrical defiance over a mundane task.Embrace life's beautiful messiness with us as we explore the blessings hidden in imperfections. Our tales of Sunday brunches and cherished family traditions reveal how consistent routines can reinforce positive behavior and prepare kids for public settings. By the end of this episode, we hope to inspire you to see challenges as growth opportunities and encourage you to connect with us on Instagram at @our1blessedmess for more updates and inspiration. Let's find the beauty in our unique and blessed mess together!Your Listening to our 1 blessed mess, with ben and lizSupport the show

Jan 18, 202536 min

S1 Ep 4Ep. 4 - First-Time Obedience Part 2: Reaping Dividends from Training

Send us Fan Mail(Welcome to our new podcast! We are dropping 4 episodes initial but stay tuned for a weekly release every Friday.)Can a single strategy like teaching first-time obedience make parenting smoother? On "One Blessed Mess," we navigate the whirlwind of raising six kids, managing businesses, homeschooling, and dealing with a house full of pets. We relive a delightful holiday mishap with a niece’s creative spin on a nativity decal, underscoring how lively and unpredictable family life can be. We focus on how instilling first-time obedience in our children has laid a strong foundation of respect and understanding of authority, making teenage transitions less tumultuous and freeing up energy for other parenting challenges.Our anniversary trip to Southern Ireland offers a scenic backdrop to discuss universal parenting challenges, such as handling public tantrums, inspired by our encounter with the charming yet tantrum-prone four-year-old Ezra. As we explore themes of obedience, authority, and masculinity, insights from Brant Hanson's "The Men We Need" (paid link) emphasize the role of fathers as protectors. We aim to change societal perceptions about family life by welcoming single individuals to experience the joys and chaos of our home. Through personal stories, like crisis schooling during COVID, we illustrate how deliberate parenting strategies enhance family harmony and deepen relationships.Your Listening to our 1 blessed mess, with ben and lizSupport the show

Jan 18, 202532 min

S1 Ep 1Ep. 1 - It's Us: Our Journey Through Family, Faith, and Entrepreneurship

Send us Fan Mail(Welcome to our new podcast! We are dropping 4 episodes initial but stay tuned for a weekly release every Friday.)What happens when two completely different worlds collide in the chaos of family life and entrepreneurship? We, Ben and Liz, invite you to join our journey as we blend our different upbringings—one from a single-parent home facing financial struggles, the other from a stable middle-class household—and manage the whirlwind that is our family, complete with six kids, two businesses, homeschooling, eight chickens, and two dogs. Celebrating two decades of marriage, we share the humorous origins of our podcast name, "One Blessed Mess," and reflect on the challenges and sacrifices that come with blending such diverse lives. Our story is one of laughter, love, and leaning into the beautiful chaos that defines our family.Ever found yourself using KY Jelly to keep bows in place on a bald baby's head? Liz did, and it’s just one of the quirky entrepreneurial adventures we explore in this episode. From creative beginnings to successful ventures in direct sales, Liz shares her journey of innovation, challenges, and achievements, including earning multiple cars. Meanwhile, Ben talks about his own career shift from art to programming, illustrating the unique entrepreneurial paths we've taken within our household. We discuss these transitions and the impeccable timing of life changes, all while emphasizing the role of faith in guiding us through the messiness of life.Discover how we find redemption in our mess and allow faith to transform challenges into opportunities. We delve into personal stories of balancing entrepreneurship with family life, and how letting go of control can lead to unexpected blessings. Through scripture and candid conversation, we highlight the importance of finding God in the chaos, encouraging you to embrace your own beautiful mess. As we wrap up this episode, we extend a message of hope and encouragement, inviting you to join us on this journey and share in our candid discussions—because if God can bless our mess, He can bless yours too.Your Listening to our 1 blessed mess, with ben and lizSupport the show

Jan 18, 202521 min
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