Rachel Bonner and her husband wanted to teach kids about different aspects of life that we may never experience, but would be helpful to understand, in order to show increased kindness and love to others. They were inspired to write A Cultivate Series, which consists of 3 wonderful children's books with alternate endings to help kids develop more awareness and compassion for others.

As an inter-racial family, the Bonners have experienced first hand what it feels like not to be understood. As Rachel points out, "we only know what we know". Rachel shares her wisdom on teaching kids how to thrive through kindness including setting the example first as the adult, role playing, and having open and honest conversations with your family.

Do you ever wonder why you think, feel or respond to the challenges and joys of motherhood the way that you do? Why don't others around you, including your kids, always see things the way you do?

In this conversation with Beth McCord, the Enneagram Coach, we discuss the importance of understanding our personalities and the core motivations within us. When we understand our "why" we are better able to view both ourselves and others with compassion and grace. As we become good, curious students of our children they will feel seen and valued. As you get to know your true internal self and dismiss the "head trash", you will thrive in the "beautiful messiness" of motherhood.

Jodi Orgill Brown was living the perfect "white picket fence life" when the dizziness and headaches first began. Life quickly changed when she was diagnosed with a brain tumor.

Jodi has learned through many hard trials including multiple surgeries, hospital stays, and a variety of health challenges that thriving looks different at different stages in your life. Even if you can't always be the mom you thought you would be, you are enough for your kids.

Learning to thrive is a process. But no matter what is happening in your life, the sun still shines! You get to choose everyday if you will see the light.

After listening to this episode, check out Jodi's eye-opening, inspirational book "The Sun Still Shines" to learn more about her incredible journey! And stay tuned for Thriving With 8 Episode 92 for more with Jodi!

A thriving marriage doesn't just magically happen! Just like motherhood, marriage is an arena for growth. We must be intentional if we want to become the best spouse we can be. It is a process of becoming. Perfection is the lie that can discourage us from trying. 

In this conversation with couples coach and podcaster, Julia Woods, she teaches 5 tips to develop and maintain a thriving marriage. You are probably already doing some of them, but there's always room for improvement as you partner together with your spouse. Listen as she explains the importance of growing through tension, negotiating, weekly partnering, playing and chatting with your spouse. Even better, listen together! And then commit to starting small steps to improving your marriage relationship. 

IG @heyjuliawoods

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Happy New Year! Do you have a word or phrase for the year? What will you focus on? Are you going to let the year happen to you or are you going to be intentional in your thriving? 

The choice is up to you! First of all, give yourself credit for the progress you have made this past year. Second, set yourself up for success, even if your progression comes through baby steps. Thriving has nothing to do with perfection. There is no "perfect mom". Thriving comes by not giving up, being steadfast, and striving for impovement. It's all about progression, not perfection!

motherhoodtheprofession.com/podcast