The Rooted Home

How We Homeschool + What We Use: Rhythm and Curriculum for All 6 Kids | Ep. 31

Thu, 17 Sep 2026 06:00:00 -0400

✨ Wondering what it would look like to have rhythms that help you run your home instead of it running you? Come join us inside the Rooted Homemakers Collective, my membership where I walk you through exactly how. → https://go.laurenmefford.com/rooted-homemakers

In this episode, I'm walking you through our curriculum choices and our whole homeschool schedule — from our morning family learning time (Bible, catechism, scripture memory, history, and science) to our more independent work block (reading, math, writing, and Latin), all the way to our lighter fifth day for catching up, deep cleaning, and field trips. I'll share the curriculum we're using at every stage, how we manage a toddler and littles while teaching older kids, and the "wait your turn" rule that's saved my sanity.

In this episode:

-Our two-phase homeschool day

-Bible reading, catechism, and our scripture memory box system

-The hymn of the month and where we find it

-History and science from a biblical worldview

-How I teach reading, phonics, spelling, and writing across different ages

-Math, piano, and Latin — and who's teaching what

-Managing a toddler and baby while working with older kids

-What our flexible fifth day looks like

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

-Biblioplan (history/Bible/literature curriculum): BiblioPlan - Cool Classical History and Literature Curriculum

-Apologia (science): Exploring Creation with Human Anatomy and Physiology (Young Explorer Series)

-I Belong to God Catechism by Rich Lusk: I Belong to God: A Catechism for Covenant Children

-Simply Charlotte Mason scripture memory box system: Memorize Scripture in Just Five Minutes Each Day

- @‌HappyHymnody

-Teach Your Child to Read in 100 Easy Lessons: Teach Your Child to Read in 100 Easy Lessons: Revised and Updated Second Edition

-Chickadee Readers (Canon Press)

-Math Mammoth (for all grades): Math Mammoth Kindergarten Worktext A

-Voetberg Music Academy: Voetberg Music Academy

This episode is NOT sponsored. Some product links are affiliate links, which means if you buy something we'll receive a small commission.

CHAPTERS

00:13 Introduction and Personal Update

00:13 Homeschooling Overview and Curriculum Decisions

01:32 Daily Homeschool Routine

04:04 Family Learning Time

08:18 History and Science Curriculum

13:35 Independent Learning

20:08 Flexibility in the Homeschool Schedule

— CONNECT WITH THE HOST —

Ask questions/contact: https://laurenmefford.com/contact

Youtube: Lauren Mefford, PhD

[ROOTED RHYTHMS] 3 Simple Systems That Cut 90% of the Chaos in Our Homeschool (With a Baby and Toddler) | Ep. 30

Tue, 15 Sep 2026 06:00:00 -0400

Lauren is homeschooling six kids ten and under, including a toddler and an infant, and if she is not intentional, their mornings can get chaotic fast. In this episode, Lauren walks through the three simple systems that took a lot of that chaos out of peak learning hours, and made the school day much more enjoyable for everyone.

Key Takeaways:

Why the evening reset is key to a smooth homeschool morning
How prepping breakfast the night before saves precious morning minutes (and only takes about three minutes)
What family learning time at the table actually looks like with six kids and a baby in the mix
Why breakfast time and keeping the toddler busy with their hands at the table makes teaching everyone else possible
How carpet time keeps a toddler content and engaged during one-on-one reading lessons
Why she changed the order of subjects this year, and what happened when she did

— RESOURCES MENTIONED —

✨ Rooted Homemakers Collective — my monthly membership for building personalized home management rhythms: https://laurenmefford.com/rooted-homemakers

NeoLife protein shake — NeoLife

*I am a promoter for Neolife, which means if you purchase a shake through this link I will get a small commission :)

Happy Hymnody — Happy Hymnody

Toddler's carpet/floor pad — PAPAMAT 1.3" Thick Baby Floor Play Mat 50x50 Foam Kids Play Mat, Dark Grey | Memory Mat for Baby to Play, Waterproof Easy Care with Non-Slip Tummy Time Play Mat for Nursery Playroom Classroom

CONNECT WITH THE HOST —

Youtube: Lauren Mefford, PhD

Instagram: Lauren Mefford, PhD, FNP-BC (@laurenmichellemefford) • Instagram profile

Website/Contact Us_:http://www.laurenmefford.com

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Homeschooling 6 Kids 10 and Under (With a Baby and a Toddler)

00:24 The evening reset and why it's counterintuitive but essential

03:18 Family table time (Family Learning Time): Bible, recitation, and lessons while everyone eats

08:05 How I manage one-on-one teaching time with little ones underfoot

How We're Raising 6 Kids to Actually Love Each Other (And What We Do When They Don't)| Ep. 29

Thu, 10 Sep 2026 10:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Lauren and Jeremy sit down to talk about something almost every family with more than one child wrestles with: sibling bickering, and how to actually cultivate love between siblings instead of just refereeing conflict all day. They are quick to say this isn't meant to be a how-to, more just what they have learned raising six kids and watching the Lord work in their home.

KEY TOPICS

The discussion centers on teaching children to love others well using biblical principles, especially 1 Corinthians 13 and the command to love your neighbor.
How to handle tattling
What they do with bickering children
The episode distinguishes between communal toys and personal property, teaching both generosity and respect for ownership.
Lauren and her husband discuss how age matters, especially when toddlers are involved, and how older children can be asked to help, serve, and play with younger siblings.
Family rhythms like dinner table sharing, birthdays, and noticing generosity are presented as ways to cultivate a home where siblings enjoy one another.

RESOURCES MENTIONED

Don't Make Me Count to Three by Ginger Hubbard: Don't Make Me Count to Three
Loving the Little Years by Rachel Jankovic: Loving the Little Years: Motherhood in the Trenches - Grace Based Christian Parenting

This episode is NOT sponsored. Some product links are affiliate links, which means if you buy something we'll receive a small commission.

CHAPTERS

05:51 What We Do First When a Child Comes Tattling

12:00 How to Handle Bickering as a Mom Solo Parenting During the Day

14:16 When Telling on a Sibling Isn't Actually Tattling

17:28 The Walk We Make Our Children Take When They're Unkind

20:42 The Toy Rule That Ends Almost Every Argument

24:07 Why We Don't Squelch a Generous Heart

28:26 How We Think About Sibling Hospitality in Our Home

35:31 Teaching Older Children to Help With the Littles

39:28 The One Question We Come Back to When We're Stuck

—CONNECT WITH THE HOSTS —

Ask questions/contact us: https://laurenmefford.com/contact

Youtube: Lauren Mefford, PhD, FNP-BC

[ROOTED RHYTHMS] 5 Biblical Habits That Finally ORGANIZED MY LIFE (After Years of Struggle) | Ep. 28

Tue, 08 Sep 2026 16:50:50 -0400

✨ Watch the notebook video I mentioned → https://youtu.be/N5zdDeKeZ80
✨ Follow along on Instagram for the full wellness challenge → https://www.instagram.com/laurenmichellemefford/
✨ Check out the supplements I mentioned 👉https://shopneolife.com/rootedvitality/shop/product/2996G

✨Overwhelmed by meals, laundry, and endless to-dos? Learn the simple system that makes home feel manageable again in my FREE Masterclass → https://www.laurenmefford.com/free-training

CONNECT WITH THE HOST

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LaurenMefford/videos

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

Website/Contact Us: http://www.laurenmefford.com

[ROOTED RHYTHMS] Dumb Phone vs. Dumbified Smartphone for Moms: What I Found After 7 Years | Ep. 27

Tue, 01 Sep 2026 10:30:00 -0400

Lauren shares her seven-year journey of finding a way to stay connected to the outside world without being pulled away from her home and family. She discusses the pros and cons of using dumb phones and the transition to a smarter smartphone solution that allows for customization and reduced distractions.

Takeaways

The journey of finding the right balance between staying connected and being present at home.
The transition from a dumb phone to a smarter smartphone solution that allows for customization and reduced distractions.

-RESOURCES MENTIONED-

✨ How to actually dumify your Android (full tutorial): https://youtu.be/RZZl7_m2tDg

✨ Why texts drop between iPhone and Android, explained: https://youtu.be/yZAWF_Fq758

✨ The refurbished Google Pixel I bought to dumify: https://amzn.to/4gzYvGe

✨ O Launcher (the app I use for my minimalist home screen): https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=app.olauncher&hl=en_US&pli=1

✨ The Sunbeam F1 Pro (the flip phone I used and loved): https://sunbeamwireless.com/by/31010/

This video is NOT sponsored. Some product links are affiliate links, which means if you buy something we'll receive a small commission.

CHAPTERS
00:00 Why I Went the Flip Phone Route
01:45 Pros and Cons of Dumb Phones (and How I Adapted)

06:18 The Transition to a Smarter Smartphone

09:27 What I Kept (and Cut) + My Final Verdict

—CONNECT WITH THE HOST —

Ask questions/contact me: https://laurenmefford.com/contact
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LaurenMefford/videos

#DumbPhone #DigitalMinimalism #FlipPhone #ChristianHomemaking #HomeschoolMom

Reformed Baptist to Presbyterian: What Actually Changed Our Minds | Ep. 26

Thu, 27 Aug 2026 14:34:39 -0400

In this episode, Lauren and Jeremy share the story behind a question many of you have asked: why did we move from being Reformed Baptists to Presbyterians? They walk through where they started, the moment that first cracked things open, and the theological questions that shaped how they now think about faith, baptism, and raising their children.

— RESOURCES MENTIONED —

Baptism Is Not Enough — one of the books that shaped this conversation: Baptism Is Not Enough: How Understanding God's Covenant Explains Everything

Genesis 17:7, Romans 4, Galatians 3, Acts 2, Acts 16 (the Philippian jailer), Jeremiah 31 — key passages referenced throughout

The catechism we now use with our kids — I Belong to God: A Catechism for Covenant Children

This episode is NOT sponsored. Some product links are affiliate links, which means if you buy something we'll receive a small commission.

—CONNECT WITH THE HOSTS —

Ask questions/contact us: https://laurenmefford.com/contact
Youtube: Lauren Mefford, PhD, FNP-BC

Instagram: Lauren Mefford, PhD, FNP-BC (@laurenmichellemefford) • Instagram profile

CHAPTERS

00:13 Journey from Reformed Baptists to Presbyterians
07:57 Understanding Covenant Theology and Its Implications
13:38 The Role of Faith
20:33 The Shift in Perspective on Baptism and Children
27:27 Understanding the Covenant and Its Implications
31:18 Baptism and Its Significance in the New Covenant

[ROOTED RHYTHMS] The Notebook That Saved This Homemaker From Infinite Scrolling | Ep. 25

Tue, 25 Aug 2026 10:00:00 -0400

✨ If you've been moving all day but nothing seems to get done — start here. A daily rhythm to help you get food on the table, laundry moving, and peace back in your home. $27. Instant access. → https://go.laurenmefford.com/faithful-in-the-little-things-page
✨Overwhelmed by meals, laundry, and endless to-dos? Learn the simple system that makes home feel manageable again in my FREE Masterclass → https://www.laurenmefford.com/free-training

This description below includes affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through them, I may receive a small commission—thank you for supporting my channel!

Do you feel constantly distracted by your phone—scrolling through apps while dinner burns, kids need you, and the day slips away?
You’re not alone. In this video, I share the simple 3-minute notebook routine that helped me stop mindless scrolling and become the focused, present homemaker I truly wanted to be.
After trying many different methods and planners, this $10 notebook is what worked.

I’ll walk you through the exact way I use it each day and week to retrain my brain, reclaim my time, and stay anchored in real life—not lost in my phone.

***I will say, this notebook is a big part of the equation, buts not the ONLY part. Self control is still important—and finding ways to choose not pick up the phone and scroll (i.e., limiting times to check it, using app blockers, keeping it in another room, etc.). BUT, using paper instead of having another reason to reach for the phone (to plan, keep lists, etc.) has been very helpful for me, personally.***

Whether you’re trying to scroll less as a stay-at-home mom, create weekly rhythms that stick, or finally feel clear-headed when you wake up, this system will help.

You’ll learn:
Why we reach for our phones and how a simple notebook helps
The weekly planning rhythm that keeps my homemaking calm and consistent

My 5-minute evening routine that helps me wake up already in motion

How I use my notebook for meals, priorities, to-dos, and even a custom dopamine menu that rewires my brain toward life-giving choices

If you’re a Christian homemaker who wants to stay focused, love your role, and create systems that bring peace and joy to your home, this video is for you..

My notebook: https://amzn.to/44TlHJQ
My favorite erasable pens: https://amzn.to/48WycXt

CONNECT WITH THE HOST

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LaurenMefford/videos

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

Website/Contact Us: http://www.laurenmefford.com

[ROOTED RHYTHMS] Answering Your Questions About Homeschooling, Housework & Balancing It All | Ep. 24

Wed, 19 Aug 2026 19:03:52 -0400

✨ Wondering what it would look like to have rhythms that help you run your home instead of it running you? Come join us inside my membership, the Rooted Homemakers Collective, where I walk you through exactly how → https://laurenmefford.com/rooted-homemakers

Answering your questions on balancing chores and play, our new homeschool plan, how I meal plan, and how we train our children's’ character.

This episode is NOT sponsored. Some product links are affiliate links, which means if you buy something we'll receive a small commission.

Resources and Products Mentioned in this video:

✨Voetberg Music Academy: https://www.voetbergmusicacademy.com?affiliate_code=29079a
✨ BiblioPlan (our history, Bible, and literature curriculum this year): https://www.biblioplan.net/
✨ IEW: https://amzn.to/4w7x5fy
✨ Apologia Science: https://amzn.to/4zimkKj
✨ Math Mammoth: https://amzn.to/4wMAAsU

**For Math Mammoth, you have to get the A and B workbooks, plus tests/quizzes and answer key

CHAPTERS

00:00 Balancing Chores and Play
12:09 Our Evening Schedule
14:25 Homeschool Updates
22:31 How I Meal Plan
25:18 How We Discipline & Train Our Children's Character

—CONNECT WITH THE HOSTS —

Ask questions/contact us: https://laurenmefford.com/contact
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LaurenMefford/videos

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

What This Mom of 11 Discovered After Years of Getting Homeschool Wrong | With Ashley Buffa | Ep. 23

Thu, 13 Aug 2026 10:00:00 -0400

✨Wondering what it would look like to have rhythms that help you run your home (rather than it running you)? Learn more about the Rooted Rhythms Method: https://laurenmefford.com/rooted-rhythms-method

— SHOW NOTES —

Ashley Buffa is a mother of eleven who has homeschooled from the start and graduated four children. But for the first fifteen years, she'll tell you plainly that she hated it. In this conversation she shares what finally changed her heart, why keeping your kids out of school isn't the same as homeschooling well, and how she structures a full life as a homeschool mom and businesswoman without letting either one run the show.

Lauren and Ashley cover the practical and the heart-level: why getting dressed sets the tone for the day, loving your children, pulling toddlers in instead of pushing them away, and cultivating a family culture that loves beautiful things without nagging anyone into it.

— RESOURCES MENTIONED —

Ashley on YouTube — https://www.youtube.com/@AshleyMBuffa
The Homeschool Excellence Framework and other homeschooling resources can be found at https://go.vocationalhomeschooling.com/
Keep an eye out for Ashley's upcoming motherhood course (releasing end of August)

—CONNECT WITH THE HOST —

Youtube: Lauren Mefford, PhD, FNP-BC

Instagram: Lauren Mefford, PhD, FNP-BC (@laurenmichellemefford) • Instagram profile

Website/Contact Us_:http://www.laurenmefford.com

[ROOTED RHYTHMS] The Bible Taught Me How to Manage My Time Better Than Any Self-Help Book | Ep. 22

Tue, 11 Aug 2026 10:00:00 -0400

✨Struggling to build rhythms that actually work in your home?
My free masterclass shows you how to create simple routines that are rooted in biblical priorities and actually work. Watch it here: https://www.laurenmefford.com/free-training

If you’ve tried planners, routines, and every self-help strategy but still feel behind, this video walks through a biblical approach to time management that is actually effective and freeing, because its based on biblical fruitfulness and faithfulness, not the worlds view of productivity and hustle culture. We’ll talk about fruitfulness vs productivity, seeing your homemaking through Scripture, and why your identity in Christ changes the way you build habits.

You’ll learn practical ways to build habits that stick and help you faithfully manage your home, how to leverage rhythms God already built into the day, and how habit-building connects to the kind of Christian woman you’re becoming.

CONNECT WITH THE HOST

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LaurenMefford/videos

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

Website/Contact Us: http://www.laurenmefford.com

[ROOTED RHYTHMS] The Unexpected Key to a Peaceful Home With 6 Kids (It's Not More Cleaning) | Ep. 21

Tue, 04 Aug 2026 09:00:00 -0400

🌿Wondering what it would look like to have rhythms that help you run your home (rather than it running you)? Learn more about the Rooted Rhythms Method: https://laurenmefford.com/rooted-rhythms-method

In this episode, I'm sharing the unexpected key I've found to a truly peaceful home, plus three practical, God-honoring ways you can start walking it out this week.

CONNECT WITH THE HOST

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LaurenMefford/videos

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

Website/Contact Us_:http://www.laurenmefford.com

What Feeding Our Family Real Food Taught Us About Healing | Ep. 20

Thu, 30 Jul 2026 15:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Lauren and her husband Jeremy get real about health and wellness in their own home and what they've lived and watched work. Lauren, a nurse practitioner, shares the dramatic story of a hormone crash in her mid-twenties that left her at menopausal estrogen levels despite an active lifestyle, and what brought healing.

From there, they talk through their family's brutal sick seasons, the whole-food supplements that turned things around for their kids' immunity, and Lauren's own recovery after a string of miscarriages.

The conversation also covers soil depletion, food as medicine, and a few biblical parallels that reshaped how they think about nutrition. They close out talking about staying active as a family — not through motivation, but through systems and an environment that makes movement the default.

— CHAPTERS —

0:00 — Why We're Talking About Health and Wellness Today

2:11 — Do Your Daily Choices Actually Support Your Goals?

5:01 — The Hormone Crash That Changed Everything in Lauren's Twenties

7:06 — Nutrition Changed the Course of Her Life

13:20 — Why Today's Produce Isn't as Nutritious as It Used to Be

15:43 — Breaking the Cycle of Endless Sick Seasons

22:30 — The 90-Day Challenge

29:09 — Is Food Really Medicine?

41:44 — A Case for Prioritizing Nutrition

49:50 — Building an Active Family Life (Without Relying on Motivation)

— RESOURCES MENTIONED —

Kid's vitamins:
- Immunity: https://beta.neolife.com/rootedvitality/en-US/shop/product/vita-gard?sku=3125
- Daily: https://beta.neolife.com/rootedvitality/en-US/shop/product/vita-squares?sku=3122
Rooted Home health & wellness resource page mentioned in the episode —https://laurenmefford.com/wellness-general-health
Kids' bodyweight workout playlist for the kiddos— https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZeBwGx-VLPsJ6Ucsov3lYJ24xTCiB_Bz

— CONNECT WITH THE HOSTS —

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LaurenMefford/videos Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurenmichellemefford/ Website/Contact Us: http://www.laurenmefford.com

A quick heads up: we're NeoLife promoters, so we may earn a small commission if you order through us. I only share what we use ourselves. This is our experience, not medical advice.

What Nancy Wilson Learned in Nearly 50 Years Raising Daughters | Ep. 19

Thu, 23 Jul 2026 16:07:43 -0400

In this episode of the Rooted Home podcast, Lauren sits down with Nancy Wilson, author of Future Women. Nancy came to faith in college, married Doug, and helped start Logos School back in the early days of the classical Christian movement, all while raising three children. Her family now includes eighteen grandchildren and a growing handful of great-grandchildren, so she has gotten to see, up close, what the Lord does with a life of simple, day-to-day faithfulness.

Together they talk about parenting with joy rather than drudgery, and why being lighthearted in the day to day is something many of us have to practice. Nancy shares how she and Doug worked to raise daughters who were secure and confident, capable of shouldering the real work of running a home. She also makes the case that a solid education and a high view of homemaking were never meant to compete. As she puts it, teaching a daughter to think is one of the best things a mother can hand down. It's a warm and honest conversation with a lot of practical wisdom for any mom raising her children in the Lord.

Chapter titles:

00:57 — From Military Base to Born Again: Nancy's Story

04:40 — How One Offhand Comment Started a Christian School

10:29 — Parenting With Joy Instead of Drudgery

16:25 — Learning to Laugh When the Milk Spills

22:20 — The Book Nancy Almost Didn't Write

30:26 — "Get To," Not "Got To": Raising Capable Daughters

35:42 — Should You Pay Your Kids to Do Chores?

38:42 — Why a Homemaker Still Needs a Real Education

40:39 — The No-Security-Blanket Rule That Raised Confident Girls

51:10 — Raising Daughters Strong Enough to Bear Weight

— RESOURCES MENTIONED —

Future Women by Nancy Wilson (Canon Press): https://canonpress.com/products/future-women
Listen to the Femina podcast by Nancy Wilson: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/femina/id1513264253

Future Men by Doug Wilson: https://amzn.to/3TwICqY

Why Children Matter by Doug Wilson: https://amzn.to/4fyCRBH

Five Aspects of Woman by Barbara Mouser: https://www.fiveaspects.com/bible-studies/five-aspects-of-woman

— CONNECT WITH THE HOST —

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LaurenMefford/videos

Website/Contact Us: http://www.laurenmefford.com

How To Inspire Your Husband to Lead Without Nagging | Wife School With Tilly Dillehay | Ep. 18

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 15:00:00 -0400

In this episode, I sit down with author and Wife School creator Tilly Dillehay to talk about marriage, motherhood, and faith. Tilly shares how her parents' divorce and remarriage shaped her heart for marriages worth enjoying, why gratitude changes the whole feel of a home, and how calling sin what it is becomes the doorway to real freedom. A warm, honest conversation full of practical wisdom for women who want to grow & have a flourishing, God-honoring marriage.

Chapters:
02:04 Tilly's Background and Writing Journey
05:09 How She Writes Books With Four Kids at Home
08:03 What Wife School Teaches Christian Women
11:09 The Divorce That Sparked Her Passion for Marriage
14:04 The Marriage Mistake Many Wives Don't Know They're Making
16:53 How to Inspire Your Husband to Lead (Without Nagging)
19:54 The Power of Gratitude in Marriage
23:54 The Perspective Shift That Softens How You See Him
26:37 Love and Respect: The Two Currencies of Marriage
30:31 When to Trust Him With the High-Stakes Decisions
38:53 The Feminine Vices Hiding Behind Feminine Virtues
47:50 The Freedom of Finally Calling Sin What It Is

— RESOURCES MENTIONED —

✨ My Dear Hemlock by Tilly Dillehay (her spinoff of The Screwtape Letters): https://amzn.to/4pkRoV6
✨ Seeing Green by Tilly Dillehay (on envy): https://amzn.to/4f6Smzv
✨ Broken Bread by Tilly Dillehay (on the relationship with food): https://amzn.to/3Rbd7Su
✨ The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis: https://amzn.to/4vfjZw9
✨ Tilly's Website, where you can find Wife School among other resources: https://www.tillydillehay.com/
✨ Watch her hilarious Ma Ingles reel on Instagram, and follow her there: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DUg0HjgDwcr/

CONNECT WITH THE HOST—
Youtube: Lauren Mefford, PhD, FNP-BC
Instagram: Lauren Mefford, PhD, FNP-BC (@laurenmichellemefford) • Instagram profile
Website/Contact Us: http://www.laurenmefford.com

We Got Addicted to Being Off Screens — Here's What Happened to Our Family | Ep. 17

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 14:00:00 -0400

In this episode of The Rooted Home Podcast, Jeremy and Lauren Mefford have an honest conversation about something a lot of families are wrestling with — screens. This is not a "we went cold turkey and it was fine" story. These are just two people, with very different screen histories, talking about what it actually looks like to raise six kids who know how to play, be bored, and live in the present without constantly reaching for a device.

Together, they dig into why screens aren't neutral tools — why they're far closer to cigarettes than to hammers — and how the dopamine cycle of scrolling quietly robs families of the ability to enjoy the slow, the mundane, and the real. They also get honest about the spiritual layer underneath it all: how discontentment quietly grows when we're always consuming and never creating.

But this episode is less about fear and more about freedom. Jeremy and Lauren share what intentional screen stewardship actually looks like in a home with six kids: family-only screen time, books in every room, long hours of outdoor play, and children who go outside and build things in the woods because nobody handed them an iPad. They also talk about the hope — that brains can be retrained, attention spans can be rebuilt, and the life God put in front of us is meant to be enjoyed.

— RESOURCES MENTIONED —

✨ C.S. Lewis, The Weight of Glory — referenced ("mud pies in the slums"): The Weight of Glory

— CONNECT WITH THE HOSTS —

YouTube: Lauren Mefford, PhD, FNP-BC

Instagram: Lauren Mefford, PhD, FNP-BC (@laurenmichellemefford) • Instagram profile

Website/Contact Us: http://www.laurenmefford.com

TIMESTAMPS

00:59 Understanding Screen Addiction

04:16 Personal Experiences with Screens

07:14 The Impact of Screens on Children

10:08 Screens as Tools vs. Addictions

13:01 The Importance of Enjoying the Mundane

16:17 The Dangers of Constant Stimulation

19:06 Training Children for a Healthy Relationship with Screens

22:00 Practical Tips for Reducing Screen Time

25:15 Fostering Creativity and Imagination

28:06 The Role of Parents in Managing Screen Time

31:15 Embracing Life Beyond Screens

Why Habits Fall Apart When Life Gets Hard (& What to Do Instead) | With Reagan Rose | Ep. 16

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 12:00:00 -0400

What does it actually look like to steward your time well — without burning out, without hustle culture creeping in, and without losing sight of what actually matters? In this episode, Jeremy and Lauren sit down with Reagan Rose, founder of Redeeming Productivity, for a rich conversation about biblical productivity, building good habits, and what it means to be fruitful — not just busy.

Reagan has been teaching personal productivity through a biblical worldview for over ten years, and the parallels between his work and Lauren's approach to homemaking make for a conversation you'll want to listen to more than once.

CONNECT WITH REAGAN ROSE
Reagan runs the ministry Redeeming Productivity, where he teaches personal productivity through a biblical lens. He is the author of Redeeming Productivity and hosts a podcast and membership community by the same name. He lives in southeast Michigan with his wife Kim and their three children.

Find Reagan at: http://redeemingproductivity.com

Read Redeeming Productivity by Reagan Rose: https://amzn.to/3QAlxCD

Become a Member of the Redeeming Productivity Academy: https://redeemingproductivity.com/academy/

— CONNECT WITH THE HOSTS —

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LaurenMefford/videos
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurenmichellemefford/
Website: http://www.laurenmefford.com

TIMESTAMPS:

02:12 - How Reagan went from struggling student to biblical productivity ministry
03:05 - What stewardship actually has to do with your time
05:00 - Why there is so little Christian content on productivity
08:13 - The catch-22 of being too busy to fix being too busy
10:47 - Stop adding habits — start making what you do more routine
13:27 - Why the home to-do list will never be done (and that's okay)
15:11 - What happens when your schedule has no cushion
17:46 - The quarterly check-in that keeps priorities from drifting
21:17 - What faithful stewardship looks like when you are exhausted
25:30 - Reagan's POWER morning routine
27:55 - You are not just building a habit — you are building character
36:01 - Habits in the hard seasons: postpartum, depleted, running on empty
42:12 - Holding your plans loosely when God redirects them
43:25 - What it looks like when rest counts as productivity
45:33 - Rolling with the curveballs without everything falling apart
51:26 - How to know if you are being flexible or just avoiding the work
57:45 - The habits your kids are watching you build right now
58:44 - Painting the picture of an orderly home before you hand out chore charts
66:30 - Discipline is not a burden — it is what sets you free

How Katie & Elisha Voetberg Homeschool, Run a Business & Still Have Margin | Ep. 15

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 13:00:00 -0400

Discover how Elisha and Katie Voetberg balance building a strong family culture with pursuing entrepreneurial ventures, all rooted in faith and intentional living. They share practical insights on family traditions, managing flexible schedules, and creating a legacy through music, homeschooling, and more.

—CONNECT WITH KATIE & ELISHA—

Check out Voetberg Music Academy: https://www.voetbergmusicacademy.com/courses?affiliate_code=29079a
Listen to their podcast: Now That We’re a Family https://www.nowthatwereafamily.com/podcast
Substack: https://elishaandkatievoetberg.substack.com/
Magazine: https://www.nowthatwereafamily.com/Magazine

—TIMESTAMPS —

02:00 - Going smartphone-free 6 years ago (and writing a book about it)
04:30 - What growing up in a family of 10+ kids actually looked like
10:00 - Practical tips for homeschooling and family teamwork
12:34 - Why we stopped trying to do ALL the activities with our kids
16:00 - Choosing entrepreneurship after watching our own parents do it
21:02 - What "flexible schedule" really looks like with 6 kids at home
26:43 - The importance of focusing and avoiding burnout
30:23 - Watching our kids fall in love with music (fiddle, piano + more)
32:26 - The advice we'd give any couple wanting business + big family
42:25 - "Begin with the end in mind" - the question we wish we'd asked sooner
44:19 - Cultivating joy and margin within a busy family life
48:25 - Counting the cost before you build & living intentionally

—CONNECT WITH THE HOSTS —

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LaurenMefford/videos

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

Website/Contact Us:http://www.laurenmefford.com

What Christians Often Get Wrong About Standing Up to a Godless World | Ep. 14

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 13:00:00 -0400

Struggling to build rhythms that actually work in your home? My free masterclass shows you how to create simple routines that are rooted in biblical priorities and actually work. Watch it here: https://www.laurenmefford.com/free-training

In this episode, we explore how Christians can best respond to cultural challenges and godless influences by staying rooted in Christ. We emphasize the importance of humility, discernment, and biblical faithfulness in navigating societal issues while maintaining a Christ-centered perspective.

— TIMESTAMPS —

02:14 - The Trap of Dancing to the Culture's Tune (And How to Stop)
04:23 - What Happens When "Standing for Truth" Becomes Your Identity

08:25 - Real Church Examples of Getting It Wrong (In Both Directions)

13:43 - How to Address Hard Cultural Issues From the Pulpit Without Losing Your Footing

14:47 - The Difference Between Christ-Like Strength and Just Being Harsh

18:35 - Walking by the Spirit When the Culture Pulls Hard

22:30 - Why Virtues Aren't Actually in Tension (In Christ)

24:26 - The Subtle Pride of Feeling Like You've Finally Figured It Out
25:19 - The Trad Wife Pendulum: When the Overcorrection Becomes Another Law

28:07 - Walking in Freedom Instead of Trading One Yoke for Another
28:59 - Final Encouragement: Follow Christ, Stay Rooted, Enjoy Your Coffee

CONNECT WITH THE HOSTS —

Youtube: Lauren Mefford, PhD, FNP-BC

Instagram: Lauren Mefford, PhD, FNP-BC (@laurenmichellemefford) • Instagram profile

Website/Contact Us_:http://www.laurenmefford.com

Q&A: Mom Guilt, Repentance, Money & the Theology Shaping Our Home | Ep. 13

Thu, 28 May 2026 13:00:00 -0400

— SHOW NOTES —

In this Q&A episode, Jeremy and Lauren answer some of the most common questions they've received from listeners — covering mom guilt, their faith background, how they manage finances as a family, how Lauren studies the Bible and teaches scripture to the kids, and practical tips for keeping the home going in the thick of a newborn season. It's a candid, encouraging conversation straight from the trenches of real family life.

— RESOURCES MENTIONED —

✨ GET 50% OFF THE CORE PLAN YOUR FIRST YEAR with Monarch budgeting software: https://monarch.com/referral/t6wahuoizr?r_source=copy

✨ Simply Charlotte Mason scripture memory system: https://simplycharlottemason.com/timesavers/memorysys/

✨ I Belong to God: A Catechism for Covenant Children By Richard Lusk: https://amzn.to/4unNAE6

✨ Ploductivity by Doug Wilson: https://amzn.to/4dGVTDI

— CONNECT WITH THE HOSTS —

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LaurenMefford/videos

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

Website: http://www.laurenmefford.com

✨ Check out our podcast: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube

✨ Learn how our family went from being run down and sick to more energetic and healthier: https://www.laurenmefford.com/wellness

✨ Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/laurenmeffordphdfnp-bc

If this episode was helpful, we would love it if you'd leave a review and rate us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify — it really helps more families find this content. Thank you so much for being here. 🌿

TIMESTAMPS

0:26 - Mom Guilt: When to Repent, When to Let Go

4:40 - The Importance of Modeling Repentance for Children

9:27 - Our Faith Background (Reformed Baptist → Presbyterian)

12:34 - How We Manage Our Money

17:49 - How Lauren Studies the Bible in Every Season of Life

24:24 - How We Protect Our Sabbath (and Why It's Worth It)

30:07 - Surviving & Managing the Home With a Newborn & Toddler

36:44 - Keep the Questions Coming: How to Reach Us

What 16 Years Homeschooling + 10 Kids Taught Me About Daily Rhythms | With Sheri Renno | Ep. 12

Thu, 21 May 2026 13:00:00 -0400

✨ Struggling to build rhythms that actually work in your home? My free masterclass shows you how to create simple routines that are rooted in biblical priorities and actually work. Watch it here: https://www.laurenmefford.com/free-training

Sheri Renno has been homeschooling for 16 years, has 10 kids ages 3 to 21, and came in as a former public school teacher convinced she had to meet every standard. This conversation is full of the kind of perspective that only comes from being in it for the long haul — and it's exactly what most of us need in the thick of the little years.

We talked about her daily rhythm, how she uses checklists without being married to them, why she treats chores as part of the curriculum, when kids' interests start to surface, and why protecting family-first isn't just a value — it's something you have to actively fight for.

CHAPTERS

00:15 Meet Sheri — Homeschooling Mom of 10 for 16 Years

00:30 How She Started (And What She'd Do Differently)

01:01 Why She Created a YouTube Channel to Help Other Moms

02:21 The Charlotte Mason Approach — What It Actually Looks Like

02:51 Living Books, Narration, and Why She Ditched the Standards Mindset

04:15 The One Thing She Focuses on Instead of Grade Levels

07:19 How Her Kids Built Real Businesses From Home Skills

11:10 The Age When Everything Shifts — and What to Watch For

16:29 What a School Day Actually Looks Like With 10 Kids

20:04 The Four-Part Rhythm That Holds Their Day Together

21:14 Why Chores Are Part of the Curriculum, Not an Obstacle to It

23:03 How She Manages Independent Work Across Every Age

36:29 The Checklist System That Keeps Things Moving Without the Pressure

50:21 What "Family First" Actually Means With Homeschool

52:18 Where to Find Sheri + Her New Course for Homeschool Moms

CONNECT WITH SHERI

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OurLifeHomeschooling

Blog: http://ourlifehomeschooling.com

Her Free Homeschooling Masterclass: https://ourlifehomeschooling.com/the-home-education-breakthrough-sign-up/

CONNECT WITH THE HOST

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LaurenMefford/videos

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

Website/Contact Us: http://www.laurenmefford.com

An Honest Conversation About Family Priorities When Life Gets Too Full | Ep. 11

Thu, 14 May 2026 13:00:00 -0400

How to realign family priorities when life throws you a curveball.

✨Struggling to build rhythms that actually work in your home? Lauren’s free masterclass shows you how to create simple routines that are rooted in biblical priorities and actually work. Watch it here: https://www.laurenmefford.com/free-training

Life has a way of stopping you in your tracks and making you ask: is this actually what matters most? In this episode, Jeremy and Lauren are having a conversation they've been living in real time — one that started with grief, loss, and the kind of moment that makes you drop everything and recalibrate.

They talk about why having clearly defined family priorities isn't just a productivity strategy — it's a biblical framework that protects your home, your marriage, and precious time with your family. When you and your husband are already on the same page about what matters most, the hard decisions get a lot less hard.

They also get personal about changes coming to the channel, something exciting on the horizon, and why pruning the good things is sometimes the most faithful thing you can do.

If you've ever felt like you're being consistent but still have no margin — and something's got to give — this one is for you.

Grab a warm drink or your basket of laundry, and come hang out with me for a bit.

If you enjoyed today's episode, don't forget to leave a rating on Apple, Spotify, or wherever it is that you listen. It helps get the word out to other families ❤️

CHAPTERS

00:00 When Life Makes You Stop and Recalibrate

07:08 How We Decide What Gets Our Time When Life Gets Loud

13:35 Why You Need This Conversation Before a Crisis Hits

21:35 When People Don't Agree With Your Family's Decisions

32:26 Pruning the Good Things — And What's Coming Next

#ChristianHomemaker #ChristianMom #FamilyPriorities #RootedHome #HomeschoolMom #BiblicalWomanhood #ChristianMarriage #HomemakingPodcast #ChristianPodcast #FaithAndFamily #GodHonoringHome #MarriageGoals #ChristianWomen #PrioritiesInLife #SimpleLiving

CONNECT WITH THE HOSTS

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LaurenMefford/videos

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

Website/Contact Us_:http://www.laurenmefford.com

Stop Saving Your Best for Guests — Hospitality Starts With Your Family | Mystie Winckler | Ep. 10

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 13:00:00 -0400

✨Discover how biblical hospitality extends beyond outward appearance to foster genuine connection, growth, and family life. Mystie Winckler shares practical insights on establishing a hospitable environment rooted in scripture, emphasizing the importance of the home's mission—to nurture thriving families and communities.

TIMESTAMPS

02:24 - What Does "Convivial" Mean — And Why It Matters to the Home

03:49 - The Three Circles of Hospitality Many Christian Moms Have Never Heard Of

06:50 - Why Your Family Life Is the Foundation That Makes Any Hospitality Possible

09:29 - Are You Hosting for Them — Or for What They Think of You?

10:53 - How Pinterest and Instagram Are Quietly Distorting Your View of Your Home

13:39 - The One Question That Reveals Whether Your Home Is Truly Hospitable

14:30 - How to Be Fully Present With Guests (And Teach Your Kids to Do the Same)

17:17 - What to Do When Guests Arrive and Dinner Isn't Ready

18:46 - The Simple Meal Prep Habit That Makes Hosting Feel Easy

20:29 - How to Actually Teach Your Kids Conversation Skills Before Company Comes

26:19 - Beauty, Order, and a House Full of Kids — How Do You Hold That Tension?

28:19 - The Parable of the Talents and What It Has to Do With Your Messy House

36:43 - Are You Decluttering Your Children's Childhood Without Realizing It?

45:44 - Why Homemaking Feels Meaningless (And the Lie Behind That Feeling)

52:03 - Who You Follow Online Is Shaping How You Feel About Your Home

CONNECT WITH MYSTIE WINCKLER:

CONNECT WITH THE HOST

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LaurenMefford/videos

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

Website/Contact Us_:http://www.laurenmefford.com

Large Family Life: How We Raise Happy, Helpful Kids | Ep. 09

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 13:00:00 -0400

✨ Wondering what it would look like to have real rhythm in your home? Watch the free training → https://www.laurenmefford.com/free-training

✨*If your days feel full but fruitless* — this is the plan that changes that. →https://go.laurenmefford.com/faithful-in-the-little-things-page

In this episode, Lauren and Jeremy share the principles and practices behind building a warm, joy-filled home with a large family — and why most of it applies to every family.

Topics Covered:

Why they wanted a big family (hint: a kitchen lip-sync moment changed everything)
The goal: a home with spiritual and relational warmth
Finding and learning from families ahead of you
The power of first-time obedience and why consistency is the key
The inverted pyramid method of child training
Training kids for chores: realistic expectations, the learning curve, and the long payoff
Team effort as a family culture — what it looks like day to day
The fruit: 9-year-olds baking, kids mulching the garden, grandma visits that actually go smoothly

TIMESTAMPS

00:00 – Why We Wanted a Big Family (And What Changed Our Minds)

00:35 -Cultivating a Loving Home Atmosphere

01:29 -The Biblical Foundation Every Parent Needs Before Anything Else

03:54 -You Can't Turn This On for Company — Home Culture Has to Be Real

05:38 -The Fastest Way to Learn? Spend Time With Families You Want to Emulate

07:31 -You Don't Need a Formal Mentor — Here's What It Actually Looks Like

10:20 -Why God's Commands Lead to Joy, Not Restriction

12:20 -First-Time Obedience: The Key to Consistent Discipline

15:12 -Early Training: Teaching Boundaries for Safety

21:14 -Delight in Obedience: Making God's Ways Joyful

23:52 -The Inverted Pyramid: Are You Training Your Kids Backwards?

25:27 -Teaching Them What to Think Before You Teach Them How to Think

34:17 -Look What Team Effort Can Do: Raising Kids Who Actually Want to Help

Resources Mentioned:

Shepherding a Child's Heart- https://amzn.to/4ckn5cb
8 Errors Parents Make & How to Avoid Them: https://amzn.to/4mEAE9T
Loving the Little Years- https://amzn.to/4cUAaZS
Why Children Matter- https://amzn.to/3Oh2Wut

CONNECT WITH THE HOSTS

Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/@LaurenMefford/videos

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

Website/Contact Us:http://www.laurenmefford.com

What It's Really Like to Give Up Your Career to Come Home Full Time | Ep. 08

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 13:00:00 -0400

✨If your days feel full but fruitless — this is the plan that changes that. → https://go.laurenmefford.com/faithful-in-the-little-things-page

✨ Watch the free masterclass & bring more peace and structure into your home→ https://www.laurenmefford.com/free-training

IN THIS EPISODE:

In this honest and personal episode, Lauren and Jeremy share the story of how Lauren transitioned out of a nursing practitioner career into full-time homemaking — and it wasn't the plan she had going in. They talk through the heart shift that happened, the practical realities of that season, and what the Scriptures actually say about a wife and mother's role in the home. They also dig into the false dichotomy between "career" and "homemaking," looking at Proverbs 31 as a framework for thinking wisely about economic contribution from within the home. If you've ever wrestled with this tension yourself, this one is for you.

Plus, Lauren shares a peek into how she actually runs her home-based business while keeping her family first — including the boundaries, the recalibrating, and why embracing constraints has been more freeing than limiting.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Introduction: Women returning home

02:23 - A word of encouragement for moms who can't be home full time

05:25 - Lauren's mindset before kids: career-first without realizing it

12:05 - The shift to full time home life

18:33 - The practical and financial benefits of mom being home

22:49 - Redefining work through biblical principles

28:06 - Shifting gears: Proverbs 31 and economic fruitfulness in the home

32:27 - How to think about home-based work without sacrificing the home

36:11 - How Lauren manages her business within family priorities

39:43 - Jeremy's perspective: why your husband has to be on board

44:37 - Navigating family and business challenges

CONNECT WITH THE HOSTS —

Youtube: Lauren Mefford, PhD, FNP-BC

Instagram: Lauren Mefford, PhD, FNP-BC | Homemaking Mentor (@laurenmichellemefford) • Instagram profile

Website/Contact Us_:http://www.laurenmefford.com

What the Bible Taught Us About Disagreement in Marriage | Ep. 07

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 15:00:00 -0400

✨If your days feel full but fruitless — this is the plan that changes that. → https://go.laurenmefford.com/faithful-in-the-little-things-page

✨Take the course: Most moms don't lack motivation — they lack a simple plan that turns their good intentions & priorities into daily rhythms. That's what this builds → https://www.laurenmefford.com/Rooted-Rhythms-Course

✨ Wondering what it would look like to have real rhythm in your home? I walk you through it step by step — for free. ✨ Watch the free training → https://www.laurenmefford.com/free-training

In this episode, Jeremy & Lauren discuss how to handle disagreements between spouses healthily and biblically. We explore gender differences, respectful communication, and practical approaches to resolve conflicts and walk in unity.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00 - Handling disagreements as a couple

02:42 - The importance of understanding gender differences in marriage

03:42 - Respect and love: Biblical commands for husbands and wives

07:14 - Misconceptions about biblical submission and leadership

11:04 - Communicating about household decisions respectfully

14:06 - The significance of honoring each other's opinions

15:30 - How to address disagreements about specific issues (preferences, wisdom, scripture)

19:30 - Working through worldview differences and false influences

24:33 - Handling disagreements over non-scriptural issues like screen time

28:07 - The importance of prayer and prayerful living in influencing change

32:16 - How to respond when your spouse shares concerns or frustrations

36:17 - Finding joy and unity despite differences and mistakes

39:31 - Promoting positive, inspiring conversations over critical or confrontational ones

41:08 - Encouragement for perseverance through conflicts and growth in marriage

Remember:

Every couple faces disagreements; how you handle them can strengthen your relationship. Approach conflicts with humility, respect, and prayer, trusting that God's design for marriage is for your joy and sanctification.

CONNECT WITH THE HOSTS —

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LaurenMefford/videos

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

Website/Contact Us_:http://www.laurenmefford.com

What Actually Matters in the Little Years of Homeschool (And What Doesn't) | Ep. 06

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 15:00:00 -0400

✨ If you've been moving all day but nothing feels done —this is the toolkit that changes that→ https://go.laurenmefford.com/faithful-in-the-little-things-page

✨*Take the course:* Most moms don't lack motivation — they lack a simple plan that turns their good intentions & priorities into daily rhythms. That's what this builds →https://www.laurenmefford.com/Rooted-Rhythms-Course

✨ Wondering what it would look like to have real rhythm in your home? I walk you through it step by step — for free. ✨ Watch the free training →https://www.laurenmefford.com/free-training

If you're in the little years of homeschooling and you feel like you're constantly behind, missing something, or doing it wrong — this one's for you.

In today’s episode, we had an honest conversation about what we've learned through the years of homeschooling (with now six kids 9 and under), through newborn seasons, miscarriages, adoptions, and all of the life that happened in between. We talk about what actually moves the needle — and what we’ve learned to let go of.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Homeschooling during busy and transitional seasons

03:33 - Foundations for independent learning in older children

07:10 - The power of early reading to foster independent learning

10:26 - Challenges with early literacy and the significance of fluency

13:02 - Teaching perseverance through challenges

15:09 - Using music and memorization

24:55 - Teaching children to teach themselves

31:20 - Practicing kindness and reasonable expectations for yourself

This isn't a perfect homeschool day. It's the real thing — with a toddler eating Cheerios at the table and a four-year-old who tuckers out mid-lesson.

Resources mentioned:

Teach Your Child to Read in 100 Easy Lessons→https://amzn.to/4sePftP
Math Mammoth→https://amzn.to/4sHZ9VL
Voetberg Music Academy→ https://www.voetbergmusicacademy.com?affiliate_code=29079a
Catechism book→ https://amzn.to/4m0pADy
Simply Charlotte Mason Scripture Memory Box →Scripture Memory System - Simply Charlotte Mason

CONNECT WITH THE HOSTS —

Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/@LaurenMefford/videos

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

Website/Contact Us:http://www.laurenmefford.com

The Limits of What Online Learning Can Do For Your Growth | Ep. 05

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 15:00:00 -0400

✨ If you've been moving all day but nothing feels done —this is the toolkit that can change that→ https://go.laurenmefford.com/faithful-in-the-little-things-page

✨ Watch the masterclass: Wondering what it would look like to have real rhythm in your home? I walk you through it step by step — for free. ✨ Watch the free training → https://www.laurenmefford.com/free-training

What Online Discipleship Can — and Can’t — Do

The conversation explores the impact of online discipleship, the limits of the online space, the balance between online and in-person community, the role of online courses in home management, and the wise use of online tools. It highlights the benefits, challenges, and cultural shifts associated with online connectivity and learning.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction to the benefits and pitfalls of online discipleship

02:00 - 2020’s impact on online church participation

03:15 - The gift of connectivity in God's providence

04:25 - The limitations of online community for true relational depth

05:58 - The importance of in-person, flesh-and-blood relationships

07:10 - The danger of keyboard warriors and virtual disagreements

09:45 - The need for physical presence for real sanctification

11:00 - The analogy of nourishment: online info vs a home-cooked meal

12:15 - Local church involvement versus online community

13:30 - The pitfalls of using online courses as a quick fix

14:45 - The necessity of spiritual ongoing sanctification alongside practical tools

16:00 - How biblical wisdom guides appropriate use of online resources

19:10 - The role of courses in supporting local discipleship

22:35 - Recognizing the cultural shift back toward valuing family and home skills

25:00 - The overarching principle: technology as a tool, not a substitute

32:00 - Closing thoughts and wisdom for balanced digital engagement

CONNECT WITH THE HOSTS

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LaurenMefford/videos

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

Website/Contact Us:www.laurenmefford.com

Our Honest Answers to Your Questions About Marriage, Kids & Home | Ep. 04

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 15:00:00 -0400

✨If your days feel full but fruitless — this is the plan that changes that.

✨Take the course: Most moms don't lack motivation — they lack a simple plan that turns their priorities into daily rhythms. That's what this builds.

✨ Watch the masterclass: Wondering what it would look like to have real rhythm in your home? I walk you through it step by step — for free. Watch the free training here.

KEY TOPICS

Strategies for managing household chores and expectations during shared time at home
Understanding and appreciating differences between spouses
The importance of respectful communication
Practical tips for decluttering
Raising children with biblical wisdom
Encouragement for husbands and wives to support each other's wellness and fitness routines
Navigating decisions on family size
The significance of community and wisdom from older, experienced parents

TIMESTAMPS

00:37 - How to handle household challenges when spouses are home more often

01:02 - Respectful communication about household expectations

04:23 - Deepening conversations on household roles and responsibilities

06:17 - Strategies for household organization and management

07:31 - Advice from experienced parents on not trying to change your spouse

09:44 - How long to stick with a new daily routine

11:01 - Decluttering and avoiding the accumulation of unnecessary things

14:32 - How background influences expectations in marriage

15:02 - The value of biblical family modeling and church community

16:26 - Supporting wives’ fitness and time management for exercise

21:23 - Applying Christian principles to parenting and resisting modern fads

24:47 - Considering family planning and trusting God's sovereignty

CONNECT WITH THE HOSTS

Youtube: Lauren Mefford, PhD, FNP-BC

Instagram: Lauren Mefford, PhD, FNP-BC | Homemaking Mentor (@laurenmichellemefford) • Instagram profile

Website/Contact Us: www.laurenmefford.com

3 Ways We Brought Warmth Back to Our Home | Ep. 03

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 15:00:00 -0400

✨ Wondering what it would look like to have real rhythm in your home? I walk you through it step by step — for free. ✨ Watch the free training → https://www.laurenmefford.com/free-training

In this episode, we explore how to cultivate emotional, spiritual, and physical warmth in the home, emphasizing biblical foundations, rhythms of connection, and intentional practices. Whether you're a new parent or looking to deepen the warmth in your family environment, this discussion provides practical steps grounded in Scripture and real-life experience.

Key Topics Covered:

Warmth as a reflection of biblical love and hospitality
Abiding in Christ as the source of genuine fruitfulness
Healthy marriage as the foundation for a warm home
Family worship, scripture memory, and devotional rhythms
Parenting rhythms: mommy time, one-on-one dates, and saying "yes"
Sabbath, rest, and screen time management
Building community with families who exemplify warmth

Timestamps:

(0:00) - Welcome & episode overview
(2:13) - Warmth during survival mode
(4:44) - Hope for new parents through rhythms & sanctification
(7:46) - God's discipline and growth in character
(9:33) - Avoiding envy & the trap of social media comparison
(12:37) - Humility, repentance, and fostering warmth
(15:19) - Practical tips: smiles, kindness, abiding in Christ
(18:17) - Marriage as the heart of a warm home
(20:22) - Family worship, Bible teaching & devotional resources
(24:21) - Marriage rhythms: date nights & intentional affection
(30:05) - Parenting rhythms & individual attention
(33:20) - Vacations, traditions & saying "yes" to your kids
(37:36) - Sabbath, screen time & Stars and Strikes
(40:31) - Learning from exemplary families

Resources & Links:

Connect with the Speakers:

Lauren - Youtube | Instagram
Take the Course → Rooted Rhythms
Get the Plan → Faithful in the Little Things

Why does Ordinary Life Feel Unspiritual? The Ancient Lie Behind It | Ep. 02

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 16:00:00 -0400

✨ Overwhelmed? Start here → $27 The Bare Minimum Daily Rhythm shows you exactly what to focus on first. Instant access. https://go.laurenmefford.com/faithful-in-the-little-things-page

✨ Watch my free training where I walk you step-by-step through building rhythms that bring stability to your home. Grab that here: https://www.laurenmefford.com/free-training

Embracing God's Good Creation: Breaking Gnostic Mindsets & Finding Biblical Freedom in the Home

Discover how to combat modern Gnostic influences that undervalue the material world—and see God's creation, including family, work, and daily routines, as purposeful and good. This episode explores biblical themes of creation, redemption, and the kingdom of God to free believers from unhelpful mindsets and motivate faithful, joyful stewardship in every area of life.

In this episode:

The impact of Gnostic dualism on our view of material creation
How the biblical goodness of God's design gives meaning to family life, work, and daily routines
Enjoying God's gifts as an act of worship and gratitude
Reframing sanctification and motherhood as spiritual work
The biblical hope of Christ's kingdom expanding and filling the earth
Practical encouragement for faithful stewardship in any life season

Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction 02:30 – What is Gnosticism and radical dualism?
03:49 – How Gnostic thinking affects our view of work and home
05:20 – The danger of equating spiritual intimacy solely with private prayer
07:55 – Enjoying God's gifts as worship and gratitude
10:11 – Freedom to enjoy all of God's creation
12:28 – Shifting from guilt to biblical freedom in motherhood 14:01 – Sanctification through struggle and motherhood 17:44 – The biblical purpose of creation: glorifying God through physical life
20:08 – Creation's redemption and kingdom expansion 22:41 – Practical implications for family life and daily faithfulness
26:43 – Cultivating the little things as faithful stewardship 28:27 – How stewarding a puppy teaches gratitude and responsibility
31:16 – Addressing false views of the end times
33:47 – The victorious, growing kingdom of God
42:25 – How biblical eschatology fuels joy and purpose 44:37 – Holding tensions in biblical truth
45:33 – Final encouragement

Resources:

Things of Earth by Joe Rigney-https://amzn.to/4aRa0q9

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How We Got to 6 Kids — Adoption & Why We Started This | Ep. 01

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 16:30:00 -0400

Meet Jeremy and Lauren Mefford— the couple behind The Rooted Home. If you've followed Lauren's YouTube channel, you know she gets straight to the point. But this podcast is something different: consider it an invitation into their living room.

In this first episode, Jeremy and Lauren introduce themselves and share the story behind why they started the podcast — and why now.

They open up about their whirlwind first eight years of marriage: three biological children, adopting three children, three miscarriages, loss, health challenges, and now a brand-new baby.

They also pull back the curtain on how Lauren went from a PhD in nursing and a career in the medical field to becoming deeply passionate about homemaking, and how that passion eventually grew into a YouTube ministry and now this podcast.

This isn't a polished highlight reel. It's real life — the kite and the string, the anchor and the boat — two imperfect people sharing what they're learning about faith, marriage, family, and running a home for the glory of God.

Coming up in future episodes: adoption, family rhythms, faith lived out in the home, building a strong family culture, health and nutrition, and more.

Have a question for Jeremy and Lauren? Leave a comment or reach out!