The Mom Next Door: Stories of Faith

Lisa’s world changed forever the day her husband suddenly passed away—leaving her not only as a widow, but as the “only parent” to their young children. The grief was overwhelming, and her identity—so long intertwined with her husband—felt lost in the chaos.

With raw honesty and gentle humor, Lisa recounts her journey through loss, moving from shock and survival to healing and new beginnings. She opens up about the awkward conversations, the unexpected kindness of neighbors, and the deep reshaping of faith required to move forward. Along the way, Lisa found purpose—starting a ministry for widows, creating resources to help others navigate grief, and encouraging those in seasons of suffering.

Susanne’s world fell apart piece by piece—her marriage ended, her health declined, her family home was lost, and as she mourned her father’s passing, she also became her mother’s caretaker. Just as Susanne thought she had found hope again, another deep loss left her shattered and without direction. Through this cascade of heartbreak, Susanne discovered that the well-meaning words and advice society gives us about grief often leave us even more isolated and confused.

In this episode of The Mom Next Door: Stories of Faith, Susanne Murphy joins Pam Fields to share her raw and honest journey through extraordinary loss and the profound lessons God revealed in the midst of her pain. Susanne not only tells her story but offers practical, biblically grounded tools to help us walk alongside others in their sorrow. She exposes the myths our culture perpetuates about grief and invites listeners to approach heartache with compassion and listening ears.

You’ll hear Susanne’s heartfelt encouragement for the brokenhearted and learn how even life’s “good” changes—like a child moving away to college or a big family move—can trigger grief that needs to be acknowledged. Drawing from her work as a grief recovery specialist, Susanne brings hope, healing, and a new perspective on how to hold space for our children and friends as they process loss, both big and small.

If you or someone you love is facing grief, this conversation will equip you to respond with empathy, listen without judgment, and recognize God’s redemptive work in the midst of suffering. Susanne reminds us that our stories are not over—hope, healing, and God’s loving presence are waiting as we step forward in faith.

Listen in for practical tips, biblical encouragement, and the gentle reminder that you are never alone in your heartbreak.

Brenda grew up in the tranquil town of Shipshewana, Indiana, where life moves a bit slower and communities thrive on simplicity amidst modern chaos. Brenda is a therapist, writer, and speaker, and today we are talking about the importance of making life and faith uncomplicated in a fast-paced world.

So ponder with us the beauty of a back-to-basics lifestyle, not by rejecting modernity, but by reconnecting with God-given skills and sensibilities. "Life is complicated but how we respond doesn't have to be."

Welcome to our neighborhood! Sit on down with Pam, Jodi Jackson Tucker and Lisa C Qualls to chat about the fulfilling yet challenging journey of foster care and adoption. Jody and Lisa dive into the dynamics of large, blended families and the vital role of faith in navigating the complexities of adoption.

They offer insight into how communities can rally support around adoptive and foster families, shining a light on the global orphan crisis and the transformative power of prayer. This episode is packed with encouragement, practical resources, and real stories of God's faithfulness, perfect for anyone interested in adoption or wanting to support those who are.

Please check into the resources mentioned in this episode starting with these author's books: (affiliate links)

With spring cleaning on everyone's mind, we're tackling the love-hate relationship we have with tidying up. Joining us is Dana K. White, who wrote the super-relatable book "Jesus Doesn't Care About Your Messy House." Dana talks about what it was like growing up messy, thinking she'd magically become organized as an adult, and how she finally found peace with her not-so-perfect home. Dana reminds us that God doesn't judge us by our clutter! Praise the Lord!

From Worry to Worship: Rediscovering Prayer as a Superpower

In this episode, we are talking about the beautiful chaos of seasons in life, prayer, and breaking through anxiety with faith and vulnerability. Maybe you have had to leave behind the familiar to embrace the unknown, release your children and stand at a distance. We know what that is like.

Anxiety can grip the heart but the power of Jesus, community and prayer to break those chains.

Follow along with Jaime (and Alana) at

L.G. Nixon unfolds her journey from a layered spiritual upbringing to becoming an author weaving supernatural themes into children's literature. Raised in a home where the extraordinary was believed just beyond the shadows, Nixon's faith blossomed after her first husband's passing enlightened her understanding of salvation, reshaping her entire path.

Now a grandmother, her passion for sparking spiritual curiosity in young minds shines in her enchanting book series, "The Issachar Gatekeeper," which artfully marries fantasy with scripture, encouraging children to explore biblical narratives through the lens of adventure and faith.

So join us for this chat about the profound supernatural occurrences threaded through the Bible, revealing how stories from Noah to Jesus intricately stitch together the divine and the miraculous. Discover how these tales resonate today, offering insights into contemporary phenomena through a biblical perspective.

Shayla Huber felt like she was constantly fighting an internal battle, trapped by insecurities, people-pleasing tendencies, and the ache of a childhood marked by divorce. Outwardly, she led a successful life, but inside, she struggled with a disconnect from God's love.

In this episode of "The Mom Next Door: Stories of Faith," Shayla shares her transformative journey from feeling spiritually orphaned to embracing God's unwavering love.

Discover how her deep encounter with divine grace changed her heart, improved her marriage, and empowered her to write "10 Things I Hate About My Husband" to guide others towards the same freedom.

Kari is opening up about the challenges and triumphs of raising her son, Brady, who was diagnosed with autism. Initially overwhelmed by the diagnosis, Kari felt as though she had been hit by a "Mack truck." But through faith and community, she found strength and purpose.

From leaving her 30-year career in finance to founding KIND Families and becoming a voice for autism advocacy, Kari's journey is one of resilience, faith, and embracing uniqueness.

She discusses the struggles within traditional educational settings and the joy of discovering a supportive homeschool hybrid environment. Discover how her faith deepened, leading to a perspective shift that saw her embrace her son's God-given uniqueness.

Follow along her journey at:

Today, Julie Napp shares her journey of faith, resilience, and motherhood after the sudden loss of her husband. Facing the challenges of raising five children alone, Julie candidly reflects on her deepened faith, embracing emotions, and the evolving family dynamics. Amidst her grief, she highlights the importance of small gestures and the unwavering support from friends who helped her navigate this difficult time.

Julie’s story is a powerful testament to God's presence and love, even in adversity.

Dr. Stephanie Holmes takes us on her intriguing journey from law to counseling, all thanks to a little divine nudge. Sharing her personal experiences with a neurodiverse family, Stephanie opens up about her life as a mom and wife navigating the unique challenges that come with it.

Through an honest conversation, she lends insight into the tricky mix of autism, faith, and marriage, offering hope and support to anyone in a similar spot.

With a heartfelt prayer and practical tips, Stephanie suggests ways to fully embrace neurodiversity in our lives and marriages.

Check out her websites:

Practicing extending grace to myself by sharing a quick

end-of-year message with you along with the top 3 books

from my reading list in 2024!

Please come visit me at :

Joy's exposure to p*rn in fifth grade and a traumatic college experience created a burden and contributed to trapping her in a cycle of shame. But through God's grace, Joy discovered a path to freedom and healing.

Today, Joy opens up about overcoming shame and destructive habits, addressing the lack of conversation around women's struggles with pornography within church communities. Her insights, drawn from surveying over 1,000 Christian women, reveal how understanding God's design for sexuality and fostering intimacy with Him and a supportive community can lead to profound transformation.

Through heartfelt anecdotes and personal stories, Jennifer Henn reveals how a serious health crisis became an unexpected catalyst for her children’s independence, and the grace-filled lessons learned through mistakes along the way. Jennifer will also share about her homeschool home, driven by love and desire to provide a more personalized education.

If you are parenting teens or considering the long-term character training and education of your younger children, we think this episode will give you much food for thought.

To connect with Jennifer, head over to her website

This week, Maureen Miller shares her journey from feeling like an outsider to accepting God's healing and purpose for her life. Once facing the hardship of infertility, Maureen shares how prayer and trust led her on a divine path to embrace adoption. Her story of grace and strength unfolds through powerful experiences, like the transformative vision that directed her to freedom and learning to align her desires with God's will. Maureen's story beautifully portrays the blessing of community and friendship, the strength in solitude, and the unwavering support of Jesus through life's trials.

Laine Lawson Craft is a mother who intimately understands the trials of parenting prodigal children. Laine shares her journey through heartache and hope, marked by her experiences with her sons who faced destructive choices, and offers a message of encouragement to parents facing similar struggles. She emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries, maintaining unconditional love, and the power of persistent prayer.

In this heartfelt episode of "The Mom Next Door: Stories of Faith," we sit down with Lynne Leppard from New Zealand. Lynne, an adoptee, shares her personal journey of discovering her roots and the impact it had on her life. Growing up with questions about her identity, Lynne sought to connect with her birth family, navigating the complexities of sealed records and family histories. Her story is one of faith, family, and finding a place to belong.

As a passionate advocate for faith integration into family life, Beth Meverden recounts how God led her from her own college years to discovering her purpose in guiding young believers. With valuable insights, she unveils strategies to combat the alarming trend of teens drifting from faith post-high school, urging parents to be the primary spiritual mentors.

You will find many resources available to you at

From the magical escapism of childhood fantasies to Christian-inspired storytelling, Ruth opens up about how her faith journey intertwined with her passion for writing and art. Once distanced from her faith during college, she recounts her reconnection inspired by figures like RC Sproul, influencing her renowned "Dragon Forest" series. With tales of self-discovery and bravery, Ruth's narratives invite readers to explore themes of redemption and moral complexity, casting dragons in new, thoughtful lights.

Laurie Devernoe reveals the layers of her faith journey, from navigating motherhood with triplet girls and a son, to confronting the depths of her anxiety, Laurie recounts how compartmentalizing her relationship with God initially kept Him out of her worries. But as the burdens of life mounted, she realized the power of inviting Him into every aspect of her life.

Relating her experience to the parable of the prodigal son, Laurie uncovers the profound truth that faith is not transactional but a grace-led journey of daily renewal.

Join Laurie as she reflects on how cultivating faith within her family has transformed her spiritual path, emphasizing grace as daily manna. Discover Laurie's powerful message on embracing God's unconditional love and guidance amidst life's chaos, offering solace and empowerment for every listener.

In today's episode, our host Pam Fields is joined by Liz Tolsma, a mother of three adopted children, including one, who has physical and intellectual disabilities. Together, they delve into the profound challenges and blessings of raising a child with special needs, discussing the nuances of teaching faith, finding church support, and integrating into communities. Liz shares the strength and reliance on faith that have guided her family's journey, revealing their unique life path and the joy it brings despite its challenges.

She touches on the emotional aspects of adoption, the integral support from family and friends, and the distinct value each individual brings to the world, echoing themes of compassion, hope, and resilience.

Whether you’re a parent, an educator, or a member of a faith community, join us as we explore heartfelt stories, reflect on life's unexpected lessons, and challenge societal perceptions of worth. Let these stories inspire, encourage, and deepen your own faith journey.

Joan reflects on life's trials that have strengthened her reliance on God. Her story embodies faith amidst adversity, beginning with her early dreams and evolving through life's hardest moments, including a painful divorce and the journey to rediscover her identity in Christ.

Today, Joan uses her experience to advocate for biblical values and protect our children through her writing and public speaking. In this episode, she discusses her upcoming children's book series, "Cornerstone Concepts for Kids," and shares how faith sustained her through darkness. Joan encourages mothers and grandmothers to find strength in God and shine as a light.

Jane Cook is a woman guided by faith, history, and family. In this episode, Jane shares her profound career transition from the White House to becoming an author and homeschool mom!

Jane has great insight on teaching patriotism and civic values to children, a topic she passionately advocates through her "Revolutionary Readers" series and other historical books. Jane's captivating storytelling, enriched by her research, sheds light on the countless unsung heroes of America's past and the essence of liberty and freedom. Learn about the significance of historical symbols like the American flag and powerful songs like "My Country 'Tis of Thee," which continue to unite and inspire.

Some of the books we mentioned today: (affiliate links)

From enduring the chaos of a hurricane that left her family living in a hotel for a year, to starting her graphic design business amid upheaval, Aliese shares how her unwavering foundation in Christ provided stability. This episode dives deep into practical strategies for managing time and priorities, embracing moments of rest, and living without hurry to truly hear the Lord's voice.

In a world of pressure and demands, step away for a minute and explore the transformative power of grace-filled living. From parenting challenges to everyday interactions, we are looking into the practical application of grace, forgiveness, and understanding in our daily decisions. Listen in to be inspired, encouraged, and equipped to live a grace-filled life.

Michelle Lazurek's journey from a tumultuous family fallout to becoming a passionate Christian author is a testament to God's transformative power. Today we explore her inspiring story of faith and resilience. Through her experiences, Michelle discovered the enduring strength of community, the trials of living out one's faith, and the vital role of passing on spiritual values to our children.

Today, Jill shares her journey of faith, motherhood, and finding purpose in unexpected places. From struggling as a young mom to discovering God's provision, Jill's story will resonate with many. We are chatting about the significance of prioritizing children as a ministry and the long-term impact of raising and discipling them.

We will also touch on Jill's passion for writing middle-grade books that promote themes of loyalty, bravery, and overcoming fears. Join us as we explore the treasures of motherhood, faith, and using our talents for God's work.

Make sure to check out:

After a life-altering accident, Sheila experienced a profound encounter with the Lord, finding strength and hope in the midst of trauma. "Choose happy, not crappy," became a reminder, shaping her recovery and leading to her book, "One Foot in Heaven." Join host Pam Fields as she explores Sheila's unwavering faith and how it sustained her through challenges.

Hannah Keeley and host Pam Fields share their journeys of faith and motherhood, offering a message of hope and empowerment to moms everywhere. From tackling the challenges of "mom brain" to finding strength in surrendering to God, the episode dives deep into the realities of motherhood and the transformative power of faith.

Traci Vogel's life was once filled with hardship, pain, and brokenness. Growing up in a chaotic environment, she longed for stability and hope. Through her struggles with an oppressive marriage and feeling unworthy, Traci found solace in surrendering to God. Today you will hear how God's sovereignty and grace can bring freedom and healing.

A Book Mentioned today (Amazon affiliate link)

Today, Susan Sage shares her journey of faith, inviting others to find hope amid suffering. Susan's story serves as a beacon of light, reminding us of God's power to bring comfort and renewal in the face of adversity.

Today we are discussing biblical leaps of faith, navigating the challenges of parenting and entrepreneurship. Rachel G. Scott delivers a powerful message of embracing your call and fearlessly following God's path.

In this episode, we have a powerful conversation with Donna Jones, who shares her journey of personal growth and healing through the challenges of church conflict. Donna's realization that peace and spiritual growth start with personal change, not waiting for others to change, is a revelation that resonates deeply.

We're talking about the importance of humility, forgiveness, and handling conflict in a healthy and holy way. This conversation is not to be missed by anyone seeking guidance on navigating conflicts with grace and understanding.

There is an urgency to instill a biblical worldview in our children. We must sow seeds of faith in young minds from an early age. Today, we are talking about biblical literacy and the challenges of raising children to have a strong faith foundation. This soul-stirring episode serves as a call to action for parents to become counterculture warriors for Christ.

In the 200th episode of "The Mom Next Door: Stories of Faith," host Pam Fields sits down with bestselling author and prayer expert Janet McHenry to explore the power of prayer in everyday life.

We will discuss the practical challenges of finding time for prayer as busy moms, and explore unique ways to integrate prayer into daily routines.

Losing her father at a very young age created a roadblock of skepticism on the topic of faith. Jackie's journey from being hostile to religion to a devout believer is an engaging story of God's beautiful pursuit of her.

You will be blessed and encouraged as you hear the testimony of Jackie Sayles who now ministers with Community Bible Study International.

Amidst the challenges of unexpected medical diagnoses and hardship, Julie Foge found solace in surrendering to the Lord's presence and seeking support from her community. Julie shares her journey of finding hope and strength while she also processed the grief and challenges of navigating the world of special needs.

Laura Gallier, a captivating author, shares her raw and relatable story as she offers hope to those facing similar struggles. Through her experiences, she found her faith and a calling to write the acclaimed series "The Delusion," shedding light on spiritual battles, demonic forces, and the reality of the unseen world. As parents, we need to recognize the importance of understanding biblical sexuality, addressing spiritual warfare, and navigating the challenges of raising children in a world filled with occultism and darkness.

The humble beginnings of hosting simple gatherings have grown into a haven for wounded veterans, offering healing for both their physical and spiritual wounds.

Nancy and Pam emphasize the importance of honoring and supporting our military families. You will be inspired to act in faith and to show gratitude to those who have served.

They also share their desire to care for others in the body of Christ through their membership with Samaritan Ministries International.

Make sure you check out these links for more information:

Maria Marianayagam shares her journey from a childhood shaped by the impacts of war to becoming a mother and a successful writer. Through her deeply personal narrative, she eloquently reflects on her rekindled faith and the decisions that led her to embrace a new path, now dedicated to sharing Christian virtues with children through her writing. (Which was also a journey of her courage, faith, and surrender.)

Struggling with feelings of rejection and a sense of not fitting in is a challenge many face, whether in high school or later in life. In this episode of "The Mom Next Door: Stories of Faith," host Pam Fields and guest Cally Logan bring to light the importance of embracing individuality and finding purpose amid struggle. Through personal experiences and shared wisdom, they remind listeners that God can use anyone, regardless of personality or perceived limitations. Join the conversation as they discuss the impact of social media pressure, the power of words, and the essential role of mentorship in guiding our children. Discover how to navigate the struggles of motherhood and find hope in faith as you listen to this powerful and uplifting episode.

Some links you will want to check out:

Judy Bone, a minister's wife, Christian image consultant, and esophageal cancer survivor, shares her powerful journey of finding hope and purpose in the midst of adversity. In the face of her cancer diagnosis, Judy sought guidance from the Lord, reaching a place of surrender where she discovered unexpected blessings and the reassurance of Jeremiah 29:11.

Christina found strength in her faith as she experienced two heartbreaking miscarriages and turned her grief into a beacon of hope for others. Her story of surrender, healing, and redemption will remind you of the incredible power of God to bring light into the darkest moments.

To learn more about Christina, contact her at

Today, Susan candidly shares her journey of leaving the mission field to become a caregiver for her aging mother. Reflecting on the challenges and blessings found amid familial responsibilities, Susan shares the scriptures that have guided her through this season of life. It's the story of surrendering to God's plan through life's unexpected twists and turns and embracing the uncertainty of the future.

Resources to check out and connect:

Kelly Hall's life has been a testament to God's faithfulness in the face of challenges. From navigating the complexities of motherhood with special needs children to unexpected twists in military life, Kelly's journey of surrender and trust in God's plan is an inspiration.

Nancy O'Meara shares about her experiences of finding comfort and support from God during challenging and transitional seasons of life. Her perspective of life and God's care as a single mom will encourage and challenge us to draw from God's resources as we look to Him in our own lives and support other women.

You can find Nancy at her website

Losing her sister to a senseless tragedy, Paige McLemore found herself caught in the grip of pain and turmoil, struggling to find her way back to faith. But through her journey of forgiveness, Paige discovered the transformative power of God's love. Join her as she shares her story of healing and purpose, inspiring others to find forgiveness and peace in the midst of their own struggles.

Teresa Whiting's journey from shame to freedom is a powerful testament to the redemptive nature of a relationship with Christ.

Through her own experiences and study of women in Scripture, Teresa has discovered the transformative capacity of God's grace. In this episode of "The Mom Next Door: Stories of Faith," Teresa shares her insights and the biblical narratives discussing sexual brokenness in the context of faith and how it can lead to healing and restoration. This is a message of redemption and the power of God's love to transform lives.

More places to connect with Teresa:

Tornado survivor, Dr. Lauren Farmer, found herself in the eye of a devastating storm on March 3, 2020. Join us as she shares her incredible journey of hope and resilience, reflecting on the power of community, gratitude, and God's provision after the storm. Listen in as she emphasizes the importance of recognizing the everyday miracles in life and the unwavering strength found in trusting in the Lord. Get ready to be inspired by her story of faith and survival.