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A Heart That Beats for Home — Kids & Family
A Heart That Beats for Home

Hey friend! I’m Nikki Smith—wife, mom of three, entrepreneur, and host of A Heart That Beats for Home. Over the years, God has used marriage, motherhood, business, and everyday life to stretch me, grow me, humble me, and draw me closer to Him. This space is a reflection of the journey I’m still on—growing, learning, and leaning into much-needed grace. I have a heart to keep investing intentionally in my marriage of 26 years with the man God has given me as a partner and best friend, to walk faithfully toward the season of empty nesting, and to grow deeper in relationship with my adult and soon-to-be adult children. More than anything, I’m passionate about drawing closer to my Heavenly Father—truly knowing Him in a way that is real and active in my everyday life—and reflecting Him in all my relationships, actions, and plans.

Each episode is a real, hope-filled conversation about the things that matter most: building strong families, walking faithfully in the gift of marriage, parenting intentionally through every stage, and keeping Christ at the center of it all. Alongside my own story, you’ll hear from amazing guests who share a deep passion for nurturing strong families where Jesus is glorified. Their wisdom, vulnerability, and encouragement will remind you that you’re not alone in this journey.

Whether you’re single, newly married, raising little ones, building a business, or walking through a new season, you’re welcome here. This is a space for women who love their families fiercely and want to lead with purpose—honoring God in the roles He has placed us in, faithfully shepherding the souls in our homes, and nurturing an environment that reflects the fruit of the Spirit and a life that glorifies Him.

One day at a time, may we become women who cultivate hearts that beat for home.

Thanks for being here,

Nikki

Copyright: © Nikki Smith

Latest Episodes:

39. 25 Lessons Learned in 25 Years of Marriage: Insecurities, Laughter and the Power of Words / Lessons 16-20 Oct 03, 2024

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Stepping away from the familiar lure of sun-kissed beaches, my husband and I embraced the crisp allure of a 12-day escape to Vancouver Island for our 25th wedding anniversary. This wasn't just any getaway; it was a celebration of the lessons and love we've cultivated over a quarter of a century together. From the bustling charm of Victoria to the serene landscapes of Tofino, Join me, Nikki Smith, as I share how this adventure rekindled connections with mentors and offered a fresh perspective on marriage.
As our series on marriage approaches its conclusion, explore the profound impact of identifying insecurities and promoting encouragement within relationships. Hear anecdotes about laughter and humor as vital tools for navigating the unpredictable challenges life throws our way. This episode also dives into the power of words in marriage, underscoring the need for mindfulness and grace in communication. With insights drawn from personal experiences, I invite you to reflect on how these lessons might resonate within your own relationships, fostering stronger bonds and creating a heart that beats for home.

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38. 25 Lessons Learned in 25 Years of Marriage: Avoiding Strings of Bad Days, Communicating Your Needs, and Knowing the Difference Between a Bad Habit and a Bad Heart/ Lessons 11-15 Sep 26, 2024

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How do you keep the spark alive in a marriage that's spanned over two decades? Join Nikki Smith as she shares her 25 Lessons for Marriage Success, drawing from 25 years of marriage and 32 years of partnership. In this episode, we unpack the critical lesson of not letting bad days accumulate and how to prevent minor frustrations from snowballing into bigger issues. Through personal stories, Nikki illustrates the concept of the "slow fade" and emphasizes the importance of starting each day with a fresh perspective.
Discover why the notion that your spouse should inherently know your needs is a myth that could be harming your relationship. Nikki dives deep into the necessity of clear, ongoing communication, explaining how changing life circumstances require constant dialogue. You'll also hear about the minor yet common annoyances, like half-finished projects and scattered contact lenses, and how understanding and managing these habits can lead to a more harmonious home life. Tune in for practical advice and heartfelt anecdotes aimed at helping you embrace both the joy and chaos of marital life, strengthening your relationship one lesson at a time.

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37. 25 Lessons Learned in 25 Years of Marriage: Speaking Life Over Your Marriage, Transforming Relationships, and Creating a Supportive Family Environment / Lessons 6-10 Sep 19, 2024

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Can the words you speak really transform your marriage? After 25 years with my husband, Jed, I can confidently say yes. This week we will dive into 5 more lessons we have learned over our years being married, starting with the power of speaking life over your spouse.
As we navigate the challenges of modern life, electronic distractions often get in the way of meaningful connections. Discover practical strategies to reclaim your time and attention, ensuring your relationships flourish in a distraction-filled world. By setting clear boundaries and presenting a united front as parents, we can create a stable, supportive environment for our children, even when disagreements arise. Learn how mindful communication in front of your kids can lay the groundwork for a cohesive family unit.
Owning our responses in marriage is another cornerstone we'll explore. It's easy to blame our reactions on others, but taking full responsibility for how we handle conflicts is transformative. From heartfelt apologies to committing to personal growth, find out how these practices can enhance your relationship. I'll recap the essential lessons from the week, including speaking life over your spouse, covering each other's weaknesses, reducing distractions, being united as parents, and owning our responses. These insights aim to inspire accountability and proactive change, helping you foster a healthier, more supportive partnership. Tune in for candid conversations that will guide you in cultivating a strong, loving family.

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36. 25 Lessons Learned in 25 Years of Marriage: Love, Intentionality, and Intimacy / Lessons 1-5 Sep 12, 2024

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What if the key to a thriving marriage isn't just love, but intentionality? Join me, Nikki Smith, as I celebrate 25 years of marriage by sharing the invaluable lessons we've learned along the way. From meeting in junior high to raising children and preparing for an empty nest, our journey is filled with both trials and triumphs that have shaped our relationship. In this special episode of A Heart that Beats for Home, "25 Lessons Learned in 25 Years," I open up about the importance of setting intentional goals for your marriage, the delicate balance of truth and love in communication, and how to maintain intimacy by truly understanding and connecting with your partner.
You'll hear heartfelt personal stories and gain practical wisdom designed to encourage and guide couples in the early or hectic stages of their marriage. Discover why deliberate effort is crucial to achieving the relationship you desire and how filling gaps with grace, love, and truth can provide a stable foundation for your family. This episode is not just a reflection on our past but a roadmap for shaping the future of your own marriage, ensuring it remains strong and fulfilling for years to come.

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35. Cultivating Routine and Efficiency in a Busy Household Sep 05, 2024

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As we transition from the lazy days of summer to the structured routines of fall, how do we maintain balance and intentionality in our busy lives? Welcome back to A Heart that Beats for Home! As the freedom of summer wanes, I'll share my excitement for a more routine-driven lifestyle and discuss strategies for creating a harmonious and meaningful year ahead. With my youngest starting high school, the focus will be on the importance of intentionality in both parenting and marriage.
Imagine making the most of every small pocket of time in your day, increasing your efficiency without adding stress. After a summer of disciplined health habits under the guidance of a functional medicine doctor, I'll share how I’m adapting to a busier schedule. From stepping back from cherished activities to manage homeschooling commitments better, to maintaining daily non-negotiables like Bible reading and prayer, this episode is packed with practical tips. We'll also discuss managing schedule anxiety and practicing grace when things don't go as planned, setting realistic expectations, and enlisting support to reduce stress and lead a more balanced life.
Balancing multiple priorities requires a strategic approach, and this episode is all about sharing those strategies. From eating healthy with convenient options and ensuring quality family time, to maintaining a strong relationship with my husband through intentional dates, I’ll dive into how I’m juggling back-to-school schedules, and homeschooling. We'll talk about the importance of decluttering, setting boundaries, and prioritizing personal health. Join me as we embrace this busy season together, stay connected, and aim to finish strong.
ARO App & ARO Box:
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34. Embracing Change and New Beginnings - Let’s Talk Menopause, Empty Nesting, Launching Our Kiddos, and Keeping the Fire Alive in Marriage - Part 2 with KellieYurosek Aug 29, 2024

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Have you ever felt like the end of hands-on parenting is as abrupt and jarring as losing a career? In this heartfelt episode of "A Heart that Beats for Home," my dear friend Kellie and I explore this transformative stage of life. Kellie shares an insightful analogy from her counselor that helps bridge understanding and empathy between moms and their spouses, easing the emotional and physical shifts that come with perimenopause and middle age. We also delve into the complexities of preparing for an empty nest and the importance of mental and physical preparation to thrive in this new chapter.
We then explore the profound journey of self-discovery and personal growth. We chat about how hobbies like gardening, art, and pottery have been instrumental in finding happiness independently of our children and spouse. Together, Kellie and I discuss the value of embracing our children's significant others as part of the family, the necessity of maintaining a strong marriage through regular communication, and how fostering these relationships leads to a deeper, more fulfilling life. We underscore the importance of celebrating the evolving beauty of family dynamics, especially as our children transition into their own adult lives.
Finally, we dive into the aspirations of transitioning to the empty nest phase with a focus on long-term family growth. How do we create lasting memories and stronger family bonds? By prioritizing shared experiences over material gifts and maintaining an adaptable mindset. We also touch on the crucial role of community support and the significance of moms taking care of themselves emotionally. This episode is brimming with encouragement and practical insights for anyone navigating middle age, emphasizing self-awareness, gratitude, and the joys of new chapters in family life.

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33. Family Rules and Open Communication with Kellie Yurosek - Part 1 Aug 22, 2024

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Managing a household of five kids while juggling the demands of a traveling spouse can be a beautiful chaos, and Kellie Yurosek knows firsthand just how intricate and rewarding it can be. Join us for an intimate conversation with Kellie as she shares her experiences of raising children aged 14 to 26, from the bustling days of multiple school pickups to the quieter moments when only two kids are left at home. Kellie's heartfelt anecdotes and insights provide a window into her family's vibrant dynamic and the joys and challenges of nurturing different personalities under one roof.
Balancing family and work responsibilities is a fine art, and Kellie's journey offers valuable lessons on meeting each child's unique needs. Learn how open communication, slowing down, and listening can transform the parenting experience, even amidst a hectic schedule. Kellie and I discuss the emotional and practical aspects of motherhood. Our conversation highlights the importance of mutual understanding, gratitude, and recognizing each other's strengths in maintaining a healthy family and marriage.
Through relatable stories and practical advice, we explore the necessity of core family rules and the impact of good manners and gratitude on child development. From teaching humility through competitive sports to navigating the evolving boundaries of parenting and friendship, Kellie’s experiences resonate on multiple levels. We also touch on the powerful moments of open communication, making every topic approachable, and ensuring children feel heard. Don't miss this enriching episode that celebrates the joy and chaos of cultivating strong, loving families.
Follow Kellie at: https://www.instagram.com/mamabeholdingittogether?igsh=azhjOWRrM3VtY3du
You can follow Ben and cheer on Georgia Dogs Football at:
https://georgiadogs.com/sports/football/roster/ben-yurosek/8297

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32. Reflections on College Life and Family Connections with Madison Smith - Part 2 Aug 15, 2024

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Sending your child off to college is an emotional rollercoaster, filled with moments of pride, anxiety, and bittersweet farewells. On this heartfelt episode of "A Heart that Beats for Home," I sit down with my daughter, Madison Smith, to reflect on her journey from freshman to senior year. We delve into the anxieties and guilt that many parents face during this transition, providing reassurance about giving ourselves grace and trusting in our children's ability to navigate their new environments. Through our candid conversation, we emphasize the importance of faith and resilience during these formative years.
Madison and I explore how our family has managed the shifts in dynamics when a child leaves for college. From regular calls to inventive virtual game nights, we share practical tips and personal stories to help maintain those indispensable connections despite the physical distance. Madison opens up about the unique challenges of keeping sibling relationships strong and how integrating new routines can sustain the familial bond.
The episode also celebrates the evolution of relationships during college, shining a light on the often-overlooked efforts dads make to stay connected. Through Madison's experiences, we discuss the emotional aspects of moving in and out each year and the personal growth that unfolds from freshman to senior year. As we approach the bittersweet senior year, we touch upon the mixed emotions of pride and nostalgia that accompany this milestone. Join us for an episode filled with love, support, and the shared wisdom of a family navigating the beautiful, challenging journey of college life.

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31. Navigating the Emotional Rollercoaster of Sending a Child to College with Madison Smith Aug 08, 2024

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Ever wondered how to navigate the emotional whirlwind of sending a child off to college? Today, I sit down with my oldest daughter, Madison Smith, to share our deeply personal journey through her college years. We reflect on the poignant moments of her leaving home, the heartbreak of saying goodbye, and the bittersweet realization of new beginnings. Madison opens up about the challenges and triumphs she faced during her transition from high school to college life at Olivet Nazarene University, balancing roles as a student-athlete, resident assistant, and Bible study leader amidst the chaos of COVID-19.
This episode is a heartfelt exploration of the emotional rollercoaster that comes with a college send-off, the importance of keeping busy to manage overwhelming feelings, and the rapid adaptation required when stepping into a new environment. Madison shares candid insights into her early days on campus, from the struggles of isolation during a COVID diagnosis to balancing the demanding schedules of online academics and athletic training. We discuss how our family maintained a close connection despite the distance, highlighting the pivotal role of small gestures and consistent communication in preserving strong family bonds.
Listeners will find valuable advice on transitioning from high school to college athletics, the significance of engaging with college coaches early, and the necessity of overcoming shyness to become an effective team leader. Madison also emphasizes the importance of balancing academics, athletics, and spirituality, supported by a nurturing community and consistent spiritual practices. This episode is packed with practical tips for parents and students alike, covering everything from managing mental and emotional stress to embracing the growth and experiences that come with this significant life change. Join us for a candid and inspiring conversation that is sure to resonate with anyone preparing for or experiencing the college transition.
Follow Madison and ONU Tigerball Basketball at:
https://www.onutigers.com/sports/wbkb/2024-25/schedule

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30. Strategies for Flourishing in a Teen-Filled Home with Annique Dean Aug 01, 2024

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Prepare yourselves for an enlightening journey into the world of parenting teens and young adults with our guest, Annique Dean, a mother of five and a newly certified parent coach. Annique opens up about her unique experiences, offering practical advice on how to navigate the emotionally intense teenage years while maintaining your sanity. Discover her strategies for creating effective routines, practicing self-compassion, and ensuring that both you and your children get the sleep you need to thrive.
As a parent managing a bustling household of athletes, Annique shares the realities behind the logistical and financial challenges, all while debunking myths about the tumultuous nature of teenage years. Expect to hear heartwarming personal anecdotes that illustrate the balance between chaos and joy, and learn about the unexpected fun that comes with raising teens. From grocery shopping to setting boundaries with smartphones and social media, Annique provides a reassuring perspective on managing a household filled with active teenagers.
Finally, we delve into the bittersweet emotions surrounding children growing up and leaving the nest, and the importance of investing in your marriage to create a strong family foundation. Join us for an episode packed with wisdom, humor, and heartfelt moments that will leave you feeling inspired and empowered in your own parenting journey.

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