Raising Godly Girls

Latest Episodes:

Ep. 303 — Planting Seeds of Faith Now That Will Grow All Through the Year Dec 04, 2025

Show notes

As the year draws to a close and families begin to look toward January with fresh hope, this episode invites moms to consider the quiet, powerful work God is already doing beneath the surface. Rachael Culpepper and Natalie Ambrose explore how the seeds of faith planted today can flourish throughout 2026—not because of our perfect consistency, but because of God's unwavering faithfulness. Drawing from the imagery of tending soil and nurturing growth, they encourage families to start the New Year anchored in God's Word, trusting that He has already prepared the way ahead.

Reflecting on Patti Garibay's Raising Godly Girls Minute, Rachael and Natalie talk about the value of looking back with gratitude while also stepping forward with confidence in God's mercy, as beautifully expressed in Deuteronomy 4:29–31. They remind listeners that God is present in the days we have already lived and present in the ones we have not yet walked. With warmth and honesty, they discuss Biblical literacy, simple tools to spark a deeper love for Scripture, and how small, faithful steps can yield meaningful growth over a full calendar year.

The conversation also highlights the importance of community in cultivating spiritual habits. Drawing from Ecclesiastes 4:12, Rachael and Natalie encourage families to pursue Bible study together, to invite accountability, and to lean on other believers when distractions or discouragement arise. They share how planned moments of praise throughout the year—intentional pauses to recognize God's goodness—can shape a family's posture toward worship and gratitude, echoing the joyful invitation of Psalm 105:2–3.

As always, the episode closes with three simple truths to carry into the week: start in gratitude for God's provision in 2025 and His promise for 2026; nurture and cultivate your family's time in God's Word with community and intentional rhythms; and plan moments of praise now, trusting that God will meet you in every season of the year ahead. This New Year conversation is a gentle, hope-filled reminder that when families plant their faith in God's truth, He brings growth in His perfect timing.

Scripture References in This Episode:

Deuteronomy 4:29–31

Ecclesiastes 4:12

Psalm 105:2–3

Three Points to Remember This Week:

Start your family's 2026 journey in gratitude for the God who carried you through 2025.

Nurture and cultivate your time in God's Word with intentionality, community, and consistency.

Plan times of praise now, trusting that God will shepherd your family through every month of the coming year.

Visit raisinggodlygirls.com for more encouragement and faith-based parenting tools.

Learn how to find or start an American Heritage Girls Troop in your community at americanheritagegirls.org.

Ep. 302 — Helping Your Girl Develop a Regular Bible Study Rhythm in the New Year Dec 02, 2025

Show notes

When the Christmas season eventually winds down and the New Year comes into view, many moms begin thinking about fresh starts, renewed rhythms, and the kind of spiritual habits they want to cultivate in their homes. In this week's episode, Rachael Culpepper and Natalie Ambrose invite you to breathe deeply, slow your pace, and look ahead with intention—specifically toward your daughter's 2026 Bible study habits.

While resolutions and "one word" themes often take center stage this time of year, Rachael and Natalie shift the conversation toward something far more enduring: a girl's long-term relationship with the Word of God. Together, they explore the beauty of Biblical literacy, the faithfulness of God that anchors every study session, and the simple ways moms can help their daughters develop a steady, grace-filled approach to Scripture.

You'll hear thoughtful insight around cultivating consistency, navigating seasons of dryness, and creating an emotional climate where girls feel safe to learn, ask questions, and grow. From practical tools like the O.I.A. study method to heart-level reminders that God delights in every step of your daughter's spiritual development, this episode is full of encouragement for moms who want to champion their girl's faith in the coming year.

Rachael and Natalie also share how the American Heritage Girls ministry equips girls to engage with Scripture deeply and confidently through the R.E.A.L. Life Bible Study method. Whether your daughter is a candle-lit-journal devotee or a messy-bun-coffee-shop learner, this conversation will help you nurture a rhythm of Bible study that fits her personality, honors her season of life, and strengthens her walk with the Lord.

As you prepare for a new year, we pray this episode helps you refocus, breathe, and step forward with hope—knowing that God is faithful, His Word is true, and He delights in growing your girl's heart one day at a time.

Scripture Referenced in This Episode:

Deuteronomy 7:9

Psalm 36:10

Psalm 119:105

Psalm 42:1–2

Zephaniah 3:17

Three Things to Remember This Week

The best Bible study method is the one done regularly.

When your girl's rhythm breaks, plan to recalibrate with grace.

When she shares what God is teaching her, stop and listen with full attention.

Visit raisinggodlygirls.com for more encouragement and faith-based parenting tools.

Learn how to find or start an American Heritage Girls Troop in your community at americanheritagegirls.org.

Ep. 301 — Living the Gospel Through Service This Christmas with Gracie O'Loughlin (Operation Christmas Child) Nov 29, 2025

Show notes

The world says Christmas is about what we receive—but the Gospel tells a different story. This Christmas season, American Heritage Girls Founder & Executive Director Patti Garibay sits down with Gracie O'Loughlin, Director of Strategic Partnerships & Promotions at Operation Christmas Child, to talk about what it truly means to live the Gospel through service. From the joy of packing shoeboxes to the global reach of The Greatest Journey discipleship program, this heartfelt episode reminds us that generosity is more than a seasonal act—it's the posture of a heart transformed by Christ.

Gracie shares powerful stories from the field—children hearing the name of Jesus for the very first time, families growing in faith through simple acts of giving, and AHG Troops linking arms with Operation Christmas Child to impact lives around the world. You'll discover how even the smallest gestures of love can carry the eternal message of hope, and how to help your daughter see the beauty of giving rather than receiving.

Whether you're wrapping gifts or wrapping up your to-do list, this conversation will re-center your heart on what Christmas is truly about: the joy of giving, the peace of Christ, and the call to serve others in His name.

Scripture Referenced in This Episode

John 3:16 – "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son…"

Acts 20:35 – "It is more blessed to give than to receive."

Matthew 25:40 – "Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for Me."

2 Corinthians 9:7 – "Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give… for God loves a cheerful giver."

Explore more resources to raise girls rooted in Christ at raisinggodlygirls.com. To find or start an AHG Troop in your area, visit americanheritagegirls.org. Learn how AHG and Operation Christmas Child partner to bring the Gospel to children across the globe at samaritanspurse.org/operation-christmas-child/american-heritage-girls-operation-christmas-child.

Ep. 300 — Helping Your Daughter Beat Holiday Greediness Nov 27, 2025

Show notes

As Christmas draws near, excitement fills our homes—along with the endless catalogs, wish lists, and the subtle temptation to want more. In this episode of the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, hosts Rachael Culpepper and Melissa Bearden wrestle honestly with the tension every family feels: how do we help our daughters avoid holiday greediness and instead cultivate grateful, generous hearts? Through personal stories and biblical wisdom, they explore how the desire for "just one more thing" can take root even in the sweetest child—and how God gives parents the tools to gently guide their girls toward contentment.

Rachael and Melissa take listeners back to their own childhood Christmases—where innocence, wonder, and excitement sometimes gave way to comparison or selfishness. They remind us that these moments aren't failures but opportunities. Opportunities to help our girls understand the difference between healthy desire and a heart consumed with having more. Through Patti Garibay's "Greedy Christmas" devotion, moms are encouraged to simplify traditions, model self-control, and anchor the season in the joy that comes from thoughtful, meaningful giving.

The episode also equips moms with practical, faith-filled strategies for shaping their daughter's heart: reframing the Christmas list, creating space for gratitude, and gently redirecting attention away from abundance and toward the Giver of every good gift. Rachael and Melissa highlight how modeling contentment in our own habits—whether through budgeting, slowing down, or choosing simplicity—sets a powerful example for the next generation. And as always, the conversation returns to the truth that generosity isn't about what we can afford, but about reflecting the heart of Christ.

Listeners will also hear how American Heritage Girls reinforces these lessons year-round. Through badges, service projects, and Troop community life, girls learn that generosity, stewardship, and humility are practiced virtues—shaped not by Christmas morning, but by a Christ-centered lifestyle. This episode empowers moms to help their daughters resist the cultural pull toward more and embrace the lasting joy of being a cheerful giver.

Three Takeaways from This Episode

Contentment Over Consumption — Help your daughter practice gratitude and resist the pressure to pursue "more."

Thoughtful Gift-Giving — Tools like the four-gift rule teach budgeting, stewardship, and generosity.

Generosity From the Heart — Joy grows when girls give with love, reflecting God's character rather than the world's expectations.

Scripture References

Luke 12:15 – "Be on guard against all greed…"

2 Corinthians 9:7 – "God loves a cheerful giver."

Explore more resources to raise girls rooted in Christ at raisinggodlygirls.com. Find or start an AHG Troop at americanheritagegirls.org.

Ep 299 — Cultivating a Spirit of Generosity in Your Daughter This Holiday Season Nov 25, 2025

Show notes

The Christmas season is filled with twinkling lights, festive excitement, and no shortage of gift lists—but in the middle of the holiday rush, how do we help our daughters understand that generosity is more than presents under a tree? In this heartfelt episode of the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, hosts Rachael Culpepper, American Heritage Girls Executive Director, and Melissa Bearden explore what it truly means to cultivate a generous heart—one rooted in gratitude, compassion, and the character of Christ.

Through stories from their own girlhood Christmases, Rachael and Melissa reflect on simple moments of kindness that shaped their understanding of giving. Together, they unpack the truth that generosity flows not from abundance, but from love—and that the greatest gifts we give our daughters are opportunities to serve, bless others, and reflect God's heart for the world. With insights from American Heritage Girls Founder & Executive Director Emeritus Patti Garibay's "Divine Generosity" devotion, this episode reminds us that God Himself is the model of sacrificial giving, offering His Son as the greatest gift of all.

Listeners will discover practical ways to spark meaningful conversations about generosity, from redefining what "giving" really looks like to letting girls take the lead in blessing someone this season. Rachael and Melissa also share how the American Heritage Girls Program helps cultivate year-round generous living through service, community engagement, and Christ-centered character development.

Whether you're navigating a busy December calendar or longing to bring deeper spiritual meaning back into your family's traditions, this episode will encourage you to slow down, refocus, and lead your daughter toward a joy that lasts far longer than wrapped gifts or glittering décor.

A Few Things to Remember

God is the ultimate Giver—and our generosity reflects His heart.

True giving isn't about the size of the gift, but the love behind it.

Girls learn generosity by watching us—our joy, our sacrifice, our willingness to bless others.

Download the free Raising Godly Girls Guide to Joyful Giving at Christmas a family resource filled with activities, Scriptures, and conversation prompts to help you nurture a spirit of generosity this season. Explore more tools for raising girls who love and serve the Lord at raisinggodlygirls.com. Find or start an AHG Troop at americanheritagegirls.org.

Ep 298 — Finding Gratitude in Life's Deserts and Gardens with Kat Armstrong Nov 22, 2025

Show notes

Gratitude feels easy when life is full of blessings, but what about when the season you're in feels more like a desert than a garden? With financial uncertainty, relational strain, and a world heavy with unrest, many parents are wondering how to practice thanksgiving when joy feels hard to find. Yet Scripture calls us to "give thanks in all circumstances" (1 Thessalonians 5:18)—a command that feels impossible apart from God's presence.

In this heartfelt Thanksgiving weekend episode of the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, host ad American Heritage Girls Founder & Executive Director Emeritus of American Heritage Girls Patti Garibay welcomes Bible teacher, author, and ministry leader Kat Armstrong for a conversation that speaks directly to parents walking through both deserts and gardens of life. Kat, the creator of the Storyline Project Bible studies and author of The In-Between Place, shares how the biblical imagery of deserts and gardens has shaped her faith and why it resonates so deeply with believers who are longing to see God's hand in both hardship and abundance.

Together, Patti and Kat explore how parents can model gratitude for their daughters even in difficult seasons, what it looks like to lead with both honesty and hope, and why thanksgiving is more about the steadfastness of our Savior than the state of our circumstances. Kat also offers practical ways families can hold onto hope when they feel stuck in a desert, and how unexpected moments of God's provision can turn barren ground into flourishing life.

If you've ever wondered how to show your children what gratitude looks like in the midst of struggle—or how to nurture a spirit of thanksgiving that lasts beyond the holiday season—this episode will encourage and equip you. You'll walk away with renewed perspective and the assurance that God's presence is faithful, whether you're in a desert or a garden.

Scripture Referenced in This Episode:

1 Thessalonians 5:18

Isaiah 43:19

Psalm 23:1–3

Philippians 4:6–7

John 15:5

Learn more about Kat Armstrong and her resources at katarmstrong.com.

Explore more tools to raise girls rooted in Christ at raisinggodlygirls.com.

To find or start an AHG Troop in your area, visit americanheritagegirls.org.

Ep. 297 — Teaching Gratitude Over Selfishness This Thanksgiving Nov 20, 2025

Show notes

It's Thanksgiving Day—and between the turkey, the pie, and the endless sink of dishes, it's easy for even the most grateful heart to slip into grumbling. But what if this Thanksgiving, instead of focusing on what's missing, we helped our daughters rediscover the beauty of selflessness?

In this warm and faith-filled Thanksgiving episode, Rachael Culpepper, Executive Director of American Heritage Girls, and Melissa Bearden unpack how gratitude can transform a selfish heart into a selfless one. Drawing on Proverbs 11:25, they remind us that "whoever refreshes others will be refreshed," and that true thankfulness doesn't stop at words—it's lived out in acts of generosity, humility, and service.

You'll also hear from Patti Garibay, AHG Founder and Executive Director Emeritus, in a Raising Godly Girls Minute. This powerful one-minute serves as a reminder that selflessness isn't just good manners—it's a mark of spiritual maturity. Through practical ideas like encouraging your daughter to serve someone quietly or offering gratitude to others at the Thanksgiving table, Rachael and Melissa show how even small acts of service can cultivate joy and reshape a heart toward Christlike giving.

As moms, it's tempting to chase perfection during the holidays—but this episode will remind you that the most meaningful memories are made when we slow down, serve, and model the selfless love of Jesus. Whether you're tuning in from the kitchen or the car ride to Grandma's, this Thanksgiving conversation will help you center your heart (and your daughter's!) on what really matters: a spirit of gratitude that overflows into generous love.

Three Things to Remember:

Selflessness is the antidote to selfishness. A life focused on others brings the refreshment God promises in Proverbs 11:25.

Gratitude grows through service. Serving shifts our daughters' eyes from what they lack to how much they have to give.

Thanksgiving is more than a holiday. Daily selflessness and intentional gratitude build a rhythm of generosity that honors God year-round.

Scripture Referenced in This Episode:

Proverbs 11:25 – "A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed."

Philippians 2:3–4 – "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves."

John 13:14–15 – Jesus' example of humble service in washing His disciples' feet.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 – "Give thanks in all circumstances."

Visit raisinggodlygirls.com for more encouragement and faith-based parenting tools.

Learn how to find or start an American Heritage Girls Troop in your community at americanheritagegirls.org.

Ep. 296 — Raising Girls Who Choose Gratitude—Even When They Don't Feel Like It Nov 18, 2025

Show notes

The turkey might still be thawing, the pies may or may not be homemade, and your kids might not be feeling especially thankful—but this Thanksgiving, the Raising Godly Girls Podcast invites you to look beyond the checklist and rediscover the heart of gratitude.

Join Rachael Culpepper, Executive Director of American Heritage Girls, and Melissa Bearden for a thoughtful and faith-filled conversation about what it means to raise daughters who choose gratitude even when it doesn't come naturally. With honest reflections, Biblical insight, and a few laughs along the way, Rachael and Melissa unpack how gratitude is not just a seasonal feeling—it's a spiritual discipline rooted in nearness to God.

Drawing from James 4:8 and Luke 14, they remind moms that gratitude grows when we draw near to the Lord and accept His invitation to the table of thanksgiving. From small car-ride conversations to setting the Thanksgiving table together, you'll learn simple, tangible ways to help your daughter practice gratitude that lasts longer than the leftovers.

Plus, hear from AHG Founder & Executive Director Emeritus Patti Garibay in a special Raising Godly Girls Minute—a timely reminder to turn expectations into invitations, and holiday stress into holy celebration.

Whether you're hosting family or sneaking an extra slice of pie in peace, this episode will encourage you to keep "the first things first" and model what it means to live thankful, even when you don't feel like it.

Three Things to Remember:

Gratitude is a choice, not a feeling. Choosing thankfulness (even in difficult seasons!) draws your heart closer to God.

Extend intentional invitations. Invite your daughter into moments of gratitude through small acts of connection and love.

Model resilient thanksgiving. Let your own steady gratitude remind her that joy isn't dependent on circumstances, but on Christ's unchanging goodness.

Scripture Referenced in This Episode:

James 4:8 – "Come near to God and He will come near to you."

Luke 14:15–24 – The Parable of the Great Banquet: God's open invitation to come and celebrate at His table.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 – "Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."

Psalm 100:4 – "Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise."

Explore more resources to raise girls rooted in Christ at raisinggodlygirls.com. To find or start an American Heritage Girls Troop in your area, visit americanheritagegirls.org.

Ep. 295 — Raising Daughters to Love God, Family, and Freedom with Debbie Kraulidis (Moms for America) Nov 15, 2025

Show notes

In a culture that often questions Biblical truth, diminishes family values, and redefines freedom, parents face a critical calling—to raise daughters who love God wholeheartedly, cherish their families, and honor the freedoms that flow from faith. How do we help our girls hold fast to timeless truth when the world is constantly shifting?

In this inspiring episode of the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, host Rachael Culpepper, Executive Director of American Heritage Girls, sits down with Debbie Kraulidis, Vice President of Moms for America and host of the Moms for America Podcast. Together, they explore how faith, family, and freedom work hand in hand to shape girls who live with conviction and courage.

Debbie shares how her work empowers mothers across the nation to raise daughters with strong moral compasses—girls who are grounded in Scripture, devoted to their families, and confident in their role as Christ-centered leaders in their homes, communities, and country. Rachael and Debbie discuss the vital role moms play in cultivating resilience, discernment, and love of liberty in their daughters, helping them navigate cultural pressures with grace and truth.

This conversation will remind you that freedom isn't merely an American understanding of a political concept—it's a spiritual one. As 2 Corinthians 3:17 declares, "Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom." Our daughters can walk boldly in that truth, reflecting Christ's light in a world that desperately needs it.

Learn more about Debbie Kraulidis and Moms for America at momsforamerica.us.

Explore more faith-based parenting tools at raisinggodlygirls.com

Discover how to find or start an AHG Troop in your community at americanheritagegirls.org.

Ep. 294 — Homefront Heroes: Gospel Ways to Support Military Families Nov 13, 2025

Show notes

Military life isn't just about the soldier who serves—it's about the family who serves alongside them. From surprise deployments to frequent moves and long separations, military families carry unique burdens that most civilians may never fully understand. In this week's heartfelt episode of the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, hosts Melissa Bearden and Natalie Ambrose invite listeners to pause and consider what it really means to live out the Gospel by serving the "homefront heroes" in our communities.

With Veterans Day fresh in our hearts, Melissa and Natalie open an honest conversation about how to support military families in both spiritual and practical ways. Drawing from John 15:13, they explore how Christ modeled the greatest act of love—laying down His life for His friends—and how believers can reflect that same sacrificial love toward those who sacrifice for our nation's freedom every day.

You'll hear personal reflections, stories from AHG Members connected to the military, and wisdom from American Heritage Girls Founder & Executive Director Emeritus Patti Garibay's Raising Godly Girls Minute. Together, these voices remind us that supporting military families isn't just patriotic—it's profoundly Biblical.

Whether through prayer, friendship, or hands-on service, this episode will inspire you and your daughter to become the hands and feet of Jesus to families who serve and sacrifice.

Three Things to Remember This Week

Extend Gospel compassion: Look for ways to connect with and encourage military families in your church or community—especially during seasons of deployment or transition.

Serve practically and prayerfully: Simple acts like helping with a household repair or offering childcare can lighten heavy burdens and reflect Christ's love in action.

Teach your daughter to honor sacrifice: Help her understand that service and freedom are gifts—reminding her that true freedom is found in Christ alone.

Scripture References in This Episode

John 15:13 – "Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends."

Galatians 6:10 – "Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers."

Romans 12:10 – "Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves."

Philippians 2:4 – "Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others."

Learn more about how American Heritage Girls honors our nation's heroes through programs like the U.S. Military Heroes Badge at americanheritagegirls.org.

Explore more Gospel-centered parenting resources at raisinggodlygirls.com.

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