The Connected Mom

Latest Episodes:

How to Find Godly Support When You Don't Know Who to Trust Feb 26, 2026

Show notes

Many believers feel torn between loving others and protecting their hearts. We’re taught to include everyone, forgive quickly, and keep our doors open—but Scripture also calls us to wisdom and discernment in who we allow to shape our thinking, emotions, and spiritual direction.

In this conversation, we explore the difference between loving people and trusting them equally—and why healthy boundaries aren’t unloving, but deeply biblical.

Author Becky Harling joins us to unpack what emotionally healthy, Christ-centered friendships look like, how to recognize unsafe relational patterns, and how to heal when relationships wound us. Together, we examine how grounding our identity in Jesus frees us to love generously without becoming drained, resentful, or spiritually pulled off course.

This episode provides clarity on:

why loving everyone doesn’t mean giving everyone equal access to your heart
how to identify safe, reciprocal friendships
warning signs of codependency, control, gossip, and emotional imbalance
how prayer shapes wise relational decisions
what loyalty and long-term friendship look like in a Christ-centered life
how to set boundaries without becoming guarded or cynical
steps toward healing after relational hurt

Produced by Faith Over Fear and LifeAudio
Resource referenced: Friend-Wise: Practical Ideas for Richer Relationships

The Struggle of Over-Functioning Feb 19, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of the Connected Mom Podcast, Becky Harling and Erin Davis engage in a heartfelt discussion about the concept of over-functioning in parenting and friendships. They explore the challenges of wanting to do too much for others, the importance of allowing children and friends to experience their own struggles, and the necessity of finding identity and affirmation in Christ rather than in performance. The conversation also touches on the biblical story of Joseph as a lens for understanding family dysfunction and the redemptive work of God in our lives.

Erin's book: The Story of Joseph

Friendship Requires Intentionality & Effort Feb 12, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of the Connected Mom Podcast, host Becky Harling and her friend Carol Kent discuss the vital role of friendship in our lives. They explore themes of intentionality, affirmation, and support in friendships, as well as the challenges of competition and comparison. Carol shares her insights on setting boundaries and the importance of prayer and connection, especially during difficult times. The conversation emphasizes the need for grace in relationships and the strength that comes from having a supportive community.

Prayer: The Foundation of Friendship Feb 05, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of the Connected Mom podcast, Becky Harling and her friend Judy Dunagan discuss the vital role of friendship in motherhood. They explore themes of intentionality, prayer, vulnerability, affirmation, and the challenges of competition and comparison among friends. Through their personal stories, they highlight how deep friendships can provide support, encouragement, and a sense of community, ultimately enriching the journey of motherhood. The conversation emphasizes the importance of nurturing friendships and being proactive in seeking connections with others.

The Vital Role of Friendship in Motherhood Jan 29, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of The Connected Mom podcast, host Becky Harling discusses the vital role of friendship in women's lives, particularly for mothers. She reflects on her personal journey through cancer, emphasizing the importance of nurturing relationships and being intentional in friendships. Harling warns against complacency and encourages listeners to treasure their friends, take initiative, and engage meaningfully in their lives. The episode sets the stage for a series focused on deepening friendships and supporting one another through life's challenges.

Becky's book:Friend-wise: Practical Ideas for Richer Relationships

Healing From Mother Wounds: A Journey Part 2 Jan 22, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of The Connected Mom, Becky Harling and therapist Kenza Haddock delve into the complexities of mother wounds, particularly focusing on the impact of borderline personality disorder in mothers. They discuss the emotional turmoil faced by children of borderline mothers, the importance of setting boundaries, and the necessity of forgiveness in the healing process. The conversation emphasizes the significance of therapy, self-awareness, and the power of God's healing in overcoming generational patterns of emotional distress.

Kenza's Book: Unmasking Narcissism: Exposing and Breaking Free From Hidden Patterns of Abuse

Healing From Mother Wounds: A Journey Part 1 Jan 15, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of the Connected Mom podcast, Becky Harling and therapist Kenza Haddock delve into the complex topic of mother wounds, particularly focusing on the impact of narcissistic mothers. They discuss the emotional scars left by such relationships, the difficulty of forgiveness, and the importance of setting boundaries for healing. Kenza emphasizes the need for self-compassion and the role of spiritual mothering in the healing process. The conversation also highlights the significance of prayer and seeking support from healthy relationships as part of the journey towards recovery.

Kenza's book: Unmasking Narcissism: Exposing and Breaking Free From Hidden Patterns of Abuse

Letting Go As A Parent Jan 08, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of the Connected Mom podcast, the host discusses the challenges of letting go as a parent, especially when children grow up and pursue their own paths. Featuring Jennifer Dukes Lee, the conversation explores themes of faith, the importance of prayer, and the emotional journey of parenting. Jennifer shares her experiences with her daughters, their educational pursuits, and the role of prayer in navigating the challenges of parenting. The episode emphasizes the significance of trusting God's plan for our children and the power of scripture in providing comfort and guidance.

Jennifer’s book: It's All Under Control:

Navigating the Emotional Landscape of Letting Go Jan 01, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of the Connected Mom podcast, host Becky Harling and counselor Michelle Nietert discuss the emotional challenges of letting go as parents, particularly when sending children off to college. They explore the importance of understanding the Father heart of God, navigating the complexities of college life, and the dual responsibilities of caring for aging parents while raising children. Michelle shares practical tips for moms in the sandwich generation, emphasizing the need for community support, self-care, and the acceptance of grief during transitions.

Michelle book: Strong and Secure

Navigating the Holiday Season as a Mom Dec 18, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Connected Mom podcast, host Becky Harling and guest Peggy Sue Wells discuss the complexities of motherhood during the holiday season, particularly focusing on the challenges of navigating relationships with adult children. They explore the emotional dynamics of family gatherings, the impact of high conflict divorce on holiday celebrations, and the importance of clear communication. The conversation emphasizes the need for mothers to transition from traditional parenting roles to friendships with their adult children, while also highlighting the significance of gratitude and emotional health in maintaining these relationships.

PeggySue Wells is an award-winning USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author, writing coach, and independent publishing strategist who inspires readers and writers alike with nearly 50 captivating books and practical guides.

Peggys book: The Ten Best Decisions A Single Mom Can Make