Building Strong Homes: Blueprints to Strengthen Your Faith and Family podcast
Welcome to Building Strong Homes, the podcast where faith meets family in the most practical and powerful ways. I’m your host, Carol Roper, wife, mom and former home designer who used to spend my days drafting floor plans and designing details, but now I help wives and moms design lives based on God’s word. This podcast is for women who want more than survival mode. You want clarity. You want purpose. You want a home that stands strong—not just physically, but spiritually. Inside each episode, you’ll find practical tools that include: *How to strengthen your marriage and motherhood through biblical truth *Candid conversations with men and women who’ve faced real challenges and found God’s grace *Encouragement to stand firm, even when culture says otherwise *Actionable ways to bless your home and influence your community If you’ve ever wondered how your ordinary days could build something extraordinary, you’re in the right place. Discover biblical blueprints for shaping a legacy that reflects God’s design—one brick of faith at a time.
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The Power of an Underdog Story: Faith, Grit, and Becoming Who You’re Called to Be with Mary Marantz
07/14/2026
The Power of an Underdog Story: Faith, Grit, and Becoming Who You’re Called to Be with Mary Marantz
Mary Marantz knows how fear can hold us back. Even though she was able to leave the musty single-wide trailer of her childhood in West Virginia and make her way to Yale Law School, she always carried the fear that she would be found out. Even though she had worked hard and earned every grade and scholarship she received she thought others saw her as an imposter. So, she strove to be the best at everything she did, and she was. But the life of perfection has a way of draining the joy out of you. Mary finally realized that fear was holding her hostage to a life that didn't provide freedom and that he is a boring liar. In this episode she shares part of her fascinating story of growing up in rural West Virginia, which is the topic of her first book, Dirt, with a dad who was a proud eighth generation logger, a mom who cleaned houses and her amazing grandma Goldie. In her newest book, Underestimated, she shares how she overcame perfectionism, procrastination, people-pleasing and more. She understands the drive to prove others wrong and show everyone just how far you've come, while also doubting yourself at every turn. Mary has learned that we all must own the muddy parts of our stories so we can move forward in the purpose God has for us. Because, as Mary says, God does His best work in the muddy, messy, and broken if we'll only learn to dig in. Watch on YouTube Find our more about or
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Why Your Story Matters — And Why the Flourish Retreat Could Be Your Turning Point with Carol Roper Bonus Episode
07/07/2026
Why Your Story Matters — And Why the Flourish Retreat Could Be Your Turning Point with Carol Roper Bonus Episode
If you’ve ever wondered whether your story really matters — or questioned how your past, your personality, and your experiences fit into God’s calling for your life — this episode is for you. I’m sharing the behind‑the‑scenes story of how I stepped into women’s ministry, the unexpected ways God used my past to shape my purpose, and why I believe so deeply in helping women discover their own calling. Many Christian women love God, love their families, and genuinely want to be obedient… but still feel unsure, unqualified, or unclear about what God is asking them to do next. If that’s you, you’re not alone — and your story is far more important than you think. In this episode, I’m also inviting you to the Flourish Retreat, a four‑day, set‑apart space designed to help you uncover your gifts, understand your wiring, connect your past to your purpose, and step confidently into the calling God has for you. If you’ve been craving clarity, direction, or community, Flourish may be the turning point you’ve been praying for. Your story matters. Your calling matters. And God is already weaving it together. Let’s talk about how. Find our more about Listen to my episode with Julie Bagwell Watch on YouTube
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Unsure What's Next? Start Here: Bonus Episode with Julie Bagwell Ep. 171
07/02/2026
Unsure What's Next? Start Here: Bonus Episode with Julie Bagwell Ep. 171
If you’ve been feeling stuck, restless, or unsure what God is asking of you in this season, the Flourish Retreat might be the turning point you’ve been praying for. This 3‑day Christian women’s retreat on Kiawah Island is designed to help you find clarity, purpose, and direction through powerful teaching, personalized coaching, and deeply meaningful community. In this episode, Julie Bagwell shares what she’ll be teaching at the retreat — including discovering your God‑given wiring, understanding your strengths through a full DISC assessment, and learning how to step confidently into your next chapter. She also reveals the exclusive early‑bird bonuses available only through August 10, including additional coaching support, bonus sessions, and special pricing. If you’re craving spiritual clarity, longing for direction, or ready to reconnect with the woman God created you to be, this conversation will make you curious about everything Flourish offers — and why so many women are already saying “yes” to this life‑changing weekend. Watch on YouTube What if one weekend could breathe life back into the parts of you that feel worn thin? This October, I’m hosting in beautiful Charleston, South Carolina — and I want you to come with me. If you’re a wife or mom who’s been pouring out for everyone else, this is your invitation to step away, exhale, and let God pour back into you. Find out more at the link. The next two women to sign up for the retreat can use the code FIRST100 to receive an additional $100 off of registration, on top of the $200 early bird savings available through July 10. If you have any questions about the retreat reach out to me Take the quiz, , because so many women feel the tension in their home but can’t quite name what’s causing it. This quiz does that for you. It pinpoints the patterns shaping your home and gives you a clear next step toward the kind of home you want to build. If you’ve been feeling stuck, this will help you get unstuck.
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From Queer to Christ: A Candid Conversation on Identity, Scripture and What This Story Means for the Church with George Carneal Ep. 170
06/30/2026
From Queer to Christ: A Candid Conversation on Identity, Scripture and What This Story Means for the Church with George Carneal Ep. 170
Please be aware that this content is not suitable for young children. George Carneal grew up in the ’70s, raised by a Southern Baptist minister in the ultra-conservative Bible Belt where his world revolved around the church, country fried chicken and trying to fit in with other boys. As disco music pulsated through the speakers in his bedroom, he plotted his escape from the misery and boredom of Southern suburbia before landing in Los Angeles; a city of glitz and hedonism. Much like Alice as she traveled through the looking glass, this is George’s journey through a queer culture fantasyland filled with drag queens, drugs and dangerous situations before discovering healing, joy and peace in Christ. In this episode, George, author of the book From Queer to Christ, shares his painful journey through a secular world at odds with homosexuality, in addition to a religious world that is hostile to homosexuals. He is hopeful that sharing his story through the eyes and mind of a confused child dealing with a same-sex attraction will give some insight into the pain and difficulty of navigating those two worlds. After 25 years of living as a gay man God brought him out of that lifestyle and into His glorious truth. His story will help parents of children of all ages understand how best to influence them for God, as well as teens and adults who are struggling with the LGBTQ agenda in their own lives. George says that he wrote the book for three reasons: To give Christians insight into what it’s like for someone dealing with same-sex attraction and their struggle with faith To give hope to parents who have children in the LGBTQ lifestyle To give LGBTQ individuals who are struggling with this lifestyle to understand that there’s a different narrative and that they are being lied to and expose those lies and find peace and give them hope George has been out of that lifestyle for almost 17 years now and has a passion to help others learn the truth. Through his testimony he wants others to know that deliverance from bondage is possible and there is hope in Christ. Resources Scripture references: My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. – John 10:27 For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. – 2 Timothy 1:7 George’s book, and website Have questions? Email George at Watch on YouTube Sign up for . The next three ladies to sign up get an additional $100 savings with the code FIRST100 on top of the $200 early bird discount through July 10.
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No One is Too Far Gone for God to Use with Glen and Kelly Daigle Ep. 169 Summer Throwback
06/16/2026
No One is Too Far Gone for God to Use with Glen and Kelly Daigle Ep. 169 Summer Throwback
Some stories don’t just inspire you — they reroute your whole calling. This summer, I’m bringing back one of the episodes that changed everything for me. If you listened to Fear Is a Liar back in June, you remember the couple whose testimony stopped me from shutting this podcast down altogether. When I was ready to pack up the mic and call it quits, their story reminded me why Building Strong Homes exists in the first place — so real people can share real God stories that strengthen all of us. Today we’re revisiting Glen and Kelly Daigle’s journey — a story that proves God can take the darkest diagnoses, the deepest depressions, and the most tangled pasts and build something stronger, steadier, and more joy‑filled than we ever imagined. You wouldn’t think a breast cancer diagnosis would lead a couple into a marriage that was more joyful than they could have ever imagined, but that’s what happened with Glen and Kelly Daigle. They had both been married before they met and were ready for a fresh start, having each gone through difficulties with drugs and alcohol. Glen had recently finished a self-admitted time in rehab for alcohol addiction and Kelly was looking for a man who’d been married, didn’t have children and loved the Lord. Since Glen met all three requirements they dated and eventually married. But everything wasn’t all rainbows and hearts. Glen spiraled into such a deep depression Kelly says many days she prayed she wouldn’t come home to find that her husband had committed suicide. After Glen found help from counseling their lives were okay, but still not great. Neither of them had a strong relationship with God, they just did the bare minimum. Until Kelly’s breast cancer diagnosis. Something changed in both of them as they realized the only thing they had to hold on to was Jesus, and they weren’t letting Him go. There are so many ways that God showed up in each of their journeys that there’s no denying the Hound of Heaven was pursuing them from the very beginning. If you feel like you’ve messed up so badly that there’s no promise of hope in your life anymore, this episode is for you. Song that made such an impact on Glen: Episode mention in this podcast Watch on YouTube Take the quiz, , because so many women feel the tension in their home but can’t quite name what’s causing it. This quiz does that for you. It pinpoints the patterns shaping your home and gives you a clear next step toward the kind of home you want to build. If you’ve been feeling stuck, this will help you get unstuck. What if one weekend could breathe life back into the parts of you that feel worn thin? This October, I’m hosting in beautiful Charleston, South Carolina — and I want you to come with me. If you’re a wife or mom who’s been pouring out for everyone else, this is your invitation to step away, exhale, and let God pour back into you. Find out more at the link.
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Giddy Up, Eunice: Because Women Need Each Other with Sophie Hudson Ep. 168 Summer Throwback
06/02/2026
Giddy Up, Eunice: Because Women Need Each Other with Sophie Hudson Ep. 168 Summer Throwback
Today we’re kicking off our Summer Throwback Series — a little every‑other‑week tradition where I’m pulling some of the most loved episodes from the archives, dusting them off and letting them bring encouragement to you again. And I knew exactly which one needed to go first. My conversation with Sophie Hudson, based on her book Giddy Up, Eunice, is one of those episodes that feels like a deep breath and a belly laugh all at once. If you’ve read any of her books, you already know Sophie has this uncanny way of reminding us that women need each other — not in a Pinterest‑perfect, “let’s all match our coffee mugs” kind of way, but in the real, everyday, “I see you, I’m with you, and you don’t have to walk this alone” kind of way. This conversation is one of my all‑time favorites because it’s honest, it’s hilarious, and it’s full of the kind of wisdom that stays with you. And honestly? It’s the perfect way to start a summer where so many of us are craving connection, encouragement, and a reminder that God weaves women together on purpose. So, grab your iced tea, settle in, and let’s revisit this gem with Sophie Hudson — and her beautiful reminder that we need the Marys, the Elizabeths, and the Eunices in our lives more than ever. Watch on YouTube Sign up for to find out when doors open, early-bird pricing and special bonuses
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Is Comfort Killing Your Calling? One Brave Step Could Open the Door to Your Dream with Carol Roper Ep. 167
05/19/2026
Is Comfort Killing Your Calling? One Brave Step Could Open the Door to Your Dream with Carol Roper Ep. 167
In this deeply personal episode, I share the story of how my writing journey began—during a season when the empty nest was approaching, purpose felt uncertain, and God whispered a new calling into my heart. Fourteen years ago, I took a trembling step of faith and attended my first writers conference alone. What followed was a rollercoaster of fear, embarrassment, and a moment so humiliating I nearly packed my bags and drove home. But God intervened through two women—Celeste and LaTan—who showed up at the exact moments I needed courage, belonging, and a reminder that I wasn’t alone. That one decision not to quit changed the trajectory of my life. In this episode, I share: • how God used a friend’s unexpected encouragement to confirm my calling • the embarrassing moment that almost ended my writing journey • the divine appointments that kept me from giving up • the surprising ways God has opened doors over the years • why stepping out of what’s familiar is essential to stepping into your calling • how obedience—even when you’re scared—leads to blessing, purpose, and impact From winning writing awards to being published in Guideposts and Chicken Soup for the Soul, to flying alone to retreats and building a thriving podcast ministry, I reflect on all I would have missed if I had let fear win. This episode is for the woman who feels a dream stirring but isn’t sure she’s capable… the woman in a transition season wondering what’s next… the woman who needs a reminder that God meets us in the places that stretch us. If God is nudging you toward something new, this story will remind you: Your calling won’t grow where fear keeps you standing still. Say yes—and watch what God does. Watch on YouTube Is Comfort Killing Your Calling? One Brave Step Could Open the Door to Your Dream with Carol Roper If you’re standing on the edge of a new season and longing for clarity, courage, and connection, join Your next step might begin here.
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How a Single Mom Paid Off $64,000: Creative Debt Hacks from a Financial Coach with Tiffany Miliander Ep. 166
05/05/2026
How a Single Mom Paid Off $64,000: Creative Debt Hacks from a Financial Coach with Tiffany Miliander Ep. 166
If you’re walking a difficult journey through what may feel like insurmountable debt right now and see no way out, my guest today will give you hope. Tiffany Miliander was a single mom who was left with $64,000 in debt when she divorced. But she was determined not to let that debt linger and paid all of it off in four short years. Debt can feel like a mountain you never asked to climb, but Tiffany stood exactly where you might be standing—and refused to stay there. She didn’t wait for perfect circumstances. She didn’t wait to feel ready. She took one creative step, then another, and those steps added up to freedom. And that same freedom is possible for you. If you’re tired of feeling weighed down by bills, shame, or the fear that things will never change, let this episode be your turning point. Tiffany explains how you don’t have to overhaul your whole life overnight. Just choose one small, doable action this week. One shift. One idea. One brave yes. Because financial freedom isn’t just about money—it’s about peace, confidence, and the kind of stability that blesses your whole home. To learn more about Tiffany go to
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A Wake Up Call for Wives: Don't Let Fear Steal Your Yes with Carol Roper Ep. 165
04/21/2026
A Wake Up Call for Wives: Don't Let Fear Steal Your Yes with Carol Roper Ep. 165
Have you ever looked back and realized comfort kept you from saying yes to something that mattered? In this episode, I’m sharing how a moment from Taylor Sheridan’s new series The Madison stopped me in my tracks and reminded me what it really means to love well — especially in marriage. This isn’t a review of the show, and I’m not endorsing all its content. But there’s a powerful theme woven through the story that every Christian wife needs to hear. Spoiler alert: I’ll be talking about the premise of the series, so listen with that in mind. If fear, comfort, or “maybe later” has ever held you back from stepping into something meaningful with your husband or family, this episode will encourage you to choose courage, connection, and love that lasts. In this episode: • Why comfort can quietly steal your yes • How regret grows when we avoid what stretches us • What The Madison reminded me about loving well • A personal story about saying yes when it mattered • How to choose courage in your marriage today If this encourages you, share it with a friend who needs the reminder too. If you'd like to see some fun photos watch on YouTube Lysa TerKuerst's book
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Finding Hope in the Unknown: Tommy Jennings Fight with Cancer Ep. 163
04/07/2026
Finding Hope in the Unknown: Tommy Jennings Fight with Cancer Ep. 163
When you’re facing a diagnosis, a fear, or a season of waiting, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the unknown. In today’s episode, Tommy Jennings shares a powerful testimony of courage, peace, and unshakable faith as he battles Hodgkin’s Lymphoma — a fight he’s been in for six years. Tommy’s story is raw, honest, and deeply hope‑filled. After exhausting every treatment option, he now lives in the tension of uncertainty — yet his confidence in Jesus has only grown stronger. His words, “Either way it goes, I win,” will challenge and inspire you to trust God in your own battles. In this conversation, we talk about: What faith looks like when the prognosis isn’t what you hoped for How to cling to God when you’re waiting for answers Finding peace in the middle of fear, suffering, and the unknown The hope of Jesus when life doesn’t make sense Why Tommy refuses to feel sorry for himself — and how his perspective can reshape your own Whether you’re walking through illness, fear, or a difficult season, this episode will remind you that God is near, God is faithful, and God is still writing your story. Watch on YouTube: Contact Carol at
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I Almost Walked Away: How Questioning God Led to a Stronger Belief Ep. 163
03/31/2026
I Almost Walked Away: How Questioning God Led to a Stronger Belief Ep. 163
Have you ever doubted your faith? Wondered if God isn’t real? I dealt with this issue a couple of decades ago and wondered how I could go on doing “all the things” while struggling with doubt. Today I want to share a fascinating story about how an elephant can be similar to testing our faith. To see photos of the bridge, watch on YouTube Sign up for my monthly newsletter
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A Blueprint for Raising Gender-Confident Kids: What Parents Need to Know with Dr. Jeff Myers EP. 162
03/24/2026
A Blueprint for Raising Gender-Confident Kids: What Parents Need to Know with Dr. Jeff Myers EP. 162
Between school messaging, social media trends, and cultural pressure, it can feel like the world is speaking louder to our kids than we are. But you have more influence than you think — and today’s conversation will help you use it wisely. If you’re a Christian parent feeling overwhelmed by the rise in gender confusion, you’re not alone. Everywhere you turn—schools, social media, even kids’ friend groups—messages about gender identity and transgender ideology are shaping how teens think about themselves. But what if you could understand what’s really happening and learn how to confidently guide your children with a biblical worldview? In today’s eye-opening conversation, I sit down with Dr. Jeff Myers, president of Summit Ministries and co-author of Raising Gender-Confident Kids, to unpack the cultural forces influencing our sons and daughters. With clarity and compassion, Dr. Myers explains how gender ideology took root, why it’s accelerating so quickly, and what parents can do to protect their children while raising gender‑confident kids who embrace their God-given design. What you'll learn: How gender confusion went mainstream — and why What's really being taught in your child's school (even in conservative states) Why 1 in 1,000 kids has true gender dysphoria — and what's driving the rest Practical steps to raise kids who are confident in how God made them Watch on YouTube Sign up for my monthly newsletter
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Ep. 161: Rediscovering the Front Porch: Why It Still Builds Family and Community with Carol Roper
02/10/2026
Ep. 161: Rediscovering the Front Porch: Why It Still Builds Family and Community with Carol Roper
Whether you call it a veranda, piazza, stoop or porch, these appendages to our homes can have a positive impact on our family and community. It doesn’t have to be fancy or huge to be a welcoming respite away from the chores, homework and television. Make it as comfortable as you can and invite the kids and hubby outside for a change of scenery and a bit of togetherness. And include the neighbors of you’re feeling up to having company. Let’s bring back the front porch. This is the tenth and final episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series. If you’ve missed any of the previous episodes, I hope you’ll take the time to go back and listen, starting in your podcast app with How to Build a Godly Home: Choosing the Right Location. But the very first episode, Open Your Blueprint, can only be found on my website at CarolRoper.org. Today I’ll share about one of my favorite amenities a house can have—the front porch, and why it can be one of the most important rooms of your home. Watch on YouTube Rediscovering the Front Porch: Why It Still Builds Family and Community with Carol Roper https://youtu.be/6Z2MJOzaMj0 Listen to the first episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Listen to the second episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Listen to the third episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Listen to the fourth episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Listen to the fifth episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Listen to the sixth episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Listen to the seventh episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Listen to the eight episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Listen to the ninth episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series
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Ep. 160: Your Scars Tell Your Story with Carol Roper
02/03/2026
Ep. 160: Your Scars Tell Your Story with Carol Roper
What scars do you carry? Maybe you’ve had a c-section (or 3) and don’t want to wear a bathing suit anymore (among other reasons). Maybe you’ve been injured in an accident and try to disguise the evidence. Or maybe you’ve suffered from cancer and now have an ugly scar as a reminder of your survival. Whatever the reason, it’s natural for us to want to cover unsightly scars from public view. When I was in my mid-twenties and almost put my eye out from accidentally shoving my face into a large splinter, I didn’t realize the permanent damage that could have been done until the ER sent for a plastic surgeon. He said I was too young to carry a scar like that for the rest of my life, and I’m grateful he repaired the wound. Today I can barely see the scar. But only a few short years later I would deal with so much pain that there would be a permanent scar on my soul. This time, however, I was glad to have an enduring reminder of my healing. This is the ninth episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series. If you’ve missed any of the previous episodes, I hope you’ll take the time to go back and listen, starting in your podcast app with How to Build a Godly Home: Choosing the Right Location. But the very first episode, Open Your Blueprint, can only be found on my website at CarolRoper.org. Today I’ll share how the scars left on historic homes after catastrophic events mirror the scars we carry from our own life storms. Watch on YouTube Listen to the first episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Listen to the second episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Listen to the third episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Listen to the fourth episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Listen to the fifth episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Listen to the sixth episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Listen to the seventh episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Listen to the seventh episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series
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Ep. 159: Oaks of Righteousness: Raising Families with Deep Roots with Carol Roper
01/27/2026
Ep. 159: Oaks of Righteousness: Raising Families with Deep Roots with Carol Roper
Home isn’t just a place—it’s a story. When my husband and I set out to build our forever home on his family’s farm, we weren’t just choosing land; we were choosing legacy. Every step across those pastures reminded us that roots matter—both the ones in the soil and the ones in our hearts. And as we stood beneath a solitary oak, we realized this journey was about more than a house. It was about building on a foundation that time can’t shake. This is the eighth episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series. If you’ve missed any of the previous episodes, I hope you’ll take the time to go back and listen, starting in your podcast app with How to Build a Godly Home: Choosing the Right Location. But the very first episode, Open Your Blueprint, can only be found on my website at CarolRoper.org. Today I’ll share why cultivating strong family roots matters. Listen to the first episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Listen to the second episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Listen to the third episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Listen to the fourth episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Listen to the fifth episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Listen to the sixth episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Listen to the seventh episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Watch on YouTube
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Ep. 158: The Power of Light: Becoming a Spiritual Lamplighter with Carol Roper
01/20/2026
Ep. 158: The Power of Light: Becoming a Spiritual Lamplighter with Carol Roper
I’ll leave the light on for you. Have you ever heard that line before? Motel 6 turned that phrase into a promise—but spiritually, it’s a calling. Darkness is everywhere, but one light can change everything. That light is Christ in you. Just like lamplighters once walked city streets to protect their communities, you’ve been called to guard your home with vigilance and faith. The Proverbs 31 woman never let her lamp go out—and neither should we. In this episode, you’ll learn practical ways to keep your spiritual flame burning, strengthen your connection to the Holy Spirit, and become the lamplighter your family needs. This is the seventh episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series. So far, we’ve delved into the preparation processes of designing and building your dream home. Today we’re talking about the power of light. Listen to the first episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Listen to the second episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Listen to the third episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Listen to the fourth episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Listen to the fifth episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Listen to the sixth episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Watch on YouTube
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Ep. 157: Why You Matter: The Hidden Strength in Every Home with Carol Roper
01/13/2026
Ep. 157: Why You Matter: The Hidden Strength in Every Home with Carol Roper
Sometimes the most important role is the one that feels the least glamorous. We live in a world that celebrates big wins and visible achievements. But what about the quiet, everyday work—the kind that rarely gets applause? Have you ever felt unimportant in your own home, wondering if anyone notices the meals, the clean laundry, the late-night homework help? The truth is, your role isn’t just important, it’s essential. You are the strength that holds everything together. This is the sixth episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series. So far, we’ve seen why we need a blueprint, discovered the best location, created a vision, learned how building a dream home tests your marriage and faith and found the critical component of our dream home’s foundation. Today we’ll see why you, the woman of the home, matters. Listen to the first episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Listen to the second episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Listen to the third episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Listen to the fourth episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Listen to the fifth episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Watch on YouTube
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Ep. 156: The Secret Behind a Strong Spiritual Home (Hint: It's Not Being Pinterest Perfect) with Carol Roper
01/06/2026
Ep. 156: The Secret Behind a Strong Spiritual Home (Hint: It's Not Being Pinterest Perfect) with Carol Roper
Picture this: a stunning home with gleaming floors and perfect décor—but underneath, the foundation is cracked. Eventually, everything starts to tilt and crumble. The same thing happens in our spiritual lives when we focus on appearances instead of what’s beneath the surface. Without a strong foundation, even the most beautiful house will eventually crack and crumble. The same is true for our spiritual homes. Discover why appearances aren’t enough, how to check for cracks in your spiritual foundation, and practical ways to build a home rooted in faith and grace. Whether you’re navigating marriage challenges, raising kids, or simply longing for a home filled with peace, this episode will help you dig deep and start building on bedrock that lasts. This is the fifth episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series. So far, we’ve seen why we need a blueprint, discovered the best location, created a vision and learned how building a dream home tests your marriage and faith. Today we’re going to see what critical component needs to be included in your spiritual dream home, and how it changes everything. Listen to the first episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Watch on YouTube
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Ep. 155: How Building a Dream Home Tests Your Marriage-and Your Faith with Carol Roper
12/30/2025
Ep. 155: How Building a Dream Home Tests Your Marriage-and Your Faith with Carol Roper
What happens when building your dream home nearly breaks your marriage? In today’s episode, I’m sharing a raw, honest story from my own life—a season when stress, exhaustion, and unmet expectations left me wondering if my relationship with my husband would survive. But through that struggle, I learned a powerful truth: when we try to manage everything in our own strength, we end up drained and discouraged. The good news? God is the ultimate builder and the best general contractor for your home and family. This is the fourth episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series. So far, we’ve seen why we need a blueprint, discovered the best location and created a vision for our dream home. Today we’re going to talk about why God needs to be the builder of your spiritual dream home, and how surrendering control to Him changes everything. Listen to the first episode in the Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series Watch on YouTube
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Ep. 154: Envision Your Dream Home with Carol Roper
12/23/2025
Ep. 154: Envision Your Dream Home with Carol Roper
Every great home starts with a dream—a vision for life within its walls. But before the first nail is hammered, the blueprint must be drawn. After decades of designing houses, I’ve learned a blueprint isn’t just about rooms and square footage; it’s about reflecting the heart of the family. The same is true for our spiritual homes. God, the Master Architect, has a design for each of us—a home filled with abundant living that’s better than anything we could imagine. Today, we’ll start by asking: What does your spiritual dream home look like? And how do we align that vision with God’s perfect plan according to His Word so our homes become places where faith thrives and families flourish? Over the next couple of months I'll be sharing my Kitchen Table series. Blueprints for Building Your Spiritual Dream Home. These episodes are based on the award-winning blog series I wrote several years back that I believe are even more important in today’s culture. But there’s one episode that is really the starting point for this series and you’ll find it on my home page when you click the button. Watch on YouTube
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Ep. 153: How to Build a Godly Home: Choosing the Right Location with Carol Roper
12/16/2025
Ep. 153: How to Build a Godly Home: Choosing the Right Location with Carol Roper
Ever feel like building a godly home is overwhelming? You’re not alone. In this episode, we uncover the very first step to creating a home that stands strong—starting with the right location. Deciding where to put a dream house is the most important part of the design process. Putting so much effort into creating a great home only to realize later it was built in the wrong place can shatter any hopes we have for a strong family. This week is the first in my Kitchen Table series called Blueprints to Building Your Spiritual Dream Home. These episodes are based on the award-winning blog series I wrote several years back that I believe are even more important in today’s culture. But there’s one episode that is really the starting point for this series and you’ll find it on my home page when you click the button. Listen and begin your journey toward peace, purpose, and a lasting legacy. Watch on YouTube
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Ep. 152: Unlocking the Secrets to Effective Communication with Your Teen with Mark Gregston
12/09/2025
Ep. 152: Unlocking the Secrets to Effective Communication with Your Teen with Mark Gregston
We’ve all heard it before—bridging the communication gap with a teen can feel like trying to build a bridge with spaghetti. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. We’re diving into one of the most critical aspects of parenting: communicating with your teenager. Today’s guest, Mark Gregston, a renowned expert and founder of Parenting Today’s Teens, will share his invaluable insights and practical tips to help you connect with your teen in meaningful ways. Mark will guide us through the challenges and nuances of communicating with teenagers and will explore common barriers, effective strategies, and real-life examples that illustrate how to navigate those tough conversations. Whether it’s dealing with a defiant teen or simply trying to understand their world, this episode is packed with actionable advice to improve your relationship with your teen. You can find out more about Mark’s ministry at and . Also, if you’d like to hear some of the teen’s stories from Heartlight Minstries go to To find the Blueprint Tips for this episode go to Watch on YouTube Sign up for my Find the first episode for the start of next week's Blueprints to Building Your Spiritual Dream Home series at the on my homepage at CarolRoper.org
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Ep. 151: Celebrating 5 Incredible Years: Your Favorite Christmas Traditions, Young Mom Insights and Our Top 10 Episodes
12/02/2025
Ep. 151: Celebrating 5 Incredible Years: Your Favorite Christmas Traditions, Young Mom Insights and Our Top 10 Episodes
We’re celebrating five amazing years of incredible testimonies and conversations! In this special anniversary episode, we’re sharing your favorite Christmas traditions, chatting with two inspiring young moms, Carli McNamara and Rebecca Edwards, about holiday memories and motherhood, and revealing the top 10 most-loved episodes of the podcast. Plus, I’ll share how many countries the podcast has reached and the surprising number country where we’re downloaded the most outside of the United States. We also announce the first and second place winners of our celebration giveaway! Whether you’ve been here since day one or just discovered us, this episode is packed with joy, nostalgia, and hope for the season ahead. Check out all of the links-including the top 10 episodes, book recommendation, The Art of Manliness Podcast, the Billy Graham Online Advent Devotional, and other shows mentioned in this episode-at
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Ep. 150: Hope Beyond Heartache: The Journey to an Untroubled Heart with Kara Stout
11/25/2025
Ep. 150: Hope Beyond Heartache: The Journey to an Untroubled Heart with Kara Stout
Heartache is something we all face—whether through loss, disappointment, or unexpected challenges. Today’s guest, Kara Stout—author of An Untroubled Heart—opens up about her personal journey through grief, waiting seasons, and life’s unexpected challenges. Drawing from her experiences of loss and her own medical crises, Kara shares how faith became her anchor when peace felt out of reach. Her message is clear: even in the darkest valleys, God’s presence offers comfort, strength, and hope. Her story reminds us that hope is not the absence of heartache but the assurance of God’s nearness in it. Whether you’re battling anxiety, navigating loss, or longing for peace, Kara’s insights offer encouragement and practical steps to experience God’s comfort daily. Through her 30-day devotional, Kara invites readers to begin each morning in God’s presence and end each day in His calming embrace—creating a rhythm that nurtures faith and resilience. Check out Kara's website and book, . You can also follow her on Instagram at Watch on Youtube Sign up for my monthly newsletter, . It’s where I keep all the good stuff like a favorite floor plan, recommended beauty product with some decor and faith-filled inspiration faith sprinkled in.
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Ep. 149: Unlocking Joy: The Surprising Power of Letting Go with Carol Roper
11/18/2025
Ep. 149: Unlocking Joy: The Surprising Power of Letting Go with Carol Roper
Have you ever struggled with unforgiveness? If we’re honest I believe we all have. But that’s not how God wants us to live. Even though He commands us to forgive, it’s not just to let the other person off the hook. He wants us to forgive because He knows how holding onto resentment can cause a cancer to grow in our hearts, hurting us so much more than the person who caused the hurt. In this episode I’ll share several instances where God convicted me of my unforgiving heart as well as a parable where Jesus shows us how ungrateful we are when we don’t forgive. Watch on YouTube Visit the website at
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Ep. 148: Can Love Really Change a Broken World? How God's Love Transforms Hearts-Starting with Ours with Rachael Adams
11/11/2025
Ep. 148: Can Love Really Change a Broken World? How God's Love Transforms Hearts-Starting with Ours with Rachael Adams
What if the way you love could change the world—starting in your own home? In a culture that feels fractured and hostile, loving others like Jesus isn’t just hard—it feels impossible. But what if God gave us a blueprint for loving without limits? Author and podcaster, Rachael Adams has recently released her second book, Everyday Prayers for Love: Learning to Love God, Others and Even Yourself. We are often told the Bible is God’s love letter to us, yet we struggle to comprehend the height, width, and depth that this eternal God has for His beloved. How would fully understanding God’s love for us change the way we love others? The way we love ourselves? In this episode, we’ll uncover practical ways to reflect His heart in everyday life, even when opinions clash and relationships feel strained. Find Rachael at Rachael's newest book Share your favorite Christmas tradition for a chance to enter our five year anniversary episode giveaway, which includes a $50 Amazon gift card! Enter by November 13 Watch on YouTube Sign up for my monthly newsletter, If this episode encourages you, would you please leave a rating and a review? Your reviews are a gift to me, and I read every one. And, now, if I read your review on an episode, you can win a free t-shirt! All you have to do is fill out to let me know and I’ll get in touch if I share it.
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Ep. 147: Have You Lost Hope? Building Your Faith in a Season of Despair with Carol Roper
11/04/2025
Ep. 147: Have You Lost Hope? Building Your Faith in a Season of Despair with Carol Roper
We all walk through seasons that feel like a desert—lonely, exhausting, and full of questions for God. In this episode, I open up about my own painful wilderness years—struggling with infertility, chronic illness, and depression—and how I eventually discovered that God hadn’t abandoned me after all. Through my story, you’ll see that the desert isn’t a place of punishment but preparation. It’s where God strips away our dependence on everything else so we can truly know Him as our provider. If you’ve ever wondered where God is when life feels dry, this episode will remind you that He’s still working, still leading, and still faithful—right in the middle of your wilderness. Scripture mentioned in this episode is Watch on YouTube Find the Open Your Blueprint bonus episode only at my new website Sign up for my monthly newsletter, Leave a podcast review and if I read it on the podcast I'll send you a free t-shirt.
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Ep. 146: When Feelings Fade: Finding Hope for Your Marriage Through Everyday Moments with Dan & Danielle Macaulay
10/28/2025
Ep. 146: When Feelings Fade: Finding Hope for Your Marriage Through Everyday Moments with Dan & Danielle Macaulay
Every marriage goes through seasons—some filled with laughter and connection, and others that feel dry, distant, or lonely. Maybe you’ve found yourself wondering, “What happened to us? Why can’t we enjoy doing things together like we used to?” The feelings you once had faded, and no matter how hard you try, it feels like you’re just going through the motions. If that sounds familiar, you are not alone. Dan and Danielle Macaulay, founders of MarriedUp.net and authors of The Triangle Effect, talk about what to do when love feels more like effort than emotion—and how inviting God into the center of your relationship can renew your faith, your hope, and your heart for each other. If your marriage feels stuck, strained, or spiritually disconnected, this honest and encouraging conversation will remind you: your story isn’t over, and God can still bring beauty out of what feels broken. But before we get started, I just wanted to warn you that we do talk about intimacy some in this episode so you may not want little ears around. Check out my new website, , where you can find a bonus episode when you click on "Open Your Blueprint" Watch on YouTube When Feelings Fade: Finding Hope for Your Marriage Through Everyday Moments with Dan and Danielle Macaulay
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Ep. 145: What Are You Missing Because You’re Afraid to Trust God?
10/21/2025
Ep. 145: What Are You Missing Because You’re Afraid to Trust God?
What dream have you had that you feel is too big to pursue? One of my big dreams has always been to go to England, the country my maternal grandmother was from. But I don’t like to fly, I was worried I couldn’t do that much walking, didn’t know how to figure out all of the planes, trains, underground, taxis and Uber logistics, etc. etc. I decided not to give into those fears, however, when my husband, John, offered to take me on the trip of a lifetime to England and Scotland to celebrate my 60th birthday and our 40th wedding anniversary. Having recently returned from that trip I can honestly say it was worth every bit of planning, every mile flown and every step taken to make the dream a reality. There is a story in the Bible where God had a wonderful plan devised for His people, a land flowing with milk and honey, but 10 men prevented that dream from happening because they were too afraid. Listen to Adeline St. John's episode Leave a review on Apple Podcasts and enter to win a free t-shirt Sign up for The Keeping Room: Faith, Favorites and a Little Southern Soul newsletter Watch on YouTube What Are You Missing Because You're Afraid to Trust God?
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Ep. 144: When Motherhood Doesn't Go As Planned with Former MOPS President Elisa Morgan
10/14/2025
Ep. 144: When Motherhood Doesn't Go As Planned with Former MOPS President Elisa Morgan
Did your motherhood story turn out the way you hoped? Even if it didn’t, God is still writing something beautiful. Motherhood is both messy and miraculous. Even the president of MOPS faced heartbreak in motherhood. When Elisa Morgan led MOPS, she encouraged millions of moms — but behind the scenes, her own motherhood journey was far from perfect. In this candid conversation, Elisa shares the struggles and blessings of parenting, how she found God’s faithfulness in the hard seasons, and why she believes mentoring younger women is one of the most powerful ways to build strong homes of faith, especially when motherhood doesn’t look the way you expected. If you’ve ever felt like you’re not enough as a mom, this conversation will remind you that God is present in every part of your story. Whether you’re a new mom or an empty nester, hope and healing are always possible. Sign up for my monthly newsletter, Watch on YouTube
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