Family Brand: Take Back Your Family

We at Family Brand want to raise a war cry to families everywhere. Now is the time to TAKE BACK YOUR FAMILY. Develop a family culture where relationships last, and each member of the family is seen and valued for who they are. It is absolutely possible to raise a family today without fear of the future. Define who you are as a family, and what you stand for. Stop looking at the future with fear and uncertainty and start looking forward with a possibility of more. More love. More joy. More connection. More resolve. The world needs strong families now more than ever. Let us show you how.

226. Family Culture Upgrades for Summer: Simple Changes That Make a Big Impact 06/06/2025

226. Family Culture Upgrades for Summer: Simple Changes That Make a Big Impact Hey Family Brand! It’s Melissa here, and this week I’m sharing something I’ve been thinking about a lot—how summer gives us a unique opportunity to pause, reflect, and upgrade our family culture. Whether your kids are home more, you're traveling, or you’re just trying to juggle a different routine, summer naturally gives us space to reevaluate what’s working… and what’s not. In this episode, I walk you through a few changes we’re making as a family this season. They’re small on the surface—things like setting limits on video games, resetting kitchen expectations, and creating more intentional mealtimes—but they’re making a big impact in how we’re showing up for each other. One of the biggest shifts we’ve made is in our morning routine. I share how we’ve gone from chaotic, slow-moving starts to mornings filled with structure, gratitude, and even scripture. I’ve also added a daily rhythm for myself that includes getting outside, stretching, drinking water, and tracking it all on paper. It’s been so good for my mental and physical health—and the kids are noticing too. I also open up about how these changes didn’t come from perfection or pressure. They came from a moment of honesty—realizing we were slipping into habits that didn’t reflect the culture we actually want to have. So if you’ve been feeling like it’s time to make a shift in your home, I want you to know: it doesn’t have to be complicated. Start small. Start now. This episode is a little behind-the-scenes peek into our summer—and an invitation for you to think about what kind of family culture you want to build in this season. LINKS: All Links Family Brand! Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 – Why summer is a great time to reset your family culture 1:15 – The moment I realized we needed some structure back in our mornings 2:30 – Our new morning rhythm: movement, water, journaling, and scripture 4:00 – Setting kitchen expectations so everyone pitches in 5:15 – Why I’m limiting video games and adding screen-free pockets 6:30 – How I’m building new rhythms for me as a mom this summer 8:00 – Encouragement: You don’t need to overhaul your life—just pick one thing /episode/index/show/familybrand/id/36885095

225. Can using AI make You a More Intentional Family?! 05/30/2025

225. Can using AI make You a More Intentional Family?! Hey Family Brand! It’s Melissa and Chris here, and today we’re diving into a topic we’ve never tackled before on the podcast—how families can use AI to live more intentionally. We’re not tech experts, but we’ve had some surprising (and honestly life-changing) experiences with tools like ChatGPT, and we think it’s time to pull back the curtain and share how we’re using AI in our everyday family life. This isn’t a conversation about robots taking over. It’s about how smart technology can save you time, help you communicate better, and create more space for connection—all things we care deeply about here at Family Brand. Whether it’s navigating tough parenting moments, dealing with your spouse’s quirks (hello, lateness battles!), or just trying to figure out what to make for dinner when the fridge is nearly empty, AI has become a quiet helper in the background of our home. Chris shares a personal story of asking AI how to approach an ongoing source of conflict in our marriage—our very different views on being on time—and how it led to one of the calmest, most productive conversations we’ve ever had. Melissa shares how AI helped her friend navigate a parenting situation with wisdom and compassion. These tools are surprisingly insightful when you give them the right context. We also talk about fun, practical ways AI can make life easier, like planning meals with whatever is in your fridge, building out your family’s weekly menu from your favorite blog, or even helping create time blocks for a parent who feels stretched too thin. It’s not about outsourcing our parenting or leadership—it’s about getting just enough support to show up more grounded, present, and intentional. If you’re new to AI or feeling hesitant, we get it. But our challenge for you this week is simple: ask AI to do one thing for you, and ask it for advice on one personal challenge. We think you’ll be blown away by how much lighter and clearer things can feel with a little help. 6 Ways AI Can Help Your Family Be More Intentional: Navigate recurring marriage disagreements with clarity and kindness Help you plan dinner with whatever’s in your fridge Create weekly meal plans from your favorite recipes or blogs Offer parenting advice based on your child’s age and situation Find time in your busy schedule by analyzing your day Encourage more thoughtful, less reactive communication LINKS: All Links Family Brand! Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 – Back from summer break! New York, Boston, Vermont… and why Tate is spending the summer in Kansas 2:00 – Introducing today’s topic: how families can use AI to be more intentional 3:30 – Melissa’s AI moment with the city planning board: resistance and curiosity 4:45 – Why Chris believes it’s crucial to introduce your kids to AI early 6:00 – Chris’s marriage breakthrough using ChatGPT for real-time relationship advice 7:45 – Using AI to help with parenting situations: a friend’s story and takeaways 9:15 – Making dinner with random ingredients? AI’s got you covered! 10:30 – Meal planning, grocery lists, and using AI with your favorite food blogs 11:30 – Ask AI to find you time when life feels chaotic 12:00 – Melissa’s reminder: AI can support you, but it shouldn’t replace your intuition 12:45 – Our weekly challenge to you: ask AI to do one thing and give advice on one topic 13:00 – Final thoughts and a commitment to help families live with intention /episode/index/show/familybrand/id/36782315

224. This One's For the Girls! 05/23/2025

224. This One's For the Girls! Hey Family Brand—it’s Melissa here, and this episode is just for the girls. Inspired by that old Martina McBride song (yes, I looked it up—2003!), I wanted to sit down and have a really honest chat about womanhood. From postpartum recovery to hormones, breast implants, Hashimoto’s, perimenopause, and trying to figure out what wellness even means in your 40s—this is the episode I wish I had heard years ago. And honestly? I hope it’s one Ivy listens to one day when she’s grown. Because we don’t talk about this stuff enough. I take you all the way back to my post-baby journey—five kids in 10 years, either pregnant or nursing—and what that did to my body. I share what it looked like to start exploring functional medicine, get my hormones checked, and find out I had Hashimoto’s (surprise!). I’ve been learning how to support my body ever since—less guessing, more intention. And yep… I talk about my decision to get a breast augmentation after baby number five. The good, the not-so-great, and the wild hospital story that followed (spoiler alert: not my favorite memory). I also talk about how much your environment and the people around you influence how you feel about your body—and why I might have made a different choice if I were living somewhere else at the time. Now at 40, I’m experimenting again. Weighted vests, walking, lifting heavy, gut health, and tracking my cycle—all things I’m learning about to support this season of life. I want to be strong. I want to be healthy. I want to be that 81-year-old hiking in Hawaii and wrestling grandkids on the beach. And I know that future starts now. This isn’t a how-to or a prescription. It’s just my story. But if you’re on your own health journey—and wondering if you’re doing it “right”—I hope this reminds you that you’re not alone. You don’t have to have it all figured out. You just have to keep showing up. LINKS: All Links Family Brand! Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 – This one’s for the girls: aging, health, and real talk 3:00 – Postpartum recovery and learning to give your body grace 6:00 – Discovering Hashimoto’s and changing how I approach wellness 10:00 – What I wish I knew before getting a breast augmentation 14:00 – The hospital scare that made me question everything 20:00 – How your social circle impacts body image and decisions 22:00 – Current health practices: weight lifting, sauna, and cycle syncing 27:00 – Period products, hormone changes, and healing my gut 30:00 – Meeting the 81-year-old man who gave me a vision for the future 33:00 – You get to choose your wellness journey—start now /episode/index/show/familybrand/id/36660160

223. Mastering the 9-5 with Sean Cook 05/16/2025

223. Mastering the 9-5 with Sean Cook Hey Family Brand! It’s Chris and Melissa here, and today we are joined by one of our dear friends and someone who constantly inspires us—Dr. Sean Cook. Sean is a husband, a father of four, a dentist, and a proud Family Brand graduate. In this episode, we’re flipping the script on what it means to be “successful.” Instead of talking about the typical nine-to-five hustle, Sean shares what it looks like to master the five-to-nine—the hours after work that can so easily slip away from us but hold the most potential for connection, growth, and joy. Sean opens up about the moment that changed everything for him: realizing he had missed nearly all of his son’s soccer games that season. That wake-up call led to a radical shift in priorities. He and his wife decided that their family—not just their business—deserved intention, structure, and purpose. That’s when they created a loose, but powerful evening rhythm: intentional dinners, one-on-one kid time, spiritual conversations, and space to simply be together. What we love most about Sean’s story is how he and his wife made family leadership a shared vision. They developed core family values with their kids, shaped their evenings around connection, and let go of perfection in favor of presence. Whether they’re in the car, preparing dinner, or folding laundry—those ordinary moments are now opportunities to lead with love. We also dive into the importance of presence, meditation, and how communication is more than just words. Sean’s insights about fatherhood, growth, and spiritual connection are powerful reminders that the little moments—when you’re off the clock—are where the real magic happens. If you’ve been craving more purpose in your evenings or wondering how to create deeper connection with your family, this episode will leave you inspired and equipped. LINKS: All Links Family Brand! Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 – Meet Dr. Sean Cook and the story behind “Mastering the 5 to 9” 3:00 – The soccer game that changed everything 6:00 – Turning the family into a team with shared values 10:00 – Why presence matters more than perfection 14:00 – Creating intentional evenings, one kid at a time 18:00 – Listening, curiosity, and what kids really need 22:00 – Meditation, mindfulness, and modeling peace 26:00 – Adapting rhythms as kids grow and life gets busy 30:00 – Family communication, co-creating goals, and deeper connection 36:00 – Final reflections: Why Sean says he’ll never retire from being a dad /episode/index/show/familybrand/id/36587425

222. The Secret to Memorable Family Vacations 05/02/2025

222. The Secret to Memorable Family Vacations Hey Family Brand! It’s Chris and Melissa here, and this week we’re talking all about summer plans and how to create meaningful, memorable family vacations. If you're anything like us, summer can sneak up quickly, and planning can feel overwhelming. But what if the best family trips aren’t the most expensive or extravagant ones? What if they’re the simple, unstructured ones where everyone just gets to be together? Today, we’re sharing one of our favorite family exercises for figuring out what really matters when it comes to travel—and how it might just change the way you vacation. A few years ago, we sat our kids down with a whiteboard and asked a big question: “What are the most fun, memorable trips we’ve ever taken?” What surprised us? Disney World didn’t make the top five. The most expensive trips weren’t their favorites. Instead, what rose to the top were the road trips and spontaneous adventures—the ones with little structure, lots of connection, and no jam-packed itinerary. In this episode, we break down how that simple family discussion helped us realize the kind of trips that work for us—and how every family can do the same. We also talk about creating themes for each vacation (like “Wander with Wonder” or “Adventure”), letting each kid share what they’re hoping to experience, and why even short weekend getaways can be just as impactful as long, elaborate ones. We also opened up about our current season as our oldest prepares to be gone for most of the summer. It’s new territory, and it’s reshaping how we think about this year’s vacation plans. But instead of letting the logistics overwhelm us, we’re choosing to be intentional, and to make the most of the time we do have together. If you’re planning a summer trip (or just trying to figure out what would make the season meaningful), this episode is full of ideas to simplify your planning, prioritize connection, and make your next vacation truly unforgettable. LINKS: All Links Family Brand! Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 – Kicking off summer plans and Chris joins the show 2:00 – Asking our kids to name their favorite family trips 4:00 – Why big, expensive trips didn’t make the top 5 6:00 – What our favorite RV trip taught us about family travel 9:00 – How to create a family vacation “style” that works for you 11:00 – Creating themes and letting your kids shape the trip 13:00 – Navigating summer with teens and limited availability 14:00 – The power of small, intentional getaways /episode/index/show/familybrand/id/36416350

221. From Surviving to Leading – How Dee Taggart Found Her Voice and Helps Other Women Do the Same 04/25/2025

221. From Surviving to Leading – How Dee Taggart Found Her Voice and Helps Other Women Do the Same Hey Family Brand! It’s Melissa, and I’m so honored to introduce you to my guest today, Dee Taggart. After getting to know Dee at one of our recent couples retreats, I knew she had a story that needed to be shared with our community. Dee is the founder of Her Xpansion, a space where women can grow in confidence, connection, and self-leadership. She’s a mom, coach, spiritual mentor, and all-around powerhouse. This conversation is full of heart, hope, and honest truth—and I think every woman will hear something in Dee’s story that resonates with her own. Dee opens up about her incredible journey—from being a 20-year-old caring for four children under the age of two, to navigating single motherhood, divorce, and ultimately rediscovering her strength and purpose. Her story is one of resilience and spiritual awakening, and she’s the first to say she didn’t always feel strong. At one point, she was in a dark place, believing she wasn’t enough. It wasn’t until she hit her “ignite moment”—a quiet realization in the car—that she began to rebuild from the inside out. What really stuck with me is Dee’s approach to confidence. She says confidence doesn’t come from doing something once—it’s built by keeping promises to yourself. For any mom or woman who feels like she’s lost a part of herself, Dee offers a beautiful reminder: your spirit knows what’s calling you, and if you get quiet and listen, you’ll start to find your way back. Her practical advice for rebuilding confidence—through courage, small commitments, and daily self-leadership—is something I wish every woman could hear. We also talked about spiritual practice, and Dee shared how reconnecting with God and spending time in nature changed everything for her. She’s unapologetically faith-driven and believes our wholeness comes from something bigger than ourselves. If you’ve felt disconnected from your own sense of calling or are simply craving a deeper sense of peace, her insight on creating intentional time for reflection is powerful. Finally, Dee breaks down the Five Cs that guide her work with women: Confidence, Connection, Capabilities, Community, and Consciousness. These are the pillars of Her Xpansion, and they’re not just concepts—they’re tools to help women lead themselves well so they can lead their families, their communities, and their lives with purpose. LINKS: All Links Family Brand! Links For This Episode: Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 – Meet Dee Taggart and her powerful story of motherhood and resilience 3:00 – Raising four babies under age two and the emotional toll it took 6:00 – Shifting from “I’m not enough” to “I’ve had enough” 10:00 – The power of a single decision and where her healing began 14:00 – How movement and health became the catalyst for transformation 19:00 – Coaching women through nine categories of wellness 22:00 – What builds confidence: keeping promises to yourself 26:00 – Her Xpansion: Dee’s divine calling and the mission behind it 31:00 – Staying anchored to your mission when doubt creeps in 36:00 – Dee’s spiritual practice: solitude, nature, and prayer 42:00 – Final encouragement: You don’t need more time—you need more intention /episode/index/show/familybrand/id/36295860

220. How to Transform Your Inner World with Joey Klein 04/11/2025

220. How to Transform Your Inner World with Joey Klein Hey Family Brand! It’s Melissa here, and today I’m thrilled to introduce you to someone whose work is all about personal mastery and lasting transformation—Joey Klein. Joey is a transformation expert, author, and founder of Inner Matrix Systems. He’s helped over 84,000 people across the globe—from Fortune 500 executives to everyday families—create real results by mastering their emotions, nervous system, and mindset. In this episode, Joey and I go deep on why the inner game matters most, how to change your reality from the inside out, and what it really takes to live the life you were meant for. Joey shares how his own journey of inner healing started from a place of pain and a desire for peace. What began as a personal quest quickly turned into a career helping others find clarity, freedom, and fulfillment. He takes us through the process of uncovering our emotional “blind spots” and explains how behaviors, even addictions or stuck patterns, are often tied to emotional pain that hasn’t been addressed or even recognized. One of the most powerful parts of our conversation was Joey’s 4-step transformation framework: 1) Identify what to stop doing, 2) Start something new, 3) Get comfortable being uncomfortable, and 4) Prioritize vision over fear. It’s a simple but profound system that can be applied to everything—from relationships and parenting to career and health. We talk about how this framework transformed a client’s relationship with her daughter, and how small shifts can lead to big breakthroughs. We also explore the difference between meditation and what Joey calls “inner training.” While the idea of meditation has become more mainstream, Joey believes the real transformation happens when we train our inner world the way we train our bodies. It’s about intentional reps, nervous system awareness, and shifting how we feel—not just what we think. Joey’s new book, Relationship Alchemy: A Practical Guide to Getting Along Well With Others, launches April 1st and is packed with real-life tools for creating vibrant, connected relationships in every area of life. Be sure to grab your copy and access over $2,500 worth of bonus tools at . LINKS: All Links Family Brand! Links For This Episode: Instagram: @‌therealjoeyklein Facebook: Website: Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 – Welcome Joey Klein and his journey into transformation work 2:00 – What “inner training” really means and how Joey built Inner Matrix Systems 6:00 – Why addictions and stuck patterns are often about unresolved emotional pain 10:00 – Joey’s personal backstory: from destructive habits to a path of peace 14:00 – The rise of meditation and how inner training is different 16:00 – Where to begin when you feel stuck or unsure how to change 19:00 – Joey’s 4-Step Transformation Framework 24:00 – How shifting your focus from pain to vision creates lasting change 28:00 – All about Joey’s new book Relationship Alchemy and how to access bonus resources 30:00 – Final encouragement: the key to life transformation is inside you /episode/index/show/familybrand/id/36092630

219. Do Better, Get Better 04/04/2025

219. Do Better, Get Better Hey Family Brand! It’s Chris here with a solo episode for you today while Melissa is out of town with one of our daughters. I’ve been thinking a lot lately about a simple phrase I came across: “Do better, get better.” It hit me in a powerful way, and I’ve been sharing it with my team, our clients, my family—really anyone who will listen. Today, I want to share it with you, because it has the potential to shift everything in your life, just like it has for me. This all started when I read a story about a waiter who received a tip that wasn’t money at all. Instead, the customer had just written two words on the receipt: “Do better.” At first, he was angry. But then, he made a choice. He could take it as an insult or take it as a challenge—and he chose the latter. He stepped up, pushed himself, and ended up getting more tips, more recognition, and more fulfillment in his job. His life literally started getting better because he decided to do better. That story stuck with me. It reminded me how much time I’ve spent trying to get other people to change—whether it’s in our marriage, parenting, business, or friendships. But the truth is, the biggest shifts have always happened when I focused on improving myself. When I get better, everything else gets better. My relationships, my results, my mindset—it all improves when I take responsibility and grow. I’ve been encouraging our clients and team members to take this to heart too. What’s one area in your life where you could do better? Not because you’re broken or failing—but because you deserve to grow. Because getting better isn't about shame or pressure. It's about honoring your value and choosing to live into your potential. So my challenge to you this week is this: pick one thing in your life—just one—that you want to get better at. Maybe it’s communication, your health, your mindset, your marriage, or something at work. Commit to doing a little better this week. And then just notice what happens. You might be surprised at how quickly things start to shift. LINKS: All Links Family Brand! Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 – Chris kicks off the episode solo while Melissa is away 0:23 – Introducing the “Do Better, Get Better” concept 1:00 – A powerful story about a waiter and a two-word tip 3:00 – How a small mindset shift led to big transformation 4:00 – Why getting better yourself changes everything around you 5:50 – The importance of focusing your energy inward 7:00 – Chris’s challenge: Pick one area to get better 8:10 – Final encouragement: You’re already enough—and growth is your gift /episode/index/show/familybrand/id/36007850

218. Couple’s Retreat Recap – Why Your Marriage Deserves a Getaway 03/28/2025

218. Couple’s Retreat Recap – Why Your Marriage Deserves a Getaway Hey Family Brand! It’s Chris and Melissa here, and we’re finally sitting down to share the recap of our recent Couple’s Retreat in Hawaii. And wow—what an experience! Whether or not you were able to attend, this episode is for anyone who wants to grow in their marriage, reconnect with their spouse, and create intentional rhythms that bring joy and strength to your relationship. We’re pulling back the curtain on what we learned, what surprised us, and why this trip was such a full-circle moment for us personally. It had been over 14 years since the two of us visited Hawaii—just the two of us—with no kids, no distractions, and no big agenda other than connection. The last time we were there, our marriage was in a rough place. We weren’t even sure we’d make it. So to come back to the same place, not only thriving in our relationship but hosting a retreat for 20 amazing couples? It was surreal. A reminder that your marriage is worth fighting for and healing is possible—even if it feels far off right now. The retreat was filled with intentional conversations, practical tools, and a chance for couples to hit pause and truly reflect on where they are and where they want to go. From the kickoff dinner to the group workshops, one big theme kept showing up: You don’t need to wait for the “perfect” moment to prioritize your marriage. One couple told us they hadn’t been away together in over 10 years. Another said they hadn’t gone to the gym together since before they had kids. The retreat was their reset—but yours can start today, even with just a date night or a shared walk. We also talked about what happens when couples drift. It’s often not intentional—just a slow, subtle pulling apart that adds up over time. That’s why building in non-negotiables, like a weekly date night or check-in, is so powerful. These little systems act as a “forcing function” to help you reconnect even during the busy seasons. One of our favorites? Just putting it on the calendar. Whether it’s lunch dates or evening walks, we’ve found ways to prioritize our connection, even when life feels full. And if you’re thinking a couple’s getaway sounds amazing but totally out of reach, Melissa has something for you. We created a 30+ page Couple’s Getaway Guide that walks you through everything—from budgeting and planning to conversation prompts and goal-setting exercises. You’ll even get a recorded training to help you bring the retreat experience to your own trip, no matter where you go or how long you stay. You can grab it for just $11 at . LINKS: All Links Family Brand! Links For This Episode: Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 – Welcome to the Couple’s Retreat Recap 2:30 – A full-circle moment: Returning to Hawaii 14 years later 4:00 – What helped our marriage go from struggling to thriving 5:15 – Stories from couples who hadn’t gotten away in years 7:00 – Why you shouldn’t wait to prioritize your marriage 8:15 – The danger of drifting and how to avoid it 10:00 – What non-negotiable rituals keep us connected 11:30 – The surprising power of a simple couple’s getaway 12:30 – What’s inside our Couple’s Getaway Guide 14:00 – Research behind strong families and marriage prioritization 15:30 – Final thoughts: Don’t wait—do something today to grow closer Let us know if you grab the guide and plan a little getaway of your own—we’d love to hear how it goes! /episode/index/show/familybrand/id/35895890

217. Who Are You Really Following? The Hidden Impact of Online Influence 03/21/2025

217. Who Are You Really Following? The Hidden Impact of Online Influence Hey Family Brand! It’s Chris and Melissa here, and today, we’re having an important conversation about something we don’t always stop to think about—who we allow to influence us. In a world where social media, thought leaders, and online personalities are more accessible than ever, it’s easy to get caught up in curated versions of success. But how do we know if the people we’re following are truly worth listening to? And what happens when we allow the wrong influences into our homes and families? This whole conversation started when Melissa watched a new documentary about Ruby Franke, a once-popular family YouTuber whose life took a devastating turn. What started as a platform to showcase strong family values ended in tragedy, and it got us thinking—how quickly can things shift when we follow the wrong people or chase the wrong ideals? What warning signs should we be paying attention to? One of the biggest takeaways from this discussion is authenticity. Social media often presents a highlight reel, but are the people we’re looking up to showing us the whole picture? Are they living lives that align with the values we want for ourselves and our families? We share some personal experiences of getting caught up in coaching programs or mentorships that, in hindsight, didn’t align with our deeper values. It’s so easy to be drawn in by success, money, or status without realizing that some of these figures don’t actually live the kind of life we’d want for ourselves. We also talk about the danger of seeking external validation and how knowing who you are—both individually and as a family—is the key to making sure you’re not being blindly influenced. When you know your values and what truly matters to you, it’s easier to recognize when something feels off. Instead of constantly chasing external advice, you can take pieces of wisdom that align with you and leave the rest. Our challenge for you this week? Take an inventory. Who are you following? What books, social media accounts, or shows are you letting into your life? Are they actually serving you, or are they quietly shaping you in ways that don’t align with who you want to be? And most importantly—if you don’t know who you are, how will you know if something is misaligned? LINKS: All Links Family Brand! Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 – Why this topic matters: A YouTube family’s shocking downfall 2:30 – The curated highlight reels we see online 5:00 – Are we sharing real life or just what looks good? 9:00 – The risk of following people without questioning their values 12:45 – How coaching programs can be helpful… or dangerous 17:00 – Why external validation won’t fill internal gaps 22:00 – The importance of being grounded in your identity 30:00 – Taking an inventory: Who are you really following? Let us know what stood out to you in this episode! Are there any influences you’ve decided to cut out or new boundaries you’re setting? We’d love to hear from you! /episode/index/show/familybrand/id/35800445

216. Becoming a Peacemaker – Finding Peace Within and Around You 03/14/2025

216. Becoming a Peacemaker – Finding Peace Within and Around You Hey Family Brand! It’s Melissa here, and today, I’m bringing you a different kind of episode—one that I wasn’t expecting to record, but I know it’s exactly the conversation I need to have right now. My word for the year is ‘maker,’ and while I’ve spent time thinking about all the ways I want to create—being a homemaker, a moneymaker, a creator—it never occurred to me to focus on being a peacemaker. That changed recently when our family was asked to speak in church, and I was assigned Matthew 5:9: ‘Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God.’ That moment set me on a journey to rethink what it really means to make peace—not just between people, but inside ourselves. When I first thought about peacemaking, I imagined it in the traditional sense—helping my kids resolve arguments, keeping peace in relationships, and fostering harmony within my family. But as I reflected more, I realized that being a peacemaker starts internally. How do we create peace within ourselves so that we have peace to give? It’s easy to think of peace as something external, but when we aren’t centered, it’s hard to extend calm to others. One of the biggest takeaways from this reflection was learning how to recognize and manage my own emotional state. I shared a tool from a past podcast episode with parenting coach Crystal Heitzma, who teaches about recognizing when we are in our "green zone" (calm and regulated), "yellow zone" (feeling dysregulated), or "red zone" (fully overwhelmed). Learning to catch ourselves in that yellow zone before we spiral is a game-changer in protecting our peace. I’ve taught this to my kids, and it’s been powerful for all of us. I also talk about the mental chatter that often steals our peace—self-doubt, parenting guilt, or insecurities that creep in daily. When we get intentional about quieting those voices and replacing them with truth, we reclaim our inner peace. For me, faith is a huge part of that. I find peace in Christ, and reminding myself of who I am in His eyes helps me stay grounded. Our family also uses personal declarations—statements of who we are and who we are becoming—which are so powerful in silencing negativity. So here’s my challenge to you: Take a moment this week to ask yourself, How can I create more peace in my life? Whether it’s in your emotions, your thoughts, or your relationships, being a peacemaker starts within. And when we cultivate peace inside, it naturally flows into the lives of those around us. LINKS: All Links Family Brand! Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 – A different kind of episode today 1:30 – The unexpected lesson from my word of the year 3:00 – What does it really mean to be a peacemaker? 5:00 – Recognizing when we lose our inner peace 7:30 – Managing emotional regulation (Green, Yellow, Red zones) 10:00 – The mental chatter that steals our peace 12:00 – Finding peace in faith and truth 14:00 – Challenge: How can you become a peacemaker in your own life? /episode/index/show/familybrand/id/35661960

215. Cultivating Greater Gratitude with Shannon and Matthew Missimer 03/07/2025

215. Cultivating Greater Gratitude with Shannon and Matthew Missimer Hey Family Brand! It’s Chris and Melissa here, and today, we have an incredible conversation for you with Shannon and Matthew Missimer, co-founders of The Motion of Gratitude. Their work is all about helping families move from just going through the motions of life to living with intention, presence, and gratitude. If you've ever felt stuck in survival mode or wondered how to cultivate more joy and connection in your home, this episode is for you! Shannon and Matthew share their personal journeys that led them to create The Motion of Gratitude. For Shannon, it all started as a young mother feeling completely drained, giving everything to her children but losing herself in the process. Her turning point came when she realized that practicing gratitude—intentionally and daily—was the key to transforming how she showed up as a wife, mom, and individual. Matthew, on the other hand, was deep in the financial services industry, constantly focused on providing for his family, but ultimately realizing that success without presence wasn’t enough. It wasn’t until he saw the impact of Shannon’s gratitude practice firsthand that he truly embraced the power of this mindset shift. We dive deep into the science of gratitude and how it physically rewires our brains and nervous systems. Shannon explains how gratitude journaling isn't just a nice habit—it actually shifts us from fight-or-flight mode into a state of peace and connection. When we make gratitude a regular practice, it changes the way we see the world, helping us become more present with our families and more intentional with our time. If you're wondering where to start, Shannon and Matthew break it down with simple, actionable steps. They introduce The Experience, their 28-day guided gratitude journey, designed to help individuals and families build a strong foundation for a gratitude practice. They also share their new workbook series, designed specifically for kids, to help families cultivate a culture of gratitude together. As we wrap up, we challenge you to take one small step today: take a deep breath, ask yourself what is still going right in my life?, and see how that one simple shift can change everything. LINKS: All Links Family Brand! Links For This Episode: Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 – Welcome Shannon & Matthew Missimer 2:00 – How The Motion of Gratitude was born 6:00 – Shannon’s turning point as a mom and how gratitude changed everything 10:00 – Matthew’s journey from financial services to finding deeper purpose 14:00 – The science of gratitude: how it rewires the brain and body 18:00 – How to start a gratitude practice (without overcomplicating it) 22:00 – The Experience: A 28-day gratitude journey for families 26:00 – Simple breathwork and mindset shifts to bring more gratitude into your day /episode/index/show/familybrand/id/35554115

214. Homeless...The Power of Shared Experiences: Why Serving Together Strengthens Families 02/28/2025

214. Homeless...The Power of Shared Experiences: Why Serving Together Strengthens Families Hey Family Brand! It’s Chris and Melissa here, and today we’re diving into something that has been incredibly meaningful for our family lately—creating shared experiences through service. If you’ve ever felt like life is moving too fast and you’re struggling to connect as a family, this episode is for you. We’re sharing our recent experience feeding the homeless, how it impacted our kids, and why we’re making service a bigger priority in 2025. One of our biggest takeaways from this experience? Service is like medicine. It shifts the focus away from ourselves and helps us see the bigger picture. It builds gratitude, strengthens our core values, and brings us together in a way that few other things do. We’ve always talked about the importance of being intentional with our family culture, and this was a perfect example of how shared experiences create a deeper sense of identity and belonging. We also talk about how we planned this experience using , a website that connects families with local service opportunities. Whether you’re looking for a one-time event or want to make service a regular part of your family’s routine, this is a great place to start. And if you don’t have time to plan something big? That’s okay. Even small, everyday acts of service—helping a neighbor, cooking a meal, or simply being more present for someone—can have a huge impact. Another takeaway? If it’s not on the calendar, it won’t happen. We’ve learned that good intentions aren’t enough—we need to schedule service opportunities just like we would a vacation or a family dinner. This week, we’re challenging our kids to pick our next family service project, giving them ownership in the process. We’ll report back on how it goes! So here’s your challenge—how can you create more shared experiences in your family? Whether it’s a service project, a trip, or just making time for regular family meals, intentionality is everything. Take some time this week to talk about it, put something on the calendar, and make it happen! LINKS: All Links Family Brand! Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 – Special announcement: Join us for our March 6th Masterclass! 2:00 – The inspiration behind our recent service project 4:00 – How JustServe.org helped us find a local opportunity 6:00 – The impact of serving together as a family 9:00 – Why shared experiences build strong family culture 12:00 – The importance of scheduling service on your calendar 15:00 – Giving kids a say in planning family service projects 18:00 – Your challenge: What shared experiences can you create this week? Let us know what you think and what service projects you take on as a family! We’d love to hear your stories. 💛 /episode/index/show/familybrand/id/35445900

213. Escape... with Intention. Don't miss our NEW Couple's Getaway Guide. 02/21/2025

213. Escape... with Intention. Don't miss our NEW Couple's Getaway Guide. Hey Family Brand! It’s Melissa here, and today, I’m sharing something that I am SO excited about—our brand-new Escape with Intention: A Couple’s Getaway Guide! Chris and I have felt the power of a well-planned getaway so many times, and we truly believe every couple deserves time away to reconnect, dream, and have fun together. But here’s the thing—there’s a BIG difference between just taking a trip and planning an intentional escape that strengthens your relationship. That’s where this guide comes in! In this episode, we talk about why getting away—whether for a weekend, a full vacation, or even just a few intentional hours—can be life-changing for your marriage. Chris and I share personal stories about our own getaways, from our honeymoon to last-minute anniversary trips, and even small moments that made a big impact. The key? Being intentional with your time together. When you approach your escape with purpose, it becomes more than just a break from daily life—it becomes a chance to grow, reconnect, and dream together. We also give you a sneak peek into what’s inside the Escape with Intention guide. It’s a fully designed 30-page resource packed with conversation prompts, planning tips, and ideas to help you make the most of your time away. Plus, we’re doing something special—we’re hosting a live masterclass, where we’ll walk you through the guide, answer your questions, and help you brainstorm how to make your own getaway happen this year! Whether you’ve been putting off a couples’ trip because of busy schedules, finances, or just not knowing where to start, this episode will help you rethink what’s possible. A getaway doesn’t have to be extravagant—it can be as simple as a planned afternoon together, a night away, or a full retreat if that’s an option for you. The most important thing is carving out time to escape… with intention. Want in? Head over to to grab your spot! Let’s make your next getaway the best one yet. See you there! LINKS: All Links Family Brand! Links For This Episode: Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 – Why every couple deserves a getaway 2:05 – What inspired the Escape with Intention guide 4:30 – How intentional getaways strengthen your marriage 7:00 – Small escapes vs. big vacations—why both matter 9:45 – What’s inside the Escape with Intention guide 12:00 – Join us for the live masterclass on February 27th! /episode/index/show/familybrand/id/35353875

212. When to STOP Showing Up to All Your Kid’s Stuff? (Spots, Events, Etc.) 02/14/2025

212. When to STOP Showing Up to All Your Kid’s Stuff? (Spots, Events, Etc.) Hey Family Brand crew! Today, we’re tackling a topic that might stir up some conversation—when should you stop showing up to all of your kid’s activities? As parents, we want to support our children and be there for them, but at what point does showing up to everything start to impact our time, energy, and even our family’s well-being? This is something Chris and I have been navigating lately, and I wanted to bring this conversation to the podcast so we can all reflect on it together. We’ve always been a family that values showing up for each other. But recently, as our kids have gotten older and their schedules have become packed with sports and activities, we started to ask ourselves—does attending every single game, match, or event actually serve our family? After a particularly overwhelming week of 12 different games across multiple sports, I found myself exhausted, our youngest daughter was feeling dragged along, and we realized it was time to reassess what showing up really looks like for us. One perspective that really caught my attention was from an interview with author Linda Flanagan, where she suggested that parents shouldn’t feel pressured to attend everything. Instead, she encourages modeling a happy adulthood by maintaining your own interests and not relying on your kids’ activities to define your purpose. That really hit home for me! It made me realize that sometimes, stepping back is just as valuable as showing up—it teaches kids independence, resilience, and that their worth isn’t tied to parental attendance. That said, every family is different. Some parents genuinely love going to every game, and that’s great! But if you’re feeling stretched too thin or questioning whether this is sustainable, it might be worth having an open conversation with your kids. Some of our kids have told us, “I really want you at this game,” while others have said, “I don’t mind if you miss this one.” Giving them a say in the conversation can help create a balanced approach that works for everyone. At the end of the day, it’s about being intentional with your time. Maybe showing up doesn’t always mean being physically present—it can also mean checking in after, celebrating their hard work, and making space for other meaningful family moments. So, if you’ve been feeling overcommitted or stretched too thin, I encourage you to take a step back and ask: What does showing up look like for our family? And is it time to redefine that? LINKS: All Links Family Brand! Links For This Episode: 1000 Hours Outside Podcast, episode 414. Take Back the Game - Episode Minute By Minute 0:00 – A conversation worth having: Do we need to go to everything? 2:00 – The pressure parents feel to attend every activity 5:00 – When supporting one child starts to affect the whole family 7:30 – What research says about showing up vs. stepping back 10:00 – Having an open conversation with your kids about expectations 12:00 – Redefining “support” and creating balance for the whole family I’d love to hear your thoughts on this! Have you ever questioned whether you need to be at everything? Let’s continue the conversation—message me on Instagram or share your thoughts with your partner this week. See you next time! /episode/index/show/familybrand/id/35248995

211. Becoming....Undeniable 02/07/2025

211. Becoming....Undeniable Hey Family Brand! It’s Chris and Melissa here, and today we’re diving into a topic that has been a theme in our home and our conversations lately—what it means to become undeniable. Whether it’s in parenting, business, sports, or life in general, how do we show up in a way that makes our contributions impossible to ignore? We’re sharing personal stories, including how our son took on this mindset in his journey as an athlete, and how you can apply this principle in your own life. Melissa kicks off the conversation by reflecting on her recent speaking experience. Even though she’s spoken on Zoom and hosted this podcast for years, standing on stage in front of a live audience pushed her in new ways. She found herself replaying every detail, second-guessing her delivery, and realizing how easy it is to be unnecessarily hard on ourselves when we step outside our comfort zones. The lesson? Growth happens when we embrace discomfort and keep showing up, even when we don’t have it all figured out yet. Chris shares a powerful conversation he had with an entrepreneur who was hesitating to take action in his business, waiting until he was "sure it would work." But here’s the reality—you don’t get certainty before taking the leap. You take the leap, and then you figure it out. This same idea applies in our families, our careers, and every area of life. If we wait until we feel completely ready, we’ll stay stuck. The inspiration for today’s episode comes from our son, Tanner, and the journey he’s been on with sports. Last year, he chose the word “undeniable” as his theme. At first, it seemed like just a word on a vision board, scribbled in a barely legible font. But over time, he fully embodied that word. He showed up differently in his training, his mindset, and his approach to challenges. Instead of hoping to earn playing time, he worked in a way that made it impossible for coaches to overlook him. He became undeniable. We wrap up with three powerful questions inspired by world-renowned sports psychologist Bill Beswick, questions that can help you in any area of life: What do you want? How bad do you want it? What are you willing to suffer for to get it? These questions push us to get clear on our goals, commit to them fully, and recognize that struggle is part of the process. Whether in sports, business, marriage, or personal growth, the key is to put in the work and trust that your undeniable efforts will lead to undeniable results. LINKS: All Links Family Brand! Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 – Why we’re talking about becoming undeniable 2:00 – Melissa’s experience stepping outside her comfort zone 6:00 – Why waiting to "be ready" will keep you stuck 10:00 – How our son embodied the undeniable mindset 14:00 – The three questions that help you level up 18:00 – Applying the concept of undeniable to family, work, and personal growth 22:00 – Final thoughts: What’s calling you to become undeniable? What’s one area of your life where you can commit to showing up so fully that your contribution can’t be ignored? We’d love to hear your thoughts—send us a message or share your story with us! /episode/index/show/familybrand/id/35155145

210. State of the Smith Family Finances Address 01/31/2025

210. State of the Smith Family Finances Address Hey Family Brand! It’s Chris and Melissa here, and today we’re diving into a topic that we haven’t spent much time on in the podcast: family finances. If the thought of finances makes you want to tune out, stick with us—we’re sharing lessons learned from our own money journey, the missteps we’ve taken, and the shifts that have helped us build a healthier relationship with money. This is about more than numbers; it’s about stewardship, mindset, and teaching our kids how to handle money in a way that sets them up for life. In this episode, we get personal about how we’ve navigated our finances as a family. Like many couples, we started with different upbringings around money, and for years, we didn’t even realize our mindset about money was rooted in scarcity. Early on, we spent countless hours trying to save a few dollars, without understanding the bigger picture of value creation and stewardship. A turning point came when we started reframing our language and habits around money—focusing less on “we can’t afford that” and more on “how can we create the money for what matters to us?” We also share the importance of teaching financial principles to our kids. A recent conversation with our 17-year-old revealed a gap in how we’ve communicated what it takes to manage money and run a household. This year, we’re being more intentional about showing our kids the behind-the-scenes of family finances—everything from setting budgets to understanding the value of creating income. A simple rule we’ve implemented, “We pay for everything you want and half of what you need,” has helped our kids think twice before spending. Another shift this year has been the introduction of clear roles in our household finances. Inspired by a couples retreat, we decided to designate Chris as the CFO (Chief Financial Officer) and Melissa as the CEO (Chief Executive Officer) of our family. This has brought much-needed clarity and accountability to how we handle our responsibilities. It doesn’t mean we don’t support each other, but it has helped eliminate the overlap and inefficiencies we used to face. Our main takeaway for you: Financial success isn’t just about saving more or spending less; it’s about creating value, building good habits, and fostering a healthy relationship with money—both for you and your kids. As you step into this year, take some time to reflect on how you can intentionally improve your family’s relationship with money. LINKS: All Links Family Brand! Links For This Episode: - Podcast: 19. Why We Never Say “We Can’t Afford That” Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 – Why we’re talking about family finances 2:00 – Early lessons and scarcity mindsets around money 5:00 – How reframing our language changed everything 9:00 – Teaching kids financial responsibility and creation 14:00 – Our experiment with CFO and CEO family roles 18:00 – What we want our kids to learn about money 24:00 – Actionable takeaways for improving family finances /episode/index/show/familybrand/id/34964910

209. New Year, New Intentions – Finding Your Family’s Focus for 2025 01/24/2025

209. New Year, New Intentions – Finding Your Family’s Focus for 2025 Hey Family Brand! It’s Chris and Melissa here, and we’re coming to you from our brand-new house, fresh into 2025! This episode feels extra special because it’s the first one we’re recording in our new home, and we’re sharing how our family has been setting the tone for the new year. Whether you’re someone who loves creating goals and vision boards or you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, this episode will inspire you to pause, reflect, and bring intentionality into your family’s new year. We’re diving into our favorite end-of-year traditions, like reflecting on what went well in 2024 and what we want to improve for 2025. Chris shares how our family fills out reflection worksheets individually before coming together to talk about what we want to focus on as a group. It’s been such a powerful practice for us to not only grow as individuals but also strengthen our family culture. One of the big highlights of this year’s reflection process was choosing our family word for 2025: Peace. We explain how we arrived at that theme by gathering input from our kids and reflecting on the areas where we felt the most opportunity for growth—creating more order in our home, being kinder to one another, and fostering a calm, joyful environment. We even share how our kids come up with fun actions to reinforce our family values each day, making the process memorable and engaging. We also talk about our personal words for the year. Melissa’s word, Maker, is all about being intentional in every area of life—from homemaking to fun-making. Chris’s word, Fearless, challenges him to lean into fear and use it as a guide to pursue growth. These words help us approach the year with clarity and focus, and they’re a constant reminder of what matters most. Lastly, we touch on the importance of sustaining these intentions beyond the initial excitement of the new year. From creating visual cues like phone backgrounds to saying our family values together every morning, we share practical tips to keep your family’s goals front and center. And don’t worry—it’s not about perfection. It’s about progress, connection, and moving forward together. Let us know your family’s word or theme for 2025—we’d love to hear how you’re starting the year with intention. You can grab our free reflection guide and start creating your best year yet at . Cheers to a fresh start! LINKS: All Links Family Brand! Links For This Episode: Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 – Kicking off 2025 in our new home 3:00 – Reflecting on the past year and planning for the next 7:30 – How we chose our family word for 2025: Peace 12:00 – Melissa and Chris’s personal words and how they shape the year 17:00 – Simple ways to stay intentional all year long 20:00 – How to create a meaningful start to the year for your family /episode/index/show/familybrand/id/34913315

208. Rewriting the Stories That Hold You Back: Shatter the Need for Confidence with Guest Angus Nelson 01/17/2025

208. Rewriting the Stories That Hold You Back: Shatter the Need for Confidence with Guest Angus Nelson Hey Family Brand! It’s Melissa here, and I couldn’t be more excited to introduce you to my guest, Angus Nelson. Angus is an executive coach who helps entrepreneurs and high achievers break through their blockers and become their best selves. In today’s episode, we dive into why confidence isn’t the secret to success—and why the journey to real self-belief starts with action, not achievements. If you’ve ever felt stuck, doubted yourself, or let fear hold you back, this conversation is for you. Angus shares why many of us misunderstand confidence, treating it as something we need before taking action. He flips this idea on its head, explaining that confidence is always a result of doing, not a prerequisite. With humor and deep insight, Angus discusses how fear of failure and even fear of success are blockers that can paralyze us. By rethinking our stories and beliefs, we can take the first step toward growth—without waiting to feel “ready.” We also explore how these concepts apply to family life and relationships. Angus opens up about his own journey of personal transformation, including lessons from his role as a parent and his career as an entrepreneur. His vulnerability and wisdom remind us that building resilience, courage, and self-permission can transform not just our professional lives but our family dynamics as well. Angus also shares an incredible story of moving his family to Portugal, embracing resistance, and finding courage through big life changes. His takeaway? Resistance isn’t a sign to quit; it’s an opportunity to grow stronger and prove to yourself what you’re capable of. Lastly, Angus gives us a sneak peek into his upcoming book, Confidence Comes Later. He reveals why chasing confidence keeps us stuck and how shifting our mindset can unlock incredible potential. It’s a must-read for anyone ready to shatter limiting beliefs and step into the life they were meant to live. LINKS: All Links Family Brand! Links For This Episode: Book: Instagram: Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 – Meet Angus Nelson: Executive Coach and Author 2:00 – Why Confidence Isn’t What You Think It Is 5:00 – Breaking Down the Biggest Blockers: Fear of Failure and Success 10:00 – Why Resistance Is an Opportunity for Growth 15:00 – Redefining Confidence Through Action 20:00 – Angus’ Personal Transformation and Lessons from Family Life 27:00 – Moving to Portugal: The Courage to Follow Your Dreams 31:00 – How to Connect with Angus and Learn More About His Work /episode/index/show/familybrand/id/34797105

207. Our One Family 'Rule': Simplify Your Family Life with This Guiding Principle 01/09/2025

207. Our One Family 'Rule': Simplify Your Family Life with This Guiding Principle Hey Family Brand! It’s Chris and Melissa here, and today we’re talking about something that has brought clarity and connection to our family: our one family “rule.” Now, we’re not talking about a strict rule you have to follow, but more like a guiding principle—something simple that keeps us grounded, connected, and focused on what matters most. In this episode, we’ll walk you through how we discovered ours, why it’s been so impactful, and how you can find your own one family rule. We started this concept through our work with , where we help businesses simplify their growth by focusing on one core principle. That got us thinking: Why not apply the same idea to our family? So, we gathered our kids, reflected on our family’s mission, vision, and values, and asked, “If we could only remember one thing, what would make the biggest impact?” The answer for us was clear: Elevate and Inspire. These three words capture how we want to treat each other and show up as a family. They remind us to lift each other up, speak possibility into each other’s lives, and strive for connection. Since adopting this rule, it’s become a touchstone for all of us. Even the kids use it as a gentle check-in, asking, “Was that elevate and inspire?” It’s been a game-changer for how we approach our relationships at home. If you’re wondering how to create your own one family rule, we recommend starting with your existing family mission or values. Is there a phrase or principle that stands out as the cornerstone? If you don’t have a mission or values yet, that’s okay! Just ask yourself: How do we want to treat each other? What’s most important in how we show up as a family? Keep it simple—five words or less—and make it memorable. The beauty of this concept is its simplicity. In the busyness of life, it’s easy to forget the grand mission statements or big goals. But a short, actionable rule is something you can come back to daily. It’s a lens for making decisions, a reminder to align your actions with your values, and a foundation for building strong, lasting relationships. If you’re inspired to find your family’s one rule, let us know! We’d love to hear what you come up with and how it transforms your family dynamic. LINKS: All Links Family Brand! Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 – Reflecting on 20 years of marriage and family life 2:00 – What is the “one rule” concept? 4:00 – How we discovered our one rule: Elevate and Inspire 7:00 – Why simplicity matters in creating family values 10:00 – Steps to finding your family’s guiding principle 13:00 – How one rule can transform your family culture We hope this episode inspires you to explore what matters most to your family. Remember, it’s not about perfection—it’s about intention. Let us know your one family rule, and let’s continue growing together as families! /episode/index/show/familybrand/id/34553630

206. Make your goal of 'Get Organized' actually happen in 2025! With Shawn Lemon of The Digital Organizer 01/03/2025

206. Make your goal of 'Get Organized' actually happen in 2025! With Shawn Lemon of The Digital Organizer Hey Family Brand! It’s Melissa here, and this week, we’re diving into a topic that’s on everyone’s mind as we head into a new year: getting organized! My guest, Shawn Lemon of The Digital Organizer, is here to share practical strategies to help families streamline their digital lives and create more peace at home. If your goal for 2025 is to finally tackle that messy inbox, set up a family calendar, or organize your files, Shawn has the tools and mindset shifts you need to make it happen. Shawn shares how his journey into digital organization began with a tech-savvy dad who made him read manuals and fix the family computer. This early experience sparked a lifelong passion for simplifying tech and teaching others to master their digital tools. Over the past 11 years, Shawn has helped families and businesses alike transform their chaotic digital setups into systems that work seamlessly. One of the biggest challenges families face, Shawn explains, is managing multiple platforms and tools. From calendars to file storage, he emphasizes the importance of choosing one shared system that everyone can access easily. Whether it’s Google Drive or iCloud, the key is finding what works best for your family and committing to it. Shawn’s advice? Start small and keep it simple—it’s about progress, not perfection. Shawn also highlights the mental side of organization. Often, we get overwhelmed by the sheer amount of “stuff” and don’t know where to start. He encourages families to focus on small wins, like unsubscribing from unnecessary emails or consolidating files into one location. These simple steps build momentum and help you stay motivated as you tackle bigger projects. Lastly, we discuss the life skills that come with digital organization, especially for kids. Shawn shares how setting up shared calendars or folders can teach responsibility, time management, and teamwork. These lessons go beyond the digital realm, preparing kids for success in school, work, and life. If you’re ready to take control of your digital life, Shawn’s Digital Organization Guide is a must-have resource. Head over to: to download it and start your journey toward a more organized 2025! LINKS: All Links Family Brand! Links For This Episode: Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 – Meet Shawn Lemon: The Digital Organizer 3:00 – Why digital organization starts with mindset 7:30 – Choosing a shared calendar platform for your family 12:00 – Streamlining file storage across devices 17:00 – Tips for tackling email clutter and subscriptions 23:00 – Teaching kids the life skills of organization 28:00 – Final thoughts: Small wins lead to big progress /episode/index/show/familybrand/id/34700535

205. Best Year Yet: A Fun and Meaningful Way to Celebrate New Year’s with Your Family (FREE DOWNLOAD INSIDE) 12/27/2024

205. Best Year Yet: A Fun and Meaningful Way to Celebrate New Year’s with Your Family (FREE DOWNLOAD INSIDE) Hey Family Brand! It’s Melissa and Chris here, and we’re so excited to share one of our favorite annual traditions: our “” family framework. Whether you’re looking for a fun and meaningful way to close out the year or want to start the new year with intention, this episode is packed with ideas to help your family reflect, connect, and dream big for 2024. And the best part? It’s all free! Head over to to download everything you need to get started. We created this framework to replace the rushed, chaotic energy we often felt during the holidays with something more meaningful and intentional. Instead of just showing up to New Year’s Eve parties and coasting into January, we wanted to reflect on the past year, celebrate our wins, and create a vision for the year ahead. Over time, this tradition has become one of the most impactful things we do as a family. This framework includes three parts: reflecting on the past year, celebrating New Year’s Eve with a fun family tradition, and setting goals for the year ahead. It’s designed to include everyone, from young kids to teens, making it a unique way for families to grow together. Chris and I love how it allows us to pause, have meaningful conversations, and learn new things about our kids and each other. One of the most exciting aspects is how much fun families have reported having with the New Year’s Eve activities. From award ceremonies to family games, this tradition has become a favorite for many of you. And we’ve seen the impact it’s had—bringing families closer, encouraging intentional growth, and helping everyone feel more connected and supported as they step into a new year. Lastly, we shared how businesses often use end-of-year reflections and strategic planning to set up for success. We’ve taken some of these principles and applied them to family life, creating an approach that’s accessible, practical, and, most importantly, fun for the whole family. Let’s make this your best year yet as a family! We’d love to see how you use the framework—tag us in your photos and stories, and let’s inspire each other to make 2024 amazing. Happy New Year! LINKS: All Links Family Brand! Links For This Episode: Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 – Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! 2:00 – Why we created the “Best Year Yet” framework 5:00 – Reflecting on the past year: Finding the gold in 2024 7:30 – Making New Year’s Eve meaningful and fun as a family 10:00 – Setting intentional goals for the year ahead 11:30 – How this framework has impacted our family and others 12:30 – Where to download your free kit: familybrand.com/best /episode/index/show/familybrand/id/34553525

204. Four Years of the Family Brand Podcast + A Sneak Peek at Our New Year’s FREE Download! 12/20/2024

204. Four Years of the Family Brand Podcast + A Sneak Peek at Our New Year’s FREE Download! Hey Family Brand! It’s Melissa here, joined by Chris, and today we’re celebrating a huge milestone: four years of the Family Brand Podcast! We can hardly believe it ourselves, and we couldn’t have done it without YOU—our incredible listeners. In this episode, we’re looking back at the conversations that have shaped us, the lessons we’ve learned, and why consistency has been our secret sauce. Plus, we’re giving you a sneak peek at an exciting New Year’s resource we’ve created just for you and your family! We kicked things off with some behind-the-scenes fun—recording this episode on a school bus! Yes, you heard that right. Chris pulled up in the bus after coaching our daughter’s basketball team, and it felt fitting to mark this adventure-filled journey with a little spontaneity. Reflecting on these past four years, we’re amazed at how the podcast has grown and the impact it’s had on families worldwide. Your support, shares, and reviews keep us going, so thank you for being part of this mission! Melissa shared her “why” behind the podcast—what keeps her showing up every week (almost without fail!). It started as a personal challenge to find her voice and has since transformed into a platform for meaningful conversations that uplift families. For Chris, one key takeaway has been the power of consistency. Whether it’s a podcast, a family tradition, or building a strong marriage, consistency trumps everything. We also revisited some of our favorite episodes, like Thomas McConkie’s conversation on navigating faith crises within families and our deeply personal episode on why your marriage is worth fighting for. Each one reminded us of the transformative power of honest, vulnerable conversations. And here’s the big news: We’re launching a free New Year’s resource to help you close out this year intentionally and start the next one with purpose. It’s designed for families to reflect together, celebrate your wins, and set meaningful goals as a team. Head over to to grab your copy and get a head start on making 2024 your most intentional year yet! LINKS: All Links Family Brand! Links For This Episode: Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 – Celebrating four years of the Family Brand Podcast 2:00 – Recording on a school bus (because why not?) 5:00 – Melissa’s motivation to keep showing up weekly 8:00 – The lessons consistency has taught us 10:00 – Favorite episodes and unforgettable conversations 14:00 – Sneak peek: Our free New Year’s download for families Thank you for being part of this journey with us. Here’s to building strong families, creating intentional traditions, and making the next year our best one yet! We love you, Family Brand! /episode/index/show/familybrand/id/34553505

203. Make 2025 Your Best Year Yet with Guests Wayne and Mae Wagner 12/13/2024

203. Make 2025 Your Best Year Yet with Guests Wayne and Mae Wagner Hey Family Brand! It’s Melissa here, and today, I’m so excited to welcome back two incredible guests, Wayne and Mae Wagner. If you’ve been feeling like you want to start 2025 with intention and purpose, this episode is for you. We dive deep into practical ways to close out this year strong, reflect on what worked (and what didn’t), and set up your family for success in the new year. Wayne and Mae share how their family has evolved their year-end planning rituals over time. From reflection exercises to setting meaningful goals, they emphasize the importance of being intentional and involving the whole family. Mae highlights their tradition of evaluating relationships within the family, using a scale of 1 to 10 to foster honest conversations. While these moments can feel vulnerable, they’ve found that it strengthens their family bonds and builds resilience. We also dive into the power of vision boards—one of our family’s favorite traditions. Whether you use it to reflect personal goals, family goals, or a mix of both, vision boarding can be a tactile and fun way to create a shared sense of purpose. Mae and Wayne shared how they’ve adapted this process over the years, even incorporating financial planning for their adult children to help them feel empowered and prepared. One of the highlights of our conversation was discussing the value of creating a family narrative. As Mae beautifully explains, families thrive when they can reflect on their shared stories—the ups and downs, challenges, and victories. This narrative not only helps create identity but also instills confidence and grit in kids. It’s a reminder that as families, we’re all in this together. Lastly, we shared some practical resources to help you start your own planning traditions. Whether you’re creating a family mission statement, planning a vision board night, or setting up year-end reflections, the most important thing is to start. And remember, you don’t have to do it perfectly—it’s the effort and intentionality that matter most. Let us know how you plan to make 2025 your best year yet! And don’t forget to grab the free family planning resources mentioned in this episode at familybrand.com/best. We can’t wait to hear how these ideas help your family thrive! LINKS: All Links Family Brand! Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 – Welcome Wayne and Mae Wagner 3:00 – Evolving your family’s year-end planning 7:30 – Building resilience through family narratives 10:00 – Vision boards: Fun and purposeful tradition 15:00 – Family planning for adult kids and future goals 20:00 – How to start 2025 with intention and success /episode/index/show/familybrand/id/34375060

202. What I’m Leaving Behind in My 30s and Embracing in My 40s 12/06/2024

202. What I’m Leaving Behind in My 30s and Embracing in My 40s Hey Family Brand! It’s Melissa here, and today’s episode is extra personal as I reflect on turning 40. Hitting this milestone has been such a meaningful moment for me—an opportunity to look back on my 30s, decide what I’m leaving behind, and think about what I want to embrace moving forward. I’m also excited to share some big changes I’ve been making, including a shift in how I’m showing up online. If you’re navigating a season of transition, this one’s for you! I started this decade feeling surprisingly at peace. Turning 40 wasn’t scary for me—it felt like a gift. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized that growing older is truly a privilege, one not everyone gets to experience. That said, this birthday brought up some unexpected reflections, particularly around friendships and how I want to show up in my relationships moving forward. It was a reminder to celebrate the connections that mean the most and to be intentional about fostering those bonds. One of the biggest shifts I want to make in my 40s is caring less about what others think and living more authentically. During a recent breathwork session, I had a powerful realization about wanting to live with an open heart. For me, this means trusting my instincts, being more courageous, and leaning into the things that bring me joy—even when they feel a little scary, like launching a new masterclass or changing my Instagram handle. (By the way, you can now find me at !) Another thing I’m embracing in this new season is the idea of wholehearted living, inspired by Brené Brown’s work in The Gifts of Imperfection. I’m letting go of perfectionism, fear, and comparison, and choosing to cultivate gratitude, creativity, and meaningful work instead. It’s a process, but it’s one I’m excited to lean into because it feels like the path to truly living life to the fullest. As I wrap up this reflection, I want to say thank you for being part of my journey. Family Brand has been such a beautiful evolution over the past four years, and I’m so grateful for this community. Whether you’re entering a new decade or just looking to make small, meaningful changes, I hope this episode inspires you to embrace the things that light you up and let go of what no longer serves you. LINKS: All Links Family Brand! Links For This Episode: Follow my new instagram! Click here: Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 – Welcome and my big Instagram change 1:30 – Reflecting on turning 40 and celebrating life’s milestones 3:00 – Lessons on friendship and connection 7:00 – Living openheartedly and trusting your instincts 10:00 – Embracing creativity and authenticity in your 40s 13:00 – Letting go of fear and comparison 15:00 – The beauty of wholehearted living I’d love to hear what you’re leaving behind and embracing in your own season of life. Share your reflections with me on Instagram—I’m here to cheer you on! 💛 /episode/index/show/familybrand/id/34268610

201. STOP Doing These Family Traditions! 11/28/2024

201. STOP Doing These Family Traditions! Hey Family Brand! It’s Melissa here, and today, I want to dive into a topic that feels especially timely as we head into the holidays: family traditions. Traditions can be beautiful and meaningful, but have you ever stopped to ask yourself if all of your traditions are still serving you and your family? That’s what we’re exploring in this episode—how to evaluate your traditions, let go of the ones that no longer work, and intentionally create new rituals that bring your family closer together. When we think of traditions, our minds often jump to the big ones—holiday celebrations, birthdays, or annual events. But family traditions are so much more than that. They’re also the small, consistent rituals we build into our daily and weekly lives, like family dinners, bedtime routines, or even Sunday night check-ins. Research shows that the strongest families have the highest frequency of these rituals, not just around special occasions, but woven into everyday life. I share some examples from our family, like how we’ve reevaluated traditions over the years. For instance, we decided to stop making gingerbread houses with extended family after moving further away, even though it was hard for the kids at first. The key is to make space for what works best for your unique family, while still honoring the core purpose of traditions: building identity, belonging, and strength. If you’re ready to shake things up, I suggest starting with a family discussion. Bring everyone together, explain your thoughts about why you’d like to adapt or change certain traditions, and invite their feedback. One resource I recommend for this process is the book The Intentional Family by William Dougherty, which offers practical advice on how to make these shifts thoughtfully and collaboratively. Lastly, I encourage you to double down on traditions that truly bring connection to your family. For us, family meetings and shared mealtimes have been game-changers. If you’re curious about starting family meetings, I have a free resource to guide you through the process, complete with a mini-course to make it super simple. Check it out at familybrand.com/meetings. As you step into this holiday season and prepare for the new year, take some time to reflect: What traditions are worth keeping, and what new ones can you create to align with the family culture you want to build? LINKS: All Links Family Brand! Links For This Episode: Book- 'The Intentional Family' by William Doherty: Get the Family Meeting Playbook: Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 – Why it’s time to rethink family traditions 2:00 – The importance of small, consistent rituals 5:00 – Evaluating traditions: What serves your family? 7:30 – Tips for adapting or letting go of old traditions 10:00 – The power of family meetings and shared meals 12:00 – How intentional traditions create strong families I hope this episode inspires you to embrace traditions that truly bring joy and connection to your family. Let me know what changes you decide to make—I’d love to hear your story! /episode/index/show/familybrand/id/34055596

200. Heed the Calling: Why Listening to Your Calling Can Change Everything 11/22/2024

200. Heed the Calling: Why Listening to Your Calling Can Change Everything Hey Family Brand! It’s Chris and Melissa here, and we’re thrilled to bring you this week’s conversation, inspired by a special experience we had as a family. Over the weekend, we attended church with some dear friends, and the pastor shared a powerful message about Jonah and what it means to have a calling. That message sparked an amazing family discussion, and today, we’re diving into what it means to listen for your calling, why it’s so important, and how to act on it, even when it feels scary. We kicked off the episode sharing our weekend in Phoenix, where we enjoyed great company, community events, and some meaningful time with our kids. A highlight was attending a non-denominational church service, which was a first for most of our family. The pastor’s message about Jonah running from his calling really hit home and prompted a big question: What does it mean to feel called to something? Together, we explored the idea that callings can look different for everyone. Sometimes, they’re about pursuing something that excites you. Other times, they involve stepping into something uncomfortable or unknown. Either way, callings often require courage. We reflected on how fear of failure, judgment from others, or simply the busyness of life can drown out those inner nudges. But here’s the truth—when you listen and act on what’s calling to you, amazing things can happen. Melissa shared a personal story about stepping away from her career as a nurse, despite the resistance and questions she faced from others. Chris talked about how their family’s move to Hawaii, driven by nothing more than a feeling, taught them to trust their intuition. These experiences reminded us that callings don’t always make sense to others—and they don’t have to. We wrapped up by encouraging you to get quiet, reflect, and listen. What’s calling to you right now? Maybe it’s something big, like a career change, or something small, like dedicating more time to a passion. Whatever it is, don’t let judgment or fear hold you back. As Melissa beautifully put it, “Time is going to pass anyway, so you might as well spend it on the path to where you want to go.” LINKS: All Links Family Brand! Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 – Weekend in Phoenix and connecting with friends 2:12 – Attending a new church and lessons from Jonah 4:30 – What does it mean to feel called to something? 7:00 – Overcoming resistance to your calling 9:45 – Facing external opinions about your decisions 11:20 – Quiet reflection: Listening to what’s calling you 12:17 – Final thoughts: Time is going to pass—heed the calling! /episode/index/show/familybrand/id/34054356

199. Raising Civic-Minded Kids with Brittany Richman of The American Moms 11/15/2024

199. Raising Civic-Minded Kids with Brittany Richman of The American Moms Hey, Family Brand! It’s Melissa here, and today, I have a very special guest on the podcast—Brittany Richman of The American Moms. Brittany’s story is inspiring, from working on President Bush’s speechwriting team to founding The American Moms blog with her twin sister. She’s here to share her insights on teaching our kids about civics, showing up in our communities, and the power we each have to create positive change. If you’ve ever wondered how to get your family more involved in civic life or felt unsure about where to start, this episode is packed with ideas to help you make a difference, right where you are! Brittany talks about her journey into politics and public service, starting with her job in the White House. Her passion for civic engagement is something she and her sister carry forward today through The American Moms, where they help families raise civically aware kids. Brittany shares how simple activities like watching the news as a family or attending local meetings can create a lasting impact. She believes these small, everyday actions build a foundation of awareness and involvement, showing kids that they, too, have a voice. One of the biggest takeaways Brittany shares is the importance of teaching kids to understand and appreciate differing viewpoints. In today’s world, disagreement often feels like division, but Brittany emphasizes that “disagreement and hatred are not the same thing.” She encourages families to foster open conversations, teaching kids to approach others with respect, even when opinions differ. This lesson, Brittany says, helps raise citizens who are engaged, empathetic, and empowered to make a difference. Brittany also talks about the importance of getting involved at the local level. From advocating for better sidewalks to improving school grading systems, she shares real-life examples of how showing up can lead to meaningful change. This isn’t about grand gestures—it’s about addressing what matters in your own backyard. Brittany reminds us that “sometimes change is as simple as gathering a group of moms, writing letters, or attending a school board meeting.” If you’re interested in finding unbiased news or want to know where to start with civic education, Brittany has some fantastic advice. She recommends local news, podcasts like Civics 101, and educational websites that help both kids and parents learn about government and civics without the bias we often see today. By seeking a variety of sources, we can foster an open-minded approach to news and help our kids build a well-rounded understanding of the world. LINKS: All Links Family Brand! Links For This Episode: Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 – Welcome Brittany Richman of The American Moms 2:00 – How Brittany’s Political Journey Began 5:00 – Why Civics Matters for Families 10:00 – Involving Kids in Local Issues 15:00 – The Importance of Respecting Different Views 20:00 – Getting Started with Civic Education at Home 25:00 – Raising Good Citizens Over Partisan Leanings 30:00 – Finding Unbiased News Sources and Civic Resources /episode/index/show/familybrand/id/33922077

198. Business, Beating Cancer, Co-Parenting and More: Amy Jordan's Pilates Revolution 11/07/2024

198. Business, Beating Cancer, Co-Parenting and More: Amy Jordan's Pilates Revolution Hey Family Brand community! Melissa here, and I’m thrilled to welcome Amy Jordan to our podcast today. Several of you have reached out requesting us to have Amy on the show, and she does not disappoint! Amy is not just a pioneer in the Pilates world but also a passionate mom who embodies the spirit of healthy living and resilience. Today, she shares her journey from a high-stakes career in Hollywood to creating WundaBar Pilates and how her role as a mother has deeply influenced her entrepreneurial path. Amy opens up about the challenges of balancing motherhood with her career, emphasizing the importance of modeling success, health, and resilience for our children. She believes that by showing our kids how we tackle challenges and pursue our passions, we teach them invaluable lessons about determination and living on purpose! We also dive into Amy’s innovative approach to Pilates, her invention of the Wunda Core Resistance Ring, and how she’s making fitness accessible and fun for everyone. Amy’s story is not just about overcoming obstacles but also about the transformative power of following one's passion and the impact it can have on our children’s perception of what is possible. Interested in learning more about Amy’s philosophy on fitness and motherhood? Hit play now for this inspiring conversation! If Amy’s journey inspires you, or if you have your own experiences with integrating fitness and family life, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out, share your story, and let’s keep building strong, vibrant families together. P.S. Registration is now open for our couples retreat in Hawaii! Join us and Family Brand for transformational retreats designed to deepen your connection and reignite the spark in your relationship. Sign Up Now: LINKS: All Links Family Brand! Links For This Episode: Instagram: Connect with Amy: Episode Minute By Minute: 00:00 - Introduction to the episode and welcoming Amy Jordan. 01:11 - Amy shares her journey from a high-stakes Hollywood career to becoming a Pilates entrepreneur. 02:18 - Discussion on the transition from the entertainment industry, dealing with personal challenges including a divorce. 04:34 - Amy talks about the creation of WundaBar Pilates and the invention of the WundaFormer. 06:29 - How the challenges of the pandemic led Amy to invent the Wunda Core Resistance Ring. 08:18 - Amy explains her passion for Pilates and its benefits, emphasizing the power of movement. 10:19 - Details on Amy's battle with cancer, her recovery, and how it transformed her perspective on health and business. 13:01 - Insights on co-parenting, maintaining a good relationship with an ex, and prioritizing children's needs. 17:40 - Final thoughts from Amy on the importance of resilience and adapting to change in both personal and professional life. /episode/index/show/familybrand/id/33348427

197. From Financial Struggles to Debt Freedom with Brad Nelson the "Debt Free Dad" 11/01/2024

197. From Financial Struggles to Debt Freedom with Brad Nelson the "Debt Free Dad" Hey Family Brand! It’s Melissa here, and today, I’m beyond excited to introduce you to Brad Nelson, also known as the Debt Free Dad. Brad has an incredible story about going from the weight of debt to a life of financial freedom, and he’s here to share how he did it and how you can too. If you’ve ever felt alone in your financial struggles, this episode is for you! Brad breaks down simple, practical steps to help families like ours get out of debt and start building the future we want. Brad opens up about his early financial journey and the challenges he faced, from living paycheck-to-paycheck to ultimately losing his home. He shares how this wake-up call led him to completely transform his mindset and make debt freedom a reality. Brad’s story is one so many of us can relate to—thinking we’ll manage “someday” while trying to keep up with life’s demands. But he shows us that, with the right mindset and some determination, financial freedom is possible. One thing Brad emphasizes is the importance of mindset. Getting out of debt isn’t easy, but it starts with a vision and a commitment to change. He talks about how having a clear vision for his future helped him make tough choices, like cutting back on unnecessary spending. This vision was a game-changer, motivating him to stay on track when things got hard. Brad encourages all of us to sit down and get honest about what we want our financial lives to look like—and to start taking small steps to get there. We also dive into the topic of family finances and how to involve our kids in positive, age-appropriate ways. Brad suggests bringing children into simple budgeting conversations, teaching them that “no” doesn’t mean “never,” and that financial responsibility is about intentional choices. It’s about giving them the tools to build a healthy relationship with money that will last a lifetime. Lastly, Brad shares how he’s now helping others on their financial journeys through his Debt Free Dad podcast and membership community, Roots of Personal Finance. By providing accountability and support, Brad has created a space where people don’t have to feel alone in their financial struggles. This community is all about giving families the tools and support to reach their goals, one step at a time. P.S. Registration is now open for our couples retreat in Hawaii! Join us and Family Brand for transformational retreats designed to deepen your connection and reignite the spark in your relationship. Sign Up Now: LINKS: Links For This Episode: Free Gift from Brad: Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 – Welcome Brad Nelson! Aka The Debt Free Dad 3:00 – How Brad Got into Debt with Bad Money Habits 7:00 – Brad’s Journey to Helping Others Get Out of Debt and Live Free 10:30 – How Normal People with Normal Jobs Can Become Debt-Free 14:00 – Shifting Your Mindset Around Debt and Money 18:30 – What to Do if Your Spouse Isn’t Ready for Financial Changes 21:45 – Defining Your Family’s “Why” and Creating a Shared Vision /episode/index/show/familybrand/id/33539522

Family Brand: Take Back Your Family

TOPICS