The Midlife Mosaic
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Moms! Stop Yelling At Your Children
07/15/2020
Moms! Stop Yelling At Your Children
Yelling is a common problem in households because when our children don’t listen we get frustrated. But yelling actually adds to the frustration and doesn’t cause our children to really hear us. But yet, we as Moms still YELL - I'm GUILTY! I’m sure there is three times as much yelling going on in households now while we endure this pandemic. However, Moms please know that the minute we raise our voice we lose our child. It’s time, it’s been time; Parents have to model the behavior we want our children to have. My guest, Ludmila Woodruff discovered very early in her motherhood journey that she didn’t like parenting. She loved her son but motherhood was draining (emotional, mentally and physically). After seeing a psychologist, she began to dig deeper into why parenting was very draining. Self-reflection, healing and learning new techniques to listen and understand her children’s personality and needs began to change her behavior and to view motherhood very differently. In this episode, we discuss the importance of raising emotionally intelligent children. We also discuss that Moms often think they are not enough and are not doing enough. Ludmila helps professional women who feel overwhelmed and stuck build confidence in their marriage and motherhood. She specializes in helping women to overcome guilt and increase self confidence. Connect with Ludmila here: Instagram: www.instagram.com/ludmilawoodruff
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Using your Voice and Privilege to Help Black Lives
07/01/2020
Using your Voice and Privilege to Help Black Lives
First, it’s the coronavirus and now it’s the virus of racism. Being white in America is normal. Being black in America is a threat. The pandemic has shined a spotlight on police brutality and racial injustices causing all people to acknowledge racism. The reality is, all lives do not matter until black lives begin to matter. From humble beginnings in her childhood neighborhood to mentoring and advocating for people of color throughout her career my guests’ heart has been deeply woven into the black community in a unique way. Since the deaths of Ahmad Aubrey and George Floyd, my guest Jessica Hurley has taken a close look at white privilege and racism. In this episode, we discuss the awareness of racism that white people need to have, acknowledging white privilege, and how white people can lead in the right way. Tune in to glean from the perspective of a woman with soul and high regard for my people. You can listen to Jessica on The Stranded Phase Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and other platforms. Connect with Jessica here: Instagram: www.instagram.com/jessicahurley_ Website: If you’ve been wanting to start a podcast Jessica’s podcast agency, Instapodcasts can assist you!
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Woman on Fire!
06/24/2020
Woman on Fire!
Grease fires are the most common type of fire in the home and are responsible for 1 in every 5 home fire deaths. In this episode, Danielle talks with Mickaela Gonzalez who endured and healed from 3rd degree burns on 36% of her upper body which included her face due to a grease fire. A mom of two at the time could not feed herself, walk or barely talk decided to take a holistic approach to her healing and opted out of traditional medicine and instead embraced natural remedies, physical and music therapy and prayer and meditation. Some women are lost in the fire. Some women are built from it. The fire may have quenched her confidence but it also grew her faith in God immensely and led her to her life work. While healing she battled PTSD and postpartum depression but it didn’t stop Mickaela from finding purpose during this emotionally dark time. Women on Fire, Inc is her nonprofit that she birthed while healing during the most painful time of her life. Her goal through her nonprofit is to speak life into burn victims, and to change the lives of women and children through education, fun events and community outreach and resources. Mickaela knows that she is a walking testimony and that this fire was God’s plan to lead her to her purpose. You can connect with Mickaela here: Instagram: Website: www.womenonfireinc.com
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Brown Moms Speak: Candid Conversations
06/17/2020
Brown Moms Speak: Candid Conversations
Here on the Moms Still Standing podcast its important to me that Moms do not Mom alone and this podcast is a place where Moms can connect. So, join me over the next few weeks as I talk with Brown Moms about the recent tragic events in the black community and how the world has been shaken and awaken since George Floyd’s death. In this episode, I talk with two of my SisterFriends in a candid conversation. Tune in to hear our feelings expressed raw and uncut, our truths as Brown Moms with sons and why we are relying on God now more than ever. We discuss the importance of taking care of ourselves – emotionally, spiritually and physically especially during this time; our action steps individually and collectively; the importance of voting at the local level as well as the presidential election and other related topics. I think we all can agree that the virus of racism is far worse than the corona virus itself. As we engage in the next steps, we must focus on justice but also on the God of justice. The world is paying attention and this is our opportunity to effect change, so get active and stay hopeful!
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Calgon, I mean CRAFTING Take Me Away!
06/10/2020
Calgon, I mean CRAFTING Take Me Away!
As a nod toward Mental Health Awareness month which is in May, my SisterFriend and I discuss crafting and mental health. How timely right?! We are in the middle of a pandemic and a civil rights movement so we need to get away from it all once in a while, to unwind and relax with our favorite craft. Crafting is a great way to take ‘time off’ from the stresses of everyday life. Vanessa O’Neal, a master crafter, knows personally that crafting is a great stress reliever but also that crafting has some major health benefits. While Vanessa initially started crafting (sewing) because of her Mom, she later learned to make jewelry as a recommendation from a close friend and her doctor to see if her blood pressure would lower during the activity. Now years later she still loves crafting and creating in her craft room for her personal enjoyment but also as the creator for her handbag and accessories business, By Vanessa S, LLC. Science has revealed that crafting is good for your brain and your mental health. MomFriends, we discuss how crafting is a great ‘time out’ for us and the importance of all Moms having a hobby. We also discuss ways Moms can introduce their children to the different crafting options and why offering crafting options to children is very important to spark their creativity but also as a way to relieve anxiety. Exploring sparks curiosity and curiosity helps birth confidence. Tune in to this episode to hear more! Check out By Vanessa S, LLC ecommerce store here: Instagram: By_Vanessa_S
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A Daughter's Love and God's Blended Best
06/03/2020
A Daughter's Love and God's Blended Best
When God’s love brings forth healing and reconciliation in a mother daughter relationship the result is LOVE. A daughter’s love for her mom was tarnished due to a decision about the birth of her child. Bad communication caused her relationship with her mom to be strained. For years, the subject was not talked about and finally God began to impress upon Shyron’s heart to talk with her mom about the decision to give her son up for adoption. In this episode, Danielle talks with Shyron Brailey about the steps God led her to take to confront her mom and to forgive her mom. It definitely was a process that started in Shyron’s heart and also with her act of obedience. Tune in to hear this story of a mother daughter’s reconciliation. We also discussed blended families and why much care, intention and communication are needed when it comes to families blending together due to marriage. Shyron describes how she has been every part of a blended family. She also discusses why she suggests not using the words stepchild, stepmom and stepdad. By taking one step at a time and having open communication families can began to heal from dysfunctional relationships and blended families can merge together with more understanding and learn how to make it work. Shyron Brailey is a certified life coach and a spirit-led Christian coach. Her and her husband are also the founders of God’s Blended Best a support group for blended families. You can connect with Shyron here: Website: Email: Facebook: Check out Shyron’s book: Fuel Your Motivation: 31 Daily Motivations to Keep You Moving Forward
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Ending The Cycle Of Teen Dating Violence With InterAct
02/28/2020
Ending The Cycle Of Teen Dating Violence With InterAct
MomFriends, While this is a topic we never ever want to think about, teen domestic violence is something parents have to have a safety plan for incase they find their child in this situation. The truth around violence in relationships with young people (13-19yrs old) is staggering. It is said that 1 in 3 youth experience some form of abuse in a relationship, across all identities across the country. While this topic is not widely spoken of, InterAct understands the importance of sharing this topic in classrooms and to young people to bring awareness. In this episode, Danielle is joined by the Director of Training, Education & Prevention from InterAct, Briana Clarke-Schwelm. InterAct is a one of a kind comprehensive service provider in North Carolina with a mission to provide safety support, and awareness to victims and survivors of domestic and sexual violence. This episode is a must listen for everyone as today's guest discusses cyber stalking, abuse through social media, harassment, red flags of an abusive relationship and how friends and parents can support victims. Check out InterAct for resources and help: 24 hour Crisis line = 919-828-7740 or 866-291-0855 Instagram - - Twitter - @interact_wake Facebook - (a good resource for teens that have relationship concerns)
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The Silent Suffering of Domestic Violence with Joy Forrest
02/20/2020
The Silent Suffering of Domestic Violence with Joy Forrest
Danielle is joined by domestic violence advocate and survivor, Joy Forrest. Joy is the founder of Called To Peace ministries created to provide hope and healing to victims of domestic violence. This incredible women was inspired to start her ministry because of her personal experience with domestic violence from her long time ex-husband. While enduring fear and coercive control she found she had no one to turn to in the Christian community, so Joy vowed to create something to help women like herself if she ever got out of it. In this episode, Joy and Danielle discuss domestic violence, coercive control, and how as a friend or family member you can support your loved one. The fact that 1 in 3 women will experience some form of domestic violence in their life time is deeply shocking. Check out Joy's organization and find out how you can help support the thousands of women who reach out each year in need of help and support:
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The Silent Suffering of Domestic Violence with Joy Forrest
02/19/2020
The Silent Suffering of Domestic Violence with Joy Forrest
Danielle is joined by domestic violence advocate and survivor, Joy Forrest. Joy is the founder of Called To Peace ministries created to provide hope and healing to victims of domestic violence. This incredible women was inspired to start her ministry because of her personal experience with domestic violence from her long time ex-husband. While enduring fear and coercive control she found she had no one to turn to in the Christian community, so Joy vowed to create something to help women like herself if she ever got out of it. In this episode, Joy and Danielle discuss domestic violence, coercive control, and how as a friend or family member you can support your loved one. The fact that 1 in 3 women will experience some form of domestic violence in their life time is deeply shocking. Check out Joy's organization and find out how you can help support the thousands of women who reach out each year in need of help and support:
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The Diagnosis That Led Her To Faith, Food, And Fitness with Shannon Parker
02/12/2020
The Diagnosis That Led Her To Faith, Food, And Fitness with Shannon Parker
Get ready for a vulnerable episode with this previous corporate workaholic turned fitness and food focused mompreneur, Shannon Parker. In this episode, Shannon opens up about how childbirth changed her life forever. When moms everywhere discuss how your body goes into "shock" after childbirth they don't tend to fully warn you on what to expect. Most of us think the body changes after birthing a child might include weight gain or a "pooch" but in Shannon's case, she was soon diagnosed with two auto-immune diseases; hashimoto's and hyperthyroidism. Instead of adhering to her new prescription med routine, Shannon decided that there was no better advocate for herself then her. So she changed her eating habits, re-built her roots in her faith, and subscribed to committed workouts daily. This commitment to her health changed her life and left her with little to no symptoms. Shannons can do attitude is something we all need in business and in life. Do not miss an opportunity to join shannon for inspiration, encouragement and recipes by following Shannon on Instagram and Facebook and explore her 4 weeks to Nourish program:
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5 Things I learned From A Life Changing Event
02/05/2020
5 Things I learned From A Life Changing Event
This episode is all about investing in the unknown and getting more than you bargained for. With all of the "women empowerment" events and new opportunities to build like-minded community with influencers everywhere it can be hard to commit or invest in something when looking for individual growth for your personal life and business. Danielle talks about her experience at a life changing event called, Innovative Income Summit that she attended at the top of the year. All the way leading up to it, she actually didn't want to go. Just like with many of us, Danielle knows investments in the unknown can be scary and uncertain but sometimes when we are seeking change we have to do something that scares us. Danielle shares with you 5 things she learned that is leading her to transform herself and her business in 2020. From opening up to the work that needs to be done personally to seriously uncovering what you already have, Danielle gives you a full view of everything she learned and why it was sooooo transformative.
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No, I'm Not Ok....& Thats OK!
01/29/2020
No, I'm Not Ok....& Thats OK!
Have you ever struggled with the thoughts in your mind? If so, this is normal. Our mind is the most powerful thing we have, and the thoughts that pass through our mind are equally as powerful. In this episode, Danielle uncovers how fear, anxiety and loneliness took over her spirit during the holidays. She struggled so deeply that she had to reach out to loved ones and her counselor to admit that she was not OK. What is so powerful in this episode is Danielle discusses how she climbed out of this hole. She began to rely on the word of God, take control of her thoughts and practice breathing exercises to soothe herself so she could stay ahead of fear and anxiety. For anyone dealing with fear, anxiety and loneliness, it is OK. Own your feelings and then own how you can begin moving away from those emotions. This episode is here to provide insight on how to manage debilitating anxiety however its not a one size fits all.
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Enduring The Loss Of An Infant With Jennifer Speed
12/04/2019
Enduring The Loss Of An Infant With Jennifer Speed
Premature births seems to be something most moms to-be don't consider as a concern but the statistics are now screaming at us that 1 in 3 births are premature (before 37 weeks). While technology and modern healthcare is more amazing than ever, the earlier the birth, the more difficult it is for the child to survive. In this episode, Danielle talks with her cousin, Jennifer Speed, about the unimaginable.....giving birth and loosing her child at just 21 weeks. Jennifer's expresses her darkest moments and how she thought'd she'd never be happy again. Jennifer's experience is happening everyday to new moms, so out of her love and grief from the loss of her daughter, Jennifer created "Love's Foundation" to help bereaved parents to help cover the cost of their lost loved ones. To contribute to Jennifer's cause and help bereaved parents: Jennifer's non-profit, Love's Foundation Contact Jennifer at
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Embracing the Holidays; Overcoming the Blues
11/26/2019
Embracing the Holidays; Overcoming the Blues
For many, the holiday season is a beautiful time to spend with family and loved ones. However, for some its the opposite and can bring on a flood of emotions as many spend it alone or deal with memories of lost loved ones. Danielle opens up to us about her experiences on the other side of the happy holiday season. She was doing her best to keep her children happy and celebrate during the holiday season all while trying to manage her emotions and spirit. Danielle uncovers many ways to be in brighter spirits and challenges us to consider that this holiday season doesn't have to be sad. She reassures us that we can be a source of comfort by being a blessing to others and caring for ourselves and others well.
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Letting Go of Emotional Baggage
11/20/2019
Letting Go of Emotional Baggage
In this unique episode our host, Danielle Lewis shares how she spent many years hardly surviving motherhood with her young boys as she navigated through her separation and divorce. Danielle opens up about how difficult it was to parent during this time because of the emotional baggage that she was carrying. She was transparent about struggling with being present with her children and on many occasions not having any energy to engage with them or even cook a meal. Years later, she still finds herself carrying unresolved emotional issues (guilt, regret, worry & judgement) from her motherhood journey. Danielle gets honest with herself and has decided she is now ready to forgive herself and LET IT ALL GO. This episode is ideal for anyone that is ready to get honest with themselves, forgive and release the emotional baggage that they carry.
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Parenting Children With Medical Conditions and Accepting God's Plan
11/13/2019
Parenting Children With Medical Conditions and Accepting God's Plan
Have you or a friend ever been blessed to parent a child or children with things like autism or other medical conditions? In this deep interview Danielle talks with Melanie Oates, a strong, beautiful mother and advocate for her special needs twins. She is also the founder of Here For A Reason, Inc. This deep and vulnerable interview uncovers the things mothers struggle to discuss. From guilt to insurmountable shame, Melanie opens up about everything. From dealing with people staring at her and her children, incorporating self-care because she has little time to herself, learning to accept her situation, and understanding that her children were made perfectly as they are, this interview will blow you away. Whether you've been struggling with balance or mom-guilt, make sure to take the time to give this episode your full attention. Melanie Oates helps us all put into perspective how important it is to embrace the situation we are blessed with because it's exactly where we are supposed to be. IG - FB - Melanie's non-profit Here for a Reason at and
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GOD's Grace Allows For Change With Shontae
11/06/2019
GOD's Grace Allows For Change With Shontae
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Breast Cancer Survivor, Lelia Smith, On Staying Strong For Our Children
10/30/2019
Breast Cancer Survivor, Lelia Smith, On Staying Strong For Our Children
In this episode, Danielle is joined for a special episode with friend, Leila who is a breast cancer survivor. This is perfect as we wind down the month of October where we remember and celebrate amazing women who have endured breast cancer. Leila opens up to us about the moment she discovered she had breast cancer, her feelings in the doctors office, and the tough decisions she made around involving her children in her diagnosis and healing. Leila's strength during this time of her life and things she chose to move forward with are awe-inspiring. Follow and join the community on IG:
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How To Raise Godly Children God's Way With Darlene Thorne
10/07/2019
How To Raise Godly Children God's Way With Darlene Thorne
In this episode, author and mentor, Darlene Thorne encourages every mom striving for the perfect life to know our children will always notice our efforts. She shares her story of her relationship with her mother and how she learned how to better parent her own now young adult children. Even though society may want you to operate one way, Darlene reminds us that God created family FIRST and that is so vital to building a successful family legacy. You can follow Danielle's guest, Darlene Thorne on Facebook Also check out her website:
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Winning While Losing: The Upside of Heartbreak with Jennifer Green
10/07/2019
Winning While Losing: The Upside of Heartbreak with Jennifer Green
In this episode, Danielle interviews, Mom, Blogger, Author Jennifer Green where they both talk about their traumatic and emotional experiences with divorce. Jennifer opens up about her husband leaving and how her previous life ended for both her and her two children. What followed was an almost five-year journey from betrayal, anger, and despair to peace, inner strength, and a new beginning. While often a painful process, Jennifer now celebrates the growth that allowed her to realize, “I was not falling apart; I was falling into place.” Pain often stops and paralyzes us when we are in a crisis, however, it is always the teacher if we take the time to look at it closely. Filled with honesty and insight, this podcast is a must-listen for anyone going through the searing pain of separation and divorce. Make sure to follow Danielle's journey on IG: You can follow Jennifer Green's blog: Also, Jennifer Green's book Winning While Losing: The Upside of Heartbreak is available on Amazon.
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Are You Choosing Fear Or Faith When Problems Suddenly Arise?
10/07/2019
Are You Choosing Fear Or Faith When Problems Suddenly Arise?
Danielle allows us in to hear about her fears and anxiety around a personal situation she's been dealing with for some time. She opens up about her journey through a court situation and how this time she worked hard to not only take charge of her emotions and feelings but most importantly to hear GOD. While our typically reactions to most traumatic situations are so human, Danielle gives us real life instances of where she had to dig deep to not react as she usually would and hear GOD's voice and allow his guidance. How often during hard times do we push to solve things on our own? We dig to find strength in ourselves without listening to GOD? Danielle really challenges us in this episode to ask ourselves in those moments are we living in faith or fear? We talk about faith so gracefully but can we find it in the moments we need to truly believe most? Check out this episode as Danielle finds her faith while battling with a fearful situation. Make sure to follow Danielle's journey on IG:
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How We Tend To Set Our Children Up For Failure With Janice Webb
10/07/2019
How We Tend To Set Our Children Up For Failure With Janice Webb
In this eye opening episode your host Danielle Lewis interviews one powerful mom, Janice Webb who really shakes up what we thought to be "tough love" with our children. Throughout this interview Janice reminds us that while our generation of children seem to be more and more reliant it has all come with good reason as we've become more and more relaxed in our parenting styles. Through both research and experience Janice explains some of the mistakes we make as parents and how they effect the children we are raising. Both Danielle and Janice even uncover how we overcompensate and the effects it has on our children during and after divorce and other unforeseen circumstances. How would you feel if someone suggested that you require independent thought of your children as early as the ripe age of 13? Janice Webb believes that if we plan to have our children out of the house at 18, the work needs to begin at 13 years of age and sometimes sooner. Don't miss this thought provoking episode that every mom of young children and young adult children needs to hear. Make sure to follow Danielle's journey on IG: Stay connected with other moms by visiting Mom's Still Standing:
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