The Brave Art of Motherhood

Fight Fear, Gain Confidence, and Find Yourself Again

By: Rachel Marie Martin

Narrated by: Rachel Marie Martin

Full-time FindingJoy.net blogger, speaker, marketer, podcaster, and single mom of seven, Rachel Marie Martin presents a rallying cry to anyone who believes the lie that she is "just a mom."

Over the years, you willingly pour everything you have into your family, but in the process, you lose the essence of who you are. In her characteristic raw and visceral style, Rachel teaches you how to rewrite the pages of your story, follow your passion, and discover the beauty of who you are.

Drawing on lessons from her own incredible journey--together with insight from conversations with thousands of other women--Rachel encourages moms to break cycles, take off masks, and prevent fear from taking control. She balances her "no excuses" approach with breathing room and grace for those messy moments in life and mothering.

Rachel reminds you there is always a reason to hope, to move forward, and to dare the impossible. You can make changes. You can pursue dreams, find yourself, and live a life of deep happiness and boundless joy. Stop waiting for "someday." Take hold of the moment, and say yes to your dreams.

Critic reviews

Real Words from Real Moms


“Thank you for being such an honest and true voice for so many moms out there.”
—Jen K.

“You help me get through the days when I am not sure what I have gotten myself into and when I question if I am cut out for motherhood. Thank you.”
—Heather B.

“Thank you for allowing me to see the truth that has been staring me in the face and for giving me the strength to move forward with what is best for my children and me.”
—T.E.

“Your writing helps me feel less alone and often gives me the little boost I need to dig deep and keep going.”
—Jenifer J.

“Thank you so much for showing me that I’m normal, that mothering my children is an imperfect science of trial and error, and that it’s okay not to be perfect. Thank you.”
—Heather W.

“Today you bring tears to my eyes. You make me feel like somebody gets it. Somebody understands.”
—Becky R.

“The wisdom you share is life changing and gives me hope in the days when I need it the most.”
—Kristi B.

“When I read your honest reflections, I hear an assuring voice whisper back, ‘You are not alone.’ Suddenly, my hope is renewed, and I’m able to go back to what I do best: loving my people. You have an extraordinary gift for putting into words what it means to accept and embrace the messy, hard, beautiful, sacred moments of motherhood.”
—Rachel M. S.

“I am constantly riding the roller coaster that is motherhood. Thank you for your compassionate and enlightening words of strength, wisdom, and inspiration.”
—Tash M.

“Your words have spoken straight to my heart. There have been times when they’ve been my primary encouragement.”
—Jessi H.

“Sometimes your words are what keep me going when I’ve hit the wall of patience, energy, and self-confidence.”
—Kathy S.

So so so good for all mamas.

I just finished and I am planning to listen again, this time with a notebook to capture all the great quotes. Dots and Stars, targets, and bravery all have a new meanings to me now. I feel like ordering one for all the Mamas in my life.

Great story and wonderful encouragement.

I enjoyed reading Rachel's story as a long time FB follower and a mother myself I related well. Thank you.

Motivational and supportive.

I found this book to be very motivational and supportive of the insecurities that we have as a parent, a partner, and a successful woman. There's just the right amount of humor built-in with the facts and the way that it truly is in our lives.

Life Changing - Five Stars!!

Ison reading Rachel’s blog for so many years now, taking from her encouragement and healing words that has always helped fill my heart and call my mind. I knew I had to read her book when I came out, and I’m absolutely blown away. I’m already Better choices and changes based on the sheer motivation for ration from here. Love you, Rachel. And absolute masterpiece.

just what I needed to hear

I had no idea what I was going to get from this book, but I decided to go ahead and purchase. Every chapter had me evaluating my own life, really motivating me to get unstuck. Loved the practical aspects too!! Will definitely listen again!