In this episode of the Connected Mom podcast, host Becky Harling speaks with author Janel Breitenstein about the challenges of motherhood, particularly focusing on the theme of anger. They discuss the societal and religious pressures that lead mothers to feel guilty about their anger, and how understanding and managing this emotion can lead to healthier parenting. Janel shares practical tips for recognizing triggers, the importance of self-awareness, and how to approach anger in a way that reflects God's love and grace. The conversation emphasizes the need for mothers to be kind to themselves and to seek God's help in their parenting journey.

Janel’s Book - How to Stop Yelling up the Stairs: Keeping Your Cool While Raising Your Kids

In this episode of the Connected Mom podcast, Becky Harling and Laine Lawson Craft discuss the significance of genuine friendships, especially during challenging times. They explore the transition from parenting to writing children's literature, emphasizing the foundational truths every child should hear. The conversation highlights the importance of prayer in parenting and the mission behind Laine's new book, 'The Beginning of You,' which aims to support mothers who choose life for their children.

Laine’s Book: The Beginning of You

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

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

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

This episode provides clarity on:

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

Resource referenced: Friend-Wise: Practical Ideas for Richer Relationships