Summary

In this conversation, Megan and Briana explore the challenges of parenting, particularly the need to adapt to changing plans and the importance of maintaining a positive mindset. They discuss personal experiences with messy moments, the struggle to let go of control, and the significance of trusting in God's plan. The conversation emphasizes the value of gratitude, resilience, and aligning personal desires with God's purpose, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of hope and faith amidst life's uncertainties.

Takeaways:

It's easy to get blinded by the moment you're in.

Plans inevitably change, and that's a part of life.

Teaching kids to pivot helps them handle disappointment.

Trusting God's plan can alleviate anxiety and worry.

Gratitude for small blessings is essential.

Hope should not be confused with control.

Aligning our plans with God's purpose is crucial.

Letting go of control can lead to freedom.

Recognizing God's provision in our lives is important.

We often miss God's presence when we focus on our own plans.

Keywords:

parenting, plans changing, trust, hope, gratitude, God's plan, faith, resilience, letting go, control

In this episode, Briana and Megan explore the theme of answered prayers, discussing the importance of recognizing when God answers our prayers and how to navigate the expectations that come with it. They emphasize the significance of childlike faith, gratitude, and understanding God's will in prayer. The conversation also touches on the challenges of setting expectations and reframing disappointment into gratitude, ultimately highlighting the need for effective communication with God.

Takeaways:

We often focus on unanswered prayers, but God does answer them.

Navigating expectations with faith can be challenging.

Childlike faith is essential in our relationship with God.

We should not set worldly expectations on God.

Gratitude is crucial when prayers are answered.

Unanswered prayers can be a form of protection.

Setting clear expectations can lead to disappointment.

Reframing disappointment into gratitude is important.

Effective prayer involves two-way communication with God.

Trusting God's plan is vital for spiritual growth.

Keywords

answered prayers, faith, expectations, gratitude, childlike faith, God's will, prayer, spiritual growth, trust, protection

It's our first Met in the Margins Book Club Episode!

In this episode of Met in the Margins, Briana and Megan dive into the first book of their faith-based book club, A Lineage of Grace by Francine Rivers. They explore the story of Tamar, a woman in the Bible whose actions and faith lead to significant outcomes in the lineage of Christ. The conversation highlights the importance of community in reading, the cultural context of biblical narratives, and the themes of redemption and grace that permeate the story. Through their discussion, they emphasize how God uses unlikely people and the messiness of life to fulfill His purposes.

Keywords:

book club, faith, biblical fiction, Tamar, Judah, redemption, Francine Rivers, A Lineage of Grace, women's stories, Old Testament

In this episode of Met in the Mess, hosts Megan and Briana discuss body positivity and the journey of loving one's body, especially postpartum. They are joined by their first guest, Julia, who shares her experiences with nutrition, fitness, and the challenges of body image. The conversation delves into the importance of self-worth, the impact of faith, and the realities of motherhood, emphasizing that every woman's journey is unique and deserving of love and respect. Julia offers valuable advice for new moms and highlights the significance of finding affirmation in scripture.

Takeaways:

Body positivity is essential in every season of life.

Self-worth should not be tied to appearance.

Motherhood brings unique challenges to body image.

Faith plays a crucial role in self-acceptance.

Eating disorders are a common struggle for many women.

Empathy grows through shared experiences of motherhood.

Postpartum challenges can arise at any time, not just immediately after birth.

It's important to reach out for help when needed.

Scars from childbirth are marks of love and sacrifice.

Rebranding oneself as a mom can be empowering.

Keywords:

body positivity, postpartum, self-worth, motherhood, nutrition, faith, eating disorders, body image, women empowerment, mental health

In this episode of 'Met in the Mess', hosts Briana and Megan explore the lessons they wish they had learned in their 20s. They discuss the importance of understanding anxiety as unbelief, the power of thoughts, and the necessity of self-care. The conversation also touches on the significance of finding a supportive community, the courage to say no, and the value of trusting one's gut feelings. They emphasize that it's okay not to have everything figured out and that sharing the gospel can be transformative. The episode is filled with personal anecdotes and insights aimed at helping listeners navigate their own journeys.

Takeaways:

Anxiety and worry stem from unbelief.

It's essential to take time for self-care.

You have the power to control your thoughts.

Finding a supportive community is crucial.

Don't be afraid to say no to things that don't serve you.

Trust your gut; it's often the Holy Spirit guiding you.

You don't have to have everything figured out right now.

It's okay to prioritize your own happiness.

You can't make everyone happy; focus on what matters to you.

Sharing the gospel can change lives.

Keywords

life lessons, twenties, anxiety, self-care, community, decision making, personal growth, faith, mental health, self-discovery

In this episode of the Met in the Mess Podcast, hosts Megan and Briana return to their regular format after a series of special episodes. They share personal stories about the challenges of motherhood, including dealing with sick children and the chaos that ensues. The conversation transitions into a deeper discussion about identity, focusing on the contrast between finding one's identity in Christ versus the world. They emphasize the importance of nurturing a relationship with God and how it can transform one's self-perception and daily life. The hosts encourage listeners to reflect on their identities and the impact of societal expectations, ultimately advocating for a Christ-centered approach to life and motherhood.

Takeaways:

You are where you spend your time.

It's easy to fall into worldly expectations as a mom.

Building a relationship with Christ requires active effort.

You are not your past mistakes; you are made new in Christ.

Self-control is essential for spiritual growth.

Keywords:

identity in Christ, motherhood, Christian podcast, self-worth, personal growth, faith, parenting challenges, spiritual journey, self-control, relationship with God

Welcome to Met in the Margins!!

We are starting a Book Club and we want you to join us!

We both love reading and thought it would be fun to start a faith-based book club to give us another opportunity to connect with each other and Christ.

Every month we'll chose a book and then pick a day to discuss it together!

Our first book is A Lineage of Grace by Francine Rivers.

As this is a compilation of 5 smaller novellas within a book, we are going to focus on the first novella for the first month. That means, we will be reading the first section about Tamar's story, which is roughly the first 100 pages of the book.

So grab a copy (we'll link below, but check your local library first!) and we'll meet back here on February 5th to talk about Tamar!

Link to book: https://www.amazon.com/Lineage-Grace-Stories-Unlikely-Eternity/dp/0842356320

In this episode, Briana and Megan welcome the new year of 2026 by discussing resolutions that focus on personal growth, faith, and intentionality. They emphasize the importance of shifting perspectives from control to faith, fostering mutual relationships, embracing fun, and being present in the moment. The conversation also touches on the significance of creativity and answering God's call, all while encouraging listeners to let go of perfectionism and embrace renewal in their lives.

Listen back to our episodes on Friendship and Creativity Here!

Friendship: https://open.spotify.com/episode/08vk2OPU8CihEI48hohYYg?si=YDYPlIkdTsqhqDLtESrXwg

Creativity: https://open.spotify.com/episode/66MnTDTd0wDe6cuFAcd6Fm?si=t8Yt86VDSneefPUCJh9ZkQ

Takeaways:

We survived the two week flu bug.

Resolutions should focus on personal growth, not transformation.

Control is an illusion; faith is key.

Relationships should be mutual, not one-sided.

Embrace fun and spontaneity in life.

Being present is crucial for mental well-being.

Letting go of perfectionism can lead to greater joy.

Creativity should be intentional and fulfilling.

Answering God's call requires stepping out of comfort zones.

You are never too broken to be loved by God.

Keywords:

2026, resolutions, faith, relationships, intentionality, creativity, personal growth, self-improvement, motherhood, community