Podcast
MESSmerized - Funny and faith based encouragement in marriage , family , Christian parenting , and finding purpose
Hosted by Cynthia Yanof · EN
Welcome to Cynthia Yanof’s newest podcast, MESSmerized.
Each week you’ll hear funny, authentic, and vulnerable conversations around everyday life, parenting, and following Jesus. A variety of guests will challenge us to pursue a life filled with the things that really do matter.
Cynthia Yanof is the host as well as an author, speaker, wife, and mother. She’s relatable, funny, and dead-set on never taking herself too seriously. Whatever mess you’re walking through, odds are she’s right there with you.
Don’t miss a week as we dive headfirst into faith, family, and everyday ways to be MESSmerized by Jesus.
Copyright @2023 MESSmerizing Media
18episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Episode 147: My Mother’s Day Gift to You 💐💐—You Need to Hear This (with Sharon Mankin)
1w ago00:49:34Tap to summarizeHappy Mother’s Day week, friends. Truly—sending you lots of love this week. 💐Now before I say anything else… I implore you to listen to this episode. Consider this your Mother’s Day gift from me. It is that good. Like sit-in-the-car-after-it-ends-because-you-need-a-minute good.I sat down with Sharon Mankin, and it turned into one of those conversations that stirs something in you. At the core, she reminds us: you’re not as confused or off-track as you think—you’re probably just moving too fast to hear what’s already true.We talk parenting (and yes, over-functioning 🙋♀️), learning to step back so our kids can grow, and how sometimes our need to fix things is more about us than them. She also challenges us to be more intentional about the “DNA” of our families instead of just drifting with culture.And then we get into transitions—empty nesting, changing seasons, and how disruption, as hard as it is, can actually open the door to new vision and purpose. It’s wise, practical, and deeply encouraging. Go listen. 💛 (Oh—and I tell a Mother’s Day story in the intro that hopefully reminds us all to be grateful… even in May-cember.) All things CynthiaConnect with Sharon Mankin HERE.Find questions to ask family and friends to get feedback on your gifts, strengths, and passions Here.Explore how to identify your family values and write a family mission statement with Morgan Taylor HERE or Family ID HERE.Build a healthy mindset using Jon Acuff’s book, Soundtracks HERE. Dive into the concept of Benevolent Detachment in the Wild at Heart podcast HERE or in John Eldridge's book, Get Your Life Back, Here.Our Sponsors:* Check out Time4Learning: https://time4learning.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Transcribe →Episode 146: What College Didn’t Teach Them: Molly and Kate on Faith, Friendship, and Finding Your Person
2w ago00:44:36Tap to summarizeWith Mother’s Day around the corner, I’m kicking off a month of conversations focused on moms and the people we love most—and it felt only right to start by bringing on one of my own kids.So I sat down with Kate (my daughter) and Molly (her “great friend,”)—who showed up in matching bonnets from the Dollar Store… which honestly tells you everything you need to know about how this episode starts. If you missed these two last time they were on the show . . . you are in for some real fun today. They’re both in that in-between season—wrapping up college and stepping into the next phases of life—and as we talked, it became clear pretty quickly: most of what shaped them over the last few years didn’t come from a classroom.We talked about friendship—what actually makes someone a good friend and how rare it is to find people who can truly celebrate others well, especially when they’re hoping for the same things themselves. We talked about relationships too, and the balance of wanting someone who loves the Lord while also finding a real connection and joy together.But what I loved most was hearing how their faith has become their own. Not something they simply grew up around, but something they’ve had to choose—through real experiences, meaningful friendships, and stepping into things bigger than themselves.As we kick off a Mother’s Day month of encouragement, today’s show is thoughtful, funny, and gives you a real-life glimpse into what’s actually shaping your kids in the college years.All things CynthiaKate’s Foster Care PodcastOur Sponsors:* Check out Time4Learning: https://time4learning.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Transcribe →Episode 145: The “Crisis of Capability”: David Thomas and Sissy Goff on Raising Kids Who Can Handle Real Life
3w ago00:31:54Tap to summarizeToday’s episode starts with my youngest… accidentally macing the entire second floor of our house. If you haven’t heard this story, you’re missing out.And then, naturally, we pivot to: are we raising kids who can actually handle life?I sat down with my friends from Raising Boys & Girls, David Thomas and Sissy Goff, and we talked about why so many kids today feel overwhelmed, anxious, and honestly… kind of incapable. Not because they’re not smart or talented—but because somewhere along the way, we started rescuing more than we were equipping.We get into:why kids are avoiding risk (and what that’s doing to them)how TikTok became their therapist (terrifying)the difference between helping your kids and accidentally handicapping them and how to raise kids who can “shake it off” instead of falling apartAlso—if your kid can’t make a decision without calling you 14 times… we address that too. 😬Come for the pepper spray story. Stay for how to raise kids who won’t mace themselves… metaphorically or otherwise.All Things Cynthia Capable by David Thomas and Sissy Goff Our Sponsors:* Check out Time4Learning: https://time4learning.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Transcribe →Episode 144: Understanding Eating Disorders and Disordered Eating with Sallye Clark
Apr 1500:37:51Tap to summarizeToday’s show is an important one—and we’re covering a topic I’ve never brought on the podcast before.I sat down with Sallye Clark, a licensed counselor who specializes in eating disorders, to talk about something that touches so many families. We unpack the difference between eating disorders and disordered eating, and why that distinction matters. What struck me is how often this isn’t really about food at all—it’s about control, anxiety, perfectionism, and the deeper things going on underneath.Sallye does a beautiful job explaining the early signs that something might be off in a way that’s clear, practical, and easy to recognize. She also talks about the role shame plays in keeping people stuck, and why bringing things into the light is such a critical first step toward freedom.We also talk about how to approach someone you love if you’re concerned, and how to do that with wisdom and care. And for anyone listening who might feel a nudge that this could be something in your own life, there is real hope here. Recovery is possible, and help is available.This is a thoughtful, honest conversation—one that I think will stay with you. Connection CounselingAll things CynthiaOur Sponsors:* Check out Time4Learning: https://time4learning.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Transcribe →Episode 143: Stop Putting It Off: Jon Acuff on Procrastination, Goals, and Getting Started
Apr 800:36:48Tap to summarizeI think we need a drum roll . . . like seriously. 🥁🥁🥁🥁Today on the show we have Jon Acuff. And let me just start by saying—I’m a HUGE Jon Acuff fan. And today’s show feels a little bit like a redemption story for me, because the first time I had him on, I didn’t fully know who I was talking to (which still makes me laugh/cry a little). Since then, I’ve read the books, listened to his podcast, made my family listen to the podcast… and now I’m all in. So truly—I cannot wait for you to hear this conversation today.Today we’re diving into his brand new book, Procrastination Proof, which I feel sure is a message so many of us need. We talk about why we procrastinate (and why it’s not just a “you problem”), what’s actually going on underneath it, and how to get unstuck in a way that’s realistic and doable. He shares a simple framework—dream, plan, do, review—that helps take all those ideas and intentions and actually turn them into action.And because it’s us, we also hit some of those classic Jon Acuff moments—his “soundtracks,” a humbling Skittles story about empty rooms and starting small, and a conversation about doing the things nobody else wants to do so you can experience what most people don’t. I even share how his work challenged my husband to run 1,000 miles last year… and actually do it (and to be clear, the only running I did was my mouth cheering him on and one short jog that required a full recovery plan).Join us today—and fair warning, you may walk away wanting to do something you’ve been putting off… in the best possible way.Jon Acuff’s website Procrastination Proof by Jon AcuffSoundtracks by Jon AcuffAll things CynthiaOur Sponsors:* Check out Time4Learning: https://time4learning.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Transcribe →Episode 142: Hosanna, Easter Ham, and Reframing Holy Week with Steve Frissell
Apr 100:45:22Tap to summarizeHey Friends, Happy Easter Week! 🐣🌷✝️I hope you’re enjoying this week and finding a few quiet moments to slow down and really consider all that Jesus has done for us. I know how easy it is to rush right past it—we’ve heard the story, we know how it ends—but I hope we’re all pausing and stepping back to consider Holy Week again with fresh eyes.On the podcast today is one of my faves—a pastor from my church, Steve Frissell. We’re covering everything from workout routines that involve picking things up and putting them down (his = weights, mine = snacks and Diet Dr. Pepper) to a full family scandal involving brownies disguised as protein bars. We also hit all the important Easter topics—Cadbury eggs vs. Peeps, why egg decorating with that tiny wire handle is the fastest way to lose your sanctification, and whether anyone can truly pull off seersucker (jury’s still out).Steve also walks us through Holy Week—from the crowd yelling “Hosanna” to Jesus’ crucifixion a few short days later. And practically, we discuss how if Jesus isn’t functionally King in our lives, something else likely is. Approval, control, comfort, anxiety—those things will gladly take the throne, and they’re terrible at the job. So this episode is a mix of laughs, Easter nostalgia, and a really honest look at what it means to crown Jesus as King of Kings in our everyday lives.Can’t wait for you to listen while you’re making deviled eggs and glazing the Easter Ham. Blessings!Bent Tree BibleOrder How'd I Miss ThatAll things CynthiaOur Sponsors:* Check out Time4Learning: https://time4learning.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Transcribe →Episode 141: Messmerized Gets a Little Sidetracked
Mar 2500:53:07Tap to summarizeAs you know, I’m taking a little time away this week for spring break with my family—which means slower mornings, later nights, and me pretending I’m a fun, flexible person who doesn’t actually need a routine to survive.So today, I’m dropping a recent episode from one of my other podcasts, Sidetracked, with my co-host Heather MacFadyen.If you’ve never listened, just know this: there is no outline, no real plan, and absolutely no guarantee we stay on topic. I’ll be back next week with a fresh episode of Messmerized. In the meantime, settle in—here’s what’s coming your way:Heather has a new hobby—hip-hop dance fitness—which leads to a very real conversation about midlife exercise choices, ranging from dancing to water aerobics to the stroller workouts moms used to do at the mall. That, of course, opens the door to a shocking revelation that some totally off-the-rails mothers used to take strollers on escalators (i.e., Cynthia).There’s also a discussion about a child who snort-laughed gum into his nose, running shoes that started foaming mid-practice, and a man who apparently inhaled a tiny toy traffic cone.They break down new teenage slang, debate the strange corners of internet fame (including monkeys and squirrel puppets with millions of followers), and share why the world might be ready for a menopause subscription box that actually contains useful things (trade the lip plumper for tweezers and possibly an emergency adult diaper).Add in goose outfits, Graceland, ribbon shopping in Memphis, and a TSA agent gently reminding Cynthia to zip her pants in the airport security line, and this episode is 100% Sidetracked.Listen to SidetrackedBecome a Super TrackerOrder How'd I Miss ThatAll things CynthiaOur Sponsors:* Check out Time4Learning: https://time4learning.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Transcribe →Episode 140: Stop Spiraling: A Much-Needed Reminder from Max Lucado
Mar 1800:32:40Tap to summarizeSpring break is happening at the Yanof house, which means I’m headed to San Diego with some of my crew. And yes, we’re going to the zoo. I want the record to reflect I’m selflessly going to walk 12 miles, wonder why every creature in the entire park seems to be either asleep or hiding behind a rock, and question my life decisions (while also holding my nose). But it’s all in the name of being a good mom. So here we are.Because of travel, today we’re re-releasing one of my favorite conversations with the GOAT himself, Max Lucado. And before you think, oh I’ve heard this one, stay with me.Last week I had one of those moments where my thoughts completely ran away from me. My son was out driving late at night, and my brain was off to the races—one small concern spinning into about twelve worst-case scenarios in about five minutes flat.And that’s when I thought, okay… this is exactly why we need to revisit Pastor Max’s words again. In this conversation, he talks about how our thoughts shape our beliefs—and our beliefs shape our behavior. He shares biblical, practical ways to take every thought captive and why “picky thinking” matters more than we realize.If your mind has felt a little noisy lately, this conversation is such a helpful reset.Grab a Diet Coke on my behalf and lean in—because it’s a good one (and at least you’re not at the zoo). 🥤🦒✨Tame Your Thoughts by Max Lucado All things CynthiaHow’d I Miss ThatOur Sponsors:* Check out Time4Learning: https://time4learning.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Transcribe →Episode 139: Wrestling with God through Loss and Disappointment with Tiffany Stein
Mar 1100:45:34Tap to summarizeTiffany Stein joins me on the podcast today for a vulnerable and thoughtful conversation about grief, disappointment, and what it looks like to keep wrestling toward God when life falls apart. Tiffany shares the heartbreaking story behind her book Mourning God after losing her infant son, David, and how that loss led her into not only grief over what she had lost, but also grief over the God she thought she knew.Today’s conversation isn’t just for someone who has experienced the death of a loved one. We talk about the many forms loss can take—church hurt, broken relationships, shattered expectations, illness, estrangement, and dreams that never came to be—and how those losses can unravel what we thought we believed about God. Tiffany offers such a wise and honest framework for lamenting for those seasons when God feels silent, prayer feels dry, and faith feels like you’re just barely hanging on.This conversation is deep, hope-filled, and incredibly practical too. Tiffany shares what helped her in the darkest season of her life, how the body of Christ can carry people when they have no strength left, and some genuinely helpful ways to love people who are hurting without resorting to the usual stitched-on-a-pillow responses. If you’ve ever wondered whether God can handle your honest disappointment, or if you’re walking with someone through sorrow and want to love them well, I think this episode will meet you right where you are.All things CynthiaMourning God by Tiffany SteinEvery Moment Holy, Volume II: Death, Grief, & HopeAuthor: Douglas Kaine McKelveyGentle and Lowly: The Heart of Christ for Sinners and Sufferers Author: Dane OrtlundOur Sponsors:* Check out Time4Learning: https://time4learning.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Transcribe →Episode 138: Dating Advice We Wish Our Parents Had Given Us (Girl Mom vs. Boy Mom)
Mar 400:49:20Tap to summarizeKari and I are back for week two—and this time we’re talking dating from the girl-mom vs. boy-mom perspective. We start by admitting the obvious: most of us got approximately zero dating advice from our parents, so we learned “the hard way”…plus a sprinkle of questionable magazine wisdom.We get into what we hope our kids look for—without turning dating into an interview process: someone pursuing Jesus, someone kind to people who can’t do anything for them, someone consistent when the “camera is off,” and the importance of paying attention to red flags (including the love-bombing, too-much-too-fast stuff that can feel flattering but isn’t always healthy). Carrie also shares why girls need to trust their gut—because so many women can look back and say, “I sensed something was off…and I ignored it.”And because we’re coming at this from both sides, we talk about what girls often don’t realize about boys: how much courage it takes to ask someone out, how insecurity can hide behind humor, and why moms should teach daughters how to say no kindly. We wrap with dating in a digital world—DMs, “texting is too formal” (what?)—and our favorite big-picture reminder: leave people better than you found them, because the person you date may be someone else’s spouse one day, and you’d want their future wife/husband to be thankful you were part of their story.Don’t miss today’s dating advice with the amazing Kari Kampakis!All things CynthiaHow’d I Miss ThatIs Your Daughter Ready?: 10 Ways to Empower Your Girl for an Age of New Challenges by KariOur Sponsors:* Check out Time4Learning: https://time4learning.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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