Podcast
Raising Godly Girls
Hosted by American Heritage Girls · EN
For over 30 years, American Heritage Girls® has come alongside families and youth ministry leaders in offering Christ-centered, girl-focused character development. Through the Raising Godly Girls® Podcast, presented by American Heritage Girls, listeners get to tap into the advice that seasoned AHG leaders have gleaned over three decades of ministering to girls. Plus, hear from industry experts with solutions to a broad range of issues impacting today's girls. Get Biblically-sound and actionable tips from fellow parents, volunteers, and thought leaders on how to raise up a girl after God's own heart.
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Episodes
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Ep. 374 – Gratitude & Responsibility: The Heart of Memorial Day with Tim Barton of Wallbuilders
4d ago00:50:07Tap to summarizeMemorial Day is more than a long weekend—it is a sacred invitation to remember. In this special episode of the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, Natalie Ambrose welcomes Tim Barton of WallBuilders to explore the deeper meaning behind Memorial Day and how Christian families can approach patriotism with both gratitude and responsibility. In a culture where love of country can sometimes feel politically charged or divisive, this conversation offers a balanced, Biblically grounded perspective on Christian citizenship. Together, they reflect on lessons from America's history, the faith convictions that shaped our nation's founding principles, and why the freedoms we enjoy today were purchased with profound sacrifice. Tim shares practical ways families can honor fallen military heroes this Memorial Day weekend—helping daughters understand that freedom is not merely a right to enjoy, but a responsibility to steward with humility, courage, and compassion. As parents, we are shaping the next generation of women who will live as citizens of heaven while engaging faithfully in their earthly communities. This episode will equip you to raise girls who are grateful for liberty, mindful of sacrifice, and committed to living out their faith with conviction and grace. Scriptures Referenced in This Episode: John 15:13 Romans 13:1–7 Micah 6:8 1 Peter 2:16–17 Matthew 5:14–16 To learn more about Tim's work at wallbuilders.com Visit raisinggodlygirls.com for more encouragement and faith-based parenting tools.
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Ep. 373 – Connecting Your Family to Your Community through Patriotism
6d ago00:26:06Tap to summarizeWhat does it look like for neighbors to truly come together—linking arms, sharing life, and building something meaningful right where God has placed them? In this special Memorial Day–focused episode of Raising Godly Girls, Rachael Culpepper and Melissa Bearden shift the conversation away from the noise of cultural division and toward something far more powerful: Christ-centered community. Because while patriotism can stir strong opinions, this episode invites families to focus on what unites us rather than what divides us. You'll be reminded that as believers, our identity is anchored first in Christ. We are citizens of Heaven before anything else—and from that foundation, we are called to steward our roles in our neighborhoods, communities, and nation with joy, humility, and purpose. In this week's Raising Godly Girls Minute, Patti Garibay offers a timely word on unity in a divided world. As girls grow up hearing conflicting messages from media and culture, parents have the opportunity to guide them toward a Gospel-rooted perspective—one that prioritizes peace, love, and truth over anger and division. This episode also brings practical, meaningful ways to live this out during Memorial Day weekend. From simple acts like raising flags with intention to opening your home in hospitality, you'll discover how everyday moments can become sacred opportunities to connect, honor, and reflect God's heart in your community. Because even in a fractured world, unity is still possible—and it often starts right on your front porch. Three Things to Remember Put up the Christian flag and the American flag as a visible reminder of your love for God and gratitude for your country. Let your home become a gathering place. Hospitality can be a powerful bridge to connection and community. Honor the Lord and the moment with reverence and gratitude. Take time to pray, reflect, and remember the deeper meaning of Memorial Day. Scriptures Referenced in This Episode Psalm 33:12 Romans 8:31 Visit raisinggodlygirls.com for more encouragement and faith-based parenting tools. Learn how to find or start an American Heritage Girls Troop in your community at americanheritagegirls.org.
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Ep. 372 - Passing Along a Biblical Worldview of Memorial Day to Your Girl
1w ago00:27:38Tap to summarizeAs Memorial Day approaches, many families begin to reflect on what it truly means to love and honor our country. In this meaningful episode of Raising Godly Girls, co-hosts Rachael Culpepper and Melissa Bearden step into a timely and sometimes complex conversation: how do we raise daughters who hold both a deep love for God and a healthy, grounded appreciation for their country? From heartfelt memories of national unity in the days following 9/11 to personal traditions like placing flags on veterans' graves, this episode invites moms to consider how patriotism is formed—not just in grand gestures, but in quiet, intentional discipleship moments at home. You'll hear wisdom from AHG Founder & Executive Director Emeritus Patti Garibay in this week's Raising Godly Girls Minute, where she reminds us that patriotism and faith are not at odds—they can beautifully coexist when rooted in truth. By guiding our girls through both the triumphs and the trials of our nation's history, we help them develop a deeper, more honest understanding of what it means to be a Godly citizen. Rachael and Melissa also offer practical encouragement for navigating today's cultural noise—where opinions about patriotism can feel loud and divided. Instead of fear or confusion, this episode points families toward peace, gratitude, and Biblical clarity. You'll be reminded that while conflict has always been part of the human story, God's design is rooted in peace—and our daughters can be active participants in bringing that peace into their communities. Whether it's through conversations around the dinner table, participating in Memorial Day traditions, or serving those who have sacrificed for our freedom, this episode equips you to disciple your daughter with both conviction and compassion. Two Things to Remember: God's design is peace—even in a world where conflict exists, your family can reflect His heart in your home and community. Honoring the fallen this Memorial Day helps ensure their sacrifice is remembered and valued for generations to come. Scriptures Referenced in This Episode: John 15:13 Galatians 5:22–23 Genesis 1–2 Visit raisinggodlygirls.com for more encouragement and faith-based parenting tools. Learn how to find or start an American Heritage Girls Troop in your community at americanheritagegirls.org.
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Ep. 371 – Faithful & Fierce: Sustaining Ministry & Life without Burnout with Melissa Mashburn
2w ago00:35:30Tap to summarizeFor many Christian women, vocational ministry is both a calling and a weight they carry daily. In this episode of the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, host Melissa Bearden is joined by ministry leader, speaker, and author Melissa Mashburn for an honest and hope-filled conversation about sustaining ministry without succumbing to burnout or performance culture. Together, they explore the unique pressures faced by working women and moms in ministry settings, where faith, leadership, family, and expectations often collide. Drawing from New Testament Scripture, personal experience, and pastoral wisdom, Melissa Mashburn helps listeners reframe calling through the lens of faithfulness rather than productivity. This episode also speaks directly to parents who are raising girls in ministry environments. The conversation offers guidance on how to model healthy rhythms of work, rest, and obedience—so the next generation learns to pursue calling with joy, resilience, and trust in Christ, not exhaustion or striving. If you've ever felt stretched thin by Kingdom work or wondered how to balance ministry and family without losing your soul, this encouraging conversation will remind you that Jesus invites His servants not only to labor—but also to rest. Scriptures Referenced in this Episode: Philemon 1:1-3 Colossians 3:23 Colossians 2:8 For more information on Melissa Mashburn's work, visit melissamashburn.com Visit raisinggodlygirls.com for more encouragement and faith-based parenting tools. Learn how to find or start an American Heritage Girls Troop in your community at americanheritagegirls.org.
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Ep. 370 – When Home & Ministry are Mixed Arenas for Your Family
2w ago00:31:18Tap to summarizeIn this heartfelt episode of the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, co-hosts Melissa Bearden and Natalie Ambrose open an honest, encouraging conversation about what it means to walk in vocational ministry as a woman—especially in the midst of motherhood. Whether your work happens inside the home, within the Church, or out in the world, this episode reminds you that your calling is deeply seen, eternally significant, and worthy of intentional stewardship. Melissa shares her personal journey from serving in women's and children's ministry to stepping into a full-time vocational role—offering a powerful glimpse into how God often weaves together passion, gifting, and season to shape a calling. Together, Melissa and Natalie explore the evolving language around "career" versus "vocation," encouraging listeners to release identity tied to titles and instead embrace the sacred spaces God has entrusted to them. As the conversation unfolds, the realities of ministry life come into focus—its unpredictability, emotional weight, and the constant pull to give more. Through the Raising Godly Girls Minute, listeners are reminded that even Jesus modeled the necessity of stepping away to rest, pray, and reconnect with the Father. For the woman in ministry, Sabbath isn't optional—it's essential. This episode also offers practical, Biblical encouragement for maintaining joy and sustainability in your work. From rejecting the "just a mom" mindset to modeling integrity and dependence on Christ, Melissa and Natalie challenge working moms to reframe their daily efforts as acts of worship. And perhaps most importantly, they remind us that our daughters are watching—learning how to approach work, calling, and faith by the example we set. No matter your season, this conversation will meet you with grace, truth, and a renewed vision for what it means to serve the Lord through your work. Three Things to Remember: God uses us in every corner of His Kingdom—both inside and outside the home. Sabbath rest is not optional; it is essential for a sustainable life of ministry. Lasting joy in your work flows from a life of integrity and alignment with God's truth. Scriptures Referenced in This Episode: Psalm 77 Romans 12:15 Mark 2:27 Visit raisinggodlygirls.com for more encouragement and faith-based parenting tools. Learn how to find or start an American Heritage Girls Troop in your community at americanheritagegirls.org.
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Ep. 369 - Setting a Sustainable Example for Your Girl as a Modern Working Mom
2w ago00:35:38Tap to summarizeWhat does it look like to faithfully navigate work, motherhood, and calling—all at the same time? In this honest and encouraging episode of Raising Godly Girls, co-hosts Melissa Bearden and Natalie Ambrose open the door to a conversation so many moms are living in real time: the journey of being a working mom. Whether you're in the home, in the office, working remotely, or juggling a side hustle, this episode meets you right where you are. Melissa and Natalie share their own stories—highlighting the ebb and flow of seasons, the factors that shape work decisions, and the reality that for many families today, motherhood and work are deeply intertwined. With over 24 million working mothers in the U.S., this isn't a fringe conversation—it's everyday life for a majority of families. But instead of debating whether moms should work, this episode focuses on something far more meaningful: how Christian moms can approach work with a Biblical Worldview. That means keeping priorities aligned, avoiding the trap of career as an idol or idleness as an escape, and inviting God into every decision along the way. In this week's Raising Godly Girls Minute, Patti Garibay speaks to the very real overwhelm modern parents face—and gently redirects hearts back to the Lord. When stress rises and culture offers quick fixes, Scripture reminds us that true peace is found in crying out to God and trusting Him as our steady foundation. And perhaps most importantly—our daughters are watching. They are learning how to respond to pressure, stress, and responsibility by observing us. You'll also hear practical encouragement for maintaining healthy rhythms as a working mom—from setting boundaries with work, to modeling diligence at home, to embracing Sabbath as a non-negotiable priority. This episode is filled with grace and truth for moms who are striving to honor God in both their calling and their caregiving. Because at the end of the day, your work matters—but so does the way you live your faith out loud in front of your girl. Three Things to Remember: Invite the whole family into the decision of work for mom—it impacts everyone, and shared understanding builds unity. Keeping Sabbath is a priority—rest is not optional; it's God's design for your well-being. Be a tour guide for your daughter—help her understand how faith and work intersect in your everyday life. Scriptures Referenced in This Episode: Psalm 77 Proverbs 14:1 Exodus 20:8–11 Visit raisinggodlygirls.com for more encouragement and faith-based parenting tools. Learn how to find or start an American Heritage Girls Troop in your community at americanheritagegirls.org.
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Ep. 368 – Christian Motherhood, Faith, and God's Faithfulness with Rebecca St. James
3w ago00:43:50Tap to summarizeIn this special Saturday episode of the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, we pause to celebrate Christian motherhood in all its forms—the visible and the unseen, the joyful and the sacrificial, the seasons of waiting and the moments of fulfillment. Host Rachael Culpepper is joined by beloved Christian artist, author, and mom Rebecca St. James for a conversation that honors the sacred calling of mothers and the God who faithfully meets them in every chapter. Rebecca reflects on how her journey of faith has evolved through marriage and motherhood, sharing how God has shaped her heart through seasons of obedience, surrender, and trust. Drawing from her new book, Lasting Ever: Faith, Music, Family, and Being Found by True Love, co-authored with her husband Cubbie Fink, Rebecca offers encouragement to moms who may feel stretched thin or wonder if their quiet faithfulness truly matters. The conversation also celebrates the intergenerational impact of Christian witness—from Rebecca's early years in music ministry to her recent time with AHG Girl Members and families at the American Heritage Girls 30th Anniversary Convention. Together, Rachael and Rebecca reflect on the beauty of raising girls rooted in Biblical truth in a culture that often challenges faith and conviction. This episode is a gentle reminder that God is at work in every role a mother carries—whether nurturing children at home, mentoring girls in her community, or quietly praying behind the scenes. If you're longing for reassurance that your obedience and love are bearing fruit, this conversation will speak hope into your heart. Pull up a chair, take a deep breath, and join us for this encouraging Saturday reflection on faith, family, and the lasting work God is doing through Christian mothers. Scriptures Referenced in this Episode: Hebrews 11 Isaiah 61:3 2 Corinthians 12:9-11 John 16:33 Isaiah 53:2-3 Philippians 4:8 Titus 2:3 To learn more about Rebecca's new book, Lasting Ever, or her ongoing ministry, be sure to visit rebeccastjames.com Visit raisinggodlygirls.com for more encouragement and faith-based parenting tools. Learn how to find or start an American Heritage Girls Troop in your community at americanheritagegirls.org.
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Ep. 367 - Celebrating God's Design for Supported Motherhood
3w ago00:23:46Tap to summarizeMother's Day is here—and while it's a time to celebrate, many moms are quietly carrying more than anyone realizes. In this special Mother's Day week episode of the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, Rachael Culpepper and Melissa Bearden speak directly to the heart of the modern Christian mom—the one juggling the mental load, navigating loneliness, and wondering if she's the only one feeling overwhelmed. With research showing that many mothers today feel more isolated than expected, this episode offers a refreshing and faith-filled reset. Because the truth is, mama—you were never meant to do this alone. In this week's Raising Godly Girls Minute, Patti Garibay sheds light on the invisible weight moms carry every single day—from thousands of decisions to constant interruptions. And yet, even in the midst of it all, God's design for motherhood includes support, boundaries, and the freedom to ask for help. Then, in a powerful and memorable turn, Melissa introduces the "We Do Not Care Congregation for Christian Mamas"—a bold, truth-filled reminder that it's time to put the enemy on notice. No more silent shame. No more comparison traps. No more carrying chaos alone. Instead, this episode calls moms back to a place of identity, peace, contentment, and community rooted in Christ. You'll walk away encouraged to release unrealistic expectations, embrace God's provision, and lean into the people He's placed around you. Because when moms are supported, families flourish—and girls grow up seeing what it looks like to live with faith, freedom, and joy. This Mother's Day, give yourself the gift of truth: you are seen, you are supported, and you are never alone. Four Things to Remember: We're not sitting in silent shame anymore. You are redeemed, renewed, and called to walk in freedom. Chaos doesn't get the last word. God orders your steps and offers peace in the midst of the noise. You already have what you need. Contentment grows when you trust God's provision over comparison. Ask for help—without hesitation. From the Lord and from others—because motherhood was never meant to be done alone. Scriptures Referenced in This Episode: Romans 12:1–2 Isaiah 26:3 Psalm 23:1–3 Visit raisinggodlygirls.com for more encouragement and faith-based parenting tools. Learn how to find or start an American Heritage Girls Troop in your community at americanheritagegirls.org.
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Ep. 366 – The Holy High Five that All Christian Moms Need
3w ago00:19:43Tap to summarizeMotherhood is no small calling—and if you've ever felt the weight of it, you're not alone. In this special Mother's Day week episode of the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, Rachael Culpepper and Melissa Bearden bring encouragement, honesty, and a little holy boldness to the conversation. From late-night theological questions in pajamas to the everyday rhythms of meals, messes, and meaningful moments, this episode is a heartfelt reminder that motherhood is full-contact ministry—and none of it is wasted. With her signature passion, Melissa sets the tone by reminding moms that shame has no place in the life of a believer. Drawing inspiration from Scripture, she paints a powerful picture of walls falling, voices rising, and freedom found in Christ. Because as mamas raising girls in today's world, there's no room for fear or silence—we are called to stand firm, speak truth, and walk in confidence. In this week's Raising Godly Girls Minute, Patti Garibay reflects on the sacred calling of motherhood and the daily dependence on God it requires. Through prayer, humility, and grace, moms are invited to partner with the Lord in shaping not just their daughters—but generations to come. You'll also be reminded that motherhood was never meant to be done alone. God provides His presence, His strength, and His people to come alongside you—lifting your arms when you're weary and reminding you that you don't have to carry it all by yourself. Whether you're in the thick of toddlerhood or navigating the young adult years, this episode is your invitation to take courage, lean into community, and trust that God is working in every faithful moment. Because even on the hardest days, your King is still on the throne—and He is making all things new. Two Things to Remember Nothing is wasted with the Lord. Every prayer, every tear, and every faithful moment matters in God's greater story. Take courage—Jesus wins in the end. Your hope is secure in the One who is making all things new. Scriptures Referenced in This Episode Joshua 6:1–20 Proverbs 22:6 Revelation 21:5 Visit raisinggodlygirls.com for more encouragement and faith-based parenting tools. Learn how to find or start an American Heritage Girls Troop in your community at americanheritagegirls.org.
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Ep. 365 – Raising Adventurous Girls: How God Uses Creation, Curiosity, & Courage with Hudson Wild
4w ago00:43:19Tap to summarizeIn today's digital-first world, many girls are growing up more anxious, more indoors, and more disconnected from God's creation than ever before. In this episode of Raising Godly Girls, host Natalie Ambrose sits down with Hudson Wild of Wild Brothers TV to explore how outdoor adventure can become a powerful tool for nurturing mental health, faith, and courage in young Christian girls. Hudson shares how growing up in remote corners of the world shaped his understanding of God, His creation, and the Great Commission. From kayaking in Indonesia to filming faith-filled adventures across the globe, Hudson explains how experiencing God's world firsthand can spark curiosity, resilience, and a deeper trust in the Lord—especially for girls navigating fear, anxiety, or self-doubt. Together, Natalie and Hudson discuss why getting outside matters for a girl's emotional and spiritual health, how learning about different cultures can inspire compassion and evangelistic vision, and practical ways families can help their daughters unplug from screens and rediscover wonder in God's creation. This encouraging conversation will equip parents with fresh perspective and simple ideas to raise adventurous, mission-minded girls who are confident in who God made them to be. To learn more about Wild Brothers TV and explore their adventure-filled content for families, visit wildbrothers.tv.
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