“Where there is no vision, the people perish."
~ Proverbs 29:18
Why do my spouse and I fight over such trivial things?
How can we be more connected in our marriage?
How do we create a vision of hope for our family?
In episode 89 of This Whole Life, hosts Kenna & Pat Millea welcome Mike & Alicia Hernon, founders of the Messy Family Project. Together, they dive deep into the importance of building a shared vision for marriage and family, exploring the transformative power of intentionality in daily life. The Hernons share candid stories from parenting ten children and offer insights into their Family Board Meeting — a practical tool for couples to step back from the daily grind and realign on what truly matters. From handling sibling conflict to fostering lifelong bonds within the family, the conversation balances vulnerability, laughter, and actionable wisdom. Listeners will learn how vision shapes family culture, hear guidance for spouses who bristle against setting a family vision, and find inspiration to move beyond survival mode toward thriving family life. Tune in for heartfelt advice, hope, and encouragement from two couples passionate about faith and family.
Mike & Alicia Hernon are co-founders of the Messy Family Project, a ministry dedicated to empowering moms and dads to embrace their sacred calling. Before launching the ministry, Mike was Vice President of Advancement at Franciscan University and host of Franciscan University Presents on EWTN. He holds both a Bachelor’s degree in Theology and a Master’s in Business Administration. Alicia has a degree in Education and is the founder of Mary Seat of Wisdom Classical Community.
Parents of ten children and grandparents to eight, the Hernons have made their home in Steubenville, OH for the past 30 years.
Chapters:
0:00: Introduction and Highs & Hards
12:42: Setting a vision for your family
23:31: Hopes for the future to impact the present
32:26: The Family Board Meeting
43:50: What if one spouse doesn't want to do a Family Board Meeting?
55:12: Challenge By Choice
Reflection Questions:
- What is one specific thing that stuck with you from this conversation?
- Do you have a vision for your family? Can you and your spouse both articulate that vision to your children & others?
- What daily issues are most likely to get you stuck in the urgent instead of the important?
Send us a text. We can't respond directly, but we're excited to hear what's on your mind!
Click here to register for the DBT group from Jan. 20 - March 24, 2026 (MN & WI residents only)
Thank you for listening, and a very special thank you to our community of supporters!
Visit us online at thiswholelifepodcast.com, and send us an email with your thoughts, questions, or ideas.
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Interested in more faith-filled mental health resources? Check out the Martin Center for Integration
Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.
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