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June 26, 2025 28 mins

We have a rock star mom on the podcast today! Susan Peterson is a mom I have looked up to for years. She’s the co-founder of Relish, board member for Young Life and longtime volunteer serving Passion City Church and Illuminations. And fun little fact, she is the reason my little “ABC Scripture Cards” hit the market over 13 years ago.


There are many parts of this I want every mom to hear, but make sure you hear her approach to the emotions of the empty nest stage. She didn’t think she would be sad when her kids left the home and was surprised by the mourning. She gives us permission to stop and feel it. Don't miss her advice to take the time to ask God what is next and take the time to mourn the season that you loved so much. I also loved her challenge to stop and thank God for the gift of being a mom and having kids in your home.


Susan’s family has always traveled the globe serving God. As you will hear towards the end, she said that getting her kids out of their country was one of the best decisions they made. They were able to see God at work in the world. It changed each of them. So inspiring!


I know you will absolutely enjoy this jewel of a human. Susan is a treasure and I’m delighted to share her words with you today. Praying you feel Jesus pour right through every minute.


Enjoy,

Courtney 


(00:55) The State of Bible Translation

(03:09) Navigating the Empty Nest

(06:12) Finding Identity After Parenting

(08:56) The Balance of Parenting and Faith

(14:03) Lessons Learned from Parenting

(18:02) Encouragement for Younger Moms

(22:04) Final Thoughts and Resources



Connect with Pardon The Mess:

Christian Parenting

Pardon The Mess 

Courtney DeFeo


Get your 2024-2025 prayer journal, A Life of Faith


Resources from today’s show:

Connect with Susan

Relish

Dottie Collection

Young Life

Illuminations

12 Verse Challenge

First episode with Jennifer on PTM 

Support Christian Parenting 

NIV Application Bible


Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org



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