A quick explanation on Danielle's absence this week from her daughter, Gabby. Please pray for Danielle's healing and recovery, as she still is in the hospital in NYC. Updates later this week will be available at daniellebean.substack.com.

In this conversation, Sarah Mackenzie discusses the life and work of Barbara Cooney, a renowned author and illustrator of children's books. Sarah shares her fascination with Barbara's illustration style and her discovery of Barbara's life as a mother of four who placed her drawing table in the busiest room of her house. Sarah also highlights Barbara's commitment to detail and precision in her illustrations and her dedication to visiting the locations she depicted in her books.The conversation explores the power of children's books in shaping character and fostering empathy. Sarah emphasizes the importance of reading aloud to children and the impact it has on their development. She also discusses the value of short books and the joy and rest that reading can bring to our lives.TakeawaysBarbara Cooney was a prolific author and illustrator of over 150 children's books, known for her illustration style and attention to detail.Reading aloud to children has a profound impact on their development, fostering empathy, and helping them overcome challenges.Stories have the power to shape character and teach virtues, allowing children to witness characters overcoming obstacles and becoming who they need to be.Short books and children's novels can be a valuable way to nurture a reading habit, especially during busy seasons of life.Reading is not just a task to be accomplished but a gift that brings joy and rest to our lives.Learn more about Read Aloud RevivalLearn more about Waxwing BooksThank you to our sponsors!Get daily news headlines from a catholic perspective delivered right to your inbox every day with The Loop. Get The Loop today!Support a small Catholic business, give to those in need, and help support this podcast when you shop at Rooted for Good. Use code DANIELLEBEAN and get 10% off your order. :)ANNOUNCEMENTSGo beyond the podcast! For bonus podcasts, weekly columns, exclusive live events, and more, subscribe here!Contact:Email Danielle BeanDanielle Bean on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Voxer

In this episode, Danielle Bean talks to Maria Marianyagam, a children's book author, about teaching kids virtue. Maria shares her journey of becoming a children's book author and the importance of starting to teach virtues at a young age. They discuss Maria's board book series, which focuses on virtues like hope and courage, and how parents can engage with the series. Danielle also addresses the topic of female friendships and the importance of cultivating meaningful connections with other women.TakeawaysTeaching virtues to children from a young age is important for their development and can help them grow into effective and fruitful individuals.Maria Marianyagam's board book series, which focuses on virtues like hope and courage, provides a fun and accessible way for children to learn about and practice virtues.Parents can engage with the series by reading the books with their children, using the discussion questions and activities provided on Maria's website, and modeling virtuous behavior themselves.Female friendships are important for women and can provide support, affirmation, and a unique understanding of shared experiences.It is important to be reflective about the friendships in our lives, invest time and energy into maintaining them, and bring any struggles or concerns to prayer.Learn more about Maria at her website.Check out her baby virtue books!Thank you to our sponsors!Get daily news headlines from a catholic perspective delivered right to your inbox every day with The Loop. Get The Loop today!Support a small Catholic business, give to those in need, and help support this podcast when you shop at Rooted for Good. Use code DANIELLEBEAN and get 10% off your order. :)ANNOUNCEMENTSGo beyond the podcast! For bonus podcasts, weekly columns, exclusive live events, and more, subscribe here!Contact:Email Danielle BeanDanielle Bean on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Voxer

Do you know that next Sunday we will observe Divine Mercy Sunday? This time of year is a wonderful opportunity to focus on Jesus’ gift of Divine Mercy. A great way to celebrate Easter for all 50 days is to plan to practice the Corporal Works of Mercy in your family and in your community. In this week’s show, Danielle shares ideas for creative ways to practice each of the works of mercy: Feed the Hungry, Give Drink to the Thirsty, Clothe the Naked, Shelter the Homeless, Visit the Sick, Visit the Imprisoned, and Bury the Dead.Support a small Catholic business, give to those in need, and help support this podcast when you shop at Rooted for Good. Use code DANIELLEBEAN and get 10% off your order. :)ANNOUNCEMENTSGo beyond the podcast! For bonus podcasts, weekly columns, exclusive live events, and more, subscribe here!Contact:Email Danielle BeanDanielle Bean on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Voxer* For complete episode shownotes and more information, visit https://daniellebean.com/podcast

In this episode, Danielle Bean shares five things to inspire your Holy Week. She encourages listeners to add more quiet to their lives, make Holy Week different, engage in interactive prayer experiences, consider Holy Week creative projects, take a pilgrimage, plan for a special Good Friday, and attend additional liturgies at church. At the end of this week's show, Danielle offers advice and encouragement to a listener who wants to publish a book about her near-death experience.TakeawaysAdd more quiet to your life during Holy WeekMake Holy Week different by setting it apart from other weeksEngage in interactive prayer experiencesConsider Holy Week art projectsTake a pilgrimage or participate in virtual pilgrimagesPlan for a special Good FridayAttend additional liturgies at churchMentioned in this week's podcast: The Art of Spiritual Writing by Vinita WrightANNOUNCEMENTSGo beyond the podcast! For bonus podcasts, weekly columns, exclusive live events, and more, subscribe here!Contact:Email Danielle BeanDanielle Bean on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Voxer* For complete episode shownotes and more information, visit https://daniellebean.com/podcast

In this episode, Danielle Bean discusses how to handle family drama. She emphasizes the importance of setting realistic expectations, thinking ahead and planning ahead, picking your battles, and setting boundaries. She also shares listener feedback on cultivating joy and offers advice on embracing your temperament, faking it till you make it, and praying for the grace to be more joyful.TakeawaysSet realistic expectations for family drama and recognize that it is a normal part of family relationships.Think ahead and plan ahead for interactions with difficult family members, identifying triggers and preparing responses.Pick your battles and focus on understanding the other person's perspective rather than trying to change their mind.Set boundaries to protect yourself and your immediate family, limiting interactions with toxic or negative family members.Embrace your temperament and cultivate joy by faking it till you make it, expressing gratitude, and praying for the grace to be more joyful.ANNOUNCEMENTSGo beyond the podcast! For bonus podcasts, weekly columns, exclusive live events, and more, subscribe here!Contact:Email Danielle BeanDanielle Bean on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Voxer* For complete episode shownotes and more information, visit https://daniellebean.com/podcast

In this episode, Danielle Bean interviews Erika Ahern from CatholicVote and The Loop. They discuss the importance of engaging in deep conversations about politics and religion, teaching children to navigate these topics, and the mission of The Loop to "become the media."They also share insights on balancing work, home, and relationships, and offer advice on seeking forgiveness and navigating difficult relationships.Engaging in deep conversations about politics and religion is important for personal growth and understanding.Teaching children to navigate these topics helps them develop critical thinking skills and prepares them for conversations in the broader society.The Loop's mission to become the media aims to provide trustworthy and Catholic-centered news and analysis.Balancing work, home, and relationships requires prioritizing prayer, maintaining open communication, and finding joy in the liturgical year.Seeking forgiveness and navigating difficult relationships requires patience, prayer, and accepting that some relationships may never be the same.Links from this episode:CatholicVoteThe LoopThe LOOPcastThank you to our supporters:CORDA CandlesANNOUNCEMENTSGo beyond the podcast! For bonus podcasts, weekly columns, exclusive live events, and more, subscribe here!Contact:Email Danielle BeanDanielle Bean on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Voxer* For complete episode shownotes and more information, visit https://daniellebean.com/podcast

In this episode, Danielle Bean discusses what to do when feeling unmotivated. She provides 10 different strategies to consider, including reflecting on the root cause of the lack of motivation, setting small goals, finding inspiration, changing your environment, being kind to oneself, taking breaks in your work, seeking support, focusing on the why behind the goal, trying something new, and celebrating your progress. She also addresses listener feedback and encourages re-thinking Lent as an opportunity for to grow deeper in relationship with God.TakeawaysReflect on the root cause of your lack of motivationSet small goals to build momentumFind inspiration from others or through quotes, books, or musicChange your environment to shift your mindsetBe kind to yourself and avoid negative self-talkTake breaks in your work to rechargeSeek support from others who encourage and inspire youFocus on the why behind your goal to stay motivatedTry something new to spark creativity and enthusiasmCelebrate your progress and milestonesRethink Lent as an opportunity for deeper relationship with GodMentioned in this episode: Try Mini Habits and Start WinningANNOUNCEMENTSGo beyond the podcast! For bonus podcasts, weekly columns, exclusive live events, and more, subscribe here!Contact:Email Danielle BeanDanielle Bean on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Voxer* For complete episode shownotes and more information, visit https://daniellebean.com/podcast

You know you love candles! How about some free CATHOLIC candles? Michael and Anna Camacho, the husband and wife team behind CORDA Candles, join Danielle Bean on the Girlfriends podcast. They share their journey of starting a faith-based candle business and the inspiration behind their unique scents. The couple discusses the challenges and rewards of working together as a married couple and the importance of creating pure and clean candles. They also talk about the impact of small Catholic businesses and the need to support them. The episode concludes with information on where to find CORDA Candles and their latest releases.TakeawaysStarting a small Catholic business can be a way to live out one's faith and make a positive impact.Creating pure and clean products is important for the well-being of customers and the environment.Working together as a married couple in a business requires communication, trust, and a shared vision.Engaging in creative activities can help reclaim attention and bring a sense of presence and peace.Good news! Girlfriends listeners qualify for a free gift from CORDA Candles. You'll get a free "Seasonal Favorites" tealight sampler with your order of $35 or more. That's 6 free mini candles and a $14.95 value!Visit CORDA Candles to claim your free gift just for Girlfriends listeners!ANNOUNCEMENTSGo beyond the podcast! For bonus podcasts, weekly columns, exclusive live events, and more, subscribe here!Contact:Email Danielle BeanDanielle Bean on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Voxer* For complete episode shownotes and more information, visit https://daniellebean.com/podcast

In this episode, Danielle Bean interviews Emily Stimson Chapman about her work as a writer and her collaboration with Scott Hahn in creating Catholic children's books. Her newest book is The Supper of the Lamb. They discuss the importance of engaging children in theology and finding balance in motherhood. Emily shares her experience of saying no to opportunities and the challenges of managing writing while raising her family. They also discuss the importance of female friendship and raising children in the faith. The episode concludes with listener feedback about feeling lonely in a new home and seeking community.Resources:Emily Stimpson Chapman's websiteFollow Emily on InstagramSubscribe to Emily's SubstackTakeaways:Engaging children in theology through children's books can be a powerful way to teach them about the faith.Finding balance in motherhood often requires saying no to certain opportunities and focusing on what truly matters.Female friendship is important for mothers and can provide support and companionship.Raising children in the faith involves having conversations about God and the Church in a natural and ordinary way.Finding community in a new place may require stepping out of one's comfort zone and being proactive in seeking connections.ANNOUNCEMENTSGo beyond the podcast! For bonus podcasts, weekly columns, exclusive live events, and more, subscribe here!Contact:Email Danielle BeanDanielle Bean on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Voxer* For complete episode shownotes and more information, visit https://daniellebean.com/

In this episode, Danielle Bean discusses the upcoming season of Lent and provides ideas for how to approach it. She encourages listeners to do something more, do something less, and love someone better during Lent. She shares personal stories and examples to illustrate these concepts. Additionally, she reads listener feedback about forgiveness and concludes by inviting listeners to join her Lenten journey through her Substack.TakeawaysDuring Lent, consider doing something more, doing something less, and loving someone better.Small acts of sacrifice and love can have a big impact on our spiritual growth.Forgiveness is a powerful practice that can bring healing and reconciliation.Join Danielle Bean's Lenten journey through her Substack for weekly reflections and content.ANNOUNCEMENTSGo beyond the podcast! For bonus podcasts, weekly columns, exclusive live events, and more, subscribe here!Contact:Email Danielle BeanDanielle Bean on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Voxer* For complete episode shownotes and more information, visit https://daniellebean.com/

Father Basil Nortz, author of Holy Silence, joins the Girlfriends podcast to discuss the importance of silence in a noisy world. He shares the inspiration behind writing his book, Holy Silence: A Practical Guide to Recollection in God, and the different types of silence, including silence of the body, silence of the senses, silence of the memory, silence of the imagination, silence of conversations, and silence of self-love. Father Nortz emphasizes the countercultural nature of silence and offers practical advice for embracing silence in everyday life. He also discusses the impact of phones and media on silence and provides guidance for teaching children the value of silence. The conversation concludes with a reflection on the beauty and gift of silence and an invitation to embrace it in the present moment.Key TakeawaysSilence is countercultural in a noisy world, but it is essential for spiritual growth and finding God in the present moment.Different types of silence, such as silence of the body help us order our faculties and focus on what is truly important.Phones and media can be distractions that hinder silence and disconnect us from God and others. Setting limitations and teaching children the value of silence is important.Embracing silence requires continual conversion and a recognition of what truly brings us happiness, peace, and joy.The book Holy Silence serves as a program of life, guiding readers to reflect on their own habits and grow in their spiritual journey.ANNOUNCEMENTSGo beyond the podcast! For bonus podcasts, our exclusive Lenten sessions, weekly columns, live events, and more, subscribe here!Contact:Email Danielle BeanDanielle Bean on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Voxer* For complete episode shownotes and more information, visit https://daniellebean.com/

In this week's episode, Danielle discusses the important topic of forgiveness, even in the face of terrible things. She emphasizes the need for flexibility in our plans and goals, as well as the importance of recognizing our own need for forgiveness. Danielle shares personal stories and insights from Scripture to highlight the challenges and rewards of forgiveness. She encourages listeners to choose forgiveness as an act of the will, even when it is difficult, and reminds them of the power of forgiveness to bring peace and healing. At the end of today's show, Danielle answers a question from a listener about the practice of Bible journaling.Takeaways:Flexibility is important in our plans and goals, as it allows us to prioritize relationships and respond to opportunities for connection.Forgiveness is a choice, not a feeling, and it is a necessary part of our own need for forgiveness and healing.Jesus calls us to forgive even terrible things, and He provides the strength and grace to do so.Unforgiveness hurts us and hinders our peace, while forgiveness brings healing and freedom.Practical steps for forgiveness include understanding the perspective of the person who hurt us, expressing and processing our feelings, setting boundaries, and seeking the help of God and supportive communities.Bible journaling can be a helpful practice for engaging with Scripture and deepening our understanding and relationship with God.ANNOUNCEMENTSGo beyond the podcast! For bonus podcasts, weekly columns, exclusive live events, and more, subscribe here!Contact:Email Danielle BeanDanielle Bean on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Voxer* For complete episode shownotes and more information, visit https://daniellebean.com/

In this episode, Danielle Bean interviews licensed marriage and family therapist Melissa Tablada about resolving conflict in marriage. They discuss the importance of deep connection, practical guidelines for resolving conflict, the value of date nights and couple prayer, and the myth of not going to bed angry. Melissa provides practical advice for couples to communicate effectively and maintain a healthy relationship. The episode concludes with listener feedback and advice on dealing with family conflict.Learn more about Melissa Tablata at her website and follow her on Instagram.At the end of today's show, Danielle answers a question from listener Grace about how to manage family differences and conflict.Takeaways:Deep connection is essential for resolving conflict in marriage.Avoid using words like 'always' and 'never' during conflicts.Take time to process emotions and communicate intentions before engaging in conflict resolution.Setting boundaries and taking breaks during conflicts can be beneficial.The myth of not going to bed angry can lead to unproductive arguments.Today's show is borought to you in part by Walking With Purpose. Learn more about their ucoming event for mothers and daughters, Sisters of Strength.ANNOUNCEMENTSGo beyond the podcast! For bonus podcasts, weekly columns, exclusive live events, and more, subscribe here!Contact:Email Danielle BeanDanielle Bean on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Voxer* For complete episode shownotes and more information, visit https://daniellebean.com/

This week we are thrilled to be launching the Dan & Danielle Bean podcast, exclusively available through subscription at daniellebean.com. After more than 7 years of podcasting on her own with Girlfriends, Danielle is overjoyed to be working on this project with her husband Dan and can’t wait to share it with you!Dan and Danielle have been married almost 30 years (this July!) and they have eight awesome kids. In this new show, they share stories, thoughts, fun, and wisdom that we have gathered through faith and family living. Whether you’re a seasoned parent, a newlywed couple, or someone seeking inspiration in your faith journey, this podcast is your go-to source for genuine insights, relatable stories, wisdom, love, and laughter.Our first episode, How to Have Fun Together as a Family, is shared here this week as a special episode of Girlfriends, but all future shows will be available exclusively to upgraded subscribers. Make sure you don’t miss a thing! Subscribe right now at daniellebean.com 🌿TakeawaysCreating a joyful and fun environment is important for familiesFlexibility and not over-planning are key to family funParents should not take family life too seriouslyFeedback and topic suggestions are welcomeANNOUNCEMENTSGo beyond the podcast! For bonus podcasts, weekly columns, exclusive live events, and more, subscribe here!Contact:Email Danielle BeanDanielle Bean on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Voxer* For complete episode shownotes and more information, visit https://daniellebean.com/

Danielle Bean chats with Dr. Bob Schuchts, the bestselling author of Be Healed and the founder of the John Paul II Healing Center in Tallahassee, Florida.Danielle and Dr. Schuchts discuss every person's need for healing, some ways that we sometimes seek healing in all the wrong places, and Jesus as the source of all healing. They also explore the importance of belief in God's healing power and the challenge of overcoming self-sufficiency. Bob explains the tree and the apple analogy for understanding woundedness and offers practical advice for forgiveness and healing. They also discuss the dangers of navigating new age healing practices and highlight the mission of the St. John Paul II Healing Center.Takeaways:Healing ministry is essential in the Church and the world.Belief in God's healing power is crucial for experiencing miracles.Self-sufficiency can hinder our openness to God's healing.Practicing forgiveness and addressing woundedness are key to personal healing.At the end of today's show, Danielle reads an email from listener, Katie, a non-Catholic who shares what she appreciates about the Girlfriends podcast.Dr. Bob Schuchts' newest book is Real Suffering: Finding Hope & Healing in the Trials of Life.Learn more about the John Paul II Healing Center.ANNOUNCEMENTSGo beyond the podcast! For bonus podcasts, weekly columns, exclusive live events, and more, subscribe here!Contact: Email Danielle BeanDanielle Bean on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Voxer* For complete episode shownotes and more information, visit https://daniellebean.com/

Did you make any resolutions this year? In case you need a little inspiration and encouragement, Danielle shares her idea for the ONLY resolution you need to make.If you do nothing else this year, consider working on this--letting God love you. Three things to keep in mind as you do that:1. Take the time.It takes time to get to know God and let him enter more deeply into your life. Time and again, Jesus "went away to pray" and we need to do likewise.2. Screen your thoughts.What are some of your habits of thinking or talking to yourself and how might these get in the way of your relationship with God? Screen your thoughts and influences!3. Let go of fear.Many of us are afraid of being still in the presence of God. it requires a level of openness and vulnerability that might make you uncomfortable. Consider how this might apply to you and how you can let go of that fear that is holding you back.At the end of today's show, Danielle answers a question from "Anna" who is going through a stressful time in her marriage and seeking support.ANNOUNCEMENTSGo beyond the podcast! For bonus podcasts, weekly columns, exclusive live events, and more, subscribe here!Contact:Email Danielle BeanDanielle Bean on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Voxer* For complete episode shownotes visit https://daniellebean.com/

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! We are taking a break and using this opportunity to revisit this popular episode where Danielle shares 5 innovative ideas for things to give up in the new year. 1. Undisciplined phone useAre you constantly checking your phone throughout your day? Do you spend too much time mindlessly scrolling through social media? Consider setting limits to when, where, and how you use your phone, and your mental health will be better for it.2. Stuff you don’t needWhat things are taking up space in your home and work spaces? Too much clothing, extra appliances, or piles of books? Declutter your spaces and give some of your extra “stuff” to others who can use it.3. Ignoring your healthMany of us put others first and neglect our own healthcare. Do you need to make an appointment for a check up, a screening, or a trip to the dentist? For your family’s benefit, you need to take better care of yourself in these most basic ways. Make the call today!4. Negative relationshipsWho in your life brings you down, saps you of energy, or tempts you to sin? There are some relationships (like family) that we can’t cut out, but if you have friendships or acquaintances that are a continual source of negativity for you, consider limiting them or cutting them out altogether.5. Saying you don’t have timeWe all use this excuse from time to time, but if you find yourself saying this about important things in your life, it’s time for a change. If you can’t find time to pray, to work on your marriage, to exercise or do other things you think are important, then you need to make some changes. Stop saying you don’t have time and find better ways to use the time you have.How about you? What will you be giving up in 2024?

“Your marriage is the foundation on which your entire family life is built. Anytime you've got extra pressure in your outside lives, it can really add to the pressure that you experience in your relationship.”In the weeks that lead up to Christmas, financial stress, social pressure, and endless to-do lists can add up to a tense situation in your marriage. We need to take steps to protect and nurture our marriages during the busy season of Advent.Danielle shares some ideas:Pause.Take a breath before responding to your spouse in a challenging situation. Spend time together.It’s always important for couples to make time for each other, but even more so during stressful times. Enjoy the holidays together!Talk. A little communication ahead of time goes a long way toward avoiding misunderstandings and conflict.Give in. Compromise whenever you can, and convince yourself to let little things go. See the big picture. Ask yourself: Will any of these stresses and annoyances matter a hundred years from now? Next month? Next week? Even the day after tomorrow? Turn the whole mess over to Baby Jesus and pray for the gift of perspective.At the end of this week’s show, Danielle replies to Alyssa who wrote in to say how much she enjoyed our recent episode about finding more time in your day.* For episode shownotes visit https://daniellebean.com/.

“Give your kids the gift of Scripture that's going to be imprinted on their hearts forever. Put it into their hearts and minds. Make that what's filling their little hearts during this season of Advent.”Here we are, in the thick of Advent! Are you stressed yet? Let’s stay focused on the things that are truly important and help our kids to do the same. Danielle is sharing 6 ideas for ways to nurture your kids’ faith lives this Advent season:Scripture VersesYou might add some relevant Scripture to an Advent calendar or spend some time reading the Book of Luke.Nativity ScenesThere are lots of kid-friendly options to choose from! Here are a couple of them to get you started, from Fisher Price and Bible toys.Jesse TreeThis doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. You can check out places like Etsy for beautiful ornaments or search online for printable versions.Advent WreathThis could not be simpler– even just small candles in holders with ribbons can help mark the season. Pray together when you light them!Community ServiceThink of someone you know who could use a visit, some service, or a surprise gift. Enlist your kids’ help in getting it done!Advent StorytimeMake bedtime rituals extra special in the weeks before Christmas by reading some Advent-themed children’s books. Tomie DePaoloa is a favorite!At the end of today’s show, Danielle shares a message from listener Karen who offers feedback on our recent episode about hospitality.* For episode shownotes and links visit https://daniellebean.com/podcast.