Crystal Paine Show

Trust me, you are not going to want to miss this episode’s honest and vulnerable conversation with Stephen McWhirter, author of the memoir Radically Restored: How Knowing Jesus Heals Our Brokenness. I have really been looking forward to sharing this episode because his story is raw, unsettling at times, and deeply hopeful, and it challenged me in ways that I couldn't have expected. Listen as Stephen opens up about growing up in a home where faith was loudly preached in public but painfully contradicted in private. We talk about what it does to a child when the person who represents God also causes pain and how that kind of hypocrisy can lead to anger, rebellion, and addiction for years, and Stephen openly shares his long road into substance abuse, the surprising moment when everything began to change, and how his encounter with Jesus didn’t happen in a church pew but rather alone, surrounded by darkness and drugs where grace met him anyway.Stephen walks us through forgiveness in a unique way, and we talk about abuse, safety, boundaries, and the very real cost of forgiving someone who caused deep wounds, especially when that person is a parent. His story of forgiving his father (not once but over a lifetime) is one of the best parts of the conversation. We also spend some time talking directly to parents, friends, and loved ones who feel helpless watching someone they care about struggle, with Stephen offering hope for those carrying quiet shame, hidden addictions, or unanswered prayers, reminding us that repentance brings things into the light.If you are wrestling with forgiveness, addiction, trust, or the question of whether God is actually good, then this episode is absolutely for you, and if you’re the one praying for someone else and wondering if it matters, I truly hope that this conversation gives you real hope that restoration is possible, sometimes even in ways that we could never expect or plan for ourselves. Be sure to grab a copy of his book as well!In This Episode[0:35] - This episode is an interview with Stephen McWhirter, author of Radically Restored: How Knowing Jesus Heals Our Brokenness![1:39] - Stephen opens up about how his father’s public faith hid private abuse, fueling rebellion and addiction.[4:18] - Alone with drugs, Stephen realized that salvation required belief, not effort.[6:57] - Stephen believes that God met him outside church and used his story uniquely.[10:04] - For Stephen, obediently forgiving his father was unimaginably difficult.[12:48] - At his father’s deathbed, forgiving him aloud released Stephen and reshaped his understanding of grace.[15:37] - Stephen argues that forgiveness involves tearing up debt and opening the door to healing.[17:15] - Stephen asserts that a parent’s words matter most, but peers can powerfully redirect someone who is struggling.[19:52] - Hear how Stephen longed for honest apologies and repentance because hiding only deepens damage and prevents healing.[23:12] - Stephen believes that repentance brings hidden sin into light.[26:13] - Stephen shares how his mother's faith taught him that prayer is active trust, especially when loving someone feels helpless.[29:50] - Hear how knowing God’s character transformed Stephen's controlling prayers into trust that His will is genuinely good.[32:16] - Be sure to grab a copy of Stephen's book!Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineThe Crystal Paine Show - 329: Why I Am Not Setting Goals in 2026BooksRadically Restored: How Knowing Jesus Heals Our Brokenness by Stephen McWhirterThe Case for Christ: A Journalist’s Personal Investigation of the Evidence for Jesus by Lee StrobelSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on LinkedInCrystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook groupcrystal@moneysavingmom.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Welcome to 2026, everyone! To kick off the new year, I am joined in the studio today by Sherri Hughes-Gragg, an author whose writing has truly changed the way that I read scripture and experience God. Her Advent devotional stopped me in my tracks this December, and her newest book, The Compassionate Christ, feels like exactly what many of us need as we head into a new year!Listen in as Sherri shares her story of growing up in a deeply legalistic Christian environment where rules mattered more than relationship, and doubt wasn’t just unwelcome but was dangerous. We talk about what it’s like to keep up appearances while you are privately unraveling and how years of trying to be “good enough” created a crushing sense of failure, especially in parenting. Her reflections are tender, unfiltered, and grounded in compassion – not only for herself but for her children and anyone who has carried spiritual shame longer than they should have.Hear how a turning point came when Sherri began studying scripture through its Middle Eastern cultural and historical context, including time spent learning in Israel. She explains how this lens transformed familiar passages and healed some long-held fears of hers, especially around the crucifixion and the belief that God turns away in our darkest moments. One moment in particular - Jesus’ words from the cross - reframed everything she thought she knew about God’s presence and faithfulness.We also discuss how understanding God’s compassion changes everyday life: how we parent, how we handle frustration, how we engage people with whom we deeply disagree, and how we resist the urge to play Holy Spirit in someone else’s life. This episode with Sherri isn’t about winning arguments but is about what freedom can look like when fear loosens its grip and how compassion could be one of the most powerful things we offer the world right now!In This Episode[0:35] - I am interviewing Sherri Hughes-Gragg, author of The Compassionate Christ.​​[1:45] - Sherri reflects on how growing beyond fear-based faith, studying Scripture’s context revealed a far kinder, compassionate Jesus.[4:45] - Sherri withdrew while doubting God’s existence, maintaining appearances until her honesty triggered some intervention.[6:28] - At Christian college, conformity replaced authenticity, leaving no safe space for doubt or being myself.[9:33] - Sherri discusses how impossible religious standards left her feeling daily failure, burdened, and regretful.[12:20] - Understanding God’s compassion challenges legalism and calls Sherri to treat even people with whom we disagree with dignity.[15:32] - Sherri asserts that listening quietly for God means trusting Him with others, including her adult children.[17:49] - As fear exhausted Sherri, studying the scripture’s Middle Eastern context and Jesus’ actions changed everything.[19:26] - Hear how studying in Israel sparked a new, healing understanding of scripture’s cultural context for Sherri.[22:36] - During edits of her book, Sherri caught herself overindulging details.[23:12] - Learning Jesus’ cry referenced Psalm 22 revealed God’s faithfulness, not abandonment, even on the cross.[26:56] - Experiencing God’s love over punishment brought daily peace and reshaped how Sherri parents her kids and treats others.[28:30] - I share how recognizing God’s compassion helps me meet frustration with empathy.[30:33] - Sherri's greatest hope is changed relationships - with God and each other - so the church reflects Jesus’ kingdom on earth.Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineBooksThe Compassionate Christ: Draw Near to the Risen Savior (A 31-Day Devotional Retelling of Stories from the Life of Jesus by Sherri Hughes-GraggSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on LinkedInCrystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook groupcrystal@moneysavingmom.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Join Jesse and I this week as I unpack 25 things that I said yes to this year that I am really glad that I did because they have genuinely changed and improved my life. Some of them look small from the outside (like pajamas, fiction books, or shopping in-store again), but every single one has left an indelible mark on my life, our family, the business, and/or all three. I spent more time preparing for this episode than any other because I wanted to name these moments clearly and honestly, without rushing past what they have taught me.Listen in to hear about rhythms that have helped me slow down, such as weekly Sabbaths, earlier bedtimes, and learning how to rest without guilt. I open up about choices that have really reshaped my relationship with my body such as hiring a dietitian, eating enough food, letting go of the scale for a season, and eventually saying yes to strength training and 5 a.m. workouts in a way that actually feels supportive instead of punishing. There’s also a lot here about joy and play: wearing dresses again, reading fiction, wearing real pajamas at night, traveling with my kids one-on-one, and even rediscovering how much I love showing up for baseball games!I also share some of the heavier yeses, the kind that require courage and wisdom such as leaving a toxic relationship and investing in deeper support via a business coach and a functional medicine doctor. Alongside that, I talk about growing our team, saying no to work that no longer fits, and how leadership feels different when you’re not carrying everything alone. This episode of the show is truly reflective, practical, and deeply personal, and it is my hope that, as you listen, you’ll start noticing your own yeses - the ones that quietly changed your year, even if no one else saw them happening. Be sure to check out relevant recent episodes brought up throughout our discussion (as Jesse mentions, there are a lot of them!), and reach out to me with your own victorious yeses over 2025! I would love to hear from you, so send me an email at crystal@moneysavingmom.com!In This Episode[0:35] - This week, I am sharing 25 things I said yes to in 2025 that deeply impacted my life![2:45] - I share how weekly Sabbaths have become a meaningful time to rest, connect, and savor simple joys.[5:54] - Hear how a gym membership unlocked childcare convenience and a love for fitness classes I never expected![7:08] - I have said yes to wearing dresses more often which has felt freeing.[9:16] - I reflect on how hiring a dietitian, a quick spring break, and wearing real PJs all enhanced daily life.[12:36] - Hear how I am learning to honor hunger and eat enough calories.[13:25] - Reading more fiction has reignited a passion I once loved but had lost.[15:02] - I have prioritized spending intentional time with Jesse, including local trips and completing ABC date nights.[15:49] - Volunteering at school became important after Kristen expressed how much she wanted my presence.[18:25] - Assisting in Kristen's classroom strengthened our connection and allowed me to meet her classmates.[20:21] - Hear about how I took a break from scales and tracking, gaining freedom and a healthier perspective on eating.[23:26] - Co-leading a small church group and supporting Silas in baseball really enriched family and personal growth for me![27:16] - I reflect on how leaving a toxic relationship required faith and courage but ultimately brought me some hard-won freedom.[28:47] - I also said yes to weekly sessions with my business coach and how it expanded support for leadership and life decisions.[29:47] - Trips to Disney, Discovery Cove, and a Utah retreat helped give me clarity, reflection, and renewed perspective.[30:57] - Shopping in-store again helped bring me unexpected joy, community, and fun via finding deals and markdowns.[32:06] - I discuss how visiting India and planning my parents’ 50th anniversary created unforgettable, meaningful experiences this year![33:25] - Growing my team intentionally made leadership easier and more joyful.[35:58] - Starting Micah in pre-K early helped him become confident, curious, and more socially comfortable.[38:43] - I reflect on how committing to 5 a.m. workouts improved my energy, rhythm, and natural sleep patterns.[40:43] - Prioritizing earlier sleep and fewer work hours has helped restore balance, boundaries, and overall well-being.Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineThe Crystal Paine Show - 295. Surprising Lessons I Learned on My Trip to DisneyThe Crystal Paine Show - 306. Our 20-Hour Overnight GetawayThe Crystal Paine Show - 308. My Very First Time Going to a Gym ClassThe Crystal Paine Show - 311. Changing My Mindset with FoodThe Crystal Paine Show - 318. My Parents’ 50th Wedding Anniversary CelebrationThe Crystal Paine Show - 321. My 13-Day Trip to IndiaBooksThe Frozen River by Ariel LawhornSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on LinkedInCrystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook groupcrystal@moneysavingmom.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

As we wrap up the year with this episode that may or may not be the final episode of 2025, Jesse and I sit down and talk through something real, something I’ve been wrestling with. I’m not really the type to plan out twelve months of episode themes. I record when it’s something actually shaping my life right now, and when it comes to this conversation? It has been shaping everything!Jesse and I thought that we knew what this episode would be about, but we definitely didn't. What it turned into was a little year-end heart check and a look at two habits that I have wanted to build for months: going to bed on time and strength training - the everyday stuff that’s weirdly difficult when life is already overflowing.Listen in as I share the moment a few weeks ago when I finally told Jesse, “I can't figure this out. Help me.” Between our kids’ schedules, it being baseball season, my own work rhythms, and that magical late-night second wind that has betrayed me many times, I truly wondered whether these habits were even possible, but Jesse then suggested something I never would have landed on by myself: a 5 a.m. class at our gym! I tell you how that first week went, what surprised me, and why the locker room shower in total silence may now be one of the great joys of my life.I also discuss the domino effect that this small shift has had on our family, including Micah suddenly turning into a cheerful morning person and how a functional medicine appointment forced me to face the truth that I am not nearly as rested or relaxed as I thought! If you’re ending the year wondering whether a habit that you have been circling forever is actually possible, I hope this episode gives you some hope, some ideas, and maybe even a little permission to try something wild!As always, I would love to hear from you, so send me an email at crystal@moneysavingmom.com!In This Episode[0:35] - This episode focuses on year-end lessons and rebuilding habits that finally stick![4:15] - I describe how daily unpredictability kept derailing her bedtime and workout intentions.[7:10] - Hear how the schedule review pushes me toward trying a consistent 5 a.m. workout class.[10:52] - I talk about how our 18-year-old daughter supports my first class where I finds a warm and encouraging gym community.[12:48] - Early workouts give her peaceful morning routines and even improve her three-year-old’s mood.[15:51] - I explain how earlier bedtimes boost my sleep quality, supporting the rest my doctor says that I need.[18:42] - I realize that I have been disconnecting from my body and ignoring my own physical signals.[20:36] - I have recognized that my constant “fight mode” is draining my body.[22:48] - My therapist has warned me that nonstop high alert will eventually break me down.[25:55] - I adopt a calm, light-free morning routine to support rest, grounding, and early workouts.[27:25] - I share my full rhythm to encourage listeners to build habits aligned with your deeper values.Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on LinkedInCrystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook groupcrystal@moneysavingmom.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

I do want to say right out of the gate that this is not an episode that you’re probably going to want to listen to while eating. (The title should give you a clue as to why.) Jesse joins me this week as I discuss having recently returned from a trip to India feeling great but then soon after developing severe gastrointestinal issues that lasted for weeks. I initially thought that it was just a stomach bug, but after my symptoms persisted, I realized that something a lot more serious was likely going on.Listen in as I describe feeling extremely nauseous, fatigued, and having constant diarrhea that left me bedridden for days. I had trouble keeping any food or drink down, and the medical professionals that I saw were hesitant to test for a parasite, even though many of my friends who had heard about my condition suggested that that was likely what was wrong.I reflect on how, after struggling through a trip to attend my brother's wedding, my condition worsened to the point at which I could barely move! At 2 a.m. in severe distress, I finally convinced Jesse to take me to the emergency room where they were able to quickly get my fluids and run tests, which confirmed that I had contracted a parasite during my trip to India.My ER visit and subsequent treatment, which included an antibiotic regimen, ultimately helped me begin to recover. I talk about how it took several more weeks to fully regain my strength, but I am so grateful that I persisted in advocating for myself and getting the right diagnosis. This is a longer episode than usual, but we hope that you got some laughs from it! We also hope that you take away an important message - it’s so important to advocate for yourself! As always, I would love to hear from you, so send me an email at crystal@moneysavingmom.com!In This Episode[0:35] - I am recounting returning from India with a parasite and hope that my story encourages self-advocacy.[4:05] - After getting home, my mild jet lag suddenly escalated into severe stomach illness by Friday night.[7:44] - Hear how, even though I was happy to be home, my lingering nausea and exhaustion only got worse.[9:44] - Despite trying to push through, my nausea persisted, leading to inconclusive clinic tests.[12:26] - Hear about how I initially skipped parasite testing, forcing fluids and sugar-heavy drinks while struggling with my dehydration getting worse.[15:45] - My exhausting trip left me bedridden, prayerful, and unable to work despite my usually high stamina.[17:37] - I recount how a brief, miraculous surge of energy allowed me to run a wedding before the sickness returned that night.[20:57] - I share how I became violently ill on the drive home and barely managed the trip without incident.[23:48] - Hear how my slight improvement convinced me to skip testing while I worked through a hectic week.[26:12] - I discuss how the long drive to Kansas went surprisingly smoothly, leaving me feeling cautiously optimistic.[27:16] - I talk about how, during rehearsal, I helped David down the aisle.[29:12] - I reveal how my illness peaked that night, leaving me curled on the floor and worrying that something was seriously wrong.[32:10] - Zofran gave me brief relief before I realized that I needed to get emergency care despite the wedding.[34:48] - I reflect on how the quiet late-night ER immediately admitted me, ran tests, and began me on fluids.[36:50] - The ER staff collected my stool sample in-room, leaving me mortified while Jesse nearly gagged from the smell.[39:42] - Jesse’s dramatic reaction forced staff to rush in, confirm the awful smell, and remove the sample.[42:02] - IV fluids and Zofran quickly revived me, marking the turning point toward daily improvement.[44:25] - I learned of my parasite diagnosis, recovered with treatment, and have taken on healthier habits.[46:42] - I share how, after a late-night call, I started a short antibiotic course, and I encourage listeners to advocate for yourselves!Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on LinkedInCrystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook groupcrystal@moneysavingmom.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

I am thrilled to welcome Elisabeth Hasselbeck for this episode of the show! Elisabeth is the author of the children’s book God’s Masterpiece: An Adventure in Discovering Your Worth, and from the very first moment she started sharing, I could feel her heart for moms, kids, and families. Her book isn’t just a storybook; it’s a reminder of something which we all need to hear again and again - that we are uniquely made with purpose and beauty woven into every part of who we are.During our conversation, Elisabeth and I talk about what it really means to see ourselves and everyone else as created in God’s image, changing how we parent, how we speak to others, and even how we handle conflict. When we remember that every single person, even the one we most disagree with, is a reflection of God’s creativity, it transforms how we show up in the world.Elisabeth opens up about how her family’s experience with fostering helped shape her understanding of love and surrender, and she talks about the freedom that comes from letting go of control, something all of us moms wrestle with daily! She also discusses learning to trust God with our children’s stories, and I even reflect on how that lesson has shown up in my own life, especially via prayer.We also take on that tricky tension between correcting our kids and speaking life over them, with Elisabeth reminding us that motherhood is not about perfect control but is rather about being a safe place. She speaks about how prayer doesn’t have to be fancy or formal, that God meets us right where we are whether it be in the car, at the kitchen sink, or in the middle of chaos, and He delights in us just showing up.This episode is for any parent or caregiver who is feeling weary, stretched thin, or unsure if they’re doing it “right.” You are sure to walk away feeling reminded that you and your kids are loved completely, and be sure to grab a copy of Elisabeth’s book!In This Episode[0:35] - I welcome Elisabeth Hasselbeck, author of God’s Masterpiece, to the show![1:08] - We learn that Elisabeth wrote God’s Masterpiece to remind families that each person is uniquely created by God.[3:15] - Elisabeth explains that her return to art and fostering revealed God’s love in every life story.[6:16] - I reflect on how remembering that everyone is made in God’s image transforms how I treat those with whom I disagree.[7:21] - Once we see others as God’s masterpieces, we are more compelled to love and protect them.[10:38] - Elisabeth believes that unity in Christ grows when families speak God’s truth over themselves and one another.[13:37] - Elisabeth describes motherhood as a balance of protection and release that is consistently guided by prayer and grace.[16:55] - Hear how prayer teaches me to release control and trust God with my kids' futures.[18:21] - Elisabeth says that fostering helped reveal the beauty of parenting via love, prayer, and freedom from control.[21:33] - Moms often seek quick fixes instead of first asking the Holy Spirit for wisdom.[22:14] - Elisabeth reminds moms that God meets them anywhere, anytime; even brief, imperfect prayers invite His presence.[25:32] - I add that prayer has no “right” way; God values honesty and dependence over perfection.[27:42] - Elisabeth describes faith as standing under God’s power, trusting His promises and resting in His presence.[29:45] - Thank you, Elisabeth!Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineBooksGod’s Masterpiece: An Adventure in Discovering Your Worth by Elisabeth HasselbeckSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on LinkedInCrystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook groupcrystal@moneysavingmom.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands