When motherhood feels more like a thousand little deaths to self than the glossy highlight reel on Instagram, is it really worth it?In this episode, I’m joined by my friend Abby Halberstadt, better known as M is for Mama, to talk about her new book, You Bet Your Stretch Marks: Finding Beauty and Worth in the Ways Motherhood Marks Our Bodies and Souls. Abby is a mom of 10, a fitness instructor, and a deeply theologically grounded voice speaking into the chaos of modern motherhood. Together we tackle comparison, cultural backlash, “honest motherhood,” and what it really means to live as a faithful, joyful mom in a world that often treats children like a burden instead of a blessing.We talk about:Why our “marks” (stretch marks, scars, sleepless nights, and hidden sacrifices) can be beautiful testimonies of love, not flaws to hideHow to push back against a culture that normalizes complaining, victimhood, and joking about hating motherhoodThe difference between rejoicing in all things and enjoying all thingsHow our words, attitudes, and even facial expressions shape the spiritual atmosphere of our homesComparison, social media, and what to do when people accuse you of being “fake,” “toxic positive,” or “doing it for the ’gram”Training our kids with a long view of legacy parenting—seeing everyday faithfulness as an investment in generations we may never meetWhy obedience to Christ in the hidden, thankless moments is always worth it, even when our feelings lag behind our theologyAbby also shares personal stories of suffering, health struggles, miscarriages, and how God’s kindness and sovereignty sustained her through it all. If you’re a mom who’s tired, discouraged, or tempted to believe the lie that you’re “not enough,” this conversation is for you.???? Resources mentioned:Abby’s book: You Bet Your Stretch Marks: Finding Beauty and Worth in the Ways Motherhood Marks Our Bodies and SoulsAbby online: @m.is.for.mama on Instagram and the M is for Mama podcastIf this episode encourages you, consider sharing it with a tired mom friend who needs to be reminded that her quiet, daily faithfulness really does matter—and yes, it’s worth it.------------------------------------------------------------------This video is sponsored by:RANGE LEATHERAmerican-Made Craftsmanship from WyomingGo to www.rangeleather.com for more informationUse my code: ALISABRAVE BOOKSEntertainment that Engages the Imagination for Good. Go to www.bravebooks.com/childers for more informationUse my code: CHILDERSSUMMITGive your kids a stronger foundation to embrace a biblical worldview.Go to www.summit.org for more informationUse my code: ALISA26--------------------------------------------------------------------To Purchase the new CD, “Beauty from the Ash”, go to www.alisachilders.com/musicThere you can get the CD, backing tracks, string charts, rhythm charts and stems.Support us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/alisachildersTo order “Another Gospel”: www.alisachilders.com/another-gospel/To order “Live Your Truth": www.alisachilders.com/live-your-truth-and-other-lies/To order “The Deconstruction of Christianity”: https://alisachilders.com/the-deconstruction-of-christianity/For Alisa's Merch: https://alisachilders.creator-spring.comTo see what gear Alisa uses to record her podcast, go to:https://kit.co/alisachildersPotential Sponsors: https://alisachilders.com/sponsor-request-form/Product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something we'll receive a small commission.