Crystal Paine Show

This week, we did something rare – we sat down and actually watched a movie, Twisters! Our kids have been raving about it, and turns out, it wasn’t just because we’re from Kansas. It's a thrilling and clean movie, which is not always easy to find these days, so if you haven't seen it, I definitely recommend it!I also discuss my passion for politics. Believe it or not, I am something of a political junkie which might come as a surprise to those who know me as someone who generally does not engage in online debates. However, I do actually steer clear of heated discussions on the internet and instead focus on trying to truly understand both sides of the political spectrum.Jesse and I also touch on the recent election. We had an epic setup on election night, with multiple screens and streams, while chatting with our whole family. I even crafted my own Electoral College map by researching diverse perspectives, not just the mainstream media. It's all about getting to the heart of what people truly care about!We reflect on some important and humbling lessons learned recently from having hosted a few guests, an incredibly fun experience that reminded us that hospitality doesn’t need to be lavish. We also discuss a profound message from our recent church service. In these challenging times, it's essential to focus our eyes on the things that truly matter, so whether you're celebrating or feeling devastated post-election, remember, politicians aren’t our saviors. Let’s lean in, listen, and foster genuine conversations.In This Episode[0:35] - We recently sat down and watched a movie - Twisters - together.[2:16] - I am currently reading Word Before World by Gretchen Saffles.[3:06] - I discuss how I am a political junkie who shares my pro-life beliefs but avoids political debates online.[5:17] - I am very passionate about following elections, creating Electoral College maps, and researching diverse political perspectives.[8:04] - Jesse discusses how Tim Russert closely analyzed polling data, scrutinizing its accuracy, methodology, and sample sizes.[9:27] - I deeply analyzed election data this year while creating and refining Electoral College maps.[13:54] - Hear why I tend to steer clear of political debates online.[14:33] - Jesse argues that successful candidates prioritized conversations over soundbites, highlighting the importance of having detailed stances on key issues.[15:11] - I value curious, empathetic conversations to understand diverse perspectives without debating or rebutting.[17:09] - Listening can help lead to compassion, revealing shared passion and care despite differing opinions.[19:29] - I emphasize placing hope in Jesus, not politicians, as true change comes from faith.[21:28] - We hosted overnight guests recently, reminding me that simple hospitality is meaningful and sufficient.[24:17] - I advocate for offering specific help to foster families instead of vague offers of support.[27:24] - I suggest offering several specific options when offering help for grieving individuals to ease their burden and stress.[29:33] - Be sure to download our freebie, 20 Ways to Boost Your Christmas Budget!Links & ResourcesCrystal Paine@catfishwithketchup on InstagramFree Christmas Budget Boost Cheatsheet!FilmTwistersBooksWord Before World: 100 Devotions to Put Jesus First by Gretchen SafflesSocial 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 [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out BetterHelp: https://betterhelp.com/CRYSTALPAINE* Check out Hero Bread and use my code CRYSTAL for a great deal: www.hero.co* Check out Seed : https://seed.com/CRYSTALAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

I am beyond thrilled to chat with today's guest who is actually a threepeat guest, Jeannie Cunnion! Jeannie is back in the studio to talk about her new devotional book, Closer to God: A 40-day Pursuit of God's Personal Presence. If you know Jeannie's work, then you know that her writing is anything but superficial. She has a remarkable ability to push us deeper into our relationship with the Lord, and this new devotional promises just that - no fluff, only profound questions that challenge and inspire us to grow closer to God.In this episode, Jeannie shares her journey, drawing from her previous book Don't Miss Out, which explores the vital role of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Her new devotional continues this exploration by guiding us to question "Who is the Holy Spirit?" and "What does true intimacy with God look like?" These are just a few of the 40 questions which she discusses, ultimately designed to stir our spirits and deepen our hunger for a more vibrant life with God.Jeannie also opens up about overcoming barriers to intimacy with God such as resisting the Holy Spirit or being caught in a performance mindset with God. She emphasizes the freedom and refreshment found in daily repentance and how it cultivates intimacy with God. Jeannie and I also discuss practical ways to practice God's presence in our everyday lives, from washing dishes to carpooling, recognizing that God's presence isn't limited to just extraordinary moments.Whether you're new to Christianity or a long-time believer looking to deepen your relationship with God, this episode offers invaluable insights into making God's presence feel personal and transformative in your daily life, so join us as we dive into these themes and more, and be sure to pick up a copy of Closer to God!In This Episode[0:33] - Jeannie's new devotional book Closer to God challenges readers with deep, reflective questions.[2:48] - The Holy Spirit stirs a deeper hunger for God within us, Jeannie explains.[4:15] - God's presence is for everyday moments, not just mountaintop or valley experiences.[6:47] - Jeannie points out that understanding the Holy Spirit's role removes barriers to intimacy with God.[10:22] - Embracing repentance, rather than performance, helps cultivate closeness with God.[11:24] - Repentance is refreshing and transformative and is not meant for reprimand.[14:15] - Jeannie states that practicing God's presence involves daily conversation and reading His Word.[17:45] - Pursuing holiness by following Jesus invites abundant life and peace.[21:10] - I add that worship and community help us remember God's faithfulness in difficult times.[24:09] - Choosing God in daily moments leads to strength and hope.[27:50] - I observe how faith grows through cultivating intimacy, repentance, and obedience.Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineThe Crystal Paine Show - 3. The Secret to Being a Happier MomThe Crystal Paine Show - 136. Don’t Miss Out on This Superpower!BooksCloser to God: A 40-day Pursuit of God’s Personal Presence by Jeannie CunnionDon’t Miss Out: Daring to Believe Life Is Better with the Holy Spirit by Jeannie CunnionSocial 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 [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out BetterHelp: https://betterhelp.com/CRYSTALPAINE* Check out Hero Bread and use my code CRYSTAL for a great deal: www.hero.co* Check out Seed : https://seed.com/CRYSTALAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

We have quite the special treat for you in this episode, dear listeners! You are not going to believe what I discovered about Jesse after over two decades of knowing each other. Our morning school drop-off routine turned into a shocking revelation when I accidentally wore his contact lenses instead of mine and was baffled when everything was still blurry after putting them in, thinking my eyesight had dramatically worsened!It turns out, though, that Jesse has a very mild prescription. This explained so much about his casual attitude towards wearing glasses, and it even surprised our kids who, thankfully, inherited his good eyesight!We also dive into some really fun listener feedback, with one of you pointing out a little slip-up I made in a previous episode about “cows” vs. “beef.” It stirs up a delightful discussion between Jesse and me about all things beef and cattle-related, both hilarious and enlightening!Our family plans also took an unexpected turn recently when a storm rescheduled Silas’s baseball tournament, clashing with our trip to Silver Dollar City. We had to split up the family, but despite the unpredictability, both groups had fantastic experiences. Jesse and the boys had a baseball bonding weekend, and I got some precious time with the girls and their boyfriends. It was a great reminder that even the best-laid plans can lead to beautiful memories!We also, of course, touch on early voting and how the ways that we we include our kids in these civic duties is so important; it has, after all, been so incredibly heartwarming to see how invested Kathrynne has become in politics! We hope that you will tune in for some personal stories, a bit of laughter, and lots of heart-to-heart chats and that you enjoy this episode!In This Episode[0:35] - Hear how I recently discovered that Jesse has a very weak eyeglasses prescription.[3:25] - Jesse has been wearing largely unnecessary glasses since his teens, avoiding stronger prescriptions.[6:11] - I have dealt with astigmatism and have learned left-right confusion impacts my eye doctor visits.[7:30] - We share some listener feedback that leads us to realize that Jesse failed to correct my terminology about beef.[10:23] - Does the age of cows affect meat quality? Jesse clarifies that old equals tough![11:06] - A listener suggests roasting beets, and I recount a fire alarm causing the arrival of a fire truck.[13:46] - Hear a story from a listener about a fireproof deep freeze keeping rotten meat safe after a wildfire.[15:33] - I talk about a Silver Dollar City family trip with the older girls' boyfriends, which proved wonderful.[16:54] - Hurricanes rescheduled a baseball tournament, leading to special family weekends and a successful trip![19:08] - I enjoyed creating special memories with Kierstyn during a crowded but delightful park visit![21:05] - We voted early recently due to past long lines.[23:19] - Even though I enjoy politics, I have avoided running for office due to past stressful experiences.[26:04] - Kathrynne is politically active and has received many unexpected opportunities.[27:36] - Jesse discusses how Kathrynne took anxiety-filled steps into political involvement, which led to personal growth.[28:18] - I recount how Kathrynne gained confidence from a challenging training experience, opening new opportunities.[31:04] - Jesse explains that we encourage our kids to step out of their comfort zones and know their values.[31:28] - I am very supportive of Kathrynne's small steps as character-building for future opportunities!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 [email protected] Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

One of our big goals for 2024 was to go on an overnighter just the two of us (Jesse and me) — something we hadn’t done in 5ish years!! We weren’t sure if we were going to be able to make it work with all the moving parts it would require, but WE DID IT a few weeks ago.It was the best trip and, in this episode, we share all about it -- why we chose NYC, how we did this trip on a budget, and how the trip more than exceeded our expectations!We discuss why this trip was so special, from navigating the city’s public transportation to making use of loyalty points for our hotel right in the heart of Times Square. The city was bustling, the weather was perfect, and Central Park on a Sunday afternoon was such a fun experience!We packed so much into 36 hours, from exploring Fifth Avenue to enjoying a meal at the boathouse overlooking a beautiful pond, and for the first time in years, we truly and fully relaxed. It was so good for our souls!This trip wasn’t just a getaway; it was a reminder of how important it is to prioritize our marriage and ourselves, so join us as we look back on this unforgettable trip and share some tips for anyone planning a quick yet meaningful escape to the Big Apple!In This Episode[0:35] - I am excited for Jesse and I to be talking about our recent trip to NYC![1:32] - Jesse discusses a nonfiction book called The Pledge to America by Drago Dzieran, which details the author's experiences with socialism and immigration.[4:33] - I discuss the book From Strength to Strength by Arthur C. Brooks, which focuses on success and happiness in later life.[9:09] - Inspired by an airport meal, I share how I discovered I enjoy fresh beets.[12:17] - We also laugh about me wanting to have chickens -- only they need to be noiseless and invisible and not need any care! :)[15:06] - All about our trip to NYC.[18:29] - Jesse describes previous short trips to NYC and navigating public transportation with family.[20:19] - I share NYC's cost-effective options for couples and advise against using public transportation if you're alone at night.[22:28] - How we got our hotel for free -- right in the heart of Times Square.[25:26] - We really appreciated uninterrupted time together![27:26] - I express gratitude and reflect on the smooth return trip amidst a busy Prime Week and hurricane concerns.[30:01] - The kids successfully managing at home during our trip was also incredibly reassuring![31:58] - Jesse experiences relaxation and health benefits from the New York City trip.Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineBooksThe Pledge to America: One Man’s Journey from Political Prisoner to U.S. Navy SEAL by Drago Dzieran1984 by George OrwellAnimal Farm by George OrwellSlow Productivity: The Lost Art of Accomplishment Without Burnout by Cal NewportFrom Strength to Strength: Finding Success, Happiness, and Deep Purpose in the Second Half of Life by Arthur C. BrooksSocial 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 [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out BetterHelp and use my code CRYSTALPAINE for a great deal: www.betterhelp.com* Check out Hero Bread and use my code CRYSTAL for a great deal: www.hero.co* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: www.ixl.com* Check out Seed and use my code 25CRYSTAL for a great deal: seed.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

I am so excited to be welcoming back a repeat guest this episode - Jennifer Pepito! Jennifer is the author of Habits for a Sacred Home: 9 Practices From History to Anchor and Restore Modern Families, and I have had the privilege of reading her insightful book which really resonated with me and challenged my perspective on family life! Jennifer brings a wealth of experience, having homeschooled her seven children for 27 years, today, listen as we talk about the joys and challenges of motherhood especially as her children transition into adulthood.We explore the significance of establishing habits that create a peaceful home environment and the importance of being present with our kids, even as they grow independent. Jennifer shares her thoughts on finding balance, letting go of perfectionism, and nurturing our children's development in a chaotic world, emphasizing the need for mothers to have a solid sense of identity rooted in faith which allows them to be more relaxed and attentive.Throughout the conversation, Jennifer also offers practical advice on creating daily routines that encourage connection and joy within the family, and we touch on the delicate balance between guiding our children and allowing them the freedom to learn from their experiences!Whether you’re navigating the early years of parenting or facing the challenges of raising teens, this episode is packed with wisdom and encouragement, so please join Jennifer and me as we discover how small, intentional changes can lead to significant growth for both moms and their families!In This Episode[0:35] - I welcome back repeat guest Jennifer Pepito!​​[1:24] - Jennifer reveals that she has seven children and finds writing Habits for a Sacred Home grounding despite chaos.[4:26] - It's important to recognize both losses and gains when transitioning through life stages.[5:36] - Jennifer advises young moms to focus on their identity and being present with their children.[8:19] - Parenting teens requires maintaining values and visualizing positive outcomes for them.[11:21] - Jennifer emphasizes showing grace without compromising values when children make choices that conflict with beliefs.[14:48] - Younger moms should accept imperfection and focus on consistency and joy in parenting.[17:59] - After experiencing a gap between older and younger kids, I have recognized the need for intentional routines.[19:33] - Jennifer reflects on older kids caring for younger ones and emphasizes the importance of being committed to faithfulness.[22:12] - Crystal highlights the benefits of having a morning routine that starts the day positively and intentionally.[24:48] - Jennifer's book connects Saint Benedict's rules to impactful historical women such as Edith Schaeffer and their ordinary lives.[27:29] - I recall a lesson from a book about creating beauty in small ways to bring stability to chaotic lives.[29:32] - Jennifer finds peace amidst chaos by reflecting on Psalm 37 and trusting God for better times ahead.[32:25] - I really appreciate the hope in Jennifer's book!Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineThe Crystal Paine Show - 180. Why You Should Read Aloud with Your KidsBooksHabits for a Sacred Home: 9 Practices from History to Anchor and Restore Modern Families (Helping Moms Experience Peace & Return to Simple Daily Rhythms from Historic Christians like St. Benedict) by Jennifer PepitoSelfish Reasons To Have More Kids by Bryan CaplanThe Hidden Art of Homemaking by Edith SchaefferSocial 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 [email protected] Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Join us this week as I discuss my recent 43rd birthday! In this week’s episode, I’m diving into my recent birthday reflections, the wisdom I've gained from embracing my wrinkles, and the unexpected lessons from our recent freezer incident. After celebrating turning 43, I've been contemplating the importance of aging and how every wrinkle tells a unique story about my journey, family, and faith.While our freezer mishap felt like a significant inconvenience, it pales in comparison to the challenges faced by those affected by Hurricane Helene. I share insights from my sister’s harrowing experience during the flood, where her neighborhood was cut off from the outside world for days. It highlighted the importance of emergency preparedness and community support in times of crisis, prompting me to rethink what it truly means to be prepared for unexpected events.We also discuss the value of having emergency supplies, such as non-perishable food, water, and cash on hand. These practical tips are vital, especially when local services are disrupted. Amidst this serious conversation, I share some lighter moments, including a humorous driving mishap that served as a reminder of my tendency to handle challenges alone. Tune in as we navigate through both the significant and the trivial, weaving in heartfelt stories and valuable lessons that encourage us to embrace life’s uncertainties with grace and preparedness. Join me on this journey of self-reflection and community resilience!In This Episode[0:54] - Reflecting on birthday goals, I compare personal challenges with greater ones like Hurricane Helene.[2:57] - Hear how my sister's neighborhood's struggles with isolation and resourcefulness during a flood.[5:14] - I emphasize the importance of emergency preparedness, including having cash and non-perishable food.[7:33] - I share community resilience stories after crises and listener responses to our freezer incident.[11:21] - We once lost milk due to a freezer cleanout, and I discuss insurance for food spoilage.[13:26] - Listen as I share a funny story about struggling with parking and reflect on self-reliance lessons.[16:24] - I recount having scratched my car in the garage and learning about asking for help when needed.[19:20] - I reflect on lessons learned from mishaps and encourage seeking help and being spiritually open.[21:45] - I turned 43 recently, and I embrace aging as a gift.[23:39] - I have set ambitious goals for reading and unplugged hours as part of my focus on health.[25:23] - In addition, I strive to limit phone use and read more, aiming for better bedtime habits.[27:28] - I am so excited about my goals for the coming year and invite you to share your stories!Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineBooksThe Unplugged Hours: Cultivating a Life of Presence in a Digitally Connected World by Hannah BrencherSocial 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 [email protected] Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

I am so thrilled to have sat down with Meghan Ryan Asbury for this episode, author of the book You Are Not Behind: Building a Life You Love Without Having Everything You Want! This conversation is so close to my heart because it addresses a feeling that we all encounter: the sense of inadequacy that can stem from our lives not aligning with societal expectations or the seemingly perfect lives that we see on social media. Listen as Meghan shares her journey of writing this book during a pivotal time when her own life felt anything but perfect.Meghan and I discuss the detrimental impact of comparison and how it permeates our thoughts and influences our sense of self-worth. Her insights resonate deeply, especially when she reminds us that the grass isn't always greener on the other side. We explore the importance of recognizing our unique journeys and the necessity of grieving lost hopes, which can ultimately lead us to greater healing.Whether you’re in your twenties, thirties, forties, or beyond, this episode offers wisdom for anyone feeling behind in life. Meghan encourages us to embrace our current season, invest in community, and cultivate gratitude amidst the chaos! If you are tired of feeling like you aren't measuring up or if you’re seeking a renewed perspective on your journey, then this conversation is definitely for you! I so appreciate Meghan’s vulnerability and honesty in this book and believe that you will as well, so be sure to grab a copy!In This Episode[0:35] - I am talking today with Meghan Ryan Asbury, author of the book You Are Not Behind.​​[1:51] - Meghan's book journey began by questioning why people feel behind despite societal expectations.[4:28] - I reflect on my chaotic life with gratitude and realize that the book is relevant for all ages.[6:42] - Comparison, worsened by social media, is a root cause of feeling behind.[9:46] - Hear how Meghan's relationship with God evolved, challenging her belief that obedience guarantees happiness.[11:50] - Meghan accepts that the Bible defines good as singleness, suffering, and poverty, not the American Dream.[13:16] - Coping mechanisms for happiness only work temporarily.[16:41] - It's so important to allow yourself to grieve so that you can heal.[19:37] - Meghan holds both pain and hope together, trusting God's promises despite feeling disappointed.[22:28] - Meghan finds hope in God's promise to make all things new and comfort her pain.[25:31] - Community, argues Meghan, helps combat feelings of being behind by fostering connection and healing.[27:21] - Vulnerability and effort lead to meaningful connections, even in different life seasons.[29:37] - Meghan trusts that God will provide and rejects a scarcity mindset when comparing to others.[32:42] - Meghan reflects on past choices, trusting God's faithfulness while living fully and hoping for the future.Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineBooksYou Are Not Behind: Building a Life You Love Without Having Everything You Want by Meghan Ryan AsburySocial 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 [email protected] Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Join Jesse and I this week as we bring you a mix of newsy updates and intriguing tidbits that spark some lively discussions! We reflect on Jesse's recent 44th birthday, diving into how the world has changed since he was born at just 27 weeks. The advancements in technology are astounding, and I can't wait to hear your thoughts on this!We also explore the fun topic of birthday candles. Did your family recycle them? This light-hearted conversation spirals into a discussion about frugality and the limits some of us draw in our quest to save money. I invite you to write in with your own thoughts because I am curious: are there things that you would never do just to save a buck? I’ll share my own frugality lines, and I would love to hear yours!I also have some exciting updates from our InsideTracker experience, including a tip about vitamin D that could change the game for Jesse, and as an added bonus, I share my excitement about a highly anticipated book that I just picked up from the library - Kristin Hannah’s novel The Women. I also provide some updates on my thoughts on Hannah Brencher’s The Unplugged Hours, which I mentioned last episode. Tune in as we discuss these topics and more, and, again, please be sure to share your thoughts on our discussions because we are eager to hear from you!In This Episode[0:35] - This episode touches upon various updates.[1:53] - I spark a discussion about reusing birthday candles based on a meme I shared on Instagram.[3:57] - After having glued a birthday candle back together, I reflect on when frugality goes too far.[6:13] - Are there people who enjoy spending money?[9:24] - Hear about Jesse's premature birth story.[11:29] - Jesse was in the NICU for a couple of months and later developed lung and eye issues due to his premature birth.[13:12] - Gaining weight was difficult for Jesse, now similar to Silas.[15:47] - A listener suggests that Jesse take vitamin K2 with vitamin D.[17:42] - Under doctor’s care, slow-release iron with vitamin C aids absorption.[19:28] - Hear about how, excited about a tax refund, Jesse and I once bought meat from a local farm.[22:46] - Our freezer stopped, resulting in spoiled meat upon our return from a trip![24:52] - We had to refreeze everything, which worsened the smell, and eventually gave the freezer away.[26:29] - I recently got The Women by Kristin Hannah from the library and am excited to read it![27:49] - The Unplugged Hours by Hannah Brencher challenges readers to stay unplugged for 1,000 hours.[29:44] - I often feel distracted by political news, and The Unplugged Hours has inspired me to limit my phone usage habits.[32:37] - My goal includes unplugged time throughout the day.Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineInsideTrackerInstagram Post About Birthday CandlesInstagram Post of Newborn JesseInstagram Reel with Hannah BrencherBooksThe Women: A Novel by Kristin HannahThe Unplugged Hours: Cultivating a Life of Presence in a Digitally Connected World by Hannah BrencherSocial 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 [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out BetterHelp: betterhelp.com/CRYSTALPAINE* Check out ByHeart and use my code CRYSTAL for a great deal: byheart.com* Check out Hero Bread and use my code CRYSTAL for a great deal: www.hero.co* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: www.ixl.com/TODAY* Check out Outdoor Electronics: feathersnapcam.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Welcome to this week’s episode where, as teased last week, Jesse and I discuss our latest experience with InsideTracker! If you’re at all curious about how a detailed bloodwork panel could impact your health, you’re in the right place! InsideTracker offers a comprehensive look into your body’s inner workings through a massive panel of blood tests, providing customized recommendations to improve your well-being.Listen as Jesse and I share our second round of results with InsideTracker, what’s changed since our first test, and what we’ve learned along the way. We discuss the surprising insights and actionable advice we received, from dietary adjustments to lifestyle changes, and how these recommendations have shaped our daily routines!We also, of course, touch upon some fascinating books that we have been reading, including but not limited to Through the Eyes of a Lion by Levi Lesko and The Warrior Poet Way by John Lovell, and why he found it compelling. Listen in to hear about our personal health journeys, the impact of InsideTracker’s recommendations, and our reflections on these enriching reads! If you’re interested in exploring InsideTracker or similar health evaluations, or if you’ve tried other services, I’d love to hear your experiences, so please feel free to reach out!In This Episode[0:35] - Jesse and I are talking all about our experiences with InsideTracker this week![1:32] - I recommend reading Through the Eyes of a Lion, a powerful book by Levi Lesko.[4:09] - Hear me tease Jesse about his phone usage and joke about his age-related cognitive decline![6:53] - Jesse shares how The Warrior Poet Way by John Lovell offers lessons on fatherhood and leadership.[9:15] - Jesse emphasizes the importance of preparation, sharing insights from the Navy SEAL book The Pledge to America.[11:46] - We move into discussing InsideTracker, with Jesse explaining that it's a tool for tracking health metrics and optimizing personal wellness plans.[12:59] - Hear how InsideTracker offers various testing options, including a full panel and home kits.[14:42] - I discuss the affordability of health tests compared to holistic doctor visits and highlight my own cortisol findings.[17:53] - After discovering elevated cortisol levels, I made some lifestyle changes such as more outdoor time and better sleep.[20:04] - I have overall improved my sleep habits and diet, focusing on reducing stress and feeling better overall.[22:14] - I recount retaking the test a year later to compare progress and track health improvements.[23:12] Jesse describes how InsideTracker’s optimized range helps him identify areas to work on beyond normal results.[24:07] - I highlight the app’s daily recommendations like olive oil, high-intensity workouts, and sunshine.[27:47] - Hear how the test revealed my anemia, leading to dietary recommendations focused on iron and sleep.[29:41] - I commit to eating red meat daily, acknowledging its effectiveness in working against my anemia.[31:29] - I discuss dairy and bean intake suggestions from my results and invite feedback from listeners on similar programs!Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineInsideTrackerBooksThrough the Eyes of a Lion: Facing Impossible Pain, Finding Incredible Power by Levi LuskoThe Unplugged Hours: Cultivating a Life of Presence in a Digitally Connected World by Hannah BrencherThe Pledge to America: One Man’s Journey from Political Prisoner to U.S. Navy SEAL by Drago DzieranThe Warrior Poet Way: A Guide to Living Free and Dying Well by John LovellSocial 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 [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out BetterHelp: betterhelp.com/CRYSTALPAINE* Check out ByHeart and use my code CRYSTAL for a great deal: byheart.com* Check out Hero Bread and use my code CRYSTAL for a great deal: www.hero.co* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: www.ixl.com/TODAY* Check out Outdoor Electronics: feathersnapcam.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Welcome back! Listen in this week for a crazy story as Jesse and I take you behind the scenes of our recent adventure-packed week! We have been to a staggering SEVEN states in just NINE days, and I am so excited to share the chaos and joy that followed!From attending the CrossFit Games to exploring NYC, we have certainly had our fair share of logistical challenges and unforgettable moments, and we start by discussing the CrossFit Games, where our daughter's boyfriend RJ competed. It was a thrilling experience, and you will hear all about the highs and lows of cheering him on through a grueling series of events!I also recount the heartwarming and sometimes nerve-wracking moments of traveling with our kids, including their interactions with family and the surprising ease with which our youngest adapted to being away from home! After our CrossFit adventure, I also had the chance to jet off to New York City for a brief but magical trip. From Central Park’s beauty to the glamor of Fifth Avenue, I take you through the highlights of my NYC excursion and how it felt to step into a world so different from our usual routine!You will also definitely want to stay tuned until the very end of the episode for a sneak peek at our next episode in which we will be diving into the results of our recent InsideTracker blood test and explore some new breakfast ideas that we have been loving!In This Episode[0:35] - Jesse and I are recounting a busy week traveling to seven states, visiting CrossFit Games with our daughter Kaitlynn's boyfriend, RJ![3:54] - RJ is a skilled CrossFit athlete who reached the games by excelling through various competition stages.[5:47] - To attend the CrossFit games, we arranged complex travel plans, splitting family members across different flights and destinations.[7:08] - Hear how returning home involved challenges and uncertainties, but we managed to find good deals and made it work![9:24] - Leaving our younger children behind was hard, but we had a great time, and the kids adjusted well with grandparents' care.[12:01] - Despite being small, David handled the plane well, enjoying interactions with other passengers and having fun with beach balls at the event![14:01] - I discuss how the CrossFit staff was supportive and accommodating towards David.[17:47] - Jesse and I explain CrossFit for those unfamiliar with it.[20:09] - I really enjoyed seeing RJ's different sides, particularly his ability to compete while unwell and his interactions with our family.[21:19] - Jesse shares how we enjoyed their time with RJ's family and how the kids interacted like siblings.[22:40] - The competition brought together diverse nationalities, with 29 countries represented.[24:18] - I was moved by the athletes’ live streams and their supporters back home.[27:12] - After picking up the kids, I drove back and then flew to New York for a friend's award ceremony, enjoying LaGuardia’s unique atmosphere.[30:55] - Hear how, in New York City, I was amazed by Central Park's size and the vibrant local activity.[33:14] - I enjoyed a picturesque lunch at a famous boathouse in Central Park and felt that the experience was worth the high cost.[35:39] - While walking down Fifth Avenue, I admired the upscale stores and wondered about the clientele who shop there regularly.[37:36] - I stayed at a luxurious hotel in Times Square, feeling out of place among the well-dressed guests.[39:20] - The next episode will cover our Insidetracker blood test results and introduce a free breakfast ideas guide!Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineCrossFit GamesInsideTrackerSocial 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 [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out BetterHelp: betterhelp.com/CRYSTALPAINE* Check out ByHeart and use my code CRYSTAL for a great deal: byheart.com* Check out ByHeart and use my code CRYSTAL for a great deal: byheart.com* Check out Hero Bread and use my code CRYSTAL for a great deal: www.hero.co* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: www.ixl.com/TODAY* Check out Outdoor Electronics: feathersnapcam.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands