If you've ever felt like you're failing because your house (or your parenting) feels messy, this conversation will feel like a deep exhale. I sat down with Justin Whitmel Earley — author of Habits of the Household, The Common Rule, Made for People, and now The Big Mess — to talk about why the real beauty in parenting often shows up in the chaos. We cover how birth order affects family dynamics, why things in parenthood are messier (and better) than we imagined, and how to make space for our kids (and ourselves) to be exactly who God made us to be—clumsy moments and all. If you're craving encouragement to loosen your grip and love your people well, this one's for you.

Visit CozyEarth.com and use my exclusive code REALTALK for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more. And if you get a post-purchase survey, let them know you heard about Cozy Earth right here.

Justin’s Books:

The Big Mess: https://rstyle.me/+kfjwhk2NdMKXhfAMXKQUmw

Made For People: https://rstyle.me/+DwLoyeCWNODk3YQC8Gsk4g

The Common Rule: https://rstyle.me/+Snp1ih8_H1QaL0DoBkKdHQ

Habits of the Household: https://rstyle.me/+FsSuOWL_9BI-8pfteQ9QoQ

CONNECT FURTHER WITH RACHEL: https://rachelawtrey.com/

SOCIAL MEDIA: https://www.instagram.com/realtalkpodcast https://www.instagram.com/rachel.awtrey/

CONTACT: [email protected]

This video/podcast may contain affiliate links, sponsorships, or products I’ve received for free. I only share things I truly love and think will bring you value. If you purchase through my links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support!

ADVERTISE ON THE SHOW:

To inquire about host-read ads or to become the show’s next Presenting Sponsor, please send an email to [email protected] or those at That Sounds Fun Network.

EPISODE CREDITS:

Podcast Cover Photography: Jay Barr Photography

Production by Phillip and Cait Howard by Amplify Boutique

Intro Music: "Luxurious" by Sunny Tones

DISCLAIMERS:

The views and opinions expressed in each episode are those of the individual contributors and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast host and team or the owner of this Intellectual Property. This podcast is not an authority of legal advice, and listeners are encouraged to seek professional counsel with regard to their brand, business, and otherwise. We all hope you enjoy and find value in each episode.

Many of the product and service promotions in each episode are under the negotiated terms of affiliate or sponsorship agreements. If a link is clicked and a purchase is made, an affiliate commission may be received. However, we recommend products or services that we personally endorse and believe may be beneficial to others. This information is disclosed in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices