Juggling Life, Finding Balance Podcast with Vivian Cumins

Empowered by Purpose: Becoming the Strong Step-Mom God Called You to Be | Ep. 022

Have you ever wondered what it truly means to step into the role of a stepmom with grace, purpose, and divine calling? In this heartfelt episode, Vivian sits down with Jen Rogers to unpack the joys and challenges of becoming a stepmom in a blended family. Drawing from both of their personal experiences, Jen and Vivian offer a candid look at the rollercoaster ride of stepparenting, addressing everything from imposter syndrome to dealing with defiant children and difficult exes. Jen shares her inspiring journey from feeling like an outsider to embracing her role as a "bonus mom" with confidence and faith. Through this conversation, you'll find practical advice, spiritual encouragement, and a reminder that you're not alone in your stepmom journey. Whether you're a seasoned stepmom or just starting out, this episode offers valuable insights on how to thrive in your calling, build strong family bonds, and find your unique place in God's plan for your blended family. Join Jen and Vivian as they explore the path to becoming the strong stepmom God has called you to be.
GUEST BIO
 
On the brink of a failing marriage after becoming a stepmom and blending families with her new husband, Jen knew she had to choose – her way or God’s way. Since her way wasn’t working, she decided to dive deep into God’s Word to find answers. 
 
Jen Rogers is an inspirational speaker, a Certified Professional Life Coach, and a podcast host. She inspires women throughout the world to remove the shackles of “should” and “shame” to experience the strength, confidence, and boldness that comes from embracing the empowerment of the Holy Spirit. Through years of experience as a stepmom, Jenn helps other stepmoms thrive by conquering imposter syndrome so they can stop wrestling with things out of their control and go from burnt out, to in love, with their lives.
 
Jen is also a recovered certified public accountant who helps startup Christian women entrepreneurs leverage resources so they can stop running around with their hair on fire and have time for the people, places, and play they treasure most. Jen’s taken all she’s gleaned from corporate, her epic resign-firing, and her Stepmama role, squishing them together with love, as she pivoted her podcast and work to Time To Simplify. When she’s not helping others launch a podcast (or coaching Stepmamas on the side), she’s speaking on stages about creating more time each day through leveraging the power of gratitude, planning, creative connections, and secrets of highly successful women entrepreneurs.
 
Website: https://coachjenrogers.com
https://coachjenrogers.com/launchyourpodcast
Facebook: https://facebook.com/jenrogers.thejenrogers
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/thejenrogers
POWERFUL QUOTES
 
"If you want to thrive in your journey, just adopt the spirit of curiosity." - Jen Rogers
 
“The family that you're in right now, no matter how many families you've been in, you've never been in this family before. Never. So you're always learning." - Jen Rogers
 
CONNECT WITH VIVIAN
Website: https://viviancumins.com
Facebook: https://facebook.com/viviancumins2
Instagram: https://instagram.com/viviancumins
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@JugglingLifeFindingBalance
Apple & Spotify (Smartlink): https://link.chtbl.com/JugglingLifeFindingBalance
TikTok:  https://tiktok.com/@viviancumins 
MemoryBlogger Website: https://memoryblogger.com 

Beauty Treatments, Transitions, and Poop - Oh My! | Ep. 021

This week’s Sister Talk with Viv & Becca is packed with all sorts of fun and the sharing of  secrets - like our costly and up close and personal beauty treatments, ‘poop’ petitions, and the unexpected ways prayers get answered. We also dive into the real struggles of transitioning to a new state, building a social circle in unfamiliar surroundings, managing the work-from-home lifestyle, and maintaining long-distance family bonds.
 
I believe there are three pillars to living an abundant, well-balanced life: God first, self-care, and good old-fashioned fun! That is what the Sister Talk with Viv & Becca segment is all about. We are just two Oklahoma gals with a unique bond and passion for storytelling and encouraging women to embrace every season of life. 
 
There is something for everyone in this segment and we guarantee you’ll find a topic that will put a smile on your face. So, grab your headphones and coffee and join us for some sister talk!
 
CO-HOSTS:
 
VIVIAN CUMINS
Vivian Cumins is a writer, speaker, and host of the Juggling Life, Finding Balance Podcast. She is also an Oklahoma native, a career professional, a military spouse, a stepmom to two adult kids, and a “Glammy” to five grandkids. Although her name means “LIVELY” Vivian admits she has not always felt lively. Her need to be perfect and in control led to an unbalanced lifestyle filled with work, self-inflicted stress and illness, depression, and anxiety.
 
In 2020, after years of striving and mental exhaustion, Vivian rededicated her life to the Lord and vowed to relinquish control and submit to God’s will. Her newfound faith and commitment were immediately put to the test when she had to trust God to provide healing from stage 3 melanoma. Though this was a difficult time, Vivian claims she would not change a thing. That ‘wilderness’ season, she says, delivered her from a prideful spirit, set her free from captivity, and taught her how to give up control and trust God, embrace imperfection, and recognize, then recalibrate, the unbalance in her life. Today, Vivian not only shares her testimony of preparation and deliverance, but she also provides valuable lessons and helpful tips for actively seeking balance, which starts with making time for God, taking care of yourself, and sprinkling in some good old-fashioned fun
 
BECCA ROBINSON
Becca is married to her best friend of over 26 years; they have been blessed with three children,
three granddaughters, a bonus daughter (daughter-in-law), and a bonus son (son-in-law). She is a writer and co-host of the SisterTalk with Viv & Becca special edition of the Juggling Life, Finding Balance Podcast. 
 
Over seventeen years ago, her husband joined the Army and gave Becca the honorable title of “military spouse.” Although Becca has a career in health care, she loves being an Army wife and volunteering and mentoring military spouses. Becca also loves to laugh and meet new people. It has been said she makes friends wherever she goes. 
 
CONNECT WITH BECCA
Facebook: https://facebook.com/kbaarobinson
MemoryBlogger website: https://memoryblogger.com 
CONNECT WITH VIVIAN
Website: https://viviancumins.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/viviancumins2
Instagram: https://instagram.com/viviancumins
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JugglingLifeFindingBalance
TikTok:  https://tiktok.com/@viviancumins
Apple & Spotify (Smartlink): https://link.chtbl.com/JugglingLifeFindingBalance
MemoryBlogger website: https://memoryblogger.com

A Beautiful Disaster: Jenna’s Fight to Reform Assault Laws | Ep. 020

Jenna Nelson is a tenacious, persistent advocate whose journey from trauma survivor to legislative change-maker exudes bravery and grit. 
In this episode, Jenna opens up about her experience reporting abuse and the obstacles she faced in seeking justice. We'll discuss how she channeled her pain into purpose, leading to the creation of House Bill 247, which extends the statute of limitations for reporting sex crimes. Whether you're facing your own struggles or looking to make a difference, this conversation will show you how courage and persistence can truly change lives. 
GUEST BIO:
Jenna Nelson, a resilient single mother of three, including a son with special needs and boy/girl twins, has transformed personal tragedy into a powerful force for change. Despite the demands of family and work, Jenna neglected self-care, leading to a bout of depression and suicidal thoughts. Seeking help through her church, she confronted a long-buried trauma: sexual abuse she had endured as a teenager. Seventeen years after the abuse, Jenna broke her silence. This act of courage became the catalyst for her advocacy work. She spearheaded a legislative bill in Utah that extended the statute of limitations for reporting sex crimes against minors, becoming a fierce champion for survivors.
 
Jenna's path has been fraught with challenges, fear, and turmoil. As a new Christian, she struggled to find guidance but ultimately discovered her voice and strength. Despite being unable to hold her abuser legally accountable due to existing laws, she channeled her energy into creating change for others. Her tireless efforts included persistent communication with the Attorney General's office, state legislators, county prosecutors, and police.
 
The unanimous passage of her bill in the Utah State Legislature marked a significant victory, but it didn't end Jenna's fight. She has expanded her advocacy across the nation, confronting attorneys, state representatives, and even victims' advocates who fall short in supporting sexual assault survivors. Her recent work in Texas exemplifies her ongoing commitment. Throughout her journey of healing and advocacy, Jenna attributes her strength and success to her faith in God. Her story is a testament to the power of resilience, faith, and the impact one voice can have in creating meaningful change for many. In every step she credits God.
 
RESOURCES
 
The RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline – Confidential 24/7 Support
1-800-656-4673 | https://rainn.org/resources
 
The National Sexual Violence Resource Center 
https://nsvrc.org/about/national-sexual-violence-resource-center
 
SEEK ASSISTANCE THROUGH ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
* Call 911
* Any Hospital
* Police Department
* Local government entities, such as City Hall (seek out victims’ advocates) 
* Churches
* State's Attorney's office or Attorney General's office
 
NEWSPAPER ARTICLES/LEGISLATURE
 
Salt Lake Tribune Newspaper
Legislature Oks sexual assault statute of limitations billMarch 23, 2020
https://sltrib.com/news/2020/03/23/legislature-oks-sexual
 
Standard-Examiner Newspaper
Threatened into silence: Bill would expand statute of limitations for some sex crimes  
https://shorturl.at/k8cRm
 
Standard-Examiner Newspaper
Sex crimes statute of limitations bill survives challenge in Utah Senate committee
https://shorturl.at/PfMSW
 
Deseret News Newspaper
Utah bill to expand statute of limitations for sex with a minor clears first hurdle 
February 22, 2020
https://shorturl.at/o1fx9
 
Utah State Legislature – House Bill 0247
Unlawful Sexual Activity Statute of Limitations Amendment
https://le.utah.gov/~2020/bills/static/HB0247.html
 
POWERFUL QUOTES FROM JENNA
 
“Ultimately, this bill (HB247) will never help my case. Never. But it’s going to help people moving forward. And that’s really what I was after.”
 
“Seek God’s guidance and seek his strength and his comfort. God is there, even in our mess. Actually, especially in our mess. And He’s not going to fail you.”
 
CONNECT WITH VIVIAN
Website: https://viviancumins.com
Facebook: https://facebook.com/viviancumins2
Instagram: https://instagram.com/viviancumins
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@JugglingLifeFindingBalance
Apple & Spotify (Smartlink): https://link.chtbl.com/JugglingLifeFindingBalance
TikTok:  https://tiktok.com/@viviancumins 
MemoryBlogger Website: https://memoryblogger.com 

Mom Goals: Discovering the Ideal Work From Home Career | Ep. 019

This week, I'm excited to reconnect with my friend Amy Arthur and discuss her remarkable journey from skepticism to deep faith and how our time together in Germany influenced her path. Amy's story is a testament to the unexpected ways faith can shape our lives.
Amy is a mom of five, managing a busy life on a Wisconsin beef farm while also working as a Christian life coach. In today’s episode, Amy dives into her practical strategies for balancing work, faith, and family, including her approach to finding meaningful work-from-home opportunities. If you’re balancing a busy schedule and want to align your career with your values and passions from the comfort of your home, then stop what you are doing and listen to this episode!
GUEST BIO
 
Amy is on a mission to empower Christian moms like you to discover fulfilling work-from-home opportunities. Her journey into coaching stems from her experience as a stay-at-home mom for sixteen years. Nestled on a small farm in rural Wisconsin, her transition from a career woman to motherhood was both challenging and rewarding, having five children in six years. This journey inspired her commitment to guiding women in finding their ideal at-home careers while prioritizing faith and family. As a certified Christian Life Coach, Amy specializes in empowering women through a transformative roadmap: Find, Follow, Foster, and Focus. Hosting the Christian Work from Home Mom Podcast allows her to share insights, practical tips, and inspirational stories with a broader audience. Whether through personalized coaching, podcast episodes, or engaging with the community on her Facebook group, Amy is dedicated to being a beacon of support for Christian moms navigating the intricate intersection of work, faith, and family. Her coaching is built on loyalty, hard work, and resourcefulness, aiming not just to coach but to be a trusted guide on your empowering journey of work-at-home motherhood.
Website:  https://amyjarthur.com
Podcast: https://amyjarthur.com/podcast
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/AmyjArthurcoaching
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amyjarthurcoaching
 
BONUS PODCAST!
Christian Work From from Home Mom
https://shorturl.at/V3Qys
Special Guest: Vivian Cumins
Episode 14: Finding Balance: Letting Go of Perfectionism and Control in Your Work-from-Home Journey
POWERFUL QUOTE FROM AMY:
“If you are a busy mom at home please don’t be too hard on yourself if you can’t open your bible, just try to open it for a little bit. And as your kids grow up and get more independent you will be able to spend more time with God.”
CONNECT WITH VIVIAN
Website: https://viviancumins.com
Facebook: https://facebook.com/viviancumins2
Instagram: https://instagram.com/viviancumins
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@JugglingLifeFindingBalance
Apple & Spotify (Smartlink): https://link.chtbl.com/JugglingLifeFindingBalance
TikTok:  https://tiktok.com/@viviancumins 
MemoryBlogger Website: https://memoryblogger.com 

Family Flight Plan: Navigating the Journey to an Empty Nest | Ep. 018

Please welcome this week’s guest, Marci Seither, mother of six and author of Empty Nest: Strategies to Help Your Kids Take Flight, to discuss the empty nest transition. In this episode, we explore the often unexpected emotional impact when children leave home and offer practical advice for navigating this change.
Our conversation covers how the departure affects the entire family, including younger siblings who remain at home, and the shift it brings to marital relationships. Whether you're anticipating or currently experiencing an empty nest, this episode provides honest discussion and encouragement. We'll examine how faith can guide us through this new life stage and discuss ways to approach the changes ahead.
GUEST BIO
Marci Seither's writing career began after her humor article was published in a small-town newspaper; since then, she has authored three books and hundreds of articles for her local paper and has been published in Guideposts, Focus on the Family, and WORLD magazine. Besides writing, she enjoys speaking, photography, creative storytelling, and cherishing time with her grand-cuties. She lives in Tennessee with her husband, John, and two semi-behaved mini-schnauzers.
 
Website: http://www.marciseither.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100065253110172
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marci_seither
Books: https://marciseither.com/books
 
POWERFUL QUOTES FROM MARCI
"There’s a difference between ownership and stewardship of our kids. As parents, we “are not the owner of [our kids], we are the stewards of them.”
 
“You cannot impart what you do not possess. If you want to teach your kids about balance, you’ve got to show it.”
 
“Live in the season you’re in, but think about the season to come.”
 
CONNECT WITH VIVIAN
Website: https://viviancumins.com
Facebook: https://facebook.com/viviancumins2
Instagram: https://instagram.com/viviancumins
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@JugglingLifeFindingBalance
Apple & Spotify (Smartlink): https://link.chtbl.com/JugglingLifeFindingBalance
TikTok:  https://tiktok.com/@viviancumins 
MemoryBlogger Website: https://memoryblogger.com 

Tangible Love: God's First Response to Second Chances | Ep. 017

Join podcast host Vivian Cumins for an authentically candid episode featuring Jennifer Osler-Bolton. In 2016, Jennifer's life changed forever when her husband Ryan, a firefighter, was tragically killed in the line of duty. Ryan’s passing made headlines, forcing Jennifer to grieve a private loss, publicly. She knew everyone was watching how she responded to this tragedy, to include her two children. She vowed to grieve well in order to honor both God and her late husband, Ryan. 
Jennifer and Vivian share a compelling conversation about faith and the plethora of emotions, including anger and confusion that one experiences when faced with the unthinkable. Jennifer shares her powerful testimony of how God prepared her a year before Ryan’s passing through a grief and loss recovery program she reluctantly attended to appease a friend. She reveals how she surrendered to God's plan and ultimately discovered love again with her current husband, Michael. This episode offers raw, moving experiences and Biblical wisdom on trusting God through life's toughest challenges, finding purpose in pain and loss, and honoring loved ones while embracing new chapters. Prepare to be inspired by this beautiful love story.
 
GUEST BIO
Jennifer Osler-Bolton is a wife, widow, mom, and stepmom. After the sudden and tragic death of her firefighter husband, Ryan, Jennifer had to learn how to navigate life with loss while raising two children and finding the balance between grief and hope. Since remarrying her current husband, Michael, and becoming a blended family, Jennifer has discovered that the pain of her grief has become the power of her recovery. Jennifer is also an inspirational speaker and soon-to-be published author.
 
Website: http://.jenniferoslerbolton.com
Instagram: https://instagram.com/jjoslerbolton
Lavender Dahlia Podcast: https://shorturl.at/hiAHX
 
The Grief Recovery Method: https://griefrecoverymethod.com
An action-based, powerful, directed approach to healing from life’s deepest heartbreaks.
 
Grief Specialist Rachelle Jones website:  https://griefrecoverywithrachelle.com
 
In Honor of Ryan Osler: https://firehero.org/fallen-firefighter/ryan-s-osler/
 
POWERFUL QUOTE
"When I choose to trust God, I'm building strength." - Jennifer Osler-Bolton
 
CONNECT WITH VIVIAN
Website: https://viviancumins.com
Facebook: https://facebook.com/viviancumins2
Instagram: https://instagram.com/viviancumins
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@JugglingLifeFindingBalance
Apple & Spotify (Smartlink): https://link.chtbl.com/JugglingLifeFindingBalance
TikTok:  https://tiktok.com/@viviancumins 
MemoryBlogger Website: https://memoryblogger.com 
 

Service Call: Building Community through Military Discipleship | Ep.016

Vivian is joined by Beth Runkle, a prior military spouse who shares her inspiring journey of faith and perseverance. Beth discusses the challenges and joys of military life, emphasizing the need for community and discipleship within this unique context. She and Vivian explore the transformative power of faith, the impact on marriages, and the importance of fostering supportive relationships, particularly for military couples. Beth also shares about her upcoming book, providing encouragement and spiritual insights for military wives. So, grab your headphones and listen to this uplifting and insightful conversation with Beth Runkle.
 
GUEST BIO
Beth is a proud military spouse of 25 years. She began a relationship with Jesus Christ a few years after she wed her military husband after having participated in a Bible Study. Beth and her husband saw their lives and marriage dramatically transformed by Christ and the Biblical blueprint for marriage, and began sharing that information with other military couples. After 25 years, her husband was ready to retire but they weren’t ready to leave gospel-centered ministry to the military behind. So, they joined Cru Military's staff, a Campus Crusade for Christ division, and moved to Colorado. They work as missionaries to the military and are engaged in ministry to cadets at the Air Force Academy and other ministries to couples and women at the 4 military bases in Colorado Springs.  
 
Beth completed a master’s degree from Gateway Seminary to better equip her for leading Bible study with military spouses and women. Beth is also publishing a book for military wives called “Another Move, God? 30 Encouragements to Embrace Your Life as a Military Wife” with B & H Publishing in October of 2024. Beth and her husband have two kids in college.
 
Website: https://bethrunkle.com
Facebook: https://facebook.com/beth.runkle.writes
Instagram: https://instagram.com/beth.runkle.writes
 
Book: Another Move, God? 30 Encouragements to Embrace Your Life as a Military Wife
https://a.co/d/3C1dcYE
 
Free Resource: 10 Tips to Help Your Military Marriage Thrive
https://bethrunkle.com/10tipsforathrivingmilitarymarriage
 
POWERFUL QUOTES
 
"I think all of us should have someone older, and they don’t have to be older in age, just older spiritually, investing in us, but then also someone younger than us that we’re investing in.” - Beth Runkle
 
“If you are a military wife, you have a calling. You matter. God has an assignment for you. Looking around you. There are lonely, desperate people all around you. There are people all around you that are suffering in loneliness.” - Beth Runkle
 
CONNECT WITH VIVIAN
Website: https://viviancumins.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/viviancumins2/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/viviancumins
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JugglingLifeFindingBalance
TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@viviancumins
Apple & Spotify (Smartlink): https://link.chtbl.com/JugglingLifeFindingBalance
Memory Blogger: https://memoryblogger.com

Feisty Faith: Eliminating Excuses & Taking Action | Ep. 015

This is a fun, inspiring interview! Special Guest Lemon Price, shares her remarkable journey from having a turbulent past to becoming a successful podcaster, certified speaker, and mentor for women in business. Her journey is a prime example of what God can do when we obey his prompting and take action! She admits to being a little feisty and argumentative when God called her to various leaps of faith, but she acknowledges the blessings she has experienced and is in awe of the doors he has opened – such as orchestrating not one, but two opportunities for her podcast to be featured in Forbes magazine. 
 
Lemon's radical obedience and unwavering faith will inspire you to step into your purpose. Tune in to hear Lemon's story, her contagious enthusiasm for life, and her wisdom on leadership and faith. It's a conversation you won't want to miss!
 
GUEST BIO
 
Lemon Price is a woman on an inspiring journey encompassing motherhood & entrepreneurship. She ascended to the corporate C-Suite at the remarkable age of 26, orchestrating 8-figure sales for clients. However, a divine calling led her to a profound shift, redirecting her focus toward God’s ministry and purpose. In this transformative chapter, she dedicates herself to empowering women in marketplace ministry, rooted in unwavering faith. 
 
As a certified KIM10 Speaker, Radiant Life, and Leadership Coach, Forbes featured expert, and distinguished 3x Certified Radiant Leader, her commitment extends beyond professional achievements. She stands as a guide, helping women align their endeavors with a higher calling and seamlessly weaving faith into their journeys. Whether navigating the intricate dance of entrepreneurship, the joys of motherhood, or the warmth of companionship, Lemon invites others to join her on this shared journey. Together, they can infuse purpose into work and radiance into life.
 
Website:  https://www.lemonprice.co  
Milk and Honey Podcast with Lemon:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/milk-and-honey-with-lemon-price-become-the/id1665973424 
Facebook:  https://facebook.com/lemoneprice 
Instagram:  https://instagram.com/lemonpriceofficial 
YouTube:  https://youtube.com/@ultimateproverbs31woman 
TikTok:  https://tiktok.com/@faithfueledmamas 
 
POWERFUL QUOTE
"I think about how important it is for us to do the thing that God has called us to do right when he says to do it because I think there’s a reason.” Lemon Price
CONNECT WITH VIVIAN
Website: https://viviancumins.com
Facebook: https://facebook.com/viviancumins2
Instagram: https://instagram.com/viviancumins
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@JugglingLifeFindingBalance
TikTok:  https://tiktok.com/@viviancumins
Apple & Spotify (Smartlink): https://link.chtbl.com/JugglingLifeFindingBalance
MemoryBlogger Website: https://memoryblogger.com