Helen Schmid - What Generosity Is All About - S4-Ep. 76

Susan Merrill - Discipling Women Through The Bible Book Club - S4-Ep. 78

Susan Merrill chats with Kim Moeller. Welcome to another inspiring episode of the Generous Girl podcast! In this heartfelt conversation, host Kim sits down with Susan Merrill, Chief Marketing and Program Officer for Family First, author, and co-host of the Bible Book Club podcast. Susan shares how she and her husband Mark, were called to step away from secure careers to build Family First, a ministry dedicated to strengthening families through fatherhood, motherhood, and marriage programs. From surviving a cardiac arrest at age 17 to adopting two children from Russia, Susan's life is a remarkable testimony of obedience, resilience, and faith. Together, Kim and Susan explore the invisible load women carry, the power of reading God's word together in community, and why following your calling, no matter how hard, is a roller coaster you'll never regret. Whether you're in a high season or a low one, you'll walk away encouraged to give your 110% in time, talent, and treasure! Guest's Recommendations: Family First – familyfirst.com All Pro Dad – allprodad.com iMOM – imom.com Bible Book Club Podcast (available on Apple Podcasts and all major platforms) Praying the Scriptures for Your Children by Jodie Berndt Praying the Scriptures for Your Teens by Jodie Berndt Praying the Scriptures for Your Adult Children by Jodie Berndt Marco Polo App – for Bible reading accountability groups Revelation 3:8 Costco Organic Almond Milk (Kim's bargain pick: Trader Joe's, Costco & TJ Maxx!) Outline: (00:00) Introduction – Susan Merrill and the Generous Girl Podcast (02:15) Why Susan and Mark Founded Family First (06:40) From Public Policy to Changing Hearts: The Evolution of Family First (10:55) All Pro Dad Is Born: Tony Dungy and the Power of Fatherhood (14:30) The iMOM Movement and the Invisible Load on Working Mothers (18:45) A National Study on Motherhood and Social Media's Impact (22:10) The Bible Book Club Podcast: Two Million Downloads and Counting (27:00) Reading the Word in Community: The Marco Polo Accountability Method (30:20) Susan's Cardiac Arrest at 17 and Her Near-Death Experience (36:00) Adopting Two Children from Russia: A Roller Coaster of Faith (41:15) Encouragement for Women in Tough Seasons (45:30) Favorite Bible Verse: Revelation 3:8 (47:00) Book Recommendation: Praying the Scriptures by Jodie Berndt (49:10) Bargain Pick and Closing Prayer About the Guest: Susan Merrill is the Chief Marketing and Program Officer for Family First, the faith-based nonprofit organization she co-founded with her husband Mark Merrill over 30 years ago. What began as a desire to invest together in a ministry grew into one of the most impactful family organizations in the country, home to well-known platforms All Pro Dad and iMOM. Susan is also the author of multiple books including The Passionate Mom, Listen to Love By, and From Me to You. A gifted Bible teacher, she co-hosts the Bible Book Club podcast, which has surpassed two million downloads, taking listeners through the entire Bible one book at a time. Married to Mark for 37 years, Susan is the mother of five children, three biological and two adopted from Russia, and the proud grandmother of three. Her life has been shaped by a near-death cardiac arrest at age 17, which left her with an unshakeable conviction that she is here for a purpose, and a pacemaker that reminds her at every checkpoint to keep pressing forward. Susan is based in Tampa, Florida, and is passionate about seeing women embrace generosity with their time, talent, and treasure. Meet the Host: Kim Moeller Kim Moeller is a dynamic Charitable Advisor in Philanthropy CAP® based in sunny San Diego. With a passion for faith, generosity, and living a meaningful life, Kim brings her expertise in financial services, business development, and life coaching to every episode of the Generous Girl podcast. Kim has spent years inspiring others as a women's event speaker, teaching leader, and professional life coach. She employs a unique blend of transparency, depth, humor, and real-life stories to inspire personal growth and significance. She is passionate about celebrating generosity in all forms, whether in faith, family, fitness, finance, or friendship, and thrives on helping women take their next step toward a life of purpose. Known for her talent as a connector, Kim loves introducing women to the people, resources, and ideas they need to know, all while sharing her favorite bargain finds and hot tips. When she's not hosting the podcast, Kim enjoys life as a devoted wife, mom to four grown kids and their spouses, and "dog mom" to her sweet yellow lab, Rey. She finds joy in long beach walks, meaningful conversations, and cheering others on in their journeys of faith and generosity. Join Kim on Generous Girl as she celebrates stories of impact, inspires a spirit of giving, and reminds us all of the incredible power of generosity. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kimmoeller100 Learn more, listen, and subscribe at www.generousgirl.com

Diana Shaw - Women's Voices In The Age of AI - S4-Ep. 77

Diana Shaw chats with Kim Moeller. Welcome to the Generous Girl podcast! Today's guest is Diana Shaw, co-leader of Generosity Bay Area and founder of Opto, an innovative AI financial coaching platform for couples. Diana Shaw shares her journey of navigating marriage and money challenges, and launching a mission to help couples communicate better about finances. We'll also hear about her passion for building communities of generosity, the power of giving time, and why embracing life's seasons—and taboos—can lead to deeper meaning. Get ready for practical insights and inspiring stories on faith, generosity, and everyday courage. Guests Recommendations: Opto Journey of Generosity retreat Michelle Ruby and Henry Kastner. National Christian Foundation Generosity Bay Area (GBA) Philippians 2:1-11 Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen Recursion Blake Crouch Outline: (00:02) Creating Opto AI for couples (03:15) Journey to Generosity and Alignment (09:23) The generational shift in parenting (11:23) Importance of money mindset (14:59) Parenting uncertainties and planning advice (18:05) Discovering a generosity community (21:43) Organizing free retreats (24:48) Balancing startup life and faith (27:31) Discussing a Bible verse interpretation (31:54) Discussing personal growth and challenges (35:40) Defining personal success through faith (38:30) Embracing generosity in faith (41:13) Discovering The Prodigal Son Anew About the Guest: Diana Shaw is the co-founder of Opto, the first AI-guided financial coach for couples. The inspiration behind Opto came from Diana's personal experiences navigating financial challenges with her husband. Diana and her husband, newly married and both business school graduates who had previously worked at Capital One, were confident in their financial skills and often delved deep into spreadsheets. However, they soon discovered that despite their expertise, managing money together was unexpectedly difficult. Through their journey, Diana realized that the root of their struggles wasn't just numbers, but the different money stories and experiences each of them brought into the relationship. This insight fueled her passion to help other couples bridge financial differences, leading to the creation of Opto. Meet the Host: Kim Moeller is a dynamic Charitable Advisor in Philanthropy CAP® based in sunny San Diego. With a passion for faith, generosity, and living a meaningful life, Kim brings her expertise in financial services, business development, and life coaching to every episode of the Generous Girl podcast. Kim has spent years inspiring others as a women's event speaker, teaching leader, and professional life coach. She employs a unique blend of transparency, depth, humor, and real-life stories to inspire personal growth and a sense of significance. She is passionate about celebrating generosity in all forms—whether in faith, family, fitness, finance, or friendship—and thrives on helping women take their next step toward a life of purpose. Known for her talent as a connector, Kim loves introducing women to the people, resources, and ideas they need to know, all while sharing her favorite bargain finds and hot tips. When she's not hosting the podcast, Kim enjoys life as a devoted wife, mom to four grown kids and their spouses, and "dog mom" to her sweet yellow lab, Rey. She finds joy in long beach walks, meaningful conversations, and cheering others on in their journeys of faith and generosity. Join Kim on Generous Girl as she celebrates stories of impact, inspires a spirit of giving, and reminds us all of the incredible power of generosity. Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@kimmoeller100 [https://www.youtube.com/@kimmoeller100] Learn more, listen, and subscribe at www.generousgirl.com [https://www.generousgirl.com]

Helen Schmid - What Generosity Is All About - S4-Ep. 76

Helen Schmid chats with Kim Moeller. Welcome to another inspiring episode of the Generous Girl podcast! In today's conversation, Kim sits down with Helen Schmid, former Walmart marketing executive, founder of My Strategy Mentor, and board member of Women Doing Well. Together, they dive deep into the journey of living generously, making tough career transitions, and redefining success beyond titles and financial security. Helen shares her personal story of immigrating from China, building a high-powered career in New York City, and ultimately embracing a life of purposeful stewardship, contentment, and faith-driven generosity. Whether you find yourself trapped by the "golden handcuffs" of ambition or are searching for clarity in a new life season, you'll walk away with real wisdom—and encouragement—for taking your next bold step toward a life of significance and generosity. Guests Recommendations: Women Doing Well Christian Financial Advisors National Christian Foundation MyStrategyMentor.com Impact Foundation Know a Person by David Brooks Psalm 27:1 Outline: 05:44 Balancing career and new motherhood 07:36 Discussing parenting and career balance 10:58 Joy of charitable giving 14:41 Discussing faith and generosity 16:44 Finding and valuing mentorship 19:20 Discussing financial stewardship with God 24:44 Supporting women feeling trapped 28:06 Helping women find their purpose 31:08 Embracing new family roles 33:04 Overcoming fear through faith 36:27 Wrapping up with gratitude About the Guest: Helen Schmid's journey toward generosity was deeply influenced by her husband. In 2017, just two years after their marriage, he left his Wall Street job to launch his own RIA private practice. Eager to serve others, he became a Certified Kingdom Advisor, embracing a biblical approach to money and stewardship. As he grew quickly in his new calling, Helen found herself inspired, even as she initially trailed behind. With her husband's encouragement to join him, Helen began walking her own path of generosity, learning and growing alongside him. Meet the Host: Kim Moeller is a dynamic Charitable Advisor in Philanthropy CAP® based in sunny San Diego. With a passion for faith, generosity, and living a meaningful life, Kim brings her expertise in financial services, business development, and life coaching to every episode of the Generous Girl podcast. Kim has spent years inspiring others as a women's event speaker, teaching leader, and professional life coach. She employs a unique blend of transparency, depth, humor, and real-life stories to inspire personal growth and significance. She is passionate about celebrating generosity in all forms—whether in faith, family, fitness, finance, or friendship—and thrives on helping women take their next step toward a life of purpose. Known for her talent as a connector, Kim loves introducing women to the people, resources, and ideas they need to know, all while sharing her favorite bargain finds and hot tips. When she's not hosting the podcast, Kim enjoys life as a devoted wife, mom to four grown kids and their spouses, and "dog mom" to her sweet yellow lab, Rey. She finds joy in long beach walks, meaningful conversations, and cheering others on in their journeys of faith and generosity. Join Kim on Generous Girl as she celebrates stories of impact, inspires a spirit of giving, and reminds us all of the incredible power of generosity. Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@kimmoeller100 Learn more, listen, and subscribe at www.generousgirl.com

Rachel Faulkner Brown - Restoring The Widow's Heart - S4-Ep. 75

Rachel Faulkner Brown joins host Kim Moeller for a powerful, hope-filled episode exploring her journey through unimaginable loss—and how God has used tragedy to create a global mission of generosity and healing. Twice widowed by her early 30s, Rachel shares how she moved from shock and heartbreak to founding Never Alone, a ministry serving widows across the United States and now worldwide. Through her story of raw honesty, deep faith, and radical generosity, Rachel reveals how letting go of secrets, telling the truth, and stepping out in obedience can open doors to purpose and restoration for yourself and countless others. Whether you are facing loss or longing to live a more generous, impactful life, this episode will encourage you to embrace the adventure God has for you—even when you least expect it. Guest Recommendations Organizations/Resources: - Never Alone (Widows Ministry) - Be Still Gatherings - Feeling at the Well (San Clemente, CA) - White Rainbow Project (India) - Line Media Books & Spiritual Resources: - *And She Got Up* by Courtney Pray - *Two Chairs* (on hearing the Holy Spirit) - Bible Verses: Genesis 50:20, Romans 8:17 (The Passion), Mark 9 Outline 01:23 Meet Rachel Faulkner Brown: Founder of Never Alone 04:13 How the Annual Never Alone Conference Encounters and Transforms Grief 07:31 Practices to Help Widows Find Truth, Purpose, and Friendship 12:07 Rachel's Story: Twice Widowed, Breaking Through Loss and Secret Pain 17:34 Unexpected Money Lessons (and Letting Go of Financial Fear) 19:01 "Mama is in Charge"—On Parenting, Provision, and New Beginnings 20:52 Launching Generosity: Giving Away the First Gift to Multiply Hope 25:52The Power and Challenge of Surrendering Ministries for Multiplication 26:09 Never Alone's Group Model: Monthly Gatherings and Online Chapters 27:19 Teaching Widows Radical Generosity—Even When it Feels Impossible 29:01 Stories of Multiplication: From CA to India, Local Impact Goes Global 31:26The Two Biggest Roadblocks to Impact: Unforgiveness & Ungenerosity 32:07 "Your Best Days Are Ahead"—Speaking Destiny into Widowhood 33:29 Dreaming Big: What Could Never Alone Become? 35:34 Rachel's Favorite Verses, Books, (and Her Legendary $10 Dress) --- About the Guest Rachel Faulkner Brown is an author, speaker, and the visionary founder of Never Alone, a ministry dedicated to bringing hope, healing, and restoration to widows. Twice widowed before age 35, Rachel's story is marked by deep personal loss but also by a radical journey into healing, vulnerability, and leadership. Through Never Alone and Be Still Gatherings, Rachel's mission is to help women encounter Jesus, step into their royal identity, and live lives of adventure, purpose, and generosity—no matter their history or heartbreak. Under her leadership, Never Alone has grown to more than 90 U.S. chapters, moved globally, and has become a launching pad for widows to own their story, lead others, and multiply healing in their communities. Rachel lives in Atlanta with her husband, Rod, and family, and she will never pass up a great thrift-store treasure hunt! Meet the Host Kim Moeller is a dynamic Charitable Advisor in Philanthropy CAP® based in sunny San Diego. With a passion for faith, generosity, and living a meaningful life, she brings her expertise in financial services, business development, and life coaching to every episode of the Generous Girl podcast. As a women's event speaker, teaching leader, and professional life coach, she inspires personal growth through transparency, humor, and real-life stories. She thrives on helping women take next steps toward purpose and celebrates generosity in all forms—faith, family, finance, and friendship. When she's not podcasting, she's living life as a wife, mom of four grown kids, "dog mom" to Rey, and loves long beach walks and connecting people to the resources they need. Join her to celebrate stories of impact, embrace a spirit of giving, and discover the power of generosity. --- Watch episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmQbKaykaHBozHtxztGBh2g/ [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmQbKaykaHBozHtxztGBh2g/]

Heidi-Marie Ferren - Hollywood Story For Good - S4-Ep. 74

Heidi-Marie Ferren joins host Kim Moeller to share her remarkable life journey—from overcoming early childhood trauma and foster care to making an impact in Hollywood and beyond. As the longest reigning Ms. USO, accomplished writer, actor, producer, and passionate advocate for foster children and veterans, Heidi-Marie reveals how her story, shaped by adversity, faith, and generosity, drives her to give back and empower others. Discover how using your "time, talents, and treasures" can bring healing and hope, and why living generously transforms not just your life, but the lives of those around you. Don't miss this inspiring conversation about resilience, found family, creativity, and serving with purpose. Guests Recommendations: Becoming a CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) Brave Global Angel Studios (Amplifying Light) Memory of a Killer (Fox TV series) Kingdom Story Company Book: Of God (on the fear of God) Jeremiah 29:11 Isaiah 43 Romans 8:28 Priceline (for bargain travel tips!) Outline: 02:00 Heidi-Marie Ferren: Advocate, Artist, and Longest Reigning Ms. USO 03:23 Latest Projects: Acting, Producing, Memoir Writing 05:02 CASA—Giving Back to Kids in Foster Care 06:05 CASA Volunteering: What It Takes 08:41 Why Reunification Matters (& Support for Families) 11:18 Faith, Generosity, & Social Impact 12:26 The Early Years: Entering Acting after Foster Care 14:08 How Her Mother's Sacrifices Shaped Her Story 15:06 Writing as Healing and Advocacy 16:25 Honoring Veterans: USO and Service 17:48 The Power of Resilience and Found Family 19:23 Living a Life of Creative Purpose 20:22 Using Creativity in Every Season 22:46 Share the Story—Using Hurts and Wins for Good 23:14 Generosity through Advocacy and Art 25:02 Inside the Writer's Room & Christian Entertainment 26:43 Creating TV that Reflects Real and Uplifting Stories 28:20 Why TV Needs More Wholesome, Hopeful Content 30:07 The Rise of Excellent, Value-Focused Storytelling 31:00 Faith and Creativity in Modern Media 34:06 Heidi-Marie's Favorite Life Verses & Book Recommendations 35:45 Bargain Tip: Use Priceline (but not in the UK!) 36:44 Closing Inspiration: Keep Building, Keep Giving Back About the Guest Heidi-Marie Ferren's story is one of resilience, compassion, and creative spirit. After spending time in foster care as a child and being reunited with her mother, Heidi-Marie discovered her passion for art, performance, and advocacy. She began her career as a child actor, eventually working in commercials, television, and theater, and would go on to act and produce in major TV projects and film. As Ms. USO, she became a beloved figure to service members across the globe, using her talents to shine a light on found family and hope. From championing foster youth as a CASA volunteer to producing award-winning films and sharing her faith through writing, Heidi-Marie epitomizes what it means to live a generous, purpose-filled life—always ready to "keep building and keep going" for the next chapter God has for her. Meet the Host Kim Moeller is a dynamic Charitable Advisor in Philanthropy CAP® based in sunny San Diego. With a passion for faith, generosity, and living a meaningful life, Kim brings her expertise in financial services, business development, and life coaching to every episode of the Generous Girl podcast. Kim has spent years inspiring others as a women's event speaker, teaching leader, and professional life coach. She employs a unique blend of transparency, depth, humor, and real-life stories to inspire personal growth and significance. She is passionate about celebrating generosity in all forms—whether in faith, family, fitness, finance, or friendship—and thrives on helping women take their next step toward a life of purpose. Known for her talent as a connector, Kim loves introducing women to the people, resources, and ideas they need to know, all while sharing her favorite bargain finds and hot tips. When she's not hosting the podcast, Kim enjoys life as a devoted wife, mom to four grown kids and their spouses, and "dog mom" to her sweet yellow lab, Rey. She finds joy in long beach walks, meaningful conversations, and cheering others on in their journeys of faith and generosity. Join Kim on Generous Girl as she celebrates stories of impact, inspires a spirit of giving, and reminds us all of the incredible power of generosity. Learn more, listen, and subscribe at www.generousgirl.com Watch episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kimmoeller100