Motherhood is one of the most beautiful callings—and one of the most stretching. In this week’s episode of The Love Offering Podcast, I had the joy of sitting down with Andrea Fortenberry to talk about the real, everyday experiences of being a mom—the kind that don’t always make it to social media, but shape us in the deepest ways.
Andrea, author of Two Minute Timeouts for New Moms, shares from her own journey of raising children from newborn days to launching a high school senior. With warmth and honesty, she reminds us that motherhood is both joyful and exhausting, sacred and sanctifying. So many of us quietly wonder if we’re the only ones who feel overwhelmed or unsure, but Andrea gently reassures us—we’re not alone, and we’re not failing.
One of the most powerful parts of our conversation centered on the weight of unrealistic expectations. As moms, we often aim for perfection—perfect homes, perfect routines, perfect responses—but that pressure only leaves us feeling inadequate. Andrea encourages us to shift our mindset from perfection to “good enough,” reminding us that our children don’t need a flawless mom—they need a present one. Often, it’s the simplest moments—like sitting around a campfire or sharing a quiet conversation—that leave the greatest imprint on their hearts.
We also talked about how pride can quietly keep us from receiving the help we need. Many of us are quick to serve others but hesitant to admit when we’re struggling. Yet asking for help isn’t weakness—it’s wisdom. God often answers our prayers through the people He places around us, and part of our growth is learning to receive that support with humility and gratitude.
Another encouragement Andrea offered is especially meaningful for busy moms: time with God doesn’t have to look like long, uninterrupted quiet time to be valuable. In seasons filled with little ones, full schedules, or constant demands, even a few moments of prayer or a single Scripture can nourish our souls. God knows our season, and He meets us right where we are.
Of course, we couldn’t have this conversation without addressing mom guilt—that quiet voice that tells us we’re not doing enough or that we’re getting it wrong. Andrea reminds us to pause and ask where that voice is coming from. Often, it’s not conviction from the Lord, but unnecessary pressure we place on ourselves. God’s love is not based on our performance. It is steady, unconditional, and full of grace for every imperfect moment.
At the heart of our conversation is this truth: we are not meant to do motherhood alone. God is with us in every sleepless night, every carpool line, every tear, and every joy-filled milestone. And when we lean into His presence—and the support of others—we can experience motherhood not as a burden to carry, but as a gift to steward.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, weary, or unsure today, I hope this encourages you: you are doing better than you think, and God is right there with you.
Listen to the Episode:
On all listening platforms or on Life Audio
Connect with Andrea Fortenberry:
Website: https://www.andreafortenberry.com/
Book: Two Minute Timeouts for New Moms
Instagram: @andreafortenberry
Connect with Rachael Adams:
Website: https://rachaelkadams.com
Instagram: https://instagram.com/rachaeladamsauthor
If this episode encouraged you, would you share it with a friend who might need it too? Sometimes the smallest reminder can make the biggest difference.
