Anchored with Purpose | Faith, Family, Purpose, Dreaming, Planning, Overcoming Anxiety, Overcoming Overwhelm

37| Creating a Peaceful Home That Doesn’t Stress You Out

Is your home supporting your peace—or quietly sabotaging it?
In this episode of the Anchored with Purpose Podcast, Melissa dives deep into the Home Anchor—one of the most underestimated but powerful life anchors. Through personal stories, research-backed insights, and practical tips, she helps you reconnect with your physical space as a place of peace, purpose, and presence.
You’ll learn:
Why clutter affects more than your countertops—it impacts your stress and focus.
How your home can become a sacred space (even without matching containers).
Simple systems for involving your whole family in daily and weekly rhythms.
How to turn a single decluttered room into a ripple of motivation.
Ways to physically and spiritually invite God into your home.
Whether your house feels like a tornado zone or you just need a refresh, this episode will encourage and equip you to create a space where God’s peace can truly reign.
Scripture References:
Proverbs 24:3–4 – “By wisdom a house is built...”
1 Corinthians 14:33 – “For God is not a God of disorder but of peace.”
Key Takeaway: You don’t need a perfect home. You need a purposeful one—one where God is welcome, and peace is possible.
Resources & Mentions:
Greenlight App – Get $30 Free - Greenlight Debit Card for Kids and Teens
Anchored with Purpose Faith Journal - Anchored with Purpose Faith Journal
📝 Journal Prompts 
Take some time to reflect on these prompts after listening:
What part of my home currently causes me the most stress?
What one small space could I start with to create peace and momentum?
How am I currently inviting God into my home?
What family rhythms or responsibilities could we adjust together?
How do I want my home to feel when I walk through the door?

36| Anchored in Every Area: 10 Life Anchors That Hold You Steady

Welcome to a brand new series on the Anchored with Purpose podcast: Anchored in Every Area – 10 Life Anchors That Hold You Steady.
In this powerful first episode, Melissa Wilkinson introduces the concept of Life Anchors—the key areas of life that help you stay grounded, focused, and aligned with God's purpose, even when the waves of life come crashing in.
Whether you’ve heard her mention them before or you’re hearing this term for the first time, this is the perfect starting point. You’ll discover:
What a Life Anchor really is
Why these anchors are essential for faith-filled women navigating busy, purpose-driven lives
How these 10 anchors are connected to your identity, stability, and calling
A preview of the transformative journey ahead in the coming episodes
This episode sets the stage for a deeply intentional and grace-filled season. Get ready to reflect, realign, and root yourself in what matters most.
🧭 What You’ll Learn:
The meaning behind “Life Anchors”
The 10 core areas that shape your life’s direction and spiritual well-being
How God uses each anchor to hold you steady in every season
 
🌊 Perfect For:
Women seeking balance and spiritual growth
Catholic moms craving clarity and peace
Anyone who feels like life is pulling them in too many directions
Listeners ready to create a purpose-driven rhythm rooted in faith
🔗 Resources & Links:
Free Life Evaluation Tool: https://anchored-with-purpose.kit.com/ec1b0df5ec :
Anchored with Purpose Faith Journal: https://a.co/d/g8aVljY 
Join the Anchored with Purpose Tribe: https://www.facebook.com/groups/anchoredwithpurpose 
Follow Melissa on Instagram: @anchoredwithpurpose
📅 Book your Anchored Insights Discussion session here Or just shoot me an email — I’d truly love to connect! melissa@anchoredwithpurpose.com

35| Habemus Papem! The first American Pope | ft. Peter & Tania Dill

In this special episode, Melissa chats with Pete & Tania Dill to reflect on a truly historic and Spirit-filled moment in the life of the Church: the election of Pope Leo, the first American Pope.
From his humble and hope-filled first words, “Peace be with you,” to the unique blend of Vatican depth and missionary heart that he brings, Pope Leo’s papacy is already stirring hearts around the world. Together, Pete and I explore what his leadership could mean for the global Church—and especially for the American faithful.
We talk about:
The significance of a Pope from American soil 🌎
Why his message of peace is resonating so deeply, especially with young people
How his background in both Vatican diplomacy and mission work makes him a bridge-builder
The opportunity for a cultural shift toward missionary discipleship
Why Pope Leo’s intentional presence in media could reshape Catholic evangelization
What our hopes and prayers are for this next chapter in Church history
This episode is filled with faith, curiosity, and expectation. If you're wondering what this means for the Church—and what it could mean for your own call to mission—you’ll love this heartfelt conversation.
🙏 Topics Covered:
The emotional impact of seeing an American elected Pope
The symbolism and simplicity of his first public message
How missionary formation equips leaders to serve a global Church
Pete’s dream of a Church where every young person serves in mission
The need for authentic storytelling and media engagement
Melissa’s prayer for a Church that shares its faith boldly and consistently
🔗 Resources & Links:
Follow Pete Dill: https://www.instagram.com/pete.dill/ 
Backseat Media on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BackSeat-Media
What’s the Dill? Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/whats-the-dill/id1532299919 
Where Does Jesus Live? Book Link:https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F88P4WWC?ref_=pe_93986420_774957520

34| Mid-Year Reset: Reflect, Recommit & Reignite Your Goals

Did you know that 92% of people never achieve their New Year’s goals? But here’s the good news: you don’t have to be one of them. In this mid-year check-in episode of Anchored with Purpose, Melissa shares the secret of the 8% who do reach their goals—spoiler alert: it’s not more time or talent, it’s reflection and adjustment.
Melissa walks you through the 10 Life Anchors (used in her coaching and journals) to help you rate and reflect on where you're thriving and where you need a reset. She dives into practical tools like the Life Evaluation Wheel and revisits the Word of the Year you prayerfully chose in January. (Don’t remember yours? That’s okay—we’ll help you find a new one for this season.)
You’ll also get thought-provoking journal prompts to help you realign your goals with God’s purpose and a reminder that it’s never too late to dream again. Whether you’re crushing it or feeling like you’ve veered off course, this episode will help you reflect, refocus, and take your next faithful step.
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
Why the brain thrives on regular goal reflection
How to use the 10 Life Anchors as a mid-year compass
Why your Word of the Year still matters
How to use the Life Evaluation Tool monthly
Journal prompts to reignite purpose and momentum
How life coaching through Anchored with Purpose can support your reset
Links Mentioned:
📥 Download the FREE Life Evaluation Tool
✨ Get your FREE Word of the Year Guide
🎙️ Listen to the Word of the Year Episode
💬 Contact Melissa About a Dream Workshop
📅 Book your Anchored Insights Discussion session here Or just shoot me an email — I’d truly love to connect! melissa@anchoredwithpurpose.com
 
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33| Rhythm Over Rigidity: Building a Summer That Works for Your Family

Summer break can be a beautiful time for freedom and fun—but let’s be honest, it can also feel overwhelming, especially for moms juggling work, home, and kids. In this episode, Melissa Wilkinson gets real about the ups and downs of summer rhythms. From enrolling kids in camps and managing screen time, to working from home and navigating mom guilt, Melissa shares practical tips, personal stories, and permission to find your family’s sweet spot between structure and spontaneity.
You’ll learn:
Why your summer doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing (fully structured or totally free)
Creative ideas for camps (even attending multiple VBSs!)
How to balance work-from-home life with keeping kids engaged
Real-life wins and fails from Melissa’s past summers
Simple strategies to reduce screen time and increase family fun
Whether you're a stay-at-home mom, work from home mom, work outside of the home mom or just trying to make the most of summer without losing your mind—this episode is for you.
📅 Book your Anchored Insights Discussion session here Or just shoot me an email — I’d truly love to connect! melissa@anchoredwithpurpose.com
 
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32| Serve, Tithe, Engage, Pray, Share: The STEPS to Living Your Catholic Faith

Discipleship isn’t about perfection — it’s about saying “yes” to Jesus in the midst of your everyday life: in the carpool line, the chaos of kids’ schedules, and even when you're just barely hanging on.
In this powerful and practical episode, Melissa Wilkinson shares how busy women can take simple, meaningful steps to deepen their faith and become intentional disciples — no matter how full their plate is. Inspired by the book Rebuilt Faith by the founders of Rebuilt Parish, Melissa walks through the 5 STEPS to Discipleship:
✨ S - Serve Discover how using your God-given gifts to serve your parish (or even your neighbor) can transform not just your church, but your own heart.
✨ T - Tithe and Give Hear why giving isn't about obligation — it's about freedom and trust. Melissa shares practical ways to begin giving, even when money feels tight.
✨ E - Engage in Christian Community You’re not meant to walk this faith journey alone. Melissa shares her small group experience and how community has been pivotal in her spiritual growth — plus tips for starting your own.
✨ P - Practice Prayer and the Sacraments Explore simple, grace-filled ways to deepen your prayer life and return to the sacraments — even when you’re short on time (yes, even in the carpool line!).
✨ S - Share Your Faith When you live your faith out loud — even in small ways — you open the door for others to encounter Jesus.
With personal stories, real-life examples, and powerful Scripture references, this episode will inspire you to respond to God’s love right where you are — imperfectly, but intentionally.
Resources Mentioned:
Rebuilt Faith book by Michael White and Tom Corcoran
📅 Book your Anchored Insights Discussion session here Or just shoot me an email — I’d truly love to connect! melissa@anchoredwithpurpose.com
 
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31| Packing with Purpose: Teaching Kids Independence and Saving Your Sanity

In this super practical episode, Melissa shares her tried-and-true systems for packing and traveling with kids—especially for moms doing the heavy lifting when it comes to vacation prep. With years of experience on the road, Melissa spills her favorite tips to make family travel smoother, less stressful, and more enjoyable.
From her undying love of packing cubes to the hilarious misadventures of letting kids pack themselves (spoiler: someone packed zero pants and four swimsuits), this episode is full of wisdom, laughs, and permission to find what works for your family. Whether you're heading to grandma’s or going on a beach vacation, you’ll walk away with real-life strategies to create more peace and less chaos.
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
Why packing cubes are Melissa’s “love language” and how they save time and sanity
How a simple system using laundry totes makes quick trips easier
The packing checklist method that teaches kids independence (and prevents wardrobe fails!)
Melissa’s genius tip to keep toiletry bags pre-packed and organized
How these small systems create margin for joy, rest, and actual vacation vibes
📅 Book your Anchored Insights Discussion session here Or just shoot me an email — I’d truly love to connect! melissa@anchoredwithpurpose.com
 
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30| From Fight-or-Flight to Faith & Rest

In this powerful solo episode, Melissa Wilkinson uncovers what survival mode really is—and how it affects your mind, body, and soul. She vulnerably shares her own story of living in chronic stress without even realizing it, including a wake-up call diagnosis of shingles in her 30s. Melissa walks us through the physiological toll of fight-or-flight living, and more importantly, how we can begin stepping into sacred rhythms that bring rest, peace, and alignment with God.
Whether you're juggling motherhood, a career, or simply overwhelmed by the noise of life, this episode will help you: ✔ Understand what survival mode looks and feels like ✔ Learn how scripture calls us to REST, not hustle ✔ Discover practical ways to start your day with God ✔ Use tools like breathwork and rhythm-based routines to calm your nervous system ✔ Reclaim your peace and begin dreaming again
Key Scriptures Mentioned 📖 Exodus 33:14 – “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” 📖 Luke 5:16 – “Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” 📖 Psalm 46:10 – “Be still and know that I am God.”
Highlights & Takeaways
Survival mode is more than a mindset—it’s a physiological state driven by stress hormones like cortisol.
Melissa’s personal health crisis led her to realize how much stress was running her life.
Rest is not a reward for productivity—it’s a requirement for living in your God-given purpose.
Start simple: coffee, candle, and Christ. Build your morning faith time in small, sacred ways.
Breathing intentionally (box breathing or breath prayers) signals safety to your body and calms anxiety.
Rhythms > rigid routines. Build margin into your day for joy, stillness, and communion with God.
If this episode struck a chord and you're tired of feeling stuck, I want to personally invite you to schedule a FREE 45-minute Anchored Insights Discussion with me.
 This is a safe, supportive space to identify the thoughts that are holding you back, gain clarity, and explore how we can rewrite your inner narrative together.
📅 Book your session here Or just shoot me an email — I’d truly love to connect! melissa@anchoredwithpurpose.com
Melissa’s Morning Ritual Tip ☕ Coffee. 🕯️ Candle. ✝️ Christ. Start your day in the quiet presence with God before the world demands your energy.
Try This 🧘‍♀️ Box Breathing: Inhale 4, hold 4, exhale 4. Repeat 3–5x. 🙏 Breath Prayer: “Jesus, be my peace. Anchor me in You.” 📔 Build your rhythm: Add spiritual routines into your planner. Include what grounds you, not just what “gets done.”
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29| Behind the Scenes of My Weekly Planning Routine

Where are my planner girls at?! 🙋🏻‍♀️ If you light up at the thought of fresh pages, colorful pens, and a new month to organize, this episode is for YOU. And if planning feels a little overwhelming, don’t worry—I’m breaking it down to make it simple and fun. 🌈
In this episode, I’m sharing:
Why planning isn’t just about productivity—it’s about living intentionally and stewarding your time well.
A powerful scripture (Ephesians 5:15–16) to guide your time management with faith.
How I plan my year, month, and week—from my giant dry-erase wall calendar to my digital and paper planners.
How color-coding and 15-minute increments help me stay focused and reduce decision fatigue.
Why leaving margin is one of the best gifts you can give yourself (yes, white space is holy too!).
Fun brain science facts on how planning boosts dopamine and motivation 🎉
And why I’ll take planner dopamine over doom-scrolling any day! 🙌
✨ Whether you're a seasoned planner or just getting started, you’ll walk away from this episode feeling empowered to take back your time and use it to build a life that’s anchored in purpose.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Ephesians 5:15–16 — “Be careful then how you live, not as unwise but as wise…”
My favorite planning tools: big dry-erase annual calendar, Google calendar, and a 15-minute increment paper planner
Want help building a planning system that works for your life? Book an Anchored Insights coaching call with me!
COMING SOON: 🎉 The Anchored with Purpose Planner is launching in late 2025—and all my coaching clients will get their own copy!
If this episode helped you, would you share it with a friend who loves a good planner too? And remember… stay anchored with purpose.
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28| Why Philippians 4:6–8 Might Just Be Tattoo-Worthy (And How It Can Change Your Life)

⚓️ Have you ever felt so passionately about something that you thought about tattooing it on your body? In this heart-to-heart episode, Melissa shares a personal reflection on one of her favorite Bible passages: Philippians 4:6–8 — the scripture she uses as a prayer framework and has even considered tattooing on her body!
She dives deep into the meaning behind this verse, exploring how it’s not just inspirational, but transformational. Melissa walks you through the scripture, verse by verse, sharing how God gives us a path out of anxiety through prayer, supplication, and thanksgiving — and how He promises peace that transcends understanding.
She also ties in neuroscience, quoting Dr. Caroline Leaf to show how our thoughts physically impact our brains. With practical takeaways, examples from her own life, and encouragement rooted in faith, Melissa challenges us to rethink what we focus on — and gives you simple habits to begin renewing your mind today.
Want some one-on-one time with Melissa? Schedule your FREE Anchored Insights Discussion and Melissa will spend time with you discussing your biggest goals, dreams, and how to overcome the limiting beliefs and challenges holding you back. 
📖 Scripture Highlight
Philippians 4:6–8 (ESV)
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things."
 
🧠 Key Points & Takeaways
Why this scripture matters: Melissa shares why Philippians 4:6–8 is so meaningful to her personally and spiritually.
God’s peace explained: It’s not the absence of problems — it’s the presence of His protection.
Prayer framework: Learn how to use prayer, supplication, and thanksgiving to turn worry into worship.
The neuroscience connection: Dr. Caroline Leaf’s research confirms that our thoughts physically change our brains.
Philippians 4:8 in practice: What we think about matters — and God tells us exactly what to focus on.
🎧 Listener Reflection
Ask yourself:
What are you consuming (TV, music, podcasts) that might be increasing your anxiety?
Are you feeding your fear — or your faith?
📲 Connect with Melissa
Website: anchoredwithpurpose.com
Instagram: @anchoredwithpurpose
Facebook Group: Anchored with Purpose Tribe
Anchored with Purpose Faith Journal – Melissa’s tool to help you deepen your prayer life using Philippians 4:6–8.
🙏 Leave a Review
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