178. Dance Your Way to Family Wellness with Ashley Borromeo's TapFitFam

Family Brand: Take Back Your Family

#Parenting #Chris and Melissa Smith #Family Brand #Marriage #Connectionparenting #Familyculture #Intentionalchildren #Kidspersonaldevelopment #Value #Relationship

22:08

Host Francesca Amiker sits down with directors Joe and Anthony Russo, producer Angela Russo-Otstot, stars Millie Bobby Brown and Chris Pratt, and more to uncover how family was the key to building the emotional core of The Electric State . From the Russos’ own experiences growing up in a large Italian family to the film’s central relationship between Michelle and her robot brother Kid Cosmo, family relationships both on and off of the set were the key to bringing The Electric State to life. Listen to more from Netflix Podcasts . State Secrets: Inside the Making of The Electric State is produced by Netflix and Treefort Media.…

about a year ago 35:41

MP3•Episode home

Hey, Family Brand community! Chris and Melissa here. Today, we're thrilled to introduce you to an extraordinary guest, Ashley Borromeo, the vibrant force behind TapFitFam, who's transforming how families engage with dance and each other.

Ashley, a homeschooling mom and seasoned dance instructor, believes passionately in the power of movement. With over 30 years of dancing experience, she's developed a unique approach that combines dance, fitness, and family time into a harmonious blend that enriches lives and fosters deep connections.

In our conversation, Ashley shared her journey from professional dancer to creating TapFitFam, where she encourages families to "DANCE Through Life." Her philosophy isn't just about physical movement but embracing life with joy, purpose, and a bit of rhythm. TapFitFam is more than dance lessons; it's about integrating dance into everyday family life to enhance health, happiness, and togetherness.

We dove deep into how integrating dance into daily routines can significantly benefit both the body and mind. Ashley highlighted the cognitive benefits of dance, like improving memory and coordination, which are particularly impactful for children as they develop. But it's not just for kids; adults too can rediscover their groove and perhaps even tap into their youthfulness.

Hit play now to hear the full episode and learn how you can bring dance into your family's daily life for better health and more joyful moments together!

LINKS:

Links To This Episode: https://www.tapfitfam.com/ashley-borromeo-speaker-page

Website:

familybrand.com

Social:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/ourfamilybrand
Facebook: www.facebook.com/FamilyBrandOfficial
YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCGu-7odB6gkPbyXpUIQLkrg
Twitter: https://twitter.com/OurFamilyBrand

NEW: What Culture are You Creating In Your Family?

Take the Quiz Now! https://familybrand.com/quiz

Episode Minute By Minute:

0:00 - Welcome and get to know to Ashley Borromeo and her brand, TapFitFam!
1:30 - Ashley discusses her dance background and the creation of TapFitFam.
3:00 - The importance of integrating dance into family routines.
4:45 - Cognitive and developmental benefits of dance for all ages.
6:00 - How families can incorporate dance for better health and bonding.
7:15 - Closing thoughts and the invitation to listen to the full conversation.

219 episodes

178. Dance Your Way to Family Wellness with Ashley Borromeo's TapFitFam

Family Brand: Take Back Your Family

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

Hit play now to hear the full episode and learn how you can bring dance into your family's daily life for better health and more joyful moments together!

LINKS:

Links To This Episode: https://www.tapfitfam.com/ashley-borromeo-speaker-page

Website:

familybrand.com

Social:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/ourfamilybrand
Facebook: www.facebook.com/FamilyBrandOfficial
YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCGu-7odB6gkPbyXpUIQLkrg
Twitter: https://twitter.com/OurFamilyBrand

NEW: What Culture are You Creating In Your Family?

Take the Quiz Now! https://familybrand.com/quiz

Episode Minute By Minute:

0:00 - Welcome and get to know to Ashley Borromeo and her brand, TapFitFam!
1:30 - Ashley discusses her dance background and the creation of TapFitFam.
3:00 - The importance of integrating dance into family routines.
4:45 - Cognitive and developmental benefits of dance for all ages.
6:00 - How families can incorporate dance for better health and bonding.
7:15 - Closing thoughts and the invitation to listen to the full conversation.

219 episodes

#Parenting #Chris and Melissa Smith #Family Brand #Marriage #Connectionparenting #Familyculture #Intentionalchildren #Kidspersonaldevelopment #Value #Relationship

All episodes

1
218. Couple’s Retreat Recap – Why Your Marriage Deserves a Getaway 16:55

4 days ago16:55

16:55

Hey Family Brand! It’s Chris and Melissa here, and we’re finally sitting down to share the recap of our recent Couple’s Retreat in Hawaii. And wow—what an experience! Whether or not you were able to attend, this episode is for anyone who wants to grow in their marriage, reconnect with their spouse, and create intentional rhythms that bring joy and strength to your relationship. We’re pulling back the curtain on what we learned, what surprised us, and why this trip was such a full-circle moment for us personally. It had been over 14 years since the two of us visited Hawaii—just the two of us—with no kids, no distractions, and no big agenda other than connection. The last time we were there, our marriage was in a rough place. We weren’t even sure we’d make it. So to come back to the same place, not only thriving in our relationship but hosting a retreat for 20 amazing couples? It was surreal. A reminder that your marriage is worth fighting for and healing is possible—even if it feels far off right now. The retreat was filled with intentional conversations, practical tools, and a chance for couples to hit pause and truly reflect on where they are and where they want to go. From the kickoff dinner to the group workshops, one big theme kept showing up: You don’t need to wait for the “perfect” moment to prioritize your marriage. One couple told us they hadn’t been away together in over 10 years. Another said they hadn’t gone to the gym together since before they had kids. The retreat was their reset—but yours can start today, even with just a date night or a shared walk. We also talked about what happens when couples drift. It’s often not intentional—just a slow, subtle pulling apart that adds up over time. That’s why building in non-negotiables, like a weekly date night or check-in, is so powerful. These little systems act as a “forcing function” to help you reconnect even during the busy seasons. One of our favorites? Just putting it on the calendar. Whether it’s lunch dates or evening walks, we’ve found ways to prioritize our connection, even when life feels full. And if you’re thinking a couple’s getaway sounds amazing but totally out of reach, Melissa has something for you. We created a 30+ page Couple’s Getaway Guide that walks you through everything—from budgeting and planning to conversation prompts and goal-setting exercises. You’ll even get a recorded training to help you bring the retreat experience to your own trip, no matter where you go or how long you stay. You can grab it for just $11 at familybrand.com/webinar . LINKS: All Links Family Brand! stan.store/familybrand Links For This Episode: familybrand.com/webinar Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 – Welcome to the Couple’s Retreat Recap 2:30 – A full-circle moment: Returning to Hawaii 14 years later 4:00 – What helped our marriage go from struggling to thriving 5:15 – Stories from couples who hadn’t gotten away in years 7:00 – Why you shouldn’t wait to prioritize your marriage 8:15 – The danger of drifting and how to avoid it 10:00 – What non-negotiable rituals keep us connected 11:30 – The surprising power of a simple couple’s getaway 12:30 – What’s inside our Couple’s Getaway Guide 14:00 – Research behind strong families and marriage prioritization 15:30 – Final thoughts: Don’t wait—do something today to grow closer Let us know if you grab the guide and plan a little getaway of your own—we’d love to hear how it goes!…

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217. Who Are You Really Following? The Hidden Impact of Online Influence 38:31

11 days ago38:31

38:31

Hey Family Brand! It’s Chris and Melissa here, and today, we’re having an important conversation about something we don’t always stop to think about—who we allow to influence us. In a world where social media, thought leaders, and online personalities are more accessible than ever, it’s easy to get caught up in curated versions of success. But how do we know if the people we’re following are truly worth listening to? And what happens when we allow the wrong influences into our homes and families? This whole conversation started when Melissa watched a new documentary about Ruby Franke, a once-popular family YouTuber whose life took a devastating turn. What started as a platform to showcase strong family values ended in tragedy, and it got us thinking—how quickly can things shift when we follow the wrong people or chase the wrong ideals? What warning signs should we be paying attention to? One of the biggest takeaways from this discussion is authenticity. Social media often presents a highlight reel, but are the people we’re looking up to showing us the whole picture? Are they living lives that align with the values we want for ourselves and our families? We share some personal experiences of getting caught up in coaching programs or mentorships that, in hindsight, didn’t align with our deeper values. It’s so easy to be drawn in by success, money, or status without realizing that some of these figures don’t actually live the kind of life we’d want for ourselves. We also talk about the danger of seeking external validation and how knowing who you are—both individually and as a family—is the key to making sure you’re not being blindly influenced. When you know your values and what truly matters to you, it’s easier to recognize when something feels off. Instead of constantly chasing external advice, you can take pieces of wisdom that align with you and leave the rest. Our challenge for you this week? Take an inventory. Who are you following? What books, social media accounts, or shows are you letting into your life? Are they actually serving you, or are they quietly shaping you in ways that don’t align with who you want to be? And most importantly—if you don’t know who you are, how will you know if something is misaligned? LINKS: All Links Family Brand! stan.store/familybrand Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 – Why this topic matters: A YouTube family’s shocking downfall 2:30 – The curated highlight reels we see online 5:00 – Are we sharing real life or just what looks good? 9:00 – The risk of following people without questioning their values 12:45 – How coaching programs can be helpful… or dangerous 17:00 – Why external validation won’t fill internal gaps 22:00 – The importance of being grounded in your identity 30:00 – Taking an inventory: Who are you really following? Let us know what stood out to you in this episode! Are there any influences you’ve decided to cut out or new boundaries you’re setting? We’d love to hear from you!…

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216. Becoming a Peacemaker – Finding Peace Within and Around You 13:25

18 days ago13:25

13:25

Hey Family Brand! It’s Melissa here, and today, I’m bringing you a different kind of episode—one that I wasn’t expecting to record, but I know it’s exactly the conversation I need to have right now. My word for the year is ‘maker,’ and while I’ve spent time thinking about all the ways I want to create—being a homemaker, a moneymaker, a creator—it never occurred to me to focus on being a peacemaker. That changed recently when our family was asked to speak in church, and I was assigned Matthew 5:9: ‘Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God.’ That moment set me on a journey to rethink what it really means to make peace—not just between people, but inside ourselves. When I first thought about peacemaking, I imagined it in the traditional sense—helping my kids resolve arguments, keeping peace in relationships, and fostering harmony within my family. But as I reflected more, I realized that being a peacemaker starts internally. How do we create peace within ourselves so that we have peace to give? It’s easy to think of peace as something external, but when we aren’t centered, it’s hard to extend calm to others. One of the biggest takeaways from this reflection was learning how to recognize and manage my own emotional state. I shared a tool from a past podcast episode with parenting coach Crystal Heitzma, who teaches about recognizing when we are in our "green zone" (calm and regulated), "yellow zone" (feeling dysregulated), or "red zone" (fully overwhelmed). Learning to catch ourselves in that yellow zone before we spiral is a game-changer in protecting our peace. I’ve taught this to my kids, and it’s been powerful for all of us. I also talk about the mental chatter that often steals our peace—self-doubt, parenting guilt, or insecurities that creep in daily. When we get intentional about quieting those voices and replacing them with truth, we reclaim our inner peace. For me, faith is a huge part of that. I find peace in Christ, and reminding myself of who I am in His eyes helps me stay grounded. Our family also uses personal declarations—statements of who we are and who we are becoming—which are so powerful in silencing negativity. So here’s my challenge to you: Take a moment this week to ask yourself, How can I create more peace in my life? Whether it’s in your emotions, your thoughts, or your relationships, being a peacemaker starts within. And when we cultivate peace inside, it naturally flows into the lives of those around us. LINKS: All Links Family Brand! stan.store/familybrand Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 – A different kind of episode today 1:30 – The unexpected lesson from my word of the year 3:00 – What does it really mean to be a peacemaker? 5:00 – Recognizing when we lose our inner peace 7:30 – Managing emotional regulation (Green, Yellow, Red zones) 10:00 – The mental chatter that steals our peace 12:00 – Finding peace in faith and truth 14:00 – Challenge: How can you become a peacemaker in your own life?…

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215. Cultivating Greater Gratitude with Shannon and Matthew Missimer 29:10

25 days ago29:10

29:10

Hey Family Brand! It’s Chris and Melissa here, and today, we have an incredible conversation for you with Shannon and Matthew Missimer, co-founders of The Motion of Gratitude. Their work is all about helping families move from just going through the motions of life to living with intention, presence, and gratitude. If you've ever felt stuck in survival mode or wondered how to cultivate more joy and connection in your home, this episode is for you! Shannon and Matthew share their personal journeys that led them to create The Motion of Gratitude. For Shannon, it all started as a young mother feeling completely drained, giving everything to her children but losing herself in the process. Her turning point came when she realized that practicing gratitude—intentionally and daily—was the key to transforming how she showed up as a wife, mom, and individual. Matthew, on the other hand, was deep in the financial services industry, constantly focused on providing for his family, but ultimately realizing that success without presence wasn’t enough. It wasn’t until he saw the impact of Shannon’s gratitude practice firsthand that he truly embraced the power of this mindset shift. We dive deep into the science of gratitude and how it physically rewires our brains and nervous systems. Shannon explains how gratitude journaling isn't just a nice habit—it actually shifts us from fight-or-flight mode into a state of peace and connection. When we make gratitude a regular practice, it changes the way we see the world, helping us become more present with our families and more intentional with our time. If you're wondering where to start, Shannon and Matthew break it down with simple, actionable steps. They introduce The Experience, their 28-day guided gratitude journey, designed to help individuals and families build a strong foundation for a gratitude practice. They also share their new workbook series, designed specifically for kids, to help families cultivate a culture of gratitude together. As we wrap up, we challenge you to take one small step today: take a deep breath, ask yourself what is still going right in my life?, and see how that one simple shift can change everything. LINKS: All Links Family Brand! stan.store/familybrand Links For This Episode: https://themotionofgratitude.com/the-experience Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 – Welcome Shannon & Matthew Missimer 2:00 – How The Motion of Gratitude was born 6:00 – Shannon’s turning point as a mom and how gratitude changed everything 10:00 – Matthew’s journey from financial services to finding deeper purpose 14:00 – The science of gratitude: how it rewires the brain and body 18:00 – How to start a gratitude practice (without overcomplicating it) 22:00 – The Experience: A 28-day gratitude journey for families 26:00 – Simple breathwork and mindset shifts to bring more gratitude into your day…

1
214. Homeless...The Power of Shared Experiences: Why Serving Together Strengthens Families 23:07

5 weeks ago23:07

23:07

Hey Family Brand! It’s Chris and Melissa here, and today we’re diving into something that has been incredibly meaningful for our family lately—creating shared experiences through service. If you’ve ever felt like life is moving too fast and you’re struggling to connect as a family, this episode is for you. We’re sharing our recent experience feeding the homeless, how it impacted our kids, and why we’re making service a bigger priority in 2025. One of our biggest takeaways from this experience? Service is like medicine. It shifts the focus away from ourselves and helps us see the bigger picture. It builds gratitude, strengthens our core values, and brings us together in a way that few other things do. We’ve always talked about the importance of being intentional with our family culture, and this was a perfect example of how shared experiences create a deeper sense of identity and belonging. We also talk about how we planned this experience using JustServe.org , a website that connects families with local service opportunities. Whether you’re looking for a one-time event or want to make service a regular part of your family’s routine, this is a great place to start. And if you don’t have time to plan something big? That’s okay. Even small, everyday acts of service—helping a neighbor, cooking a meal, or simply being more present for someone—can have a huge impact. Another takeaway? If it’s not on the calendar, it won’t happen. We’ve learned that good intentions aren’t enough—we need to schedule service opportunities just like we would a vacation or a family dinner. This week, we’re challenging our kids to pick our next family service project, giving them ownership in the process. We’ll report back on how it goes! So here’s your challenge—how can you create more shared experiences in your family? Whether it’s a service project, a trip, or just making time for regular family meals, intentionality is everything. Take some time this week to talk about it, put something on the calendar, and make it happen! LINKS: All Links Family Brand! stan.store/familybrand Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 – Special announcement: Join us for our March 6th Masterclass! 2:00 – The inspiration behind our recent service project 4:00 – How JustServe.org helped us find a local opportunity 6:00 – The impact of serving together as a family 9:00 – Why shared experiences build strong family culture 12:00 – The importance of scheduling service on your calendar 15:00 – Giving kids a say in planning family service projects 18:00 – Your challenge: What shared experiences can you create this week? Let us know what you think and what service projects you take on as a family! We’d love to hear your stories. 💛…

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213. Escape... with Intention. Don't miss our NEW Couple's Getaway Guide. 18:21

6 weeks ago18:21

18:21

Hey Family Brand! It’s Melissa here, and today, I’m sharing something that I am SO excited about—our brand-new Escape with Intention: A Couple’s Getaway Guide! Chris and I have felt the power of a well-planned getaway so many times, and we truly believe every couple deserves time away to reconnect, dream, and have fun together. But here’s the thing—there’s a BIG difference between just taking a trip and planning an intentional escape that strengthens your relationship. That’s where this guide comes in! In this episode, we talk about why getting away—whether for a weekend, a full vacation, or even just a few intentional hours—can be life-changing for your marriage. Chris and I share personal stories about our own getaways, from our honeymoon to last-minute anniversary trips, and even small moments that made a big impact. The key? Being intentional with your time together. When you approach your escape with purpose, it becomes more than just a break from daily life—it becomes a chance to grow, reconnect, and dream together. We also give you a sneak peek into what’s inside the Escape with Intention guide. It’s a fully designed 30-page resource packed with conversation prompts, planning tips, and ideas to help you make the most of your time away. Plus, we’re doing something special—we’re hosting a live masterclass, where we’ll walk you through the guide, answer your questions, and help you brainstorm how to make your own getaway happen this year! Whether you’ve been putting off a couples’ trip because of busy schedules, finances, or just not knowing where to start, this episode will help you rethink what’s possible. A getaway doesn’t have to be extravagant—it can be as simple as a planned afternoon together, a night away, or a full retreat if that’s an option for you. The most important thing is carving out time to escape… with intention. Want in? Head over to familybrand.com/masterclass to grab your spot! Let’s make your next getaway the best one yet. See you there! LINKS: All Links Family Brand! stan.store/familybrand Links For This Episode: familybrand.com/masterclass Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 – Why every couple deserves a getaway 2:05 – What inspired the Escape with Intention guide 4:30 – How intentional getaways strengthen your marriage 7:00 – Small escapes vs. big vacations—why both matter 9:45 – What’s inside the Escape with Intention guide 12:00 – Join us for the live masterclass on February 27th!…

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212. When to STOP Showing Up to All Your Kid’s Stuff? (Spots, Events, Etc.) 13:04

7 weeks ago13:04

13:04

Hey Family Brand crew! Today, we’re tackling a topic that might stir up some conversation—when should you stop showing up to all of your kid’s activities? As parents, we want to support our children and be there for them, but at what point does showing up to everything start to impact our time, energy, and even our family’s well-being? This is something Chris and I have been navigating lately, and I wanted to bring this conversation to the podcast so we can all reflect on it together. We’ve always been a family that values showing up for each other. But recently, as our kids have gotten older and their schedules have become packed with sports and activities, we started to ask ourselves—does attending every single game, match, or event actually serve our family? After a particularly overwhelming week of 12 different games across multiple sports, I found myself exhausted, our youngest daughter was feeling dragged along, and we realized it was time to reassess what showing up really looks like for us. One perspective that really caught my attention was from an interview with author Linda Flanagan, where she suggested that parents shouldn’t feel pressured to attend everything. Instead, she encourages modeling a happy adulthood by maintaining your own interests and not relying on your kids’ activities to define your purpose. That really hit home for me! It made me realize that sometimes, stepping back is just as valuable as showing up—it teaches kids independence, resilience, and that their worth isn’t tied to parental attendance. That said, every family is different. Some parents genuinely love going to every game, and that’s great! But if you’re feeling stretched too thin or questioning whether this is sustainable, it might be worth having an open conversation with your kids. Some of our kids have told us, “I really want you at this game,” while others have said, “I don’t mind if you miss this one.” Giving them a say in the conversation can help create a balanced approach that works for everyone. At the end of the day, it’s about being intentional with your time. Maybe showing up doesn’t always mean being physically present—it can also mean checking in after, celebrating their hard work, and making space for other meaningful family moments. So, if you’ve been feeling overcommitted or stretched too thin, I encourage you to take a step back and ask: What does showing up look like for our family? And is it time to redefine that? LINKS: All Links Family Brand! stan.store/familybrand Links For This Episode: 1000 Hours Outside Podcast, episode 414. Take Back the Game - https://open.spotify.com/episode/5HviEz3k009L0f1ajteSY9?si=eGONqFu7SAKWV0qXiJVRmQ Episode Minute By Minute 0:00 – A conversation worth having: Do we need to go to everything? 2:00 – The pressure parents feel to attend every activity 5:00 – When supporting one child starts to affect the whole family 7:30 – What research says about showing up vs. stepping back 10:00 – Having an open conversation with your kids about expectations 12:00 – Redefining “support” and creating balance for the whole family I’d love to hear your thoughts on this! Have you ever questioned whether you need to be at everything? Let’s continue the conversation—message me on Instagram or share your thoughts with your partner this week. See you next time!…

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211. Becoming....Undeniable 23:12

8 weeks ago23:12

23:12

Hey Family Brand! It’s Chris and Melissa here, and today we’re diving into a topic that has been a theme in our home and our conversations lately—what it means to become undeniable. Whether it’s in parenting, business, sports, or life in general, how do we show up in a way that makes our contributions impossible to ignore? We’re sharing personal stories, including how our son took on this mindset in his journey as an athlete, and how you can apply this principle in your own life. Melissa kicks off the conversation by reflecting on her recent speaking experience. Even though she’s spoken on Zoom and hosted this podcast for years, standing on stage in front of a live audience pushed her in new ways. She found herself replaying every detail, second-guessing her delivery, and realizing how easy it is to be unnecessarily hard on ourselves when we step outside our comfort zones. The lesson? Growth happens when we embrace discomfort and keep showing up, even when we don’t have it all figured out yet. Chris shares a powerful conversation he had with an entrepreneur who was hesitating to take action in his business, waiting until he was "sure it would work." But here’s the reality—you don’t get certainty before taking the leap. You take the leap, and then you figure it out. This same idea applies in our families, our careers, and every area of life. If we wait until we feel completely ready, we’ll stay stuck. The inspiration for today’s episode comes from our son, Tanner, and the journey he’s been on with sports. Last year, he chose the word “undeniable” as his theme. At first, it seemed like just a word on a vision board, scribbled in a barely legible font. But over time, he fully embodied that word. He showed up differently in his training, his mindset, and his approach to challenges. Instead of hoping to earn playing time, he worked in a way that made it impossible for coaches to overlook him. He became undeniable. We wrap up with three powerful questions inspired by world-renowned sports psychologist Bill Beswick, questions that can help you in any area of life: What do you want? How bad do you want it? What are you willing to suffer for to get it? These questions push us to get clear on our goals, commit to them fully, and recognize that struggle is part of the process. Whether in sports, business, marriage, or personal growth, the key is to put in the work and trust that your undeniable efforts will lead to undeniable results. LINKS: All Links Family Brand! stan.store/familybrand Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 – Why we’re talking about becoming undeniable 2:00 – Melissa’s experience stepping outside her comfort zone 6:00 – Why waiting to "be ready" will keep you stuck 10:00 – How our son embodied the undeniable mindset 14:00 – The three questions that help you level up 18:00 – Applying the concept of undeniable to family, work, and personal growth 22:00 – Final thoughts: What’s calling you to become undeniable? What’s one area of your life where you can commit to showing up so fully that your contribution can’t be ignored? We’d love to hear your thoughts—send us a message or share your story with us!…

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210. State of the Smith Family Finances Address 31:16

9 weeks ago31:16

31:16

Hey Family Brand! It’s Chris and Melissa here, and today we’re diving into a topic that we haven’t spent much time on in the podcast: family finances. If the thought of finances makes you want to tune out, stick with us—we’re sharing lessons learned from our own money journey, the missteps we’ve taken, and the shifts that have helped us build a healthier relationship with money. This is about more than numbers; it’s about stewardship, mindset, and teaching our kids how to handle money in a way that sets them up for life. In this episode, we get personal about how we’ve navigated our finances as a family. Like many couples, we started with different upbringings around money, and for years, we didn’t even realize our mindset about money was rooted in scarcity. Early on, we spent countless hours trying to save a few dollars, without understanding the bigger picture of value creation and stewardship. A turning point came when we started reframing our language and habits around money—focusing less on “we can’t afford that” and more on “how can we create the money for what matters to us?” We also share the importance of teaching financial principles to our kids. A recent conversation with our 17-year-old revealed a gap in how we’ve communicated what it takes to manage money and run a household. This year, we’re being more intentional about showing our kids the behind-the-scenes of family finances—everything from setting budgets to understanding the value of creating income. A simple rule we’ve implemented, “We pay for everything you want and half of what you need,” has helped our kids think twice before spending. Another shift this year has been the introduction of clear roles in our household finances. Inspired by a couples retreat, we decided to designate Chris as the CFO (Chief Financial Officer) and Melissa as the CEO (Chief Executive Officer) of our family. This has brought much-needed clarity and accountability to how we handle our responsibilities. It doesn’t mean we don’t support each other, but it has helped eliminate the overlap and inefficiencies we used to face. Our main takeaway for you: Financial success isn’t just about saving more or spending less; it’s about creating value, building good habits, and fostering a healthy relationship with money—both for you and your kids. As you step into this year, take some time to reflect on how you can intentionally improve your family’s relationship with money. LINKS: All Links Family Brand! stan.store/familybrand Links For This Episode: How To Have Complete Control Over Your Finances - https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=shared&v=V6k-sWfBBi8 Podcast: 19. Why We Never Say “We Can’t Afford That” https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/19-why-we-never-say-we-cant-afford-that/id1536495798?i=1000514325256 Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 – Why we’re talking about family finances 2:00 – Early lessons and scarcity mindsets around money 5:00 – How reframing our language changed everything 9:00 – Teaching kids financial responsibility and creation 14:00 – Our experiment with CFO and CEO family roles 18:00 – What we want our kids to learn about money 24:00 – Actionable takeaways for improving family finances…

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209. New Year, New Intentions – Finding Your Family’s Focus for 2025 28:27

10 weeks ago28:27

28:27

Hey Family Brand! It’s Chris and Melissa here, and we’re coming to you from our brand-new house, fresh into 2025! This episode feels extra special because it’s the first one we’re recording in our new home, and we’re sharing how our family has been setting the tone for the new year. Whether you’re someone who loves creating goals and vision boards or you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, this episode will inspire you to pause, reflect, and bring intentionality into your family’s new year. We’re diving into our favorite end-of-year traditions, like reflecting on what went well in 2024 and what we want to improve for 2025. Chris shares how our family fills out reflection worksheets individually before coming together to talk about what we want to focus on as a group. It’s been such a powerful practice for us to not only grow as individuals but also strengthen our family culture. One of the big highlights of this year’s reflection process was choosing our family word for 2025: Peace . We explain how we arrived at that theme by gathering input from our kids and reflecting on the areas where we felt the most opportunity for growth—creating more order in our home, being kinder to one another, and fostering a calm, joyful environment. We even share how our kids come up with fun actions to reinforce our family values each day, making the process memorable and engaging. We also talk about our personal words for the year. Melissa’s word, Maker , is all about being intentional in every area of life—from homemaking to fun-making. Chris’s word, Fearless , challenges him to lean into fear and use it as a guide to pursue growth. These words help us approach the year with clarity and focus, and they’re a constant reminder of what matters most. Lastly, we touch on the importance of sustaining these intentions beyond the initial excitement of the new year. From creating visual cues like phone backgrounds to saying our family values together every morning, we share practical tips to keep your family’s goals front and center. And don’t worry—it’s not about perfection. It’s about progress, connection, and moving forward together. Let us know your family’s word or theme for 2025—we’d love to hear how you’re starting the year with intention. You can grab our free reflection guide and start creating your best year yet at familybrand.com/best . Cheers to a fresh start! LINKS: All Links Family Brand! stan.store/familybrand Links For This Episode: https://familybrand.com/your-best-year-yet-2025 Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 – Kicking off 2025 in our new home 3:00 – Reflecting on the past year and planning for the next 7:30 – How we chose our family word for 2025: Peace 12:00 – Melissa and Chris’s personal words and how they shape the year 17:00 – Simple ways to stay intentional all year long 20:00 – How to create a meaningful start to the year for your family…

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208. Rewriting the Stories That Hold You Back: Shatter the Need for Confidence with Guest Angus Nelson 34:43

11 weeks ago34:43

34:43

Hey Family Brand! It’s Melissa here, and I couldn’t be more excited to introduce you to my guest, Angus Nelson. Angus is an executive coach who helps entrepreneurs and high achievers break through their blockers and become their best selves. In today’s episode, we dive into why confidence isn’t the secret to success—and why the journey to real self-belief starts with action, not achievements. If you’ve ever felt stuck, doubted yourself, or let fear hold you back, this conversation is for you. Angus shares why many of us misunderstand confidence, treating it as something we need before taking action. He flips this idea on its head, explaining that confidence is always a result of doing, not a prerequisite. With humor and deep insight, Angus discusses how fear of failure and even fear of success are blockers that can paralyze us. By rethinking our stories and beliefs, we can take the first step toward growth—without waiting to feel “ready.” We also explore how these concepts apply to family life and relationships. Angus opens up about his own journey of personal transformation, including lessons from his role as a parent and his career as an entrepreneur. His vulnerability and wisdom remind us that building resilience, courage, and self-permission can transform not just our professional lives but our family dynamics as well. Angus also shares an incredible story of moving his family to Portugal, embracing resistance, and finding courage through big life changes. His takeaway? Resistance isn’t a sign to quit; it’s an opportunity to grow stronger and prove to yourself what you’re capable of. Lastly, Angus gives us a sneak peek into his upcoming book, Confidence Comes Later. He reveals why chasing confidence keeps us stuck and how shifting our mindset can unlock incredible potential. It’s a must-read for anyone ready to shatter limiting beliefs and step into the life they were meant to live. LINKS: All Links Family Brand! stan.store/familybrand Links For This Episode: Book: https://www.angusnelson.com/book Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angusnelson Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 – Meet Angus Nelson: Executive Coach and Author 2:00 – Why Confidence Isn’t What You Think It Is 5:00 – Breaking Down the Biggest Blockers: Fear of Failure and Success 10:00 – Why Resistance Is an Opportunity for Growth 15:00 – Redefining Confidence Through Action 20:00 – Angus’ Personal Transformation and Lessons from Family Life 27:00 – Moving to Portugal: The Courage to Follow Your Dreams 31:00 – How to Connect with Angus and Learn More About His Work…

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207. Our One Family 'Rule': Simplify Your Family Life with This Guiding Principle 15:41

12 weeks ago15:41

15:41

Hey Family Brand! It’s Chris and Melissa here, and today we’re talking about something that has brought clarity and connection to our family: our one family “rule.” Now, we’re not talking about a strict rule you have to follow, but more like a guiding principle—something simple that keeps us grounded, connected, and focused on what matters most. In this episode, we’ll walk you through how we discovered ours, why it’s been so impactful, and how you can find your own one family rule. We started this concept through our work with The Psblty Co , where we help businesses simplify their growth by focusing on one core principle. That got us thinking: Why not apply the same idea to our family? So, we gathered our kids, reflected on our family’s mission, vision, and values, and asked, “If we could only remember one thing, what would make the biggest impact?” The answer for us was clear: Elevate and Inspire. These three words capture how we want to treat each other and show up as a family. They remind us to lift each other up, speak possibility into each other’s lives, and strive for connection. Since adopting this rule, it’s become a touchstone for all of us. Even the kids use it as a gentle check-in, asking, “Was that elevate and inspire?” It’s been a game-changer for how we approach our relationships at home. If you’re wondering how to create your own one family rule, we recommend starting with your existing family mission or values. Is there a phrase or principle that stands out as the cornerstone? If you don’t have a mission or values yet, that’s okay! Just ask yourself: How do we want to treat each other? What’s most important in how we show up as a family? Keep it simple—five words or less—and make it memorable. The beauty of this concept is its simplicity. In the busyness of life, it’s easy to forget the grand mission statements or big goals. But a short, actionable rule is something you can come back to daily. It’s a lens for making decisions, a reminder to align your actions with your values, and a foundation for building strong, lasting relationships. If you’re inspired to find your family’s one rule, let us know! We’d love to hear what you come up with and how it transforms your family dynamic. LINKS: All Links Family Brand! stan.store/familybrand Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 – Reflecting on 20 years of marriage and family life 2:00 – What is the “one rule” concept? 4:00 – How we discovered our one rule: Elevate and Inspire 7:00 – Why simplicity matters in creating family values 10:00 – Steps to finding your family’s guiding principle 13:00 – How one rule can transform your family culture We hope this episode inspires you to explore what matters most to your family. Remember, it’s not about perfection—it’s about intention. Let us know your one family rule, and let’s continue growing together as families!…

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206. Make your goal of 'Get Organized' actually happen in 2025! With Shawn Lemon of The Digital Organizer 39:44

13 weeks ago39:44

39:44

Hey Family Brand! It’s Melissa here, and this week, we’re diving into a topic that’s on everyone’s mind as we head into a new year: getting organized! My guest, Shawn Lemon of The Digital Organizer, is here to share practical strategies to help families streamline their digital lives and create more peace at home. If your goal for 2025 is to finally tackle that messy inbox, set up a family calendar, or organize your files, Shawn has the tools and mindset shifts you need to make it happen. Shawn shares how his journey into digital organization began with a tech-savvy dad who made him read manuals and fix the family computer. This early experience sparked a lifelong passion for simplifying tech and teaching others to master their digital tools. Over the past 11 years, Shawn has helped families and businesses alike transform their chaotic digital setups into systems that work seamlessly. One of the biggest challenges families face, Shawn explains, is managing multiple platforms and tools. From calendars to file storage, he emphasizes the importance of choosing one shared system that everyone can access easily. Whether it’s Google Drive or iCloud, the key is finding what works best for your family and committing to it. Shawn’s advice? Start small and keep it simple—it’s about progress, not perfection. Shawn also highlights the mental side of organization. Often, we get overwhelmed by the sheer amount of “stuff” and don’t know where to start. He encourages families to focus on small wins, like unsubscribing from unnecessary emails or consolidating files into one location. These simple steps build momentum and help you stay motivated as you tackle bigger projects. Lastly, we discuss the life skills that come with digital organization, especially for kids. Shawn shares how setting up shared calendars or folders can teach responsibility, time management, and teamwork. These lessons go beyond the digital realm, preparing kids for success in school, work, and life. If you’re ready to take control of your digital life, Shawn’s Digital Organization Guide is a must-have resource. Head over to: thedigitalorganizer.com/lp/familybrand to download it and start your journey toward a more organized 2025! LINKS: All Links Family Brand! stan.store/familybrand Links For This Episode: https://thedigitalorganizer.com/lp/familybrand Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 – Meet Shawn Lemon: The Digital Organizer 3:00 – Why digital organization starts with mindset 7:30 – Choosing a shared calendar platform for your family 12:00 – Streamlining file storage across devices 17:00 – Tips for tackling email clutter and subscriptions 23:00 – Teaching kids the life skills of organization 28:00 – Final thoughts: Small wins lead to big progress…

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205. Best Year Yet: A Fun and Meaningful Way to Celebrate New Year’s with Your Family (FREE DOWNLOAD INSIDE) 12:52

14 weeks ago12:52

12:52

Hey Family Brand! It’s Melissa and Chris here, and we’re so excited to share one of our favorite annual traditions: our “ Best Year Yet ” family framework. Whether you’re looking for a fun and meaningful way to close out the year or want to start the new year with intention, this episode is packed with ideas to help your family reflect, connect, and dream big for 2024. And the best part? It’s all free! Head over to familybrand.com/best to download everything you need to get started. We created this framework to replace the rushed, chaotic energy we often felt during the holidays with something more meaningful and intentional. Instead of just showing up to New Year’s Eve parties and coasting into January, we wanted to reflect on the past year, celebrate our wins, and create a vision for the year ahead. Over time, this tradition has become one of the most impactful things we do as a family. This framework includes three parts: reflecting on the past year, celebrating New Year’s Eve with a fun family tradition, and setting goals for the year ahead. It’s designed to include everyone, from young kids to teens, making it a unique way for families to grow together. Chris and I love how it allows us to pause, have meaningful conversations, and learn new things about our kids and each other. One of the most exciting aspects is how much fun families have reported having with the New Year’s Eve activities. From award ceremonies to family games, this tradition has become a favorite for many of you. And we’ve seen the impact it’s had—bringing families closer, encouraging intentional growth, and helping everyone feel more connected and supported as they step into a new year. Lastly, we shared how businesses often use end-of-year reflections and strategic planning to set up for success. We’ve taken some of these principles and applied them to family life, creating an approach that’s accessible, practical, and, most importantly, fun for the whole family. Let’s make this your best year yet as a family! We’d love to see how you use the framework—tag us in your photos and stories, and let’s inspire each other to make 2024 amazing. Happy New Year! LINKS: All Links Family Brand! stan.store/familybrand Links For This Episode: http://familybrand.com/best Episode Minute By Minute: 0:00 – Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! 2:00 – Why we created the “Best Year Yet” framework 5:00 – Reflecting on the past year: Finding the gold in 2024 7:30 – Making New Year’s Eve meaningful and fun as a family 10:00 – Setting intentional goals for the year ahead 11:30 – How this framework has impacted our family and others 12:30 – Where to download your free kit: familybrand.com/best…

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204. Four Years of the Family Brand Podcast + A Sneak Peek at Our New Year’s FREE Download! 17:05

14 weeks ago17:05