Christian Moms Café (formerly Christian Homeschool Moms)
Hi friend, I’m Demetria, and I’m so glad you found your way to the Café. This is the place where we talk honestly about faith, motherhood, identity, and who we’re becoming. If you still love God but you’re tired of fear, performance, and trying to be the “right” kind of Christian woman, pull up a chair. You’re in good company here. We choose grace over guilt, and every question is welcome at this table, even the ones you’ve been afraid to ask out loud. On the show, I sit down with women from all walks of life to...
198. Big News! The New Christian Moms Café Website Is Live
Christian Moms Café Is Open! A New Home for Moms in Every Season
The café is officially open! 🎉 After months of dreaming, praying, and building, ChristianMoms.net is live, and I couldn't wait another minute to share it with you.
In this short, joyful episode, I'm taking you behind the scenes of this new chapter, from the early days of my online ministry in 2004 to the vision God has continued to bring full circle. You'll discover what's waiting for you at Christian Moms Café, why this new space is for moms in every season of life...
197. Faith, Family & Comic Books: How She Built a Business With Her Kids, with Shemeca Cooper
What happens when you can’t find the books you want your kids to read? You create your own! ☕📚
In this episode of Christian Moms Café, I’m chatting with Shemeca Cooper, founder of Cooper Legacy Books, about how a simple parenting frustration turned into a family business. As a homeschooling mom, Shemeca wanted fun, engaging books that reflected her family’s values, so she teamed up with her two children to create comic-style stories filled with humor, faith, and life lessons.
We talk about what it’s like to build a business with your kids, encourag...
196. Who Am I Now? Finding Yourself in the Empty Nest Season
When the house gets quiet, who are you now? In this heart-to-heart episode, I'm opening up about my first month after dropping my daughter off at college: new rhythms, dinners for two, solo picnics in the San Francisco fog, a growing stack of rom-coms, and the surprising joy of rediscovering myself while still being very much a mom. Whether you're an empty nester or in any season of change, this conversation is your gentle permission slip to stop feeling lost and start getting curious about who you're becoming.
✍️ Write for Christian Moms Café
Christian Moms Café...
195. Finding Joy in Hard Seasons: Homeschooling Through Chemo with Jenna Schutt
Jenna Schutt used to be a cardiac nurse — then her own body threw her the hardest curveball of her life. She's a stem cell transplant survivor, speaker, and writer, and now she runs Faith with Jenna, where she helps women choose God's truth over fear. She got there the hard way: years of chemo, hospital stays, and raising two little boys through all of it. Now she's writing a book, The Joy Reflex™, about how joy isn't something that just happens to you — it's something you can actually train yourself toward, even in the middle of hard seasons. She lives...
194. What Every Child (& Mom) Needs to Hear About God with Sydney Ann Johnson
Motherhood can leave us feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, and wondering if we're doing enough. In this encouraging conversation, I sit down with author, poet, and advocate Sydney Ann Johnson, whose lifelong passion for writing, faith, and uplifting others has shaped her work and ministry. Together, we talk about the lasting legacy of a parent's words, finding God in the ordinary moments of motherhood, and why taking time to be refreshed by His presence matters. Sydney Ann also shares the heart behind her debut children's book, God, The Great I AM, and why representation in Christian children's literature is so important—he...
193. Who Are You When Homeschooling Ends?
After 14 years of homeschooling, I’m stepping into a brand new season — and I’m finally ready to talk about what that transition has really looked like. A few weeks ago, I watched my daughter walk across the stage and graduate high school, and as I celebrated her next chapter, I realized God was also inviting me into mine. In this episode, I’m sharing the honest emotions of ending a season that shaped so much of my identity, the grief of a beautiful ending, and what God has been showing me about who we are when the roles we’ve po...
192. Finding Purpose After Pain with Sharen Eddings
What do you do when life doesn't go according to plan?
In this encouraging conversation, I chat with self-taught coder, entrepreneur, and Rapido Spanish founder Sharon Eddings about overcoming setbacks, healing through growth, and finding the courage to reinvent yourself. Sharon shares how she built a successful tech career, created innovative learning programs, and discovered that lasting change happens one small step at a time.
If you've ever felt behind, stuck, or uncertain about your next chapter, this episode will remind you that your story isn't over yet. Learn more about Rapido Spanish here: https...
191. You Don't Need a Perfect Morning to Meet with God
Have you ever felt guilty because your quiet time didn't look the way you thought it should? In this episode, I'm sharing what my morning routine looks like in this season of life—from Bible study and prayer to green tea, fasting, and preparing for the workday—but more importantly, I'm sharing what God taught me through both the slow, peaceful mornings and the rushed ones when prayer happened in the car. If you've ever wondered whether you're doing enough or wished your spiritual life looked more put together, I hope this conversation reminds you that God isn't grading your...
190:The Burned-Out Mom Conversation We Need to Have, with Homeschool Mom, Jenna Myers
In this heartfelt conversation, I sit down with author and educator Jenna Myers to talk about something so many moms quietly carry: burnout, overwhelm, emotional exhaustion, and the pressure to constantly “do it all.” We dive into nervous system regulation, the importance of rest and white space, creating peaceful family rhythms, and learning how to slow down without guilt. Jenna shares her own journey through stress, motherhood, chronic overwhelm, and discovering healthier ways to care for herself and her family. If you’ve been feeling stretched thin, emotionally drained, or like you’re running on empty, this episode is your rem...
189:Why Making Friends as a Mom Feels So Hard (and How to Change It)
Why does friendship feel so much harder as a mom… even when your heart still longs for connection?
In today’s episode, we’re having an honest, grace-filled conversation about the quiet shifts that happen in our friendships through motherhood. From changing capacity to evolving seasons, we’re unpacking why things don’t feel the same—and what God might be doing in the middle of it.
This isn’t about forcing more relationships or striving to “get it right.” It’s about understanding where you are, releasing pressure, and learning how to approach friendship in a way that’s heal...
188: How To Hear God’s Voice as a Busy Mom with Silvia Ledon
What if hearing God’s voice is less about striving harder…and more about slowing down, staying open, and becoming curious again? In this beautiful first guest episode of Christian Moms Cafe, I’m joined by author, worship leader, educator, and voice teacher Silvia Ledon for a warm conversation about finding God in everyday moments, raising children with authentic faith instead of pressure, and rediscovering joy in the middle of motherhood. We talk about how God speaks through nature, love, quiet moments, and even through our children. If you’ve been longing for a deeper, more peaceful connection with God, thi...
187: Finding Yourself Again After Motherhood
In this heartfelt episode of Christian Moms Café, we’re leaning into a question so many moms quietly carry: Who am I now? Whether you’re in the thick of motherhood or stepping into a quieter season, this conversation is a gentle invitation to rediscover yourself—without guilt or pressure. I’m sharing my own journey through midlife, identity shifts, and reconnecting with the parts of me that had been set aside, along with practical, grace-filled steps to help you do the same. If you’ve been missing you and wondering what’s next, this episode will meet you right where y...
186: Learning to Let Go Of Our Kids (& just let them grow up!)
Motherhood doesn’t end… but it does change. And no one really prepares you for how hard it is to let go. In this episode, I’m sharing my real-life journey of watching my daughters grow up, step out, and how I’m learning to love them without holding on too tight.
///
✍Apply to be on the show: https://www.honeybook.com/widget/demetria_zinga_consulting_244093/cf_id/67d97e103753ac00254305ea🎹Virtual Piano Lessons for Homeschoolers/After-Schoolers (& curious adults, too!): http://www.readandrhythm.com▶️Join me on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@momzestlife/🎙️Join the Christian Women Podcas...185: Welcome to Christian Moms Cafe: From Homeschooling to Life’s Next Seasons
Join me, Demetria, as I welcome you to the newly rebranded Christian Moms Cafe. After 14 years of the Christian Homeschool Moms Podcast, I’m stepping into a new season—empty nest, midlife transitions, and a space to gather, encourage, and support one another through all stages of motherhood and life. In this episode, we reflect on the journey so far, share what’s next, and invite you into a community where moms of faith can connect, pray, and grow together.
///
✍Apply to be on the show: https://www.honeybook.com/widget/demetria_zinga_consulting_244093/cf_id/67d97e1037...Christian Moms Cafe Trailer Episode
Welcome to Christian Moms Cafe, a warm, welcoming space for moms of faith. From toddlers to teens, grown kids, and the empty nest, this podcast offers encouragement, practical insights, and authentic conversations about motherhood, life transitions, and faith. Pull up a chair, grab your coffee, and join the community—because no mom should do this alone.
///
✍Apply to be on the show: https://www.honeybook.com/widget/demetria_zinga_consulting_244093/cf_id/67d97e103753ac00254305ea🎹Virtual Piano Lessons for Homeschoolers/After-Schoolers (& curious adults, too!): http://www.readandrhythm.com▶️Join me on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@momzes...CHM184: We’re Going on Break, But Not Going Away | Honoring the Season
After 183 episodes, the Christian Homeschool Moms Podcast is going on break for a season. In this episode, I share why this pause feels right, how God has been gently guiding me into a new chapter, and why the encouragement in this archive still matters for homeschool parents and moms of faith. This isn’t goodbye- just a faithful pause. If you’d like to continue walking with me through midlife, family transitions, faith, and what comes next, I invite you to join me over on my YouTube channel, MomZest—linked below.
Happy New Year 2026!!!
➤Follow me at my...
CHM184: We’re Going on Break, But Not Going Away | Honoring the Season
After 183 episodes, the Christian Homeschool Moms Podcast is going on break for a season. In this episode, I share why this pause feels right, how God has been gently guiding me into a new chapter, and why the encouragement in this archive still matters for homeschool parents and moms of faith. This isn’t goodbye- just a faithful pause. If you’d like to continue walking with me through midlife, family transitions, faith, and what comes next, I invite you to join me over on my YouTube channel, MomZest—linked below.
Happy New Year 2026!!!
➤Follow me at my Yo...
CHM183: Why We’re Choosing Fewer Gifts and More Connection
The holiday season can be beautiful — and overwhelming — all at the same time. Between the pressure to buy more, do more, and keep up with expectations, it’s easy to lose sight of what this season is really about. In this reflective, end-of-year episode, I’m sharing a slower, more intentional conversation about choosing meaning over more. As a veteran homeschool mom, I open up about how our family is simplifying gifts this year, shifting our focus toward shared experiences, and creating space for rest, connection, and faith — especially now that our kids are older. Together, we’ll talk about redefi...
CHM183: Why We’re Choosing Fewer Gifts and More Connection
The holiday season can be beautiful — and overwhelming — all at the same time. Between the pressure to buy more, do more, and keep up with expectations, it’s easy to lose sight of what this season is really about. In this reflective, end-of-year episode, I’m sharing a slower, more intentional conversation about choosing meaning over more. As a veteran homeschool mom, I open up about how our family is simplifying gifts this year, shifting our focus toward shared experiences, and creating space for rest, connection, and faith — especially now that our kids are older. Together, we’ll talk about redefining w...
CHM182:From Homeless to Healed & Homeschooling, with Brittney Proctor
This week on the Christian Homeschool Moms Podcast, I’m sitting down with Brittney Proctor, whose story is nothing short of powerful. Brittney opens up about her journey from experiencing homelessness to finding healing, stability, and eventually stepping boldly into homeschooling her children. We talk about what those early days looked like, the quiet (and not-so-quiet) ways God showed up, and how she’s building a life for her family that is rooted in faith, wholeness, and purpose. If you’ve ever walked through a hard season and wondered whether beauty could come from it, Brittney’s story will meet you...
CHM182:From Homeless to Healed & Homeschooling, with Brittney Proctor
This week on the Christian Homeschool Moms Podcast, I’m sitting down with Brittney Proctor, whose story is nothing short of powerful. Brittney opens up about her journey from experiencing homelessness to finding healing, stability, and eventually stepping boldly into homeschooling her children. We talk about what those early days looked like, the quiet (and not-so-quiet) ways God showed up, and how she’s building a life for her family that is rooted in faith, wholeness, and purpose. If you’ve ever walked through a hard season and wondered whether beauty could come from it, Brittney’s story will meet you righ...
CHM181:Homeschooling Through High School: Real Talk with CJ
If you’re homeschooling through high school and wondering whether you’re doing any of it “right,” this conversation with my guest, CJ, is exactly what you need. We dig into the real, unfiltered highs and lows of teaching teens at home—the shifts in independence, the emotional dynamics, and the practical decisions that make these years feel intense and transformative. CJ brings her honest, grounded perspective as a veteran homeschool mom, and together we break down what it really takes to navigate high school without losing your sanity or your relationship with your child. If you need clarity, camaraderi...
CHM181:Homeschooling Through High School: Real Talk with CJ
If you’re homeschooling through high school and wondering whether you’re doing any of it “right,” this conversation with my guest, CJ, is exactly what you need. We dig into the real, unfiltered highs and lows of teaching teens at home—the shifts in independence, the emotional dynamics, and the practical decisions that make these years feel intense and transformative. CJ brings her honest, grounded perspective as a veteran homeschool mom, and together we break down what it really takes to navigate high school without losing your sanity or your relationship with your child. If you need clarity, camaraderie, and a brea...
CHM180:Don't Quit, Mama: God’s Not Done, with Sharon Jaynes
In this episode, I’m sitting down with the incredible Sharon Jaynes for a conversation every tired, hopeful, or overwhelmed mom needs to hear. We dig into the real stuff—feeling like you’re not measuring up, wrestling with comparison, wondering if anything you’re doing is even working. Sharon brings powerful stories, biblical wisdom, and the kind of honesty that reminds you God is right in the middle of your motherhood… even on the days that feel like “chopsticks.” If you’ve ever questioned your calling as a mom or felt discouraged in the slow, unseen work of raising kids, this episo...
CHM180:Don't Quit, Mama: God’s Not Done, with Sharon Jaynes
In this episode, I’m sitting down with the incredible Sharon Jaynes for a conversation every tired, hopeful, or overwhelmed mom needs to hear. We dig into the real stuff—feeling like you’re not measuring up, wrestling with comparison, wondering if anything you’re doing is even working. Sharon brings powerful stories, biblical wisdom, and the kind of honesty that reminds you God is right in the middle of your motherhood… even on the days that feel like “chopsticks.” If you’ve ever questioned your calling as a mom or felt discouraged in the slow, unseen work of raising kids, th...
CHM179:My Season of Gratitude: Family Updates, Food Adventures, and Reclaiming God’s Joy
In this heartfelt Thanksgiving-season episode, I’m sharing personal updates from my life lately — from my youngest navigating college applications, to my oldest stepping fully into adulthood, to my own journey with health, perimenopause, and rediscovering joy in the everyday. I’m also opening up about my newest adventure: exploring my heritage through cooking Congolese, Nigerian, and Kenyan dishes for the very first time — imperfect, a little messy, but full of meaning. And of course, I’m heading back to my Southern staples for next week’s Thanksgiving table. Inside this episode, we talk about releasing perfectionism, creating space for your own...
CHM178:Your Gifts Are Not on Hold: Motherhood and Mission Can Coexist
Feeling like you lost yourself in homeschooling and motherhood? You are not alone. This conversation with Mission Driven Mom founder Audrey Rindlisbacher will remind you that God did not give you gifts just to bury them under a pile of laundry. Get ready to dream again, take small brave steps, and show your kids what purpose looks like in motion.
Visit Audrey at https://www.audreyrindlisbacher.com/
🔔 Announcements: Doors are open for new members at the Christian Women Podcasters Network!
Are you a Christian podcaster sharing about faith, family, hea...
CHM177:How to Stay Present as a Parent When Your Kids Are Away At School All Day
When your kids transition from being home with you every day to spending most of their time at school, it can shift everything — the rhythms, the conversations, even the way you connect. In this episode, we’re talking about how to stay present as a parent through those changes — how to give your kids the space they need to grow while still staying emotionally close. I’ll share what this looks like in my own home now that my daughter’s in school full-time, and how I’ve learned to navigate that new balance of letting go while staying connected. W...
CHM176. Everyday Math, Everyday Faith with Margaret Shawver
In this inspiring episode of the Christian Homeschool Moms Podcast, I chat with engineer, educator, and mom Margaret Shawver, who brings a refreshing faith-filled perspective to mathematics. We talk about how math reflects God’s order and beauty, why homeschool moms should give themselves grace, and how simple tools — like her color-differentiated graph paper — can make math finally click. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed teaching math, this conversation will help you see it as more than numbers — it’s worship through understanding God’s design.
Connect with Margaret Shawver:
TikTok – @workingmomlabs (math demos + tip...CHM175. Faith Driven Entrepreneurs with Dana Roefer
Join us for an inspiring conversation with Dana Roefer, Vice President of Faith Driven Entrepreneur for Teens, as she shares how to nurture entrepreneurial gifts in our children through a biblical lens. Dana discusses her signature 12-session course "Called to Create," featuring stories from Christian entrepreneurs like Lecrae, Jeremy Lin, and Dude Perfect's Coby Cotton. Discover practical ways to support your teen's entrepreneurial journey—even without a business background—while keeping faith at the center. Dana emphasizes that curiosity is a superpower for both parents and teens, and shares how entrepreneurship education goes beyond business skills to develop character, rela...
CHM174. Why Music Belongs in Your Homeschool (Even If You’re Not Musical)
Think music doesn’t fit into your homeschool because you’re not a musician? Think again. In this episode, Demetria shares why music is one of the most powerful tools you can weave into your homeschool—boosting academics, nurturing emotions, strengthening faith, and building family connection. You’ll hear simple, stress-free ways to add music into your days (no formal training required!), plus encouragement to make it a joy-filled part of your homeschool rhythm. From singing together to exploring instruments, you’ll discover that music doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive—it just has to be present. Whether you’re...
CHM173: Why Slowing Down Helps Kids Thrive with Leslie Martino
In this episode, I chat with homeschool mom and author Leslie Martino about her book The Joy of Slow Schooling and why giving ourselves permission to slow down in homeschooling can actually lead to deeper learning and more joy. If you’ve ever felt pressured to rush through lessons, compare your kids, or keep up with rigid schedules, this conversation will encourage you to embrace a gentler, more peaceful rhythm that nurtures both your children’s curiosity and your family’s connection.
Check out Leslie and support her work at: https://lesliemartino.com/
---
...CHM172. Mama, Minister, Author: Building Legacy Through Bilingual Books with Gracie Ramirez
In this heartfelt episode, I sit down with Gracie Ramirez—wife, mama of two, ministry leader, and bilingual children’s book author—to talk about building faith-filled family rhythms and leaving a legacy through storytelling. From her passion for discipleship at 3Crosses Español to creating accessible, scripture-rooted resources for Spanish-speaking families, Gracie shares how motherhood, ministry, and creativity collide in her calling. We explore the power of bilingual books for homeschoolers and church families alike, the importance of healing and mentorship in women’s ministry, and what it really takes to balance being a mom, minister, and author. If you’ve...
CHM171. Fostering Safe Spaces for Black and Brown Homeschoolers with D.M. Whitaker (Juneteenth Version)
As we reflect on the significance of Juneteenth—a day that honors freedom and the ongoing journey toward equity—this episode brings a timely and powerful conversation to the forefront. I’m joined by D.M. Whitaker—homeschool mom, author, publisher, and founder of Water Rocks Publishing—who shares her inspiring journey of creating safe, empowering spaces for Black and Brown homeschool families. When she saw racial inequality in local co-ops, she didn’t just take note—she took action.
We dive into her mission-driven work as an author, including her newest release, The Grand Adventures of...
CHM170: Helping Daughters Know Their Worth in a Worth-Chasing World with Nellie Harden
In this heartfelt and empowering episode, I’m joined by Nellie Harden—speaker, author, and mom of four daughters—for a rich conversation about raising confident, Christ-centered girls in today’s culture. Nellie shares her personal journey from being a "worth chaser" to discovering her true identity in Christ, and how that transformation shaped the way she parents and leads at home. We talk about the unique struggles young women face when it comes to self-worth, the powerful role moms play in shaping their daughters’ confidence, and why the family is the greatest leadership training ground. Nellie also intro...
CHM169: Faith + Fitness: A Holistic Approach to Homeschool P.E. with Ashton Tate
In this episode of the Christian Homeschool Moms Podcast, I’m joined by Ashton Tate, the founder of F.O.R.M.—a faith-based physical education curriculum designed specifically for homeschool families. Ashton shares how his background in health sciences and passion for purposeful movement led him to create a program that makes fitness accessible, structured, and rooted in Christian values. We talk about how F.O.R.M. serves homeschool co-ops, after-school programs, and families looking to bring wellness and intentionality into their daily routines. From curriculum structure and health topics to guidance for parents and students, Ashton give...
CHM168: Growth Over Grades: Teaching Kids to Love the Learning Process
In this episode, I’m diving into how we can encourage a growth mindset in our kids—whether you homeschool, support your child after school, or use a hybrid model. Learn practical ways to help your children embrace challenges, celebrate progress, and build the confidence to problem-solve with faith and resilience.
🎯 Key takeaways:
Why praising effort over results mattersHow to reframe “failure” as growthSimple phrases that encourage a growth mindsetFaith-based encouragement for moms raising resilient learners🔔 Announcements: Doors are open for new members at the Christian Women Podcasters Network!
Are y...
CHM167: Homeschooling in Rhythm: Embracing Purpose Over Perfection with Dani Ward
//RESOURCES//
Check out Dani's Instagram to grab her resources and free coloring book at https://www.instagram.com/raisinghomemakersGrab her book "Fruit of the Spirit Family Bible Study" in two ways.1. Amazon - Physical workbook (in print) HERE2. Stanstore - Print your own copy HEREFREE Coloring Book (digital, print your own) HERE---
///
✍Apply to be on the show: https://www.honeybook.com/widget/demetria_zinga_consulting_244093/cf_id/67d97e103753ac00254305ea🎹Virtual Piano Lessons for Homeschoolers/After-Schoolers (& curious adults, too!): http://www.readandrhythm.com
▶️J...
CHM166: Does Your Child Need a Tutor? 7 Signs to Watch For
In Episode 166, I’m sharing some exciting changes coming to the podcast and diving into an important topic: how to know when your child might benefit from tutoring. Whether your child is struggling with a particular subject, feeling frustrated, losing confidence, or even needing more of a challenge, tutoring can be a powerful tool to support their learning—whether at home or in school. I’ll walk through key signs to watch for and how the right support can make all the difference. Tune in for encouragement and practical insights, and let’s chat about it—head over to my YouTube...
CHM165: Podcast Changes! What’s Ahead for Christian Homeschool Moms?
Changes are here for the Christian Homeschool Moms Podcast! Listen in to find out what's happening for 2025 and beyond!
//RESOURCES//
///
✍Apply to be on the show: https://www.honeybook.com/widget/demetria_zinga_consulting_244093/cf_id/67d97e103753ac00254305ea🎹Virtual Piano Lessons for Homeschoolers/After-Schoolers (& curious adults, too!): http://www.readandrhythm.com
▶️Join me on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@momzestlife/
—