Arise Ministries

In this heartfelt conversation, Mel and Pam sit down with guest Kris Swiatocho to talk about the importance of community - what it really means, why it matters, and how it can transform the lives of single moms. Together, they explore the beauty and challenges of building connections in a world that often feels isolating. You’ll hear practical insight on what makes a strong, healthy community and why belonging is essential to your well-being. If you’ve ever felt alone or unsure where to start, this episode is your reminder that you are worthy of support, friendship, and the kind of community that helps you thrive.

Living at Peace Without Losing Yourself Conflict is part of life, but for single moms, it can feel especially heavy. In this episode, Mel and Kelly talk about what it means to live at peace with others, even when it’s hard. They unpack why relationships can be so challenging, how to respond differently when emotions run high, and what healthy boundaries look like when peace feels one-sided. Through honest stories and practical encouragement, this conversation reminds single moms that peace doesn’t mean pleasing everyone; it means choosing to protect your mind, your heart, and your joy while staying true to who you are.

Every single mom has those days when everything feels too heavy and strength seems out of reach. In this episode, Pam & Mel talk about what to do on the hard days: how to give yourself grace, find small moments of hope, and let others step in when you need support. You’ll be reminded that hard days don’t define you. They can shape your resilience, deepen your faith, and lead to unexpected strength.

Dating can feel exciting and confusing, especially when you are a single mom. In this episode, Mel Hiett and Kelly Evans sit down with Angela Cotner to unpack the “dating flags” every woman should be aware of: green, yellow, and red. From recognizing warning signs in others to spotting patterns in ourselves, Angela shares real-life stories, practical wisdom, and encouragement. Whether you are newly dating or just curious, this conversation will help you choose relationships that honor your worth and your family’s future. 

In this episode, Pam and Mel sit down with guest Athena Captain for an honest conversation about resilience. Athena opens up about what it looks like to keep showing up in the middle of hard seasons, how to stay grounded when life feels overwhelming, and the truth about resiliency that often gets overlooked. Together, we explore practical ways to protect your mindset, decide what matters most when everything feels like it’s falling apart, and find the strength to keep moving forward. If you’ve ever felt like you’ve been strong for too long, this conversation will remind you that you are not alone and give you the encouragement you need for the road ahead. This is for every single mom out there. 

In this heartfelt episode of Getting Through the Tough Stuff, Mel Hiett is joined by special guests Kenya Ulmer and her daughter, Sydney, for a powerful conversation about navigating life’s hardest seasons. Kenya shares what the wilderness looks and feels like, how to recognize when you’re in it, and what it means to trust God when nothing makes sense. Together, they explore how God speaks in the quiet and the chaos, and how we can help our children listen for His voice too. Whether you’re deep in your own wilderness or just stepping out of it, this episode offers encouragement, wisdom, and hope for every single mom walking through uncertain times.

In this episode, Pam Kanaly and Mel Hiett sit down with Doug and Stacee Goetzinger for a heartfelt conversation about what happens when mental illness impacts a family. Doug shares his personal journey of learning how to support his wife through her mental health struggles, including what he got wrong, what he got right, and how he’s grown along the way. If you’re a single mom walking alongside a child or loved one battling mental illness, this episode offers hope, honesty, and practical wisdom for the road ahead.

In this raw and powerful episode, we sit down with a Tracy Zserdin who has walked a road few can imagine—raising her son through years of behavioral challenges, emotional hardship, and ultimately, his incarceration. Speaking candidly to single moms, Tracy shares with Pam Kanaly & Mel Hiett about what it was like to face the reality that love alone couldn't “fix” her child’s struggles, and how she discovered strength she didn’t know she had. We explore the limits of parenting instincts, the role of faith in holding steady during chaos, and what it means to keep loving—even when your child is behind bars. Whether you're in the thick of parenting challenges or simply looking for a story of resilience and real motherhood, single mom, this episode is for you. Find more info on Tracy and her book HERE. 

In this honest and hope-filled episode, Mel and Pam sit down with Doug and Stacee Goetzinger to talk about the realities of living with and loving someone through mental illness. Together, they unpack what it means to “suffer well,” the myth of linear recovery, and the purpose we can find in the fight for mental health. Stacee courageously shares about her diagnosis, the darkest moments of her journey, and how Scripture has anchored her along the way. The conversation is raw, faith-filled, and filled with practical wisdom for anyone walking through mental illness or supporting a loved one who is. If you’re a single mom navigating hard seasons, this episode will remind you that you are not alone — and that there’s hope, purpose, and beauty to be found, even in the struggle.

Ever find yourself lying awake at night asking, “Will my kids be okay?” In this honest and hope-filled episode, Pam Kanaly and Mel Hiett unpack the fears and pressures every mom wrestles with — especially single moms. From recognizing when our kids are struggling to letting go of the need to be everything for them, Pam and Mel offer wisdom, practical tips, and gentle reminders that it’s not about being a perfect parent, but about being a safe, loving presence. Tune in for encouragement, real talk, and a powerful reminder: your kids don’t need perfect — they need you.

Raising teenagers is a whole new parenting adventure—and for single moms, it can feel like you're navigating uncharted waters alone. In this episode, Kelly Evans and Mel Hiett dive into the unique challenges and beautiful moments of parenting teens. From shifting control to building deeper connection, they explore how curiosity, consistency, and grace can transform your relationship with your teenager. They talk openly about the emotional rollercoaster of raising teens, how to keep communication open even when your teen seems shut off, and why embracing the mundane can lead to your most meaningful conversations. Single mom, you are not alone on this journey. 

The Power of a Mom’s Love: A Son’s Story of Redemption A mother’s love can change everything. In this episode, Pam Kanaly and Mel Hiett sit down with Les Thomas, a man who was raised by a single mom who never gave up on him—even when he struggled and got into trouble. Through her unwavering love, faith, and encouragement, she helped shape the man he is today: a leader investing in the next generation. Les shares his journey of redemption, the lessons his mom instilled in him, and the power of a mother’s belief in her child. If you’ve ever wondered whether your love and perseverance are making a difference, this episode will remind you—they absolutely are.

As a single mom, you want to raise strong, capable kids—but how do you help them build true resilience? In this episode, Pam Kanaly and Mel Hiett dive into practical ways to nurture confidence, perseverance, and emotional strength in your children, even through life’s challenges. Special guest Crystal Levine joins the conversation to share insights on helping kids navigate disappointments and develop independence. Together, we’ll explore how to create a home where resilience thrives. You’re not alone in this journey, and with the right tools, you and your kids can tackle anything that comes your way!

Raising Children with Special Needs is an episode dedicated to supporting single moms navigating the challenges of raising children with special needs. Shea Hoskinson offers valuable insights, real-life stories, and practical advice for the journey. Whether it's managing daily routines, accessing resources, or finding emotional support, this podcast provides encouragement and empowerment for single moms who are dedicated to providing the best care for their children. 

In this episode, Pam Kanaly & Mel Hiett dive into the exciting yet challenging journey of parenting young adults. Whether they’re heading off to college, launching their careers, or simply learning to navigate adulthood, this stage can feel like a whole new world for single moms. We’ll share insights on maintaining open communication, setting healthy boundaries, and supporting their independence without losing your connection. Tune in for practical tips, real stories, and encouragement for all the single moms out there raising young adults with love, grace, and a little bit of grit!

Keep Showing Up // Lanita Colbert  In this episode, we dive into the powerful theme of leadership for single moms. Being a single mother comes with its own unique challenges, but it also comes with incredible strength, resilience, and wisdom. We explore how single moms are more than capable of stepping into leadership roles, not only within their families but also in their communities and workplaces. No matter the obstacles, you are worthy to lead, and your presence, voice, and actions inspire those around you. In this conversation with Lanita Colber, Pam & Mel empower single moms to keep showing up, continue growing, and embrace their role as leaders—because the world needs what you have to offer.

That’s Not My Dog: Boundaries for Single Moms // Shelley Pullium Single moms wear many hats, but sometimes we find ourselves carrying burdens that aren’t ours to bear. In this episode of That’s Not My Dog, Shelley Pullium guides us through the power of boundaries—what they are, why they matter, and how to set them confidently. From saying ‘no’ to guilt and ‘yes’ to peace, this conversation will help you reclaim your time, energy, and emotional well-being. Join Pam Kanaly and Mel Hiett as they discuss Shelley’s blog and her popular phrase, “That’s Not My Dog,” offering practical wisdom to help you let go of what isn’t yours to carry and focus on what truly matters as a single mom.  Read Shelley's Blog HERE

Boundaries Without Guilt: A Guide for Single Moms Setting boundaries isn’t just about saying “no”—it’s about creating space for what truly matters. In this episode, Kelly Evans and Mel Hiett dive into what boundaries are, why they’re essential, and how single moms can establish them with confidence. From managing relationships to protecting your time and energy, we’ll explore practical ways to set healthy limits without guilt. If you’ve ever struggled with feeling stretched too thin or unsure where to draw the line, this conversation will equip you with the tools to define and maintain boundaries that bring freedom and peace.

Parental alienation is a deeply challenging experience that many single moms face, often leaving them feeling isolated, misunderstood, and powerless. It occurs when one parent manipulates a child's perception of the other parent, creating distance, distrust, and even resentment. On this podcast, Pam Kanaly and Mel Hiett explore the signs of parental alienation, how it affects both moms and children and most importantly, what you can do to protect your bond with your child. Our special guest Wendy Gibson helps single moms navigate this difficult journey with strength, resilience, and love from her own personal experiences. 

Holiday Stress: The Thief of Peace // Pam Kanaly & Mel Hiett In this episode of The Single Momcast, we jump into the all-too-common holiday stress that steals our peace. As a single mom, the holiday season can feel overwhelming, from juggling gift shopping and family gatherings to managing the expectations of others. In this conversation, Pam Kanaly & Mel Hiett explore practical strategies to combat the stress of the holidays and find peace for ourselves and our children.