Naty Matos's Blog, page 8

The Grinch, Redemption, and the Power of Christmas Kindness

One of my favorite movies is The Grinch There are several versions of this movie. My favorite one is Jim Carrey’s version. However, the little one in my house prefers the 2018 animated version. Needless to say, we have seen it multiple times since this holiday season started. It has me thinking about how much deeper meaning this movie has and how it shows the true meaning of Christmas.

This is a special town where everyone, regardless of their challenges, is happy and united. And then there’s the Grinch. The Grinch doesn’t hate Christmas for it’s meaning, he hates it because he’s in pain. Think about it, if you look at all the contraptions inside his house, he seems to be very smart, creative and ingenious. It is not like he couldn’t be a productive member of society. He chose to isolate out of his own feelings of rejection, abandonment and sadness

The Grinch is an unhappy, grouchy character, one that we can identify in our daily lives. But if you look beyond the surface, why is he so angry and grouchy?

Childhood trauma:

Let’s start with the fact that his parents abandoned him in an orphanage. He doesn’t like seeing others happy because all he has experienced is despair. His meanness is just a façade and a way to keep people away. Since he was abandoned, he has come to the conclusion that he’s unlovable. We have all heard how “hurt people, hurt people”; the Grinch is the perfect example of this.

Loneliness

He’s all alone, yes do to his own making, but it’s partially because he doesn’t want to be vulnerable with his feelings. His hatred of the holiday was nothing but jealousy of the people of Whoville and their ability to connect with others. Think about all the scenes where he looks through the windows of Whoville, he’s not angry, he’s sad, almost in the verge of tears.

However, the Grinch is not a soulless unaffectionate being. He has his dog Max whom he loves and for who he takes good care of. The way he let the mammoth sleep in the bed with him. How he lets Fred go when his family came to get him (although that was a double edge sword as he felt abandoned again)

When Dr. Seus talks about the Grinch having a heart two sizes too small, it was a metaphor to his affections not a “biological” heart.

Kindness always wins at the end. It was the kindness of Cindy Lou and realizing that Christmas was way more than decorations and presents that changes the heart of the Grinch. This is a lesson to us all. On a day like today where people have commercialize this holiday so much that we have lost sight of what Christmas is really about. It’s about Jesus’s birth, but what Jesus came to earth to bring for us: salvation, forgiveness and love.

Redemption

The grinch shows how we really should go about forgiveness. He admts his wrong. He made amends by returning what he stole. He left expecting nothing from those who he wrong. He then receives forgiveness when Cindy Lou invites him over for dinner.

Have you thought about the grinches in your life and why are they the way they are? No, we’re not responsible for other people’s behaviors but we can be the catalyst of change by being kind with every interaction you have with them. Will they change, who knows? But you may be the seed that let’s their hearts grow? His last words in the movie, where that Cindy Lou’s kindness changed his life. Whose life could we be changing with just an act of kindness.

Finding Joy and Gratitude During the Holidays

The holiday season often evokes images of joy, laughter, and togetherness, but for many, it also stirs up feelings of longing and bittersweet memories. How do you navigate the holidays when your heart feels heavy with the absence of a loved one?

In this heartwarming and insightful episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, hosts Naty and Veda dive into a candid conversation about coping with grief during the holidays, celebrating cherished memories, and creating new traditions. Sharing personal stories, reflections, and practical tips, they offer a thoughtful roadmap to help you embrace both the joy and complexity of the season.

From honoring loved ones through special rituals to finding gratitude in the present, Naty and Veda discuss how to keep the true spirit of the holidays alive. Their lighthearted banter and deep emotional honesty make this episode as comforting as a warm cup of cocoa on a snowy evening.

This is more than a podcast episode—it’s an invitation to reflect, heal, and thrive. Whether you’re seeking ways to honor those you miss, build new traditions, or simply find peace amidst the chaos, this conversation is for you.

So grab your favorite holiday beverage, settle in, and let’s navigate this season together.

Listen now on your favorite podcast platform.
Let’s thrive through the bittersweet moments of the holidays together.

Being Loving, Kind, and Merciful: Does Not Mean I’m a Doormat

As followers of Christ, we are called to embody love, kindness, and mercy. These attributes reflect God’s character and demonstrate His grace to the world. However, those with a tender heart may face challenges, including being taken for granted or used. How can we balance showing mercy with guarding our hearts?

The Call to Love, Kindness, and Mercy

Jesus set the ultimate example of love, kindness, and mercy. In Matthew 5:7, He says, “Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.” Reflecting on the call to clothe ourselves with compassion, Colossians 3:12-14 reminds us: “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another… And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” Living this way reflects Christ’s love and draws others to Him. Yet, we must also walk in wisdom, as Jesus instructs in Matthew 10:16: “Be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.”

Avoiding Being Taken for GrantedSet Healthy Boundaries: Loving others doesn’t mean allowing them to misuse your kindness. Jesus Himself set boundaries, withdrawing to pray and rest when needed (Luke 5:16). He invites us to find rest for our souls in Him, saying in Matthew 11:28-30, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”Discern Motives: Pray for discernment to recognize when someone genuinely needs help versus taking advantage of your kindness. Philippians 1:9-10 says, “And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best.”Speak the Truth in Love: When necessary, confront those who misuse your kindness with gentleness and respect. Ephesians 4:15 urges us to speak the truth in love, ensuring we build others up. As Proverbs 27:6 states, “Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.”Rely on God’s Strength: Acts of mercy must flow from God’s love, not human approval. Galatians 6:9 encourages us, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Depend on God’s Spirit, as Zechariah 4:6 reminds us, “Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the Lord Almighty.”Trusting God as Your Defender

Even when others misunderstand or misuse your kindness, take heart in knowing that God sees your heart. Psalm 62:6 declares, “Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken.” Rest in His promise from Exodus 14:14: “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” Trust Him to vindicate you and provide the strength to continue loving others.

In all things, let Jesus’ words in John 13:34-35 guide you: “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” As you navigate the balance of kindness and boundaries, let your actions glorify God, reflect His love, and steward the gifts He has entrusted to you.

The Secret to Thriving in Parenting and Relationships

Parenting is one of life’s most rewarding experiences—but let’s be honest, it’s also one of the toughest. Sleepless nights, constant compromises, and the challenge of balancing a relationship while raising little humans can feel overwhelming. Add the complexities of a blended family, and it’s no surprise relationships can feel stretched to their limits.

In this heartfelt and empowering episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, hosts Naty and Veda sit down with licensed marriage and family therapist Reesa Morala to uncover the unfiltered realities of parenting and relationships. Reesa, a Gottman-trained therapist and mom of two, shares invaluable insights on navigating the rocky terrain of parenthood without losing yourself—or your partner—along the way.

You’ll hear about:

How parenting impacts personal identity: Reesa explains why many parents feel like they’ve lost themselves and how to reconnect with who you are outside of being “mom” or “dad.”Blended family dynamics: Building bonds with new family members can be tricky. Reesa shares why patience and boundaries are key to creating harmony.Communication strategies that actually work: Learn simple tools to stop fights before they escalate and foster understanding instead of resentment.The power of humor and joy: Even in the chaos of parenting, moments of laughter can bring you and your partner closer together.Prioritizing self-care: Discover why taking care of yourself is one of the best gifts you can give your family.

Reesa’s warm, relatable style will leave you feeling seen, supported, and inspired to tackle the highs and lows of parenting with renewed hope. Whether you’re navigating life as a parent in a blended family or simply looking to strengthen your relationship, this episode is packed with actionable advice and real talk you won’t want to miss.

Reesa Morala is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. Reesa is the owner of Embrace Renewal Therapy & Wellness Collective and host of The Real Family Eats. She is dedicated to being a parenting ally, helping parents create thriving families by prioritizing their relationships. Her passion is fueled by her overcoming generational trauma in her own life and navigating the tough transition into parenthood. She provides couples therapy, couples workshops, and parenting workshops in her private practice. In her videocast, she speaks with parents dishing on the real parenting struggle while dishing on their favorite recipes. Both ventures aim to help parents feel less alone in the hard times and support their success as a family. To reach Reesa just click here.

Ready to prioritize your relationship while thriving as a parent? Tune in to this episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse to learn how. Subscribe now on your favorite podcast platform and join the conversation transforming families everywhere.

Finding God’s Purpose in Seasons of Waiting

Waiting is one of life’s greatest challenges. Whether it’s waiting for a job, healing, a relationship, or clarity about the future, these seasons often feel unproductive, frustrating, and endless. Yet, the Bible reassures us that waiting is not wasted time—it’s an opportunity for growth, preparation, and deepening our faith.

God often uses these moments to shape us, strengthen us, and align us with His perfect plan. Let’s explore how we can embrace seasons of waiting with trust and purpose.

1. Biblical Examples of Waiting

The Bible is filled with stories of people who waited on God’s timing, often for years or even decades:

Abraham and Sarah waited 25 years for the promised son, Isaac, after God declared they would be parents.Joseph endured 13 years of slavery and imprisonment before rising to power in Egypt and seeing his dreams fulfilled.Hannah prayed fervently for a child and waited until God blessed her with Samuel, who became a great prophet.

In each of these stories, God was working behind the scenes, preparing these individuals for the fulfillment of His promises. Their waiting wasn’t passive—it was an active season of faith and trust. “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” (2 Peter 3:9)

2. Why Waiting Is Important

Seasons of waiting serve a purpose, even if we can’t see it in the moment. Here’s what God might be doing during this time:

Refining Your Character: Waiting can cultivate patience, humility, and perseverance.Strengthening Your Faith: Trusting God during uncertainty deepens your relationship with Him.Preparing You for the Next Step: Often, God uses waiting to equip us for what’s ahead, whether it’s a new role, responsibility, or blessing.

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” (James 1:2-3)

3. What to Do While You Wait

Instead of viewing waiting as a time of inaction, see it as an opportunity to grow and glorify God. Here are some practical steps:

Pray Continually: Use this time to draw closer to God through prayer. Share your hopes, fears, and frustrations with Him.Serve Others: Shift your focus outward by finding ways to bless those around you. Serving can bring purpose and joy to a waiting season.Seek Wisdom: Read Scripture, meditate on God’s promises, and seek counsel from trusted mentors or friends.Take Small Steps: If there’s something within your control, take action. For example, if you’re waiting for a new job, update your resume or network with others.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5-6)

4. Trusting God’s Timing

One of the hardest parts of waiting is letting go of our own timelines and trusting God’s. His timing is perfect, even when it doesn’t align with ours.

Sometimes, what feels like a delay is actually God protecting us or preparing something far greater than we imagined. Remember, He sees the bigger picture. “He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart, yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.” (Ecclesiastes 3:11)

5. Embracing Hope in the Waiting

Seasons of waiting are not void of hope. God promises that He is with us every step of the way. Even in uncertainty, we can find peace knowing that His plans are for our good.

Encouragement:

Write down God’s promises and revisit them daily.Surround yourself with a community of believers who can pray with and encourage you.Reflect on past seasons where God showed His faithfulness.

“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” (Isaiah 40:31)

Final Thoughts: Waiting with Purpose

Waiting is never easy, but it is an essential part of God’s work in our lives. Instead of rushing through these seasons, let’s lean into them with faith, trusting that God’s plan is far greater than anything we could imagine.

If you find yourself in a season of waiting, know this: God is with you, He is for you, and He is working all things together for your good. Trust Him to bring beauty and purpose in His perfect time. “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11)

Keeping Christ in Christmas

Christmas is here, and the season is brimming with joy, lights, and festive cheer. But amidst the glittering trees and bustling stores, have we forgotten what it’s truly about? On this week’s episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, Naty and Veda welcome Beth Runkle, author of Another Move, God? 30 Encouragements for Embracing Your Life as a Military Wife, for an inspiring and thought-provoking conversation about refocusing on the real reason for the season—Christ.

Beth shares her personal journey of transforming Christmas traditions into a month-long celebration of joy, centered on Jesus. From family Advent rituals to creative ways of giving back, she brings a wealth of practical tips and heartfelt stories. Her reflections on what it means to “give a gift to Jesus” are sure to challenge and inspire you. What does it look like to truly honor Him in our celebrations? Beth has some incredible suggestions, and the best part—they’re gifts that bless us too.

You’ll also hear about:
Turning simple moments into meaningful traditions.
How to navigate a Christ-centered Christmas even while traveling or with family members who have different beliefs.
Practical ways to serve others during the holidays and share the love of Christ in your community.

Beth’s insights remind us that it’s not about perfect trees or perfectly wrapped gifts—it’s about remembering and celebrating the greatest gift of all. Whether you’re a military spouse, a busy parent, or simply seeking to make this Christmas more meaningful, this episode is packed with inspiration.

Beth and her husband serve with Cru Military®. She served as a military wife during her husband’s 25-year
career with the Air Force. She disciples and conducts Bible studies for female cadets and young military
spouses. Having come to faith through Bible study, she has led small groups for military couples and taught
Bible study for 23 years. She is also a women’s ministry speaker in various venues. She earned her Master of
Theological Studies at Gateway Seminary and is releasing a book for military wives called Another Move, God?
30 Encouragements to Embrace Your Life as a Military Wife with B&H Publishing Group in October of 2024.
The Runkles have two kids in college.

You can follow Beth on Facebook, Instagram, or her website. To obtain her book click here

Tune in to discover how you can make Jesus the centerpiece of your holiday season. And don’t forget to check out Beth’s book, Another Move, God? It’s a must-read for anyone looking to embrace faith and resilience in the midst of life’s challenges.

Listen now on your favorite podcast platform, and let us know: How will you keep Christ in your Christmas this year?

The Heart of Caregiving: A Journey of Love, Challenges, and Resilience

By Veda Green

I was a caregiver for years for my mom, and it was one of the most challenging yet rewarding roles I’ve ever taken on. My mom faced a series of serious health issues, including colon cancer, uterine cancer, multiple surgeries to remove several feet of her intestines, and around five ankle surgeries. Yes, that’s a lot of surgeries!

When she was diagnosed with uterine cancer, I was in the 12th grade. Thankfully, I was 16 and had my driver’s license, which allowed me to help in ways I might not have been able to otherwise. I still remember her coming home after surgery and navigating the many steps to our front door. To ease the pressure on her stomach, she had to walk up the steps backward—a vivid image of her determination and resilience. Her husband, my stepdad, supported her during that time, but I was there for the other surgeries and recoveries.

Sometimes she stayed with me, and other times I stayed with her. Since it was just me and my younger brother, it made sense for me to take on the role of caregiver. I won’t sugarcoat it—caregiving is physically and mentally exhausting. But for me, it was a deeply personal and meaningful experience. I already loved her, and that made it special.

For professional caregivers who work with strangers—elderly or ill individuals—they demonstrate an extraordinary heart and the spirit of mercy. It takes a unique kind of person to step into someone else’s world, tending to their bathing, wound care, feeding, medication, and hygiene, all while offering compassion. It’s more than just physical care—it’s about bringing comfort and joy to someone in need.

One of the moments I’ll never forget is when my mom developed blood clots after a surgery. She became incredibly weak and struggled to breathe. The doctors discovered she had a pulmonary embolism—blood clots in her chest. One nurse, after returning from the weekend, reviewed her chart and said, “You should be dead!” I knew she was very ill, but hearing that shook me to my core.

Desperate to lift her spirits, I borrowed my niece’s DVD player and brought over the movie Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins. When I pressed play, it was like all her pain and troubles disappeared for 90 minutes. We laughed so much, and she cried, saying, “I needed this!” That moment reminded me of the healing power of laughter and connection.

Another memory stands out from when her intestines collapsed, requiring surgery to remove the damaged section and resect her intestines. To prevent further complications, the doctors inserted drainage tubes in her stomach. These tubes had small balls on the ends to collect excess blood, which I had to measure and record several times a day.

One day, as I drained the tubes, I joked with her, “I’m going to write a book and call it My Mom’s Got Balls!” She laughed so hard, and in that moment, we forgot about the stress and pain. She later told me that having me by her side brought her joy, and I firmly believe that joy and laughter contributed to her healing.

Caregiving isn’t just about meeting someone’s physical needs. It’s about going the extra mile—finding ways to bring joy, create smiles, and distract from the pain. Whether it was watching movies, playing games, or simply sitting and talking, I constantly thought about how to keep her spirits high. By the end of each day, I would collapse into bed, completely spent, but knowing I had given her my all made it worth every effort.

Caregiving, whether for a loved one or a stranger, is often described as one of the most selfless and rewarding roles a person can take on. However, it also comes with significant emotional challenges that are often overlooked. Let’s explore the emotional hurdles caregivers face and how they can navigate them.

The Emotional Weight of Caregiving

Caregivers bear an immense amount of responsibility, juggling appointments, medication schedules, and daily tasks while providing emotional support. This can be overwhelming and lead to anxiety, as caregivers constantly worry about doing enough or making the right decisions.

The Emotional Rollercoaster

Caregiving is an emotional rollercoaster, filled with highs of joy and connection but also lows of frustration, sadness, and grief. Watching a loved one struggle or decline in health can be heartbreaking, and many caregivers experience “caregiver burnout,” characterized by exhaustion and helplessness.

Isolation and Loneliness

Caregiving often limits social interactions, leading to feelings of isolation. Many caregivers hesitate to share their struggles, fearing they’ll burden others or be misunderstood. This isolation can exacerbate feelings of depression and anxiety, creating a vicious cycle that’s difficult to break.

Guilt and Self-Doubt

Guilt is a constant companion for many caregivers. They may feel selfish for taking time for themselves or doubt whether they’re doing enough. Questions like “Am I making the right decisions?” weigh heavily, adding to their emotional strain.

The Importance of Self-Care

Despite these challenges, self-care is vital. Caregivers often neglect their own needs, but recharging is essential to providing effective care. Practices like mindfulness, exercise, and seeking support from friends or counselors can help alleviate the burden. Support groups also offer a safe space for caregivers to share experiences and feel less alone.

Finding Balance

Balancing caregiving responsibilities with personal well-being requires setting boundaries and recognizing limits. By prioritizing their own health, caregivers can better support their loved ones without sacrificing themselves in the process.

Conclusion

Caregiving is a journey filled with love, but it’s also laden with emotional challenges. Recognizing these struggles is the first step toward creating a supportive environment for caregivers. By fostering open conversations and encouraging self-care, we can help caregivers navigate this complex and demanding role. After all, caregivers deserve care, too.

Honoring Savanah—A Mother’s Journey of Faith, Love, and Resilience

In this week’s episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, we step into a story of profound loss, unwavering faith, and extraordinary love. Nancy Kinnear joins us to share her daughter Savanah’s remarkable journey—a life lived with grace, strength, and purpose, even through the challenges of metastatic breast cancer.

Savanah was more than her diagnosis. She was a dreamer, a creator, and an advocate. From starting her own earring business to using her voice to inspire and uplift others battling cancer, Savanah radiated hope. Her story is about love that transcends hardships and a faith that remains steadfast even in the darkest of times.

Nancy opens up about what it means to keep her daughter’s legacy alive, not just as a grieving mother, but as a witness to the beauty God can weave through pain. This heartfelt conversation isn’t just about loss; it’s about life, resilience, and the extraordinary ways to honor those we love. To read an article about Savanah’s journey and wedding click here. To read Savanah’s obituary click here.

If you want to support Savanah’s legacy, follow her Instagram and Facebook accounts.

Tune in for a deeply moving episode that will leave you inspired to find strength in your own journey.

Available now on your favorite podcast platforms. And don’t miss the special tribute to Savannah on our YouTube channel!

#ThriveByTheRisingMuse #GriefJourney #FaithAndHealing #CancerAwareness #SavannahsLegacy

Finding Gratitude in Absence: Honoring Loved Ones During Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a season of gratitude, connection, and the warmth of sharing meals with those closest to our hearts. Yet, for many, it’s also a time when the ache of absence feels especially profound. An empty chair at the table may remind us of loved ones who are distant, estranged, or no longer with us. These quiet moments of longing reflect cherished memories and unspoken wishes.

But even amid the bittersweet pangs of missing someone, there are ways to honor those feelings, foster meaningful connections, and embrace the gratitude that Thanksgiving inspires.

1. Acknowledge Their Absence

Grief and longing are natural companions during the holiday season. Rather than suppress these emotions, invite them to be part of the day. Speak your loved one’s name, share a favorite story about them, or recall a cherished memory. Acknowledging their absence doesn’t diminish the joy of the season—it creates a space for joy to coexist with remembrance.

Consider a simple ritual to honor them, such as:

Lighting a candle in their memory at the dinner table.Displaying a meaningful memento they treasured.Writing a heartfelt letter expressing your thoughts and feelings.

These acts of remembrance not only honor their legacy but also keep their presence alive in your heart.

2. Create New Traditions

When the weight of absence feels too heavy, creating new traditions can offer a sense of renewal and comfort. You don’t have to replicate the past to honor it. Instead, find ways to infuse the holiday with fresh meaning:

Cook a dish they loved and share stories about why it was special.Take a walk in their honor and reflect on the lessons they imparted.Start a gratitude jar where everyone contributes a note of thanks, creating a shared experience that bridges the gap between past and present.

For those separated by distance, a video call or sharing a favorite photo can provide a moment of connection that transcends miles.

3. Lean on Community

Grief often feels isolating, but you don’t have to bear it alone. Reach out to friends, family, or trusted support groups. Sharing memories of your loved one can foster connection and mutual healing. Others may be missing them too, and together you can honor their impact on your lives.

If the loneliness feels too much, consider giving back. Volunteer to serve meals, donate to a cause your loved one cared about, or spend time with others who may also feel the weight of loss during the holidays. Acts of kindness can bring purpose and comfort to the day.

4. Find Gratitude in the Present

Even in the midst of loss, gratitude remains a powerful balm. Reflect on the laughter, lessons, and love your loved one brought into your life. These memories are gifts that continue to shape who you are.

At the same time, open your heart to the blessings still present—those gathered around you, the warmth of a shared meal, or even the beauty of a quiet, reflective moment. Gratitude doesn’t erase longing, but it can remind us of the richness of what we’ve experienced and what still lies ahead.

5. Be Gentle With Yourself

Holidays stir up complex emotions, and it’s okay to feel them all—joy, sorrow, love, and grief. There’s no right or wrong way to navigate the absence of someone you hold dear.

Allow yourself to let go of the pressure to make the day perfect. If the emotions feel too overwhelming, take a moment to step away, breathe, or cry if you need to. Honoring what your heart needs is an act of grace.

Carrying Their Love Forward

While Thanksgiving may amplify their absence, it also provides a chance to honor their love and legacy. Whether through stories, new traditions, or quiet moments of reflection, you carry their essence forward with you.

This Thanksgiving, as you gather around the table, let yourself hold them close in your heart. In doing so, you may find that they’ve never truly left. Missing them is a testament to the deep connection you shared—a bond that transcends time and space.

May your Thanksgiving be filled with gratitude, gentle healing, and the comforting presence of cherished memories.

Discover the Secret to a Stress-Free, Budget-Friendly Christmas!

The holiday season is here, and while it’s a time for joy and celebration, it can also bring its fair share of financial stress. Does the thought of overspending or holiday debt sound familiar? You’re not alone—and this week’s episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse has you covered!

In our latest conversation, hosts Naty and Veda sit down with renowned financial expert Ralph Estep Jr. from Saggio Accounting+PLUS. Together, we uncover the keys to celebrating Christmas with intention, love, and financial wisdom. Ralph shares simple yet powerful tips to help you stay within your budget while creating meaningful holiday memories that focus on what truly matters—faith, family, and togetherness.

Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn in this episode:

How to create a holiday spending plan that actually worksThe “24-Hour Rule” for avoiding impulse buysCreative gift ideas that won’t break the bankHow to keep Christ at the center of your Christmas celebrations

Ralph also touches on the emotional side of the season, sharing ways to connect with loved ones, embrace gratitude, and support others who might be struggling. Plus, he’s giving our listeners an exclusive free resource to help make this your most mindful and stress-free holiday yet!

Ralph V. Estep Jr. is a distinguished finance, accounting, and technology professional with a dynamic career spanning decades. As the principal at Saggio Management Group, Inc., Ralph has built a reputation for leadership, innovation, and excellence in financial management and entrepreneurship. His academic achievements include a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Delaware and an MBA from Wilmington University. Over the years, Ralph has earned prestigious professional designations, including Licensed Public Accountant (LPA) and Accredited Business Accountant (ABA). His career highlights include serving as CFO at Westminster Presbyterian Church, Executive Vice President at American Spirit Federal Credit Union, and controller at a prominent Delaware law firm, where his innovations in financial and operational systems significantly advanced organizational efficiency.

In addition to his professional endeavors, Ralph is deeply committed to leveraging technology to modernize financial practices, founding cutting-edge firms such as The Estep Group and Capital Cloud Solutions. Beyond finance, Ralph co-founded Estep Farm LLC, raising Black Angus cows, and shares his financial expertise through the “Ask Ralph” podcast and radio show. His commitment to community and education is reflected in his mentorship roles and participation in leadership training programs. Happily married to Jennifer Estep with two sons, Ralph balances a thriving career with a rich family life, leaving an indelible mark in both professional and personal spheres.

Ready to shift your mindset this holiday season? Click the link to listen now and learn how you can make Christmas memorable without overspending. Don’t forget to grab your free holiday guide here—it’s our first gift to you this Christmas!

Listen now