S4.E6 | The Hard in the Holidays ...
S4.E6 | The Hard in the Holidays — Finding Hope When the Season Hurts
Uncommon Purpose by Mandy Cooley and Stephanie Porter
S4 · E6
Nov 11, 2025
43:33
Episode notes

The holidays aren’t merry for everyone—and that’s okay. In this heartfelt and deeply relatable episode, Mandy and Stephanie talk honestly about the grief, loneliness, pressure, and expectations that surface between Thanksgiving and Christmas.

From infertility and loss to fractured families and financial strain, they remind listeners that joy and sorrow can coexist. Through vulnerable storytelling, Scripture-rooted wisdom, and practical reflection, the hosts explore how to hold space for the beauty in the hard—without pretending everything is perfect.

They unpack how to manage expectations, navigate grief, practice emotional maturity, and find comfort through honesty, vulnerability, and faith. This conversation is equal parts therapy and theology, offering compassion for anyone walkin ... 

Keywords
Uncommon Purpose
Podcast
Mandy Cooley
Stephanie Porter
Christian Podcast
grief
Women's Christian Podcast
faith and holidays
harvest to hope
presence in busy seasons
grief during holidays
grief and healing
emotional health
intentional living
seasons of life
Christmas organization
traditions
Christmas Presence over perfection
holiday expectations
loneliness at Christmas
people pleasing
faith in hard seasons
spiritual encouragement