As America celebrates its historic 250th anniversary this Fourth of July, how do we teach our children to love their country without getting caught up in the noise of modern politics?

In this special holiday episode, we sit down with Elizabeth Peace—an Air Force veteran, active-duty Marine wife, public affairs strategist, and 2026 South Carolina Mother of the Year(R). Elizabeth shares her unique "dual perspective" of military life and offers refreshing, practical advice for everyday families. From the character-building power of youth leadership programs to unlocking your own family’s American origin story, Elizabeth reminds us that "patriotism isn't about politics—it's about gratitude and responsibility."

• The View from Both Sides: Why Elizabeth joined the Air Force, and how transitioning into life as a Marine spouse has impacted her children.
• (8:10) Building Future Leaders: How youth organizations like the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) and JROTC provide invaluable skills, confidence, and external mentors for today's kids.
• (15:20) Reframing Patriotism: How to shift the conversation toward individual growth, community, responsibility, and gratitude.
• (20:11) Sharing Your Family Legacy: A simple, beautiful way to connect kids to history by exploring how your own ancestors arrived in America and helped build the nation.

• Learn more about the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) Youth Programs
• Explore Junior ROTC (JROTC) Programs
• American Mothers, Inc. Mother of the Year(R) Information and Nominations

Episode Summary: As mothers, we are hardwired to give, serve, and pour into others—but how good are we at receiving? In this special roundtable episode, Deanne is joined by Charity Haderlie, National Chair of the Mom to Mom program, to discuss a beautiful question: Have you found your soul mom? Together, they break down the barriers that keep us from accepting help, share how to open our hearts to genuine connection, and redefine what it means to show up for each other. Whether it’s a lifelong friendship or a supportive connection for just a single moment, finding your "soul mom" changes everything.

Key Takeaways:

• The Art of Receiving: Why allowing others to help you is actually a gift to them, letting them share their heart with you.
• A Mom for a Moment: Understanding that a soul mom connection doesn’t require a lifelong timeline to be meaningful—sometimes it’s about a single moment of perfect understanding.
• Showing Up and Being Present: Practical insights on how to truly be there for another mother by simply offering your presence and a willing heart.
• Connecting Across the Nation: How mothers everywhere are linking arms to ensure no mom walks her journey isolated or alone.

Links & Resources:

• Nominate a Mom: The 2027 Mother of the Year nominations are officially open! Head over to www.americanmothers.org to honor an incredible mom in your life today.

Disclaimer:

The views, information, or opinions expressed during the American Mothers: Mom to Mom Podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of American Mothers, Inc.® and its members or employees. AMI is not responsible and does not verify for accuracy any of the information contained in the podcast series available for listening on this site.

Episode Summary:

We wear the title of "Mom" with so much pride, but who are we when we step outside of it? In this episode, Deanne sits down with the newly named 2026 National Mother of the Year, Dr. Kenae Black. Dr. Black shares her passionate heart for helping mothers show up for themselves, open their hearts to community, and find emotional soundness in an unprecedented world. From her powerful philosophies on loving leadership at home to her impactful nonprofit work, this conversation is the exact reminder you need that you are doing a good job—and that it's okay to pour back into your own cup.

Key Takeaways:

• The Power of Community: How opening our hearts allows us to be poured into by women we never expected.
• Showing Up Differently: Why the most radical thing you can do in this season is intentionally show up for yourself.
• Leading by Loving Example: Dr. Black's philosophy on guiding our children through grace, emotional maturity, and owning our mistakes.
• Rest, Reflection, & Reach Back: A look into her DC-based nonprofit, Reach Back, Spring Forward, and her restorative The Will of Wellness Retreat.

Special Announcements & Links:

• Dr. Kenae Black’s New Book: She Poured Back Into Herself - Freshly published on May 7th! Grab your copy here at Amazon
• 2027 Mother of the Year Nominations: Nominations are officially open! Nominate an incredible mom in your life today at www.americanmothers.org.