Episodes
Join Annie Rench as she discusses her healthy yet flavor-packed menu. She shares tips on the benefits of shopping and prepping early, involving the kids without taking on a Queen of England atittude, and teaching them to make Bento boxes with macronutrients. Annie discusses the pros and cons of drinks and appetizers, the importance of communication with your family before you welcome guests and how to show guests you're happy they're there. Stay tuned to the end to hear a hilarious hostess's...
Published 05/02/24
Published 05/02/24
Join Annie Rench, a fitness and nutrition expert who shares her secrets to raising a healthy family despite a very busy schedule. She gives us valuable insight into how this fits into hospitality. Annie answers the question, "What if I have no time?" and discusses why strengthening is so important. You'll learn what an "exercise snack" or "trigger session" entails and why you need it in the extreme sport of motherhood! We talk about the benefits of electrolytes, the joy of feasting versus...
Published 04/25/24
Join Jessica Horning as she delves into the art of hospitality with small children, including a tip discovered from hosting a weekly Bible study. Along with the knowledge learned from running a business centered on sourdough, Jessica shares a mouthwatering meal perfect for any occasion. She discusses the benefits of monthly meal planning and the importance of intentional inquisitiveness during conversations. Don't miss the recommended must-have kitchen items at the end and a story that may...
Published 04/18/24
Join Michal as she discusses what it's like to cook for kids. With her delicious menu, even the pickiest eaters will be won over. Discover her secrets for shopping for meat on a budget as well as storage and defrosting techniques. From building a stockpile of meat in the freezer to mastering the art of proper thawing, Michal shares invaluable tips along with a "don't do this at home, kids" story! You'll also learn practical strategies to prevent frazzle like getting your family involved and...
Published 04/11/24
Join Bettye as she discusses the impact of being invited into someone's home and the importance of laughter in creating friendships. She offers practical tips from making extra food, so there's always plenty to share to ways to make your guests comfortable. Bettye shares how her love of games has created a lot of fun times over the years and why she has a stash of toys handy. You'll hear about a thoughtful gift she gives her guests and some great stories from her many years of hospitality....
Published 04/04/24
Serena Hawthorne joins me for a special episode discussing freezer meals! Whether you're a busy parent, a working professional, or simply looking to save time in the kitchen, freezer meals are a game-changer. In this episode, we explore freezer-friendly recipes for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and beyond, offering hot tips on the best containers to use, how long your favorite meals will last in the freezer, and a must-have kitchen item to make your freezer meal prep a breeze. We're so glad...
Published 03/28/24
With summer quickly approaching, Carla Courtney and I discuss all the challenges of neighborhood hospitality. We talk ground rules, budgeting, fun activities, and why you need a bubble machine. Carla shares ways to get your kids involved in helping, thoughts on park days and library boxes, and why you need clear TV rules. Recipes for snacks and homemade bubbles are included! We're so glad you're here!  Visit www.comeoverfordinner.com for recipes, product links, and more!
Published 03/21/24
Join Betsy Becker, wife, mother, and owner of Salt Bakery, as she shares inspirational ideas for hospitality from supporting her husband's work through hosting open invitation crew dinners to organizing a lively summer block party and serving up delectable Sunday charcuterie boards. Betsy discusses ways to bless every guest who enters our homes including loving them through little things and how to make welcoming guests achievable and appealing. Stay tuned for her favorite must-have kitchen...
Published 03/14/24
Join Chris, a church secretary for 37 years, as she shares loads of hospitality encouragement starting with her time as a mom with children at home. From the blessing of meals after life-changing events like welcoming a new baby or recovering from surgery to cooking disasters while pregnant, Chris shares stories that will inspire and make you laugh. You'll hear of a unique flavor combination that is sure to please all ages. Plus she shares thoughts on the convenience of grocery delivery and...
Published 03/07/24
Today's guest, Valerie Austin, tells the story of her time at L'Abri Fellowship in Switzerland. Inspired by the Schaeffers, she studied and worked at L'Abri, learning firsthand the transformative power of Edith Schaeffer's emphasis on hospitality. From serving meals to 40-50 students and families on a shoestring budget to now showing hospitality as a pastor's wife in West Chicago, this episode discusses the impact hospitality has on the people in a community. Valerie encourages us to never...
Published 02/29/24
Today's guest, Anna Ayling, has a unique perspective on hospitality through raising a family and her mission work in Japan and Wales. Join us as she discusses the British take on Indian food, the importance of utilizing the oven and freezer in your prep, and the 80/20 cleaning rule that will speed up getting ready for guests. You'll hear Anna's thoughts on laying out clear expectations for guests, inviting people into your everyday life, and how formality creates distance. Stay tuned to hear...
Published 02/22/24
All 4 ladies, Bel Hawthorne, Carolyn Wilson, Bekah Merkle, and Jen Bunch join me for a live debrief and the stories start to fly! You'll hear about the arrival of lots of unexpected guests, coffee that didn't percolate, and a squirrel who liked brownies. It's not a matter of if, it's when with solving problems during big events. Learn from past mistakes as you hear about pork that didn't cook, lettuce that froze, and hosting in a kitchen under construction. It doesn't have to be perfect, but...
Published 02/15/24
This special series features the New Saint Andrews College event staff. Today we go behind the scenes with Bekah Merkle and Belphoebe Hawthorne, experts at coordinating large events. They discuss how to pull this off even if you don't have a commercial kitchen. We delve into dividing tasks, recruiting help, and why you need a can-do attitude. You'll hear a unique idea for a seating rotation and the pitfalls of open seating. Stay tuned for stories about the death stairs, a bear that turned...
Published 02/08/24
This special series features the New Saint Andrews College event staff. Today we go behind the scenes with Jen Bunch and Carolyn Wilson, experts in cooking for hundreds of people. Together they discuss what it takes to pull it off including working with a crew, keeping within a budget, shortcuts, taking advantage of bulk food deliveries, and why you need to use a cooler. Jen and Carolyn encourage us to learn to let things go and to remember the importance of creating culture and traditions....
Published 02/01/24
Join Meg Campbell, a working college student and skilled bread baker, as she explores the art of hospitality within your personal space. She shares insights on welcoming guests into your home and involving them in the joy of shared work. Meg emphasizes the importance of being prepared with simple yet delicious dinners, offers sourdough tips for fellow bakers, and discusses the significance of putting your kitchen to bed. Tune in to discover how Meg believes life isn't starting later; it's...
Published 01/25/24
Janna Shaw, a grandmother of 18, shares the secrets to creating memorable weekly gatherings for family and friends without the need for a fancy or big house. Janna discusses practical tips on working within the seasons of life, scheduling a "shop, chop, and drop" day, and how to serve a crowd with ease. From keeping meals in the freezer to taking advantage of disposable dishes, you'll hear many insightful tips! We're so glad you're here! (Visit www.comeoverfordinner.com for recipes, product...
Published 01/18/24
Join me as Kim Hatcher shares her expertise in decorating a fun and inviting table using candies and treats to delight especially your smallest guests. We discuss how to reflect God's generosity and dive into practical tips for working ahead, creating a cozy and welcoming home environment, and making guests feel comfortable. Kim also shares stories that will inspire you to try bigger hospitality. You'll hear about our must-have kitchen items including a common one you may not have heard of...
Published 01/11/24
In the first episode of 2024, Pat and Jackie Darrah, owners of Mission Strength | Strength & Conditioning Gym in Moscow, ID,  join me to discuss the things we resolve to do in the new year and how they tie into hospitality. Do you need more time, energy, or strength? We delve into ways to be fit and ready for the everyday work God has placed in front of us. We talk about delicious Asian food, giving kids ownership in the hospitality prep, and how the tone of a home can lead to connecting...
Published 01/04/24
Join Abby Reamsnyder as she shares her experiences in planning and coordinating events while working on a ranch for children. She talks about the joy found in preparing meals for others, the fun of trying new things, and the importance of having a reliable wing-woman. Abby insightfully discusses the value of saying yes even though it's easier to say no when it comes to hospitality. Stay tuned to hear her must-have kitchen items! We're so glad you're here! (Visit www.comeoverfordinner.com for...
Published 12/28/23
Join Carole Weitner as she continues to share her knowledge from years of experience hosting an English Christmas tea for her community as well as meticulously crafting a Christmas menu for her family that is unique yet familiar. We discuss the recipes in detail; you are sure to discover new holiday favorites! If you've ever wondered how to make clotted cream or what a sugar plum is, this episode is for you! Carole explains the importance of having a trusty sidekick in the kitchen and the...
Published 12/21/23
Join Carole Weitner as she shares her knowledge from years of experience hosting an English Christmas tea for her community as well as meticulously crafting a Christmas menu for her family that is unique yet familiar. We discuss the recipes in detail; you are sure to discover new holiday favorites! If you've ever wondered how to make clotted cream or what a sugar plum is, this episode is for you! Carole explains the importance of having a trusty sidekick in the kitchen and the must-have tools...
Published 12/14/23
Join Kortnie Brockwalder as she discusses mobile hospitality! She delves into the logistics for meal deliveries including everything from a variety of menus to how to pack the items. Kortnie shares ideas on how to make the meal special and how to prep ahead in bulk to save time later. You'll hear how she writes down menus for future use and how her kids jump in and help. Everyone knows someone in need - a family who just had a baby, a person recovering from a recent hospital stay, the list...
Published 12/07/23
Join Paige Shaw, a mom of 6, as she discusses two delicious menus - one perfect for summer, one perfect for winter. We weigh the pros and cons of ice cream makers, take a deep dive into the differences in Parmesan cheese, and delve into the garlic options in the grocery store. Paige shares her tips on how to be welcoming to guests and encourages us to let things go once they walk in the door. Stay tuned for her top recommended kitchen items. We even threw a book into the mix this week! We're...
Published 11/30/23
Join Allison Ryan, one of the most joyful, energetic people you'll meet. From team breakfasts to Thanksgiving fun runs, Allison, a former track record holder and coach, shares her experiences hosting everything from work dinners to weddings to a weekly Sabbath dinner for her large family. Allison reflects on the many mistakes made along the way, emphasizing how they served as opportunities for growth and learning. She shares hot tips like why to hand someone a drink as they walk through the...
Published 11/23/23