Today, I am excited to talk to my good friend, Mary Jean Ridges. We met when our children started spending time together. They have similar interests and are both on the mountain biking team. Born in Idaho and raised Kaysville, she attended Davis High School, Weber State University, and the University of South Carolina where she obtained a Masters in Social work. She is the 4th of nine children and was raised by parents of opposite upbringing, one from New York and one from West Virginia. She and her husband are raising 4 children, 3 who live at home. She is a licensed clinical social worker at Wasatch Behavioral Health Mountain Peaks Clinic. She enjoys being a ride leader with NICA, riding with all 4 of her children on the local mountain bike team for the past six years. I love her desire to share her story and willingness to listen to other people’s stories. What You'll Hear: Pain can be a gift that helps us recognize when something needs fixing.Being a Sendy Mom means embracing challenges and encouraging others.Family support is crucial in fostering confidence and risk-taking.Cultural experiences can broaden perspectives and promote empathy.Service and humanitarian work can lead to personal fulfillment and growth.Parenting should focus on teaching competence and independence.Engaging in hobbies can provide joy and a sense of accomplishment.Community connections are vital for emotional support and growth.Overcoming fears can lead to deeper relationships and personal satisfaction.Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Sendy Moms and Community 03:03 Defining a Sendy Mom 05:42 Family Background and Influences 07:49 Encouraging Risk-Taking in Children 09:46 Life Lessons from College and Travel 12:39 Mary Jean's mother's work in a Leporasorium 16:32 Healing from Trauma through Forming Relationships 25:41 Empowering Children Through Responsibility 33:16 Navigating Risk and Freedom in Parenting 36:19 The Balance of Passion and Practicality 38:35 The Joy of Hobbies and Lifelong Learning 40:50 Cow-Co-ops with the neighborhood Cow 47:39 Facing Fears and Embracing Vulnerability 51:49 Rapid Fire Questions Mentioned in the Show: Luke Whitlock - Red Bull Rampage Cabrini - TV Show Stories we Tell - Joanna Gaines Homosexuality Reframed: Growth Beyond Gay - Thomas Pritt, PhD with Ann Pritt PhD Christian Medical College Vellore Sendy Spotlight: Dr. Paul Brand "I thank God for pain. I cannot think of a greater gift I could give my leprosy patients.”