In Episode 13 of The Never Alone Podcast, Iris Fisher Smith is joined by co-host Karen Herth Whitty and returning guest Rachel Durham for a heartfelt conversation about the people and seasons that shape who we become — from childhood friendships, to mentors, to motherhood, grief, and rediscovering identity in new stages of life.

This episode continues the “Who Am I?” discussion — but through the lens of relationships that form our character. Together, Iris, Karen, and Rachel reflect on childhood influences, role models, spiritual mentors, and the blessing of friendships that stay — and those that come into our lives for only a season.

They also share deeply personal stories about:

• Growing up in different family dynamics
• How mentors and older women helped guide their faith and identity
• The beauty and challenge of motherhood and caregiving
• Identity tied to roles — and learning who you are beyond them
• Walking through loss — and finding strength and purpose again
• How God brings people into our lives at just the right time

💛 Gentle encouragement from this episode:
You were never meant to navigate life alone. The right friend, mentor, or conversation can change everything — sometimes for a moment, sometimes for a lifetime.

📘 Order Iris’s book Never Alone (stories, faith, family & history):
https://irisfsmith.com

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Tags : Never Alone Podcast, Iris Fisher Smith, friendship and identity, who am I journey, Christian women podcast, mentors and faith, godly friendships, finding purpose through seasons of life, grief and healing, motherhood identity, faith and family stories, friendship that lasts, life seasons and growth, encouragement podcast, women of faith conversations, Christian storytelling, resilience and faith