Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast The Christian Parenting Podcast - Motherhood, Teaching kids about Jesus, Intentional parenting, Raising Christian kids
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| More Than a Shoebox: One Child's Story of God's Faithfulness with Dania Andraos | 27 Oct 2026 | 00:29:02 | |
Have you ever wondered what happens to an Operation Christmas Child shoebox after your family packs it? In this episode, Dania Andraos shares her incredible story of growing up in the Middle East, where her family faced persecution for their Christian faith, and how receiving a shoebox gift became a powerful reminder that God saw her and heard her prayers. We talk about how that simple gift opened doors for the gospel in her community, how Dania eventually became involved with Operation Christmas Child herself, and practical ways families can participate in this ministry together. If you've ever packed a shoebox or wondered how to help your kids develop a heart for serving others, this conversation will remind you that God can use even the smallest gifts to make an eternal impact. Resources Mentioned Carpool Conversations with WinShape Camps NiRV Question & Answer Bible for Kids Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Why You Procrastinate (and It’s Not Because You’re Lazy) with Dana K White | 20 Oct 2026 | 00:31:49 | |
In this episode, Steph talks with Dana K. White, author of Procrastinators Get Stuff Done, about why procrastination isn't always laziness. Often, it comes from overwhelm, decision fatigue, perfectionism, and the feeling that we need to have everything figured out before we begin. Dana shares her practical process for getting unstuck, starting with one surprisingly simple step: just look. They talk about why small wins matter, how “noncommittal experimentation” can help us move forward, and why making a big plan too early can actually become another form of procrastination. Steph and Dana also talk about understanding your personal “commitment threshold,” resisting comparison, and helping kids who procrastinate without labeling them as lazy. If there’s something you’ve been putting off, this conversation will help you stop overthinking it and take one small, doable step forward today. Resources Mentioned Procrastinators Get Stuff Done book Carpool Conversations with WinShape Camps NiRV Question & Answer Bible for Kids Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Raising Spiritually Strong Kids Without Trying to Control the Outcome with Charles Fay | 13 Oct 2026 | 00:34:17 | |
In this episode, Steph talks with psychologist, author, and Love and Logic expert Dr. Charles Fay about raising kids whose faith goes deeper than simply knowing how to behave like a Christian. Charles shares why spiritually strong kids aren't perfect kids, why faith is ultimately a gift from God, and how parents can nurture faith without trying to control the outcome. They talk about allowing kids to make mistakes while the stakes are still small, holding boundaries with empathy, modeling repentance when we get it wrong, and helping kids learn to depend on God through life's struggles. They also unpack the temptation to believe in a kind of "parenting prosperity gospel": that if we read the right books, follow the right strategies, and work hard enough, our kids are guaranteed to become faithful adults. Instead, Charles encourages parents to focus on what God has actually called us to do and trust him with the results. Resources Mentioned Raising Spiritually Strong Kids book Carpool Conversations with WinShape Camps NiRV Question & Answer Bible for Kids Get your copy of our latest prayer journal Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation today! Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Can my child live out their faith in public school? with Kori Pennypacker | 06 Oct 2026 | 00:32:35 | |
For many Christian parents, sending a child to public school can feel intimidating. Questions about faith, culture, religious freedom, and discipleship often create anxiety. In this episode, Steph sits down with Kori Pennypacker, CEO of Bible2School and author of Backpack Faith, to discuss practical ways parents can prepare their children to confidently follow Jesus in public school. Kori shares why parents remain the primary disciplers of their children regardless of where they attend school, how Christian students can legally live out their faith at school, and why building relationships with teachers and administrators matters. She also explains why biblical literacy benefits children far beyond their spiritual lives and offers simple ways families can build everyday discipleship into their routines. Resources Mentioned Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF) Christian Parenting School Simplified digital download (with links to school choice series and more!) Raising Spiritually Strong Kids Carpool Conversations with WinShape Camps Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube! Get your copy of our latest prayer journal Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation today! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| How to help your kids grieve with Sissy Goff | 29 Sep 2026 | 00:32:07 | |
In this episode, therapist and author Sissy Goff joins Steph to talk about what kids really need when they're experiencing loss and how their grief can look very different from ours. Sissy explains why grief isn't linear, how kids often revisit loss as they grow and reach new developmental milestones, and why behaviors like anger, anxiety, or even risk-taking can sometimes be signs of sadness underneath. She also talks about secondary losses, why consistency and boundaries still matter during hard seasons, and the importance of surrounding our kids with safe, steady adults. If your family is walking through grief, or you simply want to know how to support your kids when loss eventually comes, this conversation offers practical wisdom, permission to grieve, and the reminder that God is still faithful even in the hardest moments. Resources Mentioned Helping Kids Through Grief book Carpool Conversations with WinShape Camps Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| What the Bible promises about the new earth with Randy Alcorn | 22 Sep 2026 | 00:59:02 | |
What will heaven actually be like, and how do we talk to our kids about it? In this episode, I’m sharing a conversation from the Faith & Clarity podcast with Dr. Mark Turman and author Randy Alcorn about his children’s book, Heaven on Earth, and the biblical promise of a new heaven and new earth. We talk about resurrection, grief, losing loved ones, miscarriage, disabilities, animals, and some of the big questions kids ask about eternity. If your family has ever wondered what happens after we die, this conversation will help you move beyond the “clouds and harps” picture of heaven and toward the incredible hope Scripture gives us for what is to come. Resources Mentioned Get your copy of our latest prayer journal Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation today! Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| How to talk about faith without lecturing with Katheryn Saunders | 15 Sep 2026 | 00:29:05 | |
As we wrap up our discipleship series, we're talking about one of the most important—and often overlooked—parts of raising children who continue following Jesus into adulthood: having meaningful spiritual conversations. In this episode, Steph talks with Katheryn Saunders, author of Having Spiritual Conversations with Your Kids, about how parents can create safe spaces where children ask honest questions, wrestle with their faith, and ultimately build a relationship with Jesus that becomes their own. This conversation beautifully ties together everything we've explored throughout the discipleship series. Reading Scripture, praying together, worshiping through music, serving others, and practicing everyday discipleship all become even more powerful when they're accompanied by genuine conversations that help our kids process what they believe and why. Resources Mentioned: Having Spiritual Conversations With Your Kids book Thanks-Living: Embracing the Power of Gratitude Every Day Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Why listening to Christian music matters more than you think with Jason Houser | 08 Sep 2026 | 00:37:16 | |
What if one of the simplest ways to disciple your children was as easy as pressing play? In this episode of our discipleship series, we're looking at another practice that research from Lifeway identified as having a significant impact on helping children develop a lasting faith: listening to Christian music. Steph is joined by Jason Houser, Executive Director of Seeds Kids Worship, a ministry that has spent more than two decades helping families hide God's Word in their hearts through Scripture-based worship music. Together they explore why music has such a powerful influence on our hearts, how worship songs create natural opportunities for conversations about God, and why Christian music isn't just something to listen to on Sunday—it can become a simple rhythm that shapes your family's faith every day. Resources Mentioned Thanks-Living: Embracing the Power of Gratitude Every Day Christian Parenting's latest prayer journal: Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation (PS You can also listen to Pardon the Mess podcasteach Monday starting September 14th to listen to guided prayer and reflection that follows the journal.) Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| How serving helps kids build a lasting faith with Eric and Sarah Holmstrom | 01 Sep 2026 | 00:36:35 | |
What if one of the most important things you can do for your child’s faith is help them become part of the church, not just attend it? In this episode of our discipleship series, I’m joined by Sarah and Eric Holmstrom to talk about why regularly serving in church can have such a lasting impact on our kids’ faith. Sarah and Eric share how serving has shaped their own family, why kids are never too young to begin, and practical ways to help children discover where their gifts and personalities fit within the church. We also talk about what to do when your child doesn’t want to serve, why more is often caught than taught, and how to create a family culture of serving without making it feel like something we do to earn God’s love. If you want your kids to know they have a place and a purpose in God’s kingdom, this conversation will encourage you to move beyond simply going to church and help your family become an active part of it. Resources: Thanks-Living: Embracing the Power of Gratitude Every Day Christian Parenting's latest prayer journal: Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation (PS You can also listen to Pardon the Mess podcast each Monday starting September 14th to listen to guided prayer and reflection that follows the journal.) Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| How to teach kids to pray for a lasting faith with Erica Renaud | 25 Aug 2026 | 00:33:56 | |
In this episode, Steph continues the discipleship series by exploring one of the strongest predictors of lasting faith: regular prayer. We know prayer is important, but many parents feel unsure where to begin or worry they aren't "good enough" at praying out loud. In this episode, Steph sits down with author Erica Renaud to talk about how prayer becomes the foundation of a child's relationship with God. Together they discuss practical ways families can incorporate prayer into everyday life, how to move beyond memorized prayers without abandoning them, and how to help children navigate unanswered prayer with trust in God's character. Whether your children are preschoolers, teenagers, or somewhere in between, this conversation offers simple encouragement to help your family grow closer to God through prayer. Resources Mentioned Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube! Get your copy of our latest prayer journal Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation today! You can also listen to Pardon the Mess podcast each Monday to listen to guided prayer and reflection that follows the journal beginning September 14th! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Why Scripture is the foundation of lasting faith with Andrew and Charlotte Ollerton | 18 Aug 2026 | 00:29:42 | |
The Bible can feel overwhelming, especially when you're trying to read it with your kids. Where do you start? How do you help them understand it? And how do you make it something they actually enjoy? In this episode, Steph continues the discipleship series by exploring one of the strongest predictors of lasting faith: regularly reading Scripture at home. Joined by Andrew and Charlotte Ollerton, authors of God's Story, Our Story, they discuss why understanding the Bible as one unified story changes everything. They also share practical ways to make family Bible reading simple, engaging, and consistent without adding guilt or pressure. If you've ever felt intimidated by opening the Bible with your children, this conversation will encourage you to start small, stay faithful, and trust God to use his Word to shape your family's faith for years to come. Resources Mentioned God’s Story, Our Story journey cards Get your copy of our latest prayer journal Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation today! Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| What actually helps kids follow Jesus for life? With Jana Magruder | 11 Aug 2026 | 00:37:31 | |
Every Christian parent wants to raise kids with a lasting faith, but with so much parenting advice available, it's easy to wonder where to focus your time and energy. In this episode, Steph kicks off a special discipleship series by sitting down with Janet Magruder of Lifeway Christian Resources to discuss the groundbreaking research behind the book Nothing Less. After years of studying what influences children who grow into adults with a vibrant, enduring faith, the research points to a handful of practices that consistently make the biggest difference. If you've ever wondered what matters most when it comes to discipling your kids at home, this conversation will encourage you to let go of the pressure to do everything and instead invest in the things that have the greatest lasting impact on your child's faith. Resources Mentioned Get your copy of our latest prayer journal Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation today! Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| What college students need most spiritually with Paul Worcester | 04 Aug 2026 | 00:40:51 | |
The college years can be one of the most defining seasons in a young person's faith. So how can parents prepare their kids to stand firm long before they leave home? In this episode, Steph sits down with longtime college ministry leader Paul Worcester to discuss the spiritual habits that help faith last. They talk about the power of Scripture memory, daily time in God's Word, the challenges today's college students face, and practical ways parents can train, not just teach, their teens to follow Christ. Paul also shares how his new Bible study, Thrive, equips college students and young adults to build a faith that is grounded in Scripture and prepared to withstand the challenges of this pivotal season. Whether your child is heading to college soon or you still have years to prepare, this conversation will encourage you to invest in the kind of faith that endures Resources Mentioned Get your copy of our latest prayer journal Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation today! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Why the things we pray for can still exhaust us with Melissa Miller | 28 Jul 2026 | 00:27:58 | |
Have you ever received an answer to prayer only to discover it was much harder than you expected? In this episode, author Melissa Miller talks about "change fatigue," the emotional exhaustion that can come even during the seasons we've prayed for. Melissa shares her family's adoption story, the surprising challenges that followed, and how God met her in the middle of overwhelming change. We talk about why Christians often feel guilty admitting that good change is still hard, how Scripture validates those experiences, and practical ways to process complicated emotions with God. If you've ever felt grateful and overwhelmed at the same time, this conversation will remind you that you're not alone and that God's grace meets you right where you are. Resources Mentioned Get your copy of our latest prayer journal Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation today! Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Should Christian Parents Be Worried About AI? With Ben Peterson | 21 Jul 2026 | 00:27:48 | |
Artificial intelligence is changing the way our families learn, work, communicate, and even seek advice. For many parents, it feels like this technology appeared overnight, leaving us wondering how to help our kids navigate it wisely. In this episode, combat veteran, speaker, and author Ben Peterson sits down to discuss why AI is more than a technology conversation. It's a discipleship conversation. Together we explore how parents can embrace the benefits of AI while protecting the God-given roles of family, community, creativity, and the Holy Spirit in their children's lives. If you've wondered where to draw healthy boundaries with AI, how to talk with your kids about using it for school, or how to raise children who seek God's wisdom before artificial intelligence, this conversation is for you. Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube! Resources Mentioned When Intelligence Isn’t Human book Pre-order When Intelligence Isn’t Human Get your copy of our latest prayer journal Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation today! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Helping Kids Experience God, Not Just Learn About Him with Jen Weaver and Gayle Veitenheimer | 14 Jul 2026 | 00:28:31 | |
Teaching our kids Bible stories is important, but discipleship doesn't stop there. We also want our children to recognize God's guidance in their own stories, bring him into everyday conversations, and develop a genuine relationship with him that grows over time. In this episode, Bible teachers and co-authors Jen Weaver and Gayle Veitenheimer talk about helping kids move from simply knowing about God to experiencing life with Him. They discuss why stories are such powerful discipleship tools, how to answer kids' big questions about prayer and hearing God's voice, and simple ways parents can nurture faith at home. If you've ever wondered how to make faith feel more personal for your kids, this conversation is full of practical encouragement. Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube! Resources Mentioned Kingswell Kids Detective series The Christian Grandparenting Podcast Get your copy of our latest prayer journal Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation today! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| The Gospel for real-life parenting messes with Scarlet Hiltibidal | 07 Jul 2026 | 00:29:23 | |
Today we are joined by Scarlet Hiltibidal, who is the new host of Pardon the Mess. Scarlet is a wife, mom of four, author, speaker, and follower of Jesus who is passionate about helping parents see the gospel in the middle of everyday family life. In this episode, Scarlet shares about her own parenting messes, including loving each of her kids well in very different seasons and needs. We talk about the pressure moms feel to get everything right, the invisible report card so many of us carry, and the freedom that comes when we remember parenting is not about our performance, but about pointing our kids to Jesus. Scarlet also gives us a look at the new format of Pardon the Mess, where she will take one real parenting struggle each week and help parents untangle it through Scripture, stories, and one small faithful step. Resources Mentioned Get your copy of Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation today! Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| How to talk to your kids about sex without shame with Kelly Edmiston | 30 Jun 2026 | 00:26:25 | |
Many Christian parents want to talk to their kids about sex and sexuality in healthy, biblical ways, but feel unsure where to begin. In today’s episode, Kelly Edmiston talks about how to move away from fear, silence, and shame-based messaging and instead help our kids understand the goodness of their bodies, God’s design for sex, and the importance of open, ongoing conversations in the home. We discuss how purity culture shaped many parents’ own experiences, why discipleship matters so much in these conversations, and how parents can build trust with their kids while still holding biblical convictions. We also talk about practical ways to make sex talks feel more natural and less intimidating for both parents and children. Notes: use your discretion when it comes to listening to this conversation with your kids present, we do use accurate terminology for body parts and sexuality. Kelly is the author of Shame-Free Sex Talks, is lead Pastor at Vineyard Church in Sugar Land, Texas and a mom of three kids. (00:00) Introduction to the Conversation (02:57) Navigating Sexuality Conversations with Kids (05:59) Understanding Shame in Sexuality Discussions (08:49) The Importance of Normalizing Conversations (11:55) Spiritual Sexuality: Integrating Faith and Sexuality (15:08) Values-Based Approach to Sexuality Education (18:04) Empowering Kids to Make Healthy Decisions (21:00) Hope for Future Generations (24:05 )Resources for Parents Resources Mentioned Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| You haven’t ruined your kids with Abbey Wedgeworth | 23 Jun 2026 | 00:30:48 | |
If you’ve ever felt weighed down by guilt after a hard parenting moment, this conversation will encourage your heart. In this episode, Abbey Wedgeworth talks about the fear many parents carry that they’ve somehow “ruined” their kids. We discuss parenting failures, repentance, repair, and the freedom that comes when we stop trying to be perfect parents and start trusting God’s grace. Abbey and I talk honestly about how community shapes us as moms, why repair matters so much in relationships with our kids, and how God can use both our faithfulness and our failures in the lives of our children. Abbey Wedgeworth is an author, Bible teacher, and speaker who encourages moms with gospel-centered truth and practical hope for everyday motherhood. Her newest book is called, Help! I’m Ruining My Kids. (02:52) The Fear of Ruining Our Kids (05:58) Understanding Conviction vs. Shame (09:00) The Power of Repentance (12:08) Navigating Apologies and Repairing Relationships (15:01) Excuses vs. Explanations in Parenting (17:55) Self-Care and Managing Stress (21:10) The Importance of Community in Parenting Resources Mentioned Help! I’m Ruining my Kids book Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Growing in gentleness when you’re tired and stretched thin with Christie Thomas | 16 Jun 2026 | 00:26:25 | |
In today’s episode, Christie Thomas is back to talk about the quiet strength of gentleness and why it matters so deeply in our homes. Christie shares how gentleness is not weakness or passivity, but strength held under control for the good of others. We discuss parenting through the fruit of the Spirit, responding instead of reacting, and how our kids learn about the character of Jesus through the way we handle frustration, conflict, and mistakes. We also talk honestly about the exhaustion of parenting, spiritual dry seasons, postpartum anxiety, worship as prayer, and simple ways to stay connected to God when you feel overwhelmed. This conversation is full of practical encouragement for parents who want to build homes marked by patience, safety, grace, and the gentleness of Christ. (00:00) Introduction to Christie Thomas and Her Journey (03:10) Understanding Gentleness: A Deeper Meaning (06:04) Gentleness in Parenting: Balancing Authority and Compassion (08:51) The Role of the Holy Spirit in Cultivating Gentleness (12:09) Discipling Our Children Through Our Actions (14:50) Practical Steps to Grow in Gentleness (18:05) The Impact of Gentleness on Family Dynamics (21:02) Resources for Growing in Gentleness (24:03) Conclusion and Final Thoughts Resources Mentioned Everyday Prayers for Gentleness book Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| The mom burnout conversation we need to have with Alli Worthington | 09 Jun 2026 | 00:26:55 | |
Motherhood is beautiful, meaningful, and holy work, but it can also leave moms completely exhausted. Somewhere between raising kids, managing schedules, carrying the mental load, and taking care of everyone else, many women slowly lose sight of themselves. In today’s episode, Allie Worthington is here for an honest conversation about burnout, identity, and why so many moms struggle to care for themselves without guilt. Allie shares wisdom from raising five boys into adulthood and offers practical encouragement for moms who feel overwhelmed, numb, or stuck in survival mode. If you’ve been feeling exhausted, disconnected, or like you’ve lost yourself in motherhood, this conversation will remind you that you matter too. (00:00) Introduction and Background (03:12) The Importance of Self-Care for Moms (06:01) Investing in Yourself: Overcoming Fear (09:01) Understanding Burnout vs. Tiredness (12:01) Practical Steps to Combat Burnout (15:06) The Role of Physical Health in Parenting (18:02) Tracking Health and Wellness (20:54) Final Encouragement and Resources Resources Mentioned Moms, Dads, and Grads Gift Guide Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Parenting on purpose from the very beginning with Michael and Angela DeAquino | 02 Jun 2026 | 00:32:39 | |
In this episode Michael and Angela DeAquino discuss the importance of pre-parental counseling, building a shared family vision, navigating disagreements in marriage, and understanding how our own upbringing shapes the way we parent. They talk honestly about family trauma, generational patterns, survival mode parenting, apologizing to our kids, and the freedom that comes from letting go of perfection. Whether you are preparing for your first baby, parenting young kids, or realizing you want to become more intentional years into parenting, this conversation offers practical encouragement and hope for every season. Michael and Angela are the founders of The Parenthood Project and authors of The Parenthood Primer, a resource designed to help couples prepare spiritually, emotionally, and relationally for parenting. (00:00) Introduction to Parenthood Preparation (03:08) The Importance of Pre-Parenting Counseling (06:12) Navigating Identity Shifts in Parenting (08:55) Communication and Alignment in Parenting (12:06) Reflecting on Upbringing and Family Values (14:51) Addressing Family Trauma and Patterns (17:49) The Long Game in Parenting (20:55) Practical Steps for Intentional Parenting (23:48) The Role of Community in Parenting (26:51) It's Never Too Late to Start (30:09) Conclusion and Resources Resources Mentioned The Parenthood Primer workbook Moms, Dads, and Grads Gift Guide Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Build Your Marriage with Prayer with Brad and Heidi Mitchell | 26 May 2026 | 00:29:55 | |
In this episode, Brad and Heidi Mitchell share wisdom from over 40 years of marriage and ministry on what it looks like to build a marriage rooted in prayer. We talk about why prayer is so impactful for both marriage and parenting, why it can feel intimidating to pray with your spouse, and simple, practical ways to begin. Brad and Heidi also share encouragement for couples who feel spiritually mismatched and how small steps of faith can lead to lasting change. Brad and Heidi are the founders of Build Your Marriage, a ministry dedicated to helping couples strengthen their marriages through Christ-centered resources, books, and conferences. Their book Build Your Marriage with Prayer is a fantastic resource to help you get started praying with your spouse! (00:00) Introduction to Marriage and Prayer (02:27) The Power of Prayer in Marriage (08:08) Overcoming Barriers to Prayer (11:59) Spiritual Mismatch in Marriage (16:46) Spiritual Warfare and Family Dynamics (19:29) Transformative Power of Prayer (25:12) Practical Steps to Start Praying Together (28:36) Resources for Strengthening Marriage through Prayer Resources Mentioned Build Your Marriage with Prayer book Marriage articles by Brad and Heidi Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| What 40 years of marriage has taught Steven Curtis and Mary Beth Chapman | 19 May 2026 | 00:30:44 | |
In this episode, Steven Curtis Chapman and Mary Beth Chapman share honestly about what 40 years of marriage has looked like through parenting, grief, counseling, career changes, and the constant transition of family life. We talk about how differences that once felt charming can become challenging over time, why repentance and humility have been essential in their marriage, and how they’ve learned to “bear with one another in love” through every season. Steven and Mary Beth also share about the role counseling, mentors, and Christian community have played in helping them navigate hard seasons together. They offer encouragement for couples who feel weary, disconnected, or discouraged, reminding listeners that marriage is not about perfection but about continually turning back toward each other and toward the Lord. Steven Curtis Chapman is a Grammy-winning Christian artist and songwriter, and together he and Mary Beth Chapman are authors, speakers, and longtime advocates for faith and family ministry. (00:00) Introduction and Family Update (03:09) Navigating Marriage Through Seasons (06:04) The Importance of Humility and Repentance (08:49) Seeking Help: Counseling and Mentorship (12:06) The Journey of Parenting and Grandparenting (15:07) Finding Joy in Long-Term Marriage (18:01) Encouragement for Struggling Couples Resources Mentioned Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Giving our kids words for their faith through liturgical prayer with Doug McKelvey | 12 May 2026 | 00:27:27 | |
In this episode, Doug McKelvey shares how prayer and liturgy can become powerful tools for discipling kids through all of life’s stages, but specifically the transition to adulthood. We talk about the value of written prayers alongside spontaneous prayer, how ancient rhythms can help reorient our hearts in a noisy world, and why giving our kids words for their faith matters more than we might realize. We also discuss the challenge of releasing control as parents and learning to trust God with our children’s stories in every season. Doug is the author of the Every Moment Holy series, including his newest book, Rites of Passage, which offers liturgies designed to support young adults as they navigate life, identity, and faith. Chapters (00:00) Introduction to Doug McKelvey (02:57) The Journey of Every Moment Holy (06:07) The Relevance of Ancient Prayers (08:55) The Shift in Prayer Practices (12:11) The Impact of Written Prayers (14:57) Supporting Young Adults in Transition (18:04) The Role of Parents in Young Adult Faith (21:06) Trusting God in Parenting (23:54) Conclusion and Resources Resources Mentioned Moms, Dads, and Grads Gift Guide Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| How God changes our parenting over time with Kelly Karpe and Kate Hann | 05 May 2026 | 00:36:18 | |
In this episode, I sit down with my two closest friends, Kelly Karpe and Kate Hann, for an honest conversation about how our parenting has changed over time. We talk about the expectations we had as young moms, how God reshaped our hearts through different seasons, and what it looks like to release control and trust God more as our kids grow. These women have known me for a long time, so we share personal stories about comparison, surrender, friendship in motherhood, the importance of community in raising kids who love Jesus, and our hopes for our families in the years ahead. Resources Mentioned Moms, Dads, and Grads Gift Guide Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| How to prioritize your time without guilt as your kids grow Sarah Colbert | 28 Apr 2026 | 00:26:02 | |
What do you do with yourself as your kids get older and your roles and rhythms begin to change? Parenting our kids while managing the shifting seasons of motherhood can feel overwhelming and weird! In this episode, Sarah Colbert shares wisdom on navigating time, identity, and priorities in the in-between years of parenting. We talk about how to balance caring for yourself, your family, and the everyday responsibilities of life, why so many moms feel stretched thin in this season, and how small, consistent changes can lead to meaningful transformation. Sarah is the host of the Balanced Mom Life podcast and encourages moms to prioritize their time with purpose and without guilt as their kids grow and become more independent. Resources Mentioned Moms, Dads, and Grads Gift Guide Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Why our kids need discomfort to grow with David Thomas and Sissy Goff | 21 Apr 2026 | 00:33:51 | |
Raising kids who are confident, resilient, and grounded in their faith is a deep desire for most parents, but in today’s world, it can feel like we’re constantly pulled between protecting our kids and preparing them for real life. In this episode, Steph sits down with Sissy Goff and David Thomas to talk about what they call a “crisis of capability” in kids today. Steph, Sissy, and David talk about how our desire to keep kids happy can sometimes work against their long-term growth. They discuss the importance of allowing discomfort, setting boundaries, and helping kids build the skills they need to face life with confidence. Sissy and David are counselors, speakers, and co-hosts of the Raising Boys & Girls Podcast. Together, they’ve spent over 30 years working with kids and families. Their new book, Capable, offers practical tools, encouragement, and over 100 exercises to help parents raise kids who are ready for life’s challenges. Resources Mentioned Moms, Dads, and Grads Gift Guide Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Raising Kids with Character in an Entitled World with Monica Swanson | 14 Apr 2026 | 00:37:35 | |
As part of our Best of The Christian Parenting Podcast series, we’re revisiting some of our most helpful and encouraging conversations for families. In a culture that often encourages entitlement, many parents wonder how to raise kids who are grateful, responsible, and grounded in strong character. In this episode, Monica Swanson joins the conversation to talk about practical ways parents can push back against entitlement at home. We discuss the importance of teaching responsibility, giving kids opportunities to work hard, and helping them develop a genuine heart of gratitude. Monica is an author, speaker, and host of The Monica Swanson Podcast, where she shares practical wisdom on raising kids with faith, character, and resilience. Connect with Monica Resources Mentioned Raising Grateful Kids in an Entitled World Moms, Dads, and Grads Gift Guide The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Healing, boundaries, and raising emotionally healthy kids with Melanie Shankle | 07 Apr 2026 | 00:33:19 | |
As part of our Best of The Christian Parenting Podcast series, we’re revisiting some of our most helpful and encouraging conversations for families. Raising emotionally healthy kids often begins with doing our own work as parents. When we address our own wounds and learn to set healthy boundaries, we create a stronger foundation for our children. In this episode, Melanie Shankle shares insights on generational patterns, emotional healing, and the impact relationships can have on young girls. We also talk about how parents can help their kids navigate friendship challenges, like mean-girl culture, while modeling emotional health at home. Melanie is a bestselling author, speaker, and host of The Big Boo Cast. Her book Here Be Dragons explores the importance of healing, boundaries, and building healthier relationships. Connect with Melanie: Resources mentioned: The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Discipling our kids doesn’t have to be intimidating with Sarah Holmstrom | 31 Mar 2026 | 00:39:30 | |
As part of our Best of The Christian Parenting Podcast series, we’re revisiting some of our most helpful and encouraging conversations for families. Discipling our kids to know, love, and follow Jesus is one of the most important callings of Christian parenting, but it can also feel complex and uncertain. In this episode, Sarah Holmstrom shares wisdom on what discipleship can look like in everyday family life. We talk about how to approach discipleship with kids who have different personalities, what daily faith formation can look like at home, and why praying for our children truly matters. Sarah and Steph also share personal experiences from their years of ministry encouraging families to make prayer and spiritual growth a natural part of the rhythms of home life. Sarah serves alongside Steph in the ministry Raising Prayerful Kids, and they co-authored the book of the same name, helping parents nurture a culture of prayer in their homes. Connect with Sarah: Website: www.raisingprayerfulkids.com Social media: @sarahmholmstrom @raisingprayerfulkids Resources mentioned: Get the digital Discipleship Simplified guide The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| How understanding God's character changes our parenting with Ruth Chou Simons | 24 Mar 2026 | 00:35:02 | |
As part of our Best of The Christian Parenting Podcast series, we’re revisiting some of our most helpful and encouraging conversations for families. Many parents feel the pressure to control outcomes, do everything perfectly, and make sure their kids turn out “right.” But the Christian life, and parenting within it, is ultimately a journey of trusting God. In this episode, Ruth Chou Simons shares encouragement for parents who want to root their lives and families more deeply in God’s character. We talk about why following Jesus often feels like a pilgrimage, how time in God’s Word shapes our hearts, and why releasing control and striving can open the door to deeper faith. Ruth is a bestselling author, artist, speaker, and mom of six boys. Her book Pilgrim: 25 Ways God’s Character Leads Us Onward explores how understanding who God is helps guide us forward in faith and everyday life. Connect With Ruth
Resources mentioned: The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Investing in your kids’ faith with Lisa Clark | 17 Mar 2026 | 00:37:38 | |
As part of our Best of The Christian Parenting Podcast series, we’re revisiting some of our most helpful and encouraging conversations for families. Raising kids in the Christian faith often means balancing many priorities, family life, church involvement, and helping children build their own relationship with God. In this episode, Lisa Clark shares practical encouragement for parents who want to make faith a natural part of everyday life. We talk about partnering with the church, helping kids prioritize time with God, and why nurturing your own faith is an essential part of guiding your children. Lisa is a mom and grandmother, co-host of the podcasts Raising Sinners and Wonder, and the author of My Time with God, a devotional created with First15 to help kids develop a daily rhythm of spending time with the Lord. Connect with Lisa:
Resources mentioned: Get your copy of My Time With God today! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Discipling the next generation with Jen Wilkin and J.T. English | 10 Mar 2026 | 00:30:29 | |
As part of our Best of The Christian Parenting Podcast series, we’re revisiting some of our most helpful and encouraging conversations for families. One of our most important callings as parents is discipling our kids in the Christian faith. To do that well, we need to understand what we believe, why we believe it, and be familiar with God’s Word. In this episode, Jen Wilkin and J.T. English join me to talk about the relationship between Bible study and theology and why both matter as we raise the next generation of believers. Together we discuss how understanding theology strengthens our faith, why Bible literacy matters for parents and kids alike, and how these two practices work together to shape a lifelong walk with God. Jen and J.T., who co-authored You Are a Theologian, also share practical encouragement for discipling kids in different seasons of parenting and helping them grow in their understanding of God. Connect with Jen
Connect with J.T.
Links and resources mentioned: https://www.tinytheologians.shop/ Lives of Faith and Grace series The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Bringing joy back to discipleship at home with Amanda Jass | 03 Mar 2026 | 00:33:10 | |
Hey friends, What if discipling your kids didn’t feel heavy… but actually felt joyful again? I don’t know about you, but sometimes the pressure to “do it right” as a Christian parent can slowly steal the fun and freedom out of faith. What starts as a beautiful calling can start to feel like another thing on the list. And that’s exactly why this conversation felt so refreshing. Today I’m joined by my friend Amanda Jass, and she brings such a grace-filled, life-giving perspective to what it looks like to disciple our kids in a way that feels natural, joyful, and deeply rooted in Jesus. Here are four takeaways that I think will really stick with you:
This conversation is such a deep exhale. If you’ve ever felt like you’re not doing enough or you don’t even know where to start, I think this will remind you that God isn’t asking for perfection—just presence. Amanda Joss is a children’s author, illustrator, and longtime kids ministry leader who is passionate about helping families make faith feel joyful and accessible. She is the creator of Adventures in the Friendly Forest, a 30-day storybook devotional that uses imaginative storytelling and biblical truth to help kids grow in their faith in a fun and meaningful way. I’m cheering you on as you create a home where faith feels light, joyful, and lived out together. With Love, Steph Resources Mentioned: Prefer video? This episode is on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Rethinking your time with purpose and peace with Elaine Franklin | 24 Feb 2026 | 00:32:07 | |
Have you ever felt busy all day long but still wondered if any of it really mattered? This week’s episode is a little different and so special. I’m sharing a conversation from another Christian Parenting podcast, Pardon the Mess, hosted by the wonderful Courtney DeFeo. I first heard her interview with Elaine Franklin years ago, and honestly, it stuck with me in such a meaningful way. So when I saw them sit down together again, I knew I had to share it with you. This conversation is all about time, but not in the way you might expect. It’s not about doing more or getting more organized. It’s about living with intention, clarity, and peace in the middle of full lives. Here are four takeaways that really stood out:
This episode is packed with practical wisdom, but more than that, it’s an invitation to step out of the hustle and into a more thoughtful, life-giving rhythm. If you’ve been feeling stretched thin or a little out of alignment, I think this one will really meet you right where you are. Elaine Franklin is a speaker, coach, and author who helps individuals and families align their time and priorities with their God-given purpose. Through her teaching, she offers practical and biblical tools for creating margin, setting healthy boundaries, and living with intention in every season of life. Resources Mentioned The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Navigating faith, doubt, and parenting with grace with Kristin LaValley | 17 Feb 2026 | 00:29:50 | |
Hey friends, Have you ever felt like you’re trying to pass on faith to your kids while quietly wrestling with your own? If so, this episode is for you. This week I’m joined by Kristin LaValley, writer, retreat host, and mom of five, who brings so much vulnerability and hope to the table. Kristin’s story is one many of us can relate to: growing up in the church, facing seasons of doubt and deconstruction, and learning how to build a gentler, deeper faith in the aftermath. Her wisdom is rooted in real experience, and she reminds us that asking questions doesn’t disqualify us, it invites us to know God more fully. Here are just a few of the things we unpack in today’s conversation:
This one is tender, thoughtful, and full of grace. I hope it reminds you that God can hold both your faith and your questions. Kristin LaValley is a writer, retreat leader, and mother of five living in New England. She helps women process faith, trauma, and spiritual transformation with honesty and hope. Her latest book, Growing Up Saved, is a heartfelt reflection on evangelical culture, mental health, and rebuilding faith after deconstruction. (01:28) Transitioning from Homeschooling to Public School (02:41) The Power of Writing in Healing (05:19) Navigating Church Hurt and Parenting (10:36) Giving Kids Agency in Their Faith (20:38) Understanding Shame and Its Impact on Faith (28:38) Kristen's Book and Closing Thoughts Connect with Kristen Resources Mentioned Disciplines of Devotion series Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| What 3 years of interviews have taught me about parenting with faith | 10 Feb 2026 | 00:12:52 | |
Hi friends, This week’s episode is a little different and really special. It's just me, Steph, reflecting on the past three years of hosting the Christian Parenting Podcast. As I look back on the many conversations I’ve had with incredible guests, a few themes have come up over and over again. And I wanted to take a moment to name them, reflect on them, and remind you (and myself!) that faithful parenting is not about doing everything perfectly, it's about showing up with humility, love, and trust in God. In this solo episode, I share some of the truths that have encouraged me the most over the years:
These reminders have shaped how I approach my own parenting and I hope they encourage you as you walk alongside your kids in faith, love, and truth. With Love, Steph Resources Mentioned The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Teaching kids to handle money with wisdom with Stephen Day | 03 Feb 2026 | 00:29:20 | |
Hey friends, Let’s be honest, talking about money with our kids can feel a little awkward. Whether it’s figuring out allowance, answering “Why can’t we just buy that?” at Target, or teaching the value of hard work without turning into the fun police, we’ve all been there. That’s why I’m so excited for you to hear today’s episode with Stephen Day. He’s a dad of four, a professor, and the author of Teach a Kid to Save. Stephen brings a gentle, practical approach to money conversations that is full of wisdom and grace. He shares a framework he calls a “mini economy,” and honestly, it’s brilliant. This episode is packed with insight that will make you feel a lot more confident in raising money-wise kids without overcomplicating it. Here’s what we talk about:
Stephen is a former middle school teacher, a current university professor, and a dad of four who is passionate about helping families teach financial literacy with confidence. His book, Teach a Kid to Save, is a practical guide full of tips, strategies, and encouragement for families wanting to build good money habits from the ground up. He believes kids learn best through experience, and that parents don’t have to be financial experts to make a lasting impact. This conversation will help you ditch the overwhelm and step into intentional parenting around money, with wisdom and peace. With Love, Steph Connect with Stephen Resources Mentioned Prefer video? This episode is on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| How to help kids calm their thoughts with Pastor Max Lucado | 27 Jan 2026 | 00:28:36 | |
Hey friends, I am so glad you’re here today because this episode is such a gift. I had the absolute honor of welcoming back Pastor Max Lucado to the podcast, and his gentle wisdom and encouragement are exactly what we need as we navigate parenting in an anxious world. Max has spent decades speaking into our hearts with truth and grace. And now, he’s turned his attention to helping our kids better understand and manage fear and worry through his new devotional Calm Thoughts for Kids. It’s full of faith-based tools and age-appropriate encouragement, and today, we’re talking about how we, as parents, can come alongside our kids in their emotional and spiritual growth. Here are a few things you’ll hear in our conversation:
Max Lucado is a pastor, speaker, and best-selling author whose books have sold over 145 million copies worldwide. Known for his approachable teaching style and heart for helping people experience God’s grace, Max has written countless books for adults, and now, for children too. His newest devotional Calm Thoughts for Kids is designed to help kids trust God in anxious moments and develop lifelong habits of hope and faith. This episode is a beautiful reminder that we can model calm, point our children to Jesus, and be safe places for them to land, no matter what they’re walking through. With Love, Steph Connect with Max Resources Mentioned Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| No more boring Bible study with Faith Womack | 20 Jan 2026 | 00:31:08 | |
Hey friends, Let’s be honest, studying the Bible as a busy parent can feel overwhelming. We want to be in the Word, but sometimes we just don’t know where to start. Today’s episode is a lifeline if you’ve ever stared at your Bible and thought, “I want to read this… I just don’t know how.” I’m so excited for you to hear from Faith Womack (aka Bible Nerd), who is on a mission to help people fall in love with scripture in a way that’s approachable, meaningful, and, dare we say…fun. This conversation is the reminder we all need that Bible study isn’t about performance; it’s about presence. And it is possible to make time for God’s Word in our full and fast-moving lives. Here are a few things Faith shared that really stuck with me:
Whether you’re brand new to Bible study or just need some fresh encouragement, this episode is going to feel like a deep breath of grace and motivation. Faith is the founder of Bible Nerd Ministries, where she equips Christians to understand and enjoy scripture. Her new book, No More Boring Bible Study, is a practical and inspiring guide for anyone who wants to connect with God’s Word in a real and transformative way. Faith’s mission is to help people study the Bible with joy, confidence, and depth, no seminary degree required. She lives with her husband and kids and is passionate about making the Bible accessible to everyone. Let’s start where we are, open our Bibles, and remember that God delights in meeting us there. With love, Steph (00:00) Introduction to Bible Study Passion (03:04) The Journey of Understanding Scripture (06:02) Overcoming Intimidation in Bible Study (08:52) The Importance of a God-Centric Approach (12:07) Practical Steps to Engage with the Bible (14:55) Adapting Bible Study Habits as a Parent (17:57) Encouraging Kids in Their Faith Journey (21:03) Navigating Bible Study Resources (23:58) Conclusion and Resources Connect with Faith Resources Mentioned No More Boring Bible Study book Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| When faith hits you fresh with Cynthia Yanof | 13 Jan 2026 | 00:33:42 | |
Hey friends, You know those conversations that feel like sunshine and strong coffee at the same time? That’s what today’s episode is. I’m sitting down with the one and only Cynthia Yanof, OG host of the Pardon the Mess podcast and someone who knows how to bring laughter, truth, and grace into every room she walks into. We’re talking about her brand new book, How’d I Miss That? and it’s all about those holy “aha” moments, when something you've heard a million times in Scripture suddenly lands differently and stirs your heart in a new way. If you've been craving encouragement that’s both lighthearted and deeply rooted, this episode is for you. Here’s what we unpack:
It’s hopeful. It’s hilarious. And it will make you want to lean in just a little closer to Jesus today. Cynthia is a speaker, author, and podcast host passionate about encouraging parents to pursue Jesus in the middle of the mess. She’s the original host of Pardon the Mess and now serves as a frequent voice in the Christian Parenting community. Her latest book, How’d I Miss That?, is all about rediscovering the simple but powerful truths of our faith that we often overlook. Cynthia lives in Texas with her husband and kids and brings wisdom wrapped in wit wherever she goes. Let’s keep choosing the small things, because they’re often the big things in disguise. With love, Steph (00:00) Welcome Back and Introduction (03:11) Navigating Parenting and Faith (05:45) How'd I Miss That? Moments in Faith (09:00) The Importance of Love in Our Lives (12:11) Parenting Perspectives: Lessons Learned (14:51) The Mustard Seed Mistake (18:03) Building a Personal Mount Rushmore (21:01) The Impact of Small Acts of Love (24:00) Conclusion and Resources Connect with Cynthia https://www.instagram.com/cynthiayanof/ Feeding the Mouth that Bites You podcast Resources Mentioned Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Navigating mental health with faith and community with Erin Kerry | 06 Jan 2026 | 00:27:50 | |
Hey friends, You know those conversations you know are important, but they still feel a little intimidating to start? That’s exactly what we’re diving into today. In this episode, I’m joined by Erin Kerry who’s bravely sharing her story and helping us hold space for the hard things, especially when it comes to mental health in our homes. As parents, we’re often navigating silent battles, whether it’s our own struggles or the ones our kids are facing. And while it might feel easier to push through or avoid the topic altogether, what if we could learn to meet it with grace, faith, and even some practical tools? Here are a few takeaways from today’s conversation:
I’m praying this episode feels like a warm cup of tea and a deep exhale. You’re not alone, friend. Erin is a writer, speaker, and serves as an Integrative Health Coach at Living Well Counseling and Wellness Center in Tyler, Texas. Diagnosed with PTSD, depression, and bipolar disorder as a young adult, Erin has spent years learning how to live with resilience, faith, and grace. Here’s to sparking healing and honest conversations in your family and beyond. With Love, Steph (06:01) The Role of Faith in Healing (11:55) Living Beyond Labels in Mental Health (17:51) Navigating Anxiety and Its Protective Nature (20:46) Nervous System Regulation and Co-Regulation (22:54) Understanding Anxiety and Its Physical Roots (25:51) Navigating Conversations on Mental Health (30:01) The Intersection of Nutrition and Mental Health (34:51) Practical Tools for Holistic Mental Health Connect with Erin Resources Mentioned Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| How to navigate culture with a Biblical worldview with Connor Jones and Micah Tomasella | 30 Dec 2025 | 00:35:33 | |
Hey friends, If you’ve ever looked at the world and thought, “This is too much, I don’t even know where to start,” you are not alone. Culture is moving at warp speed, and as Christian parents, it can feel impossible to keep up, let alone know how to guide our kids through it all with clarity, calm, and conviction. In today’s episode, I’m joined by my Denison Ministries teammates and friends, Connor Jones and Micah Tomasella. These two are not only culture watchers and podcast hosts, but they’re also dads in the thick of raising littles, so they get it. Together, we talk about how to engage culture without being consumed by it, and how to stay grounded when the headlines won’t stop coming. Here’s what we cover:
This one is practical, honest, and encouraging, especially if you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, out of your depth, or tempted to just check out entirely. Connor Jones is the Director of Performance Marketing and Micah Tomasella is the Director of Advancement at Denison Ministries. Together, they host The Culture Brief podcast, where they break down what’s happening in the world and how to think about it through a biblical lens. Both are young dads navigating the same parenting pressures and culture shifts that many of us face daily. Their goal? Help Christians stay rooted in truth while walking wisely in a noisy world. Let’s keep showing up with curiosity, courage, and grace. You don’t have to know everything, just stay rooted. With love, Steph (00:00) Introduction to the Hosts and Their Backgrounds (04:54) Navigating Culture as Parents (11:15) Engaging with Cultural Moments (14:49) Discussing Cultural Events with Kids (19:08) Fostering Healthy Conversations about Culture (19:48) Navigating Theological Questions with Children (22:14) The Importance of Open Dialogue in Parenting (26:06) Equipping Ourselves for Cultural Conversations (28:24) Encouragement for Overwhelmed Parents (32:42) Trusting God's Plan in Parenting Resources Mentioned Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| A Christmas reflection for parents | 23 Dec 2025 | 00:09:59 | |
Hey Friends! I’ve never done a solo episode before, but Christmas felt like the right time to try. In the middle of a season that can feel loud, full, emotional, and a little overwhelming, this episode is an invitation to take just ten minutes to pause and breathe and remember the gift that never fades. Whether your home feels busy and chaotic or quiet and tender this year, remember Emmanuel, God with us. Through Scripture, simple family traditions, and honest encouragement, this episode is for weary parents who want to love their kids well and keep Jesus at the center without feeling pressure to get everything just right. With love, Steph Thurling Prefer video? Find more episodes on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Unwrapping the truth about Christmas with Lee Strobel | 16 Dec 2025 | 00:33:59 | |
Let’s talk about Christmas. Not just the cozy traditions or the sparkling lights, but the actual story of what happened in Bethlehem over 2,000 years ago. This week on the podcast, I had the absolute honor of sitting down with Lee Strobel and together we explore the deeper truths of the nativity story, why the details matter, and how we can share that with our kids in a way that builds their faith. Here are a few highlights from our conversation:
Lee Strobel is a former legal editor for the Chicago Tribune and a New York Times bestselling author of more than forty books, including The Case for Christ and The Case for Faith. After investigating the claims of Christianity as an atheist, he became a follower of Jesus and now speaks and writes to help others explore faith with confidence. His newest book, The Case for Christmas, explores the historical and biblical evidence behind the nativity story. Whether you’ve heard the Christmas story a hundred times or are learning it with your kids for the first time, this conversation will give you a fresh perspective and a renewed sense of awe. (00:00) From Atheism to Faith: Lee Strobel's Journey (03:00) The Cultural Significance of Christmas (05:47) Revisiting the Nativity Story: Myths vs. Reality (09:04) Understanding the Virgin Birth (12:12) The Role of the Magi in the Christmas Story (14:56) The Importance of Context in Biblical Narratives (18:05) The Legacy of Saint Nicholas and Santa Claus (20:47) Celebrating Christmas with Children (24:01) The True Meaning of Christmas Connect with Lee Resources Mentioned The Christian Parenting Podcast: Faith, apologetics, and the supernatural with Lee Strobel Prefer video? This episode is on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| When Christmas doesn’t go as planned with Sheila Walsh | 09 Dec 2025 | 00:29:01 | |
The lights are twinkling, the carols are playing, and everything should feel magical... but sometimes, it just doesn’t. Whether your kids are navigating big feelings of disappointment or you're trying to balance joy and weariness in your own heart, this conversation is for you. This week I’m joined by author and speaker Sheila Walsh, and we’re talking about what really matters this Christmas: God’s love, Emmanuel with us, and how to guide our children through holiday letdowns with grace, presence, and prayer. Here are just a few things we talked about:
Sheila’s brand-new picture book, The Little Drummer Girl, tells a beautiful story about a child who doesn’t get what she wants… and instead finds the joy of giving to Jesus. It’s such a special book to read together this season. You can find the link in the show notes! Sheila Walsh is a best-selling author, Bible teacher, speaker, and co-host of TBN’s Praise. She has written over 50 books for women and children, including It’s Okay Not to Be Okay, Holding On When You Want to Let Go, and The Storm Inside. Her new book, The Little Drummer Girl, is a heartwarming Christmas story for kids about faith, giving, and the love of Jesus. So whether you’re on your third cup of cocoa or hiding wrapping paper in the closet, I hope this episode wraps around you like a warm blanket and reminds you: Jesus is with us. That’s what matters most. (00:00) Embracing the Christmas Spirit (02:52) Sheila Walsh: A Journey of Faith and Family (05:59) The Heart of Christmas: Lessons from Isabella (08:59) Navigating Disappointments: Teaching Kids Resilience (12:06) The Power of Prayer in Parenting (15:05) Finding Joy in Community and Service (18:13) Understanding God's Love and Forgiveness (20:47) The Impact of Prayer Across Generations (24:08) Celebrating God's Plan in Our Lives (26:54) The Gift of Christmas: Sharing God's Love Connect with Sheila Resources Mentioned Christian Parenting Christmas Gift Guide Prefer video? This episode is on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Parenting was never meant to be done alone with Elisa Morgan | 02 Dec 2025 | 00:30:45 | |
Let’s be honest, parenting can feel incredibly isolating at times. Whether you're in a full house or navigating solo moments between the chaos, it’s easy to feel like no one really sees what you're carrying. But here’s the good news: you were never meant to do this alone. This week’s conversation is a beautiful reminder of that truth. I had the joy of sitting down with Elisa Morgan. And let me tell you, her wisdom is like a warm hug and a pep talk wrapped in one. We talked all about community: the kind that meets us in our mess, challenges us with grace, and reminds us we’re not the only ones still figuring this out. Here’s what you’ll take away from our time together:
Elisa is a speaker, author, and podcaster with Our Daily Bread Ministries, and formerly served as president of MOPS International (now MomCo). She has a deep passion for encouraging women through honest stories of faith and motherhood. Elisa’s personal experience of brokenness and grace infuses her work with incredible hope and healing. I hope this episode helps you feel just a little more seen—and reminds you that you are never parenting alone. (00:00) Introduction to Community and Personal Stories (03:05) The Importance of Community in Parenting (06:06) Navigating Changing Friendships (09:12) The Role of Scripture in Community (11:52) Encouragement for Women to Reach Out (14:57) Building Relationships with Non-Christians (18:00) Final Thoughts on Parenting and Community Connect with Elisa Resources Mentioned Christian Parenting Christmas Gift Guide Fizzlebop Super Science Board Books Prefer video? This episode is on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Finding faith in unanswered prayers with Kara Stout | 25 Nov 2025 | 00:29:01 | |
Hey friend, We all know the ache of unanswered prayer, the kind that keeps us up at 2 a.m., whispering desperate prayers into the dark. This week on the podcast, I sat down with Kara Stout, who knows that ache all too well. From infertility and adoption to financial stress and deep grief, Kara’s story is one of wrestling with disappointment, surrendering expectations, and still choosing to trust a good and faithful God. This conversation is for anyone who’s walked through the valley and wondered if God was still near. Kara gently reminds us: He is. Even when it hurts. Here are a few things we talk about:
Kara Stout is a writer, speaker, wife, and mom who has walked through more than her share of heartache, but she’s also found the beauty of God’s nearness in it all. Her new devotional, An Untroubled Heart, is a 30-day prayer guide to help you start and end your days grounded in God’s presence. She is passionate about helping women grow deeper roots of faith even in hard seasons. Let this episode remind you that unanswered prayer doesn’t mean unseen pain—and healing often begins in the honesty of the wait. With love, Steph Connect with Kara Resources Mentioned Christian Parenting Christmas Gift Guide Prefer video? This episode is on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Holding on to hope while you wait with Alice Matagora | 18 Nov 2025 | 00:27:55 | |
This week’s conversation is tender, powerful, and one that so many carry quietly: the journey of waiting for a child. I’m joined by Alice Matagora and she shares her story of infertility with such grace and vulnerability, offering encouragement for anyone walking through a season of waiting or supporting someone who is. Whether you’ve walked this road yourself, are in the middle of it, or love someone who is, this episode is an invitation to sit with hope and trust that God is near, even in the waiting. Here are a few truths Alice helped shine a light on: - God's timing is never wasted, even when it feels like everything is on pause - It’s okay to feel unseen—God still sees and is working in your story - Waiting seasons can deepen our faith and strengthen our identity in Christ - How to support others walking through infertility with compassion and sensitivity Alice is a licensed marriage and family therapist, a wife, mom, and a missionary with the Navigators. She serves as the leader development initiative program director and is passionate about raising up disciple-makers in everyday life. Alice’s personal journey through infertility has shaped her deep belief in God’s faithfulness, even in unseen seasons. Wherever you are today, waiting, celebrating, or supporting someone on their journey, know that you’re not alone. God sees you. 00:00 The Joys and Challenges of Parenting 02:54 The Journey of Infertility 05:53 Faith and Waiting 09:01 The Impact of Infertility on Relationships 12:01 Navigating Joy and Grief 14:52 Supporting Friends Through Infertility 17:59 The Miracle of Life 21:12 Celebrating the Gift of Children Connect with Alice Resources Mentioned Christian Parenting Christmas Gift Guide Prefer video? This episode is on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code ixl.com/TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||