Explore every episode of the podcast Life Parenting Podcast
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 029 - Owner or Steward? The Perspective Shift That Transforms Family Finances | 26 Jan 2026 | 01:04:26 | |
Money can be one of the greatest sources of stress in a marriage followed closely by children and family. That’s why it’s so important that we don’t leave our children to learn about money by accident. In this episode, we explore Biblical principles surrounding money and how to intentionally teach them to our children. We unpack the truth that everything we have belongs to God. We are not owners. We are stewards, called to wisely manage what He has entrusted to us. Using the simple and practical LIVE, GIVE, OWE, GROW framework, we talk through how to shape a God-honoring view of finances at every age:
We also introduce a win–win philosophy, one that helps families make financial decisions that align with Biblical values while preparing the next generation to live faithfully, generously, and responsibly. If you want your children to see money as a tool for God’s purposes rather than a source of fear or control, this conversation will give you both vision and practical steps to get started. Rich & Julie Young, hosts Resources Mentioned in the Episode: → Episode 17: The Entitlement Epidemic: A Parent's Guide to Recognition and Remedy // Spotify // Apple Podcasts // YouTube → Christian Financial Concepts by Larry Burkett → Generous Giving organization
→ The Growing Families Website → The Australia & NZ Bookstore → YouTube
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| 028 - Marriage that Lasts: What We've Learned in 57 Years of Marriage (a discussion with Gary & Anne Marie Ezzo) | 12 Jan 2026 | 00:50:12 | |
Drawing from 57 years of marriage, Gary and Anne Marie Ezzo share from their deep well of wisdom on what it truly means to love, honor, and grow together as husband and wife. In this authentic conversation, they reflect on how marriage is designed to complete, not compete, and how returning to “that moment” of commitment reminds couples of why they chose to be together.. They explore the power of seeing more in your spouse than they see in themselves, refusing to define one another by their worst moments, and protecting each other’s dignity, especially in public. You’ll also hear practical insight on respecting pain without minimizing it, honoring hesitation and boundaries, recognizing subtle cues, and valuing each other’s expressions of worship. Throughout it all, Gary and Anne Marie remind couples to continually point one another back to God’s faithfulness and goodness. Rich & Julie Young, hosts Gary & Anne Marie Ezzo, founders of Growing Families Resources Mentioned in the Episode: → Parenting from the Tree of Life Material —-------------------------------------------------- → The Growing Families Website → The Australia & NZ Bookstore → YouTube | |||
| 019 - Course Updates & Discernment with Parenting Trends: Our Thoughts on Baby Led Weaning, Wonder Weeks, & More | 25 Aug 2025 | 00:51:13 | |
Ready to cut through the noise of the endless stream of parenting trends on social media and trying to figure out what is best for your child?? Drawing from the newly updated, Babyhood Transitions book, we dive into topics like baby-led weaning and The Wonder Weeks, examining the science (and sometimes lack thereof) behind popular fads. Parental intentionality coupled with resolve is a better option than baby knows best because baby doesn’t really know best. We believe that your wisdom and life experience are invaluable. Your children need you to guide them, not just follow their lead. This episode is about empowering you to be an engaged, intentional, and informed parent—someone who invests in their child's development with purpose and resolve. We'll show you how to give your child what they need, when they're ready, without rushing them - all with the purpose of maximizing your child’s potential. Rich & Julie Young, hosts Gary & Anne Marie Ezzo, founders Resources Mentioned in the Episode: → Parenting from the Tree of Life
→ The Growing Families Website → YouTube
Email questions or topic suggestions to podcast@growingfamilies.life | |||
| 018 - Chores with Purpose: Instilling Work Ethic and a Heart to Serve in Your Children (a discussion with Kurt & Jill Everson) | 28 Jul 2025 | 00:55:13 | |
Join Rich and Julie Young with Kurt and Jill Everson for a practical discussion on chores. This episode redefines chores, exploring their surprising benefits for kids' development and family cooperation. Discover how these tasks build vital life skills and a strong work ethic, plus get actionable strategies for implementing them effectively with children from an early age through to the teen years. Ever wonder if chores could be more than just… chores? Join Rich and Julie Young, alongside Kurt and Jill Everson, for a game-changing discussion that redefines the very essence of household tasks. This isn't just about tidying up; it's about unlocking surprising benefits for your kids' development and fostering unparalleled family cooperation. Tune in to discover how these seemingly simple tasks build vital life skills, cultivate a robust work ethic, and pave the way for a more harmonious home. Plus, get ready for actionable strategies you can implement with children from their earliest years right through their teens! Rich & Julie Young, hosts Kurt & Jill Everson, Growing Families leaders Resources Mentioned in the Episode: → Podcast episode on entitlement // YouTube // Apple Podcasts // Spotify → How to Raise a Responsible Child - the Monkey Teaching (Original Video) → How to Raise a Responsible Child - the Monkey Teaching (Video) Additional Video Segments Related to this episode: —-------------------------------------------------- → The Growing Families Website → YouTube
Email questions or topic suggestions to podcast@growingfamilies.life | |||
| 017 - The Entitlement Epidemic: A Parent's Guide to Recognition and Remedy (a discussion with Kurt & Jill Everson) | 16 Jun 2025 | 01:03:25 | |
Are you accidentally raising an entitled child? Discover the subtle signs, unintentional enablers, and powerful strategies to cultivate gratitude, responsibility, and resilience in your kids. Rich & Julie Young, hosts Kurt & Jill Everson, Growing Families leaders Resources mentioned in the episode: → Parenting Inside & Outside the Funnel (Article) → What Does it Mean to Parent Outside the Funnel? (Video) → Getting a Child Back Inside the Funnel (Video) → More video segments on the funnel → Podcast Episode on Vision part 1 // YouTube // Spotify // Apple Podcasts → Podcast Episode on Vision part 2 // YouTube // Spotify // Apple Podcasts → Podcast Episode on Chores // Coming soon! Additional resources related to this episode: → Bribing in Exchange for Compliance (Video) → More video segments on the bribing parent → The Danger of Flattery (Video) → Destroying Children with Flattery (Video)
→ The Growing Families Website → YouTube
Email questions or topic suggestions to podcast@growingfamilies.life | |||
| 016 - The Hidden Influence: How Structure & Routine Shape Your Child's Development | 19 May 2025 | 00:46:24 | |
The words Structure and Routine can sometimes strike fear into the hearts of parents who reject being tied down to a strict schedule where every minute of the day is planned. But that’s not what Structure and Routine is all about. Instead, it is a plan that reduces the amount of correction needed and gives: order to the day, predictability, and best of all FREEDOM! Rich and Julie share the benefits of structure and routine and practical suggestions to implement in your child’s day. Then Gary and Anne Marie Ezzo join Rich and Julie to discuss the neuroscience behind structure and routine and the hidden influence it exerts. Rich & Julie Young, hosts Gary & Anne Marie Ezzo, founders Resources Mentioned in the Episode: → The Brain Benefits of Structure & Routine → Speaking Life Podcast Episode // YouTube // Apple // Spotify Additional Resources Related to Structure & Routine: → The Blessings of Structure & Routine → Five Benefits of Structure & Routine → Daily Activity Planner Template → Weekly Activity Planner Template
→ The Growing Families Website → YouTube
Email questions or topic suggestions to podcast@growingfamilies.life | |||
| 015 - Is First Time Obedience Worth It? The Neuroscience Says Yes. | 05 May 2025 | 01:00:24 | |
Teaching our children to obey us, first time, is usually more difficult for us, the parents, than it is for the child. It takes work and consistency, and we often don’t realize that we may be undermining our own efforts. Rich and Julie talk about why it’s important for children to be trained in first time obedience, how to do it, and some warnings to prevent us from sabotaging our own efforts. Gary and Anne Marie join Rich and Julie to discuss the neuroscience behind obedience and the rewards our children reap well into their adulthood as a result. Rich & Julie Young, hosts Gary & Anne Marie Ezzo, founders Additional Video Segments Related to Obedience: → Characteristics of Obedience → The “Yes Mommy” & “Yes Daddy” Responses → The Five Categories of Moral Education → Parenting Words, Sensory Input, & Lasting Impressions → The Conscience & the “Moral Why”
→ The Growing Families Website → YouTube
Email questions or topic suggestions to podcast@growingfamilies.life | |||
| 014 - Ministry in Australia, Transitioning Children into Marriage, & Family Devotions (a discussion with Geoff & Alicia Bongers) | 21 Apr 2025 | 00:50:39 | |
Ready for a glimpse into family life and language across continents? Geoff and Alicia Bongers, hailing from Down Under, connect with Rich and Julie Young for a lively discussion that spans more than just miles! Get ready to crack the code on delightful differences between Australian and American English, hear about the beautiful transition of children blossoming into married adults, and delve into the heart of family devotions with over 27 years of wisdom implementing the Growing Families Biblical parenting principles. Join us for an engaging conversation filled with wisdom, laughter, and a unique blend of Australian and American perspectives on family, language, and faith! Rich & Julie Young, hosts Geoff & Alicia Bongers, Growing Families Australia Leaders part of the National Overseeing Team → Check out Episode 1 on Couch Time // Spotify // Apple // YouTube → Check out Episode 2 on Speaking Life // Spotify // Apple // YouTube → Check out Episode 3 on the Life-Giving Home Environment // Spotify // Apple // YouTube
→ The Growing Families Website → YouTube
Email questions or topic suggestions to podcast@growingfamilies.life | |||
| 013 - Creating Vision, Digital Boundaries, and a Healthy "Lawn" for our Family (a discussion with Bill & Stephanie Lammers) | 07 Apr 2025 | 00:41:48 | |
Rich and Julie Young continue a powerful conversation with Bill and Stephanie Lammers. They discuss practical strategies for cultivating family vision, igniting your children's passions, and navigating the digital age with intention. Learn how to nurture a thriving family "lawn" by finding your purpose, setting meaningful boundaries, and having fun together! Rich & Julie Young, hosts Bill & Stephanie Lammers, Growing Families leaders, founders of Wildfire Leadership Resources & topics mentioned in this episode: Vision Episode (pt 1): → Spotify → Apple → YouTube Vision Episode (pt 2): → Spotify → Apple → YouTube Parenting in the Digital Age Episode: → Spotify → Apple → YouTube → Life in the Middle Years course → How to play Bill’s favorite game → Video Explanation of the Funnel Healthy Lawn Episode (Proactive vs Reactive Parenting): → Spotify → Apple → YouTube
→ The Growing Families Website → YouTube
Email questions or topic suggestions to podcast@growingfamilies.life | |||
| 012 - Implementing Couch Time, Speaking Life, and Community with Four Kids (a discussion with Bill & Stephanie Lammers) | 24 Mar 2025 | 00:43:53 | |
Bill and Stephanie Lammers join Rich and Julie Young for a lively discussion on raising children with intention. They delve into the joys and challenges, revealing the valuable lessons they've learned while focusing on speaking life, 'Couch Time,' proactive parenting, and finding their community. Get ready for a dose of inspiration and practical takeaways. Rich & Julie Young, hosts Bill & Stephanie Lammers, Growing Families leaders, founders of Wildfire Leadership → https://www.wildfireleadership.com/ → Mission Portrait Coaching // https://www.wildfireleadership.com/shop Resources & topics mentioned in this episode: → Couch Time Episode // Spotify // Apple // YouTube → Speaking Life Episode // Spotify // Apple // YouTube → Life Giving Home Environment Episode // Spotify // Apple // YouTube → Mission Portrait Coaching → The Growing Families Website → YouTube
Email questions or topic suggestions to podcast@growingfamilies.life | |||
| 011 - No Room for Weeds: Nurturing a Healthy Lawn in Your Parenting | 10 Mar 2025 | 00:36:47 | |
As a parent do you ever feel like you are doing more and more correcting, but seeing fewer results? Are you at the point in your thinking that nothing seems to be working, so why try at all? If you’ve ever tried to nurture a healthy lawn then you realize that to cut down on weeds, you need to give your lawn the nutrients it needs to become healthy. Healthy lawns prevent weeds from growing. In a similar way, if you want to cut down on the amount of correction you are giving your children, then give them what they need in order for healthy behaviors to take control. Rich & Julie Young, hosts Resources & topics mentioned in this episode: → Parenting from the Tree of Life Book & Course // www.growingfamilies.life/parenting-from-the-tree-of-life → Episode 2 // Apple // Spotify // YouTube → Episode 3 // Apple // Spotify // YouTube → Couch Time episode // Apple // Spotify // YouTube → Blanket Time (What is it & how to apply it?) → Life-Giving Home Environment episode // Apple // Spotify // YouTube → Conversation Cards (for family meals together) → The Moral Warehouse Explained // https://growingfamilies.life/parenting-from-the-tree-of-lifeblog/2018/6/1/lsv8-02s-how-the-conscience-receives-stores-and-uses-moral-knowledge —-------------------------------------------------- → The Growing Families Website → YouTube
Email questions or topic suggestions to podcast@growingfamilies.life | |||
| 010 - Parenting in the Digital Age: Responsibility & Boundaries with Technology | 24 Feb 2025 | 00:57:42 | |
The digital era we are living in has created all sorts of parenting challenges that previous generations could not have even imagined. But are they really new challenges? Or might they be something closer to home - the same basic parenting challenges but now with a digital “look”. If there is any character weakness flagged, it will not be because a digital device caused it; rather, the device revealed it. Regardless, parents need a plan. We’ll discuss time management, social media, phone rules, and practical ways to protect your children in the digital world. Rich & Julie Young, hosts *Episode Correction: At 11 min 22 sec, the Bible verse quoted is actually Ephesians 4:29. Resources & topics mentioned in this episode: → Praying the Scriptures books → Life in the Middle Years → Parenting from the Tree of Life → Speaking Life podcast episodes: Episode 2 // Spotify // Apple // YouTube Episode 3 // Spotify // Apple // Youtube → Facebook live video on parenting in the digital age → The Growing Families Website → YouTube
Email questions or topic suggestions to podcast@growingfamilies.life | |||
| 027 - Incremental Change, Eternal Impact: Seeking God’s Vision for Your Family and Life | 29 Dec 2025 | 00:56:53 | |
Join Rich and Julie Young as they invite you to pause and ask a powerful question: What is your preferred future? In this episode, they talk about vision, not just dreaming about what could be, but prayerfully discerning what God desires for your life and family. They explore the temptation to simply decorate the house when the foundation is cracked, and why lasting change requires the courage to inspect what’s underneath. Rather than living stuck in the past, they discuss how to use your past as a tool for evaluation, allowing it to inform the future God is calling you toward. Together, they walk through seven foundational pillars that shape a healthy, God-honoring life and home:
Small, faithful adjustments in these areas can lead to eternal impact. This conversation will encourage you to evaluate honestly, realign intentionally, and move forward with hope and purpose. Rich & Julie Young, hosts Resources Mentioned in the Episode: → Episode 1: Is ten minutes all it takes? (Couch Time) // Spotify // Apple // YouTube → Episode 6: Hit the right target. (Vision part 1) // Spotify // Apple // YouTube → Episode 7: Wait for the second marshmallow. (Vision part 2) // Spotify // Apple // YouTube → Episode 2: A matter of life and death. (Speaking Life) // Spotify // Apple // YouTube → Episode 3: What’s in your atmosphere? (The Life Giving Home Environment): Spotify // Apple // YouTube → Episode 20: Speaking Life into Broken Places: Hope After Trauma and Moral Injury // Spotify // Apple // YouTube → Episode 16: The Hidden Influence: How Structure & Routine Shape Your Child's Development // Spotify // Apple // YouTube → Episode 15: Is First Time Obedience Worth It? The Neuroscience Says Yes. // Spotify // Apple // YouTube Financial Resources: → 2,000 verses in the Bible → Parenting from the Tree of Life Video Segments Related to this episode: → Building Family Identity: Interdependent versus Independent → Building Healthy Identity into Children
→ The Growing Families Website → The Australia & NZ Bookstore → YouTube | |||
| 009 - Stepping Stones to Success: Shaping Your Child's Future | 10 Feb 2025 | 00:47:47 | |
Want to raise kids with Christ-like virtues like self-control and gentleness? It starts earlier than you think. This podcast explores the crucial stepping stones of effective parenting, revealing how simple activities like sitting, focusing, and concentrating lay the foundation for logic, discipline, and future success. Join us as we uncover the often-overlooked steps to achieving your parenting vision and how to train our children to fulfill their God-given capacity. Rich & Julie Young, hosts Gary & Anne Marie Ezzo, founders Resources & topics mentioned in this episode: → Vision episode part 1 //Spotify //Apple //YouTube → Vision episode part 2 //Spotify //Apple //YouTube →Parenting from the Tree of Life Series (for preschool through early teens) Check out the Speaking Life content in Episode 2 //Spotify //Apple //YouTube And Episode 3 //Spotify //Apple //YouTube —--------------------------------------------------
Email questions or topic suggestions to podcast@growingfamilies.life | |||
| 008 - Parenting in God’s Kingdom: the Theology of the Family | 27 Jan 2025 | 00:48:20 | |
God is love – a foundational truth. But how does this impact our parenting? Christian theology, an understanding of God's nature and purpose, guides us. Past generations often relied on 'because I said so' parenting due to a lack of theological framework. With traditional values fading, understanding God's love and purpose for families is crucial. The Ezzos pioneered a theology of the family rooted in God's Word, leading to the Growing Families ministry. This ministry equips parents with an understanding of God's character and the life-giving principles that flow from Him. Gary and Anne Marie Ezzo join Rich and Julie Young to discuss how this theology shapes effective parenting. Rich & Julie Young, hosts Gary & Anne Marie Ezzo, founders Resources & topics mentioned in this episode: → Parenting from the Tree of Life book and video series // https://growingfamilies.life/parenting-from-the-tree-of-life Additional Resources: → Assumptions that Affect Our Lives (This book explores how hidden beliefs ("worldviews") deeply influence our values and actions, revealing how understanding these assumptions can transform both personal, societal, & even parenting perspectives.)
Register for a Class // https://growingfamilies.life/find-a-class Our Courses // https://growingfamilies.life/parenting-courses The Bookstore // https://growingfamilies.life/bookshop Contact Mom Ministry // https://contactmom.life/ Instagram // https://www.instagram.com/growingfamilieslife Facebook // https://www.facebook.com/GrowingFamiliesLife YouTube // https://www.youtube.com/@GrowingFamiliesLife
Email questions or topic suggestions to podcast@growingfamilies.life | |||
| 007 - Wait for the second marshmallow. (Vision part 2) | 13 Jan 2025 | 00:36:54 | |
Continuing the discussion of the importance of having vision as we raise our children and shooting at the right targets, we discuss the importance of delayed gratification and how to instill that value into our children. As our children gain the skill of being able to look beyond the “here and now” to the future, they gain a greater understanding of the power of a vision based on God’s truth that is filled with hope and life. Rich & Julie Young, hosts Check out part 1 of this topic in Episode 6 // Spotify // Apple // YouTube Resources & topics mentioned in this episode: → Self-Control Training // https://growingfamilies.life/parenting-from-the-tree-of-lifeblog/2018/6/1/lsv14-02s-the-importance-of-developing-self-control-the-marshmallow-test → Moral Education // https://growingfamilies.life/parenting-from-the-tree-of-lifeblog/2018/6/1/lsv7-06s-one-standard-fits-all-moral-education-precept-four → Practically Teaching Self-Control // https://growingfamilies.life/parenting-from-the-tree-of-lifeblog/2018/6/1/lsv14-03s-how-to-practically-teach-a-child-self-control
Email questions or topic suggestions to podcast@growingfamilies.life | |||
| 006 - Hit the right target. (Vision part 1) | 30 Dec 2024 | 00:36:05 | |
As parents we desire to have “success” as we raise our children. So we choose some parenting targets, and “ready, aim, fire.” But are we even aiming at the right target? How do we know? And once we determine the right targets, how do we go about staying focused to shoot straight? Rich & Julie Young, hosts
Register for a Class // https://growingfamilies.life/find-a-class Our Courses // https://growingfamilies.life/parenting-courses The Bookstore // https://growingfamilies.life/bookshop Contact Mom Ministry // https://contactmom.life/ Instagram // https://www.instagram.com/growingfamilieslife Facebook // https://www.facebook.com/GrowingFamiliesLife YouTube // https://www.youtube.com/@GrowingFamiliesLife
Email questions or topic suggestions to podcast@growingfamilies.life | |||
| 005 - Addressing Fears in the Past, Present, & Future of Parenting | 16 Dec 2024 | 00:49:50 | |
The Ezzos and Youngs talk a variety of subjects relating to parenting in the past, present, and future and acknowledge that, unfortunately, one thing has been constant in every generation of parents is fear. Are we doing a good job? Will my children like me? Will they turn out ok? Or am I ruining them? We can become easily confused and this confusion only fuels our fear which can paralyze us or lead us to popcorn parenting which may be a good snack, but it isn’t a good way to parent. Thankfully, one of the great compensators of fear is hope, and this episode discusses a myriad of ways we can find hope as we raise our children. The Ezzos encourage us that the teen years are not something to be dreaded but that they can and should be some of the best years of the parent-child relationship. The importance of making the authority to influence transition as a parent is a key part of that success and is described in this episode. We also talk about “influencers” and how every parent needs one or several, preferably 3D ones and definitely ones that have gone before us and done it well. Rich & Julie Young, hosts Gary & Anne Marie Ezzo, founders Resources mentioned in this episode: → Life in the Middle Years series // https://growingfamilies.life/life-in-the-middle-years The Growing Families Website // https://growingfamilies.life/ Register for a Class // https://growingfamilies.life/find-a-class Our Courses // https://growingfamilies.life/parenting-courses The Bookstore // https://growingfamilies.life/bookshop Contact Mom Ministry // https://contactmom.life/ Instagram // https://www.instagram.com/growingfamilieslife Facebook // https://www.facebook.com/GrowingFamiliesLife YouTube // https://www.youtube.com/@GrowingFamiliesLife
Email questions or topic suggestions to podcast@growingfamilies.life | |||
| 004 - Ministry in Brazil, changing the home environment, & vision worldwide (an interview with Dinart Barradas) | 02 Dec 2024 | 00:55:44 | |
Dinart Barradas, Growing Families Brazil Ministry Director, joins the podcast and shares how parenting is different in Brazil (it’s not), when we have regrets as parents and how to redeem them, and what it means to have vision for our family using intentionality, diligence, and humility. Dinart wants to prevent pain coming to parents’ hearts and Gary warns us of the dangers of letting the tyranny of the urgent captivate us instead of letting the hearts of our children captivate us. Rich & Julie Young, hosts Gary Ezzo, founder Dinart Barradas, Growing Families Brazil Ministry Director University of the Family // https://udf.org.br/ Check out Episodes 2 & 3 for more on Speaking Life & creating a Life-Giving Home Environment: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/life-parenting-podcast The Growing Families Website // https://growingfamilies.life/ Register for a Class // https://growingfamilies.life/find-a-class Our Courses // https://growingfamilies.life/parenting-courses The Bookstore // https://growingfamilies.life/bookshop Contact Mom Ministry // https://contactmom.life/ Instagram // https://www.instagram.com/growingfamilieslife Facebook // https://www.facebook.com/GrowingFamiliesLife YouTube // https://www.youtube.com/@GrowingFamiliesLife
Email questions or topic suggestions to podcast@growingfamilies.life | |||
| 003 - What's in your atmosphere? (The Life-Giving Home Environment) | 18 Nov 2024 | 00:45:30 | |
For most of us, the word home carries more than just casual memories of a time and place where we spent our childhood; it was the first society from which we learned about life itself. The home is where love is first defined by the care and attention we receive, and becomes the place where security is gained, lost, or possibly never obtained. The word home is so laden with significance that one cannot begin a conversation about the nurturing of children without first speaking to the persuasive influence that the home environment creates. Parents have the opportunity to create a life-giving home environment where their children are the benefactors of multiple layers of love and security. Join us as we discuss what a life-giving home environment can look like and some practical examples to infuse life into your home. Rich & Julie Young, hosts Gary & Anne Marie Ezzo, founders Check out Episode 2 // Spotify // Apple // YouTube Resources mentioned in this episode: → Family Conversation Cards // https://onefamilyhwl.org/product/family-conversation-cards/ → Parenting from the Tree of Life Series // https://growingfamilies.life/parenting-from-the-tree-of-life → Virtue/Vice Contrast List // https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5ab23f82c3c16a2c72ac497f/t/5ca1dca09140b743d36924ef/1554111653460/GF+Virtue+Values+Contrast+-+US+letter.pdf Want to dive deeper into this episode’s topic? Here are a few articles & videos to get you started! → A Life Give Home Environment // https://growingfamilies.life/parenting-from-the-tree-of-lifeblog/2018/6/1/lsv1-03s-a-life-giving-home-environment-introduction → The Message of Life // https://growingfamilies.life/life-in-the-middle-years-blog/2018/5/31/myv2-01s-middle-years-children-and-the-message-of-life-introduction → The Life-Death Paradigm // https://growingfamilies.life/life-in-the-middle-years-blog/2018/5/31/myv2-02s-the-life-death-paradigm → Virtue, Vice, and Parenting Messages // https://growingfamilies.life/life-in-the-middle-years-blog/2018/5/31/myv2-03s-virtue-vice-and-parenting-messages → The Amygdala and Sensory Data // https://growingfamilies.life/life-in-the-middle-years-blog/2018/5/31/myv2-04s-the-amygdala-and-sensory-data → The Amygdala and Physical Threats // https://growingfamilies.life/life-in-the-middle-years-blog/2018/5/31/myv2-05s-the-amygdala-and-physical-threats-explained → The Amygdala and Toxic Memories // https://growingfamilies.life/life-in-the-middle-years-blog/2018/5/31/myv2-06s-the-amygdala-and-toxic-memories → What Will Your Children Hear? // https://growingfamilies.life/life-in-the-middle-years-blog/2018/5/31/myv2-07s-what-will-your-middle-years-children-hear → “No” is not a “Death” Word // https://growingfamilies.life/life-in-the-middle-years-blog/2018/5/31/myv2-08s-no-is-not-a-death-word → Contrasting Physical and Emotional Pain // https://growingfamilies.life/life-in-the-middle-years-blog/2018/5/31/myv2-09s-contrasting-physical-and-emotional-pain → The Challenge of Peer Pressure and Group-Think // https://growingfamilies.life/life-in-the-middle-years-blog/2018/5/31/myv3-01s-the-challenge-of-peer-pressure-and-group-think → Benefits of a Like-Minded Community // https://growingfamilies.life/life-in-the-middle-years-blog/2018/5/31/myv3-02s-benefits-of-a-like-minded-community → Family Identity - How to Build It // https://growingfamilies.life/life-in-the-middle-years-blog/2018/5/31/myv3-03s-the-middle-years-child-and-family-identity-how-to-build-it The Growing Families Website // https://growingfamilies.life/ Register for a Class // https://growingfamilies.life/find-a-class Our Courses // https://growingfamilies.life/parenting-courses The Bookstore // https://growingfamilies.life/bookshop Contact Mom Ministry // https://contactmom.life/ YouTube // https://www.youtube.com/@GrowingFamiliesLife
Email questions or topic suggestions to podcast@growingfamilies.life | |||
| 002 - A matter of life and death (Speaking Life) | 04 Nov 2024 | 01:04:38 | |
The words echoing around our homes have profound influence on the emotional and relational health of our children, echoing either a message of life or death. Speaking Life flows from the virtuous character of Christ and communicates worth and potential, promoting beauty and encouragement to our children. The life message is one of the most compelling forces in the universe. The patterns of words we use and the attitudes that are reflected by those words have a measured effect on a child’s immediate behavior and a cumulative effect on a child’s long term emotional disposition. But what does ‘Speaking Life’ look like? Is it just speaking ‘positive words’ and no cursing? Listen as we dive into the origins of Speaking Life and what it can look like in your home. Accenting virtue over vice is not a slogan, it is a lifestyle of choice. Rich & Julie Young, hosts Gary & Anne Marie Ezzo, founders Check out Episode 1 // Spotify // Apple // YouTube Virtue/Vice Contrast List // https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5ab23f82c3c16a2c72ac497f/t/5ca1dca09140b743d36924ef/1554111653460/GF+Virtue+Values+Contrast+-+US+letter.pdf Want to dive deeper into this episode’s topic? Here are a few articles & videos to get you started! → Introducing a Culture of Life // https://growingfamilies.life/blog/2018/12/13/introducing-a-culture-of-life?rq=speaking%20life → What Does it Mean to Speak Life? // https://growingfamilies.life/parenting-from-the-tree-of-lifeblog/2018/6/1/lsv1-05s-what-does-it-mean-to-speak-life → A Life Give Home Environment // https://growingfamilies.life/parenting-from-the-tree-of-lifeblog/2018/6/1/lsv1-03s-a-life-giving-home-environment-introduction → Do You Speak Life or Death? // https://growingfamilies.life/parenting-from-the-tree-of-lifeblog/2018/6/1/lsv1-06s-do-you-speak-words-of-life-or-death?rq=speaking%20life → The Message of Life // https://growingfamilies.life/life-in-the-middle-years-blog/2018/5/31/myv2-01s-middle-years-children-and-the-message-of-life-introduction → The Life-Death Paradigm // https://growingfamilies.life/life-in-the-middle-years-blog/2018/5/31/myv2-02s-the-life-death-paradigm → Virtue, Vice, and Parenting Messages // https://growingfamilies.life/life-in-the-middle-years-blog/2018/5/31/myv2-03s-virtue-vice-and-parenting-messages → The Amygdala and Sensory Data // https://growingfamilies.life/life-in-the-middle-years-blog/2018/5/31/myv2-04s-the-amygdala-and-sensory-data → The Amygdala and Physical Threats // https://growingfamilies.life/life-in-the-middle-years-blog/2018/5/31/myv2-05s-the-amygdala-and-physical-threats-explained → The Amygdala and Toxic Memories // https://growingfamilies.life/life-in-the-middle-years-blog/2018/5/31/myv2-06s-the-amygdala-and-toxic-memories → “No” is not a “Death” Word // https://growingfamilies.life/life-in-the-middle-years-blog/2018/5/31/myv2-08s-no-is-not-a-death-word → The Challenge of Peer Pressure and Group-Think // https://growingfamilies.life/life-in-the-middle-years-blog/2018/5/31/myv3-01s-the-challenge-of-peer-pressure-and-group-think → Benefits of a Like-Minded Community // https://growingfamilies.life/life-in-the-middle-years-blog/2018/5/31/myv3-02s-benefits-of-a-like-minded-community → Family Identity - How to Build It // https://growingfamilies.life/life-in-the-middle-years-blog/2018/5/31/myv3-03s-the-middle-years-child-and-family-identity-how-to-build-it The Growing Families Website // www.growingfamilies.life Register for a Class // www.growingfamilies.life/find-a-class Our Courses // www.growingfamilies.life/parenting-courses The Bookstore // www.growingfamilies.life/bookshop Contact Mom Ministry // www.contactmom.life Instagram // www.instagram.com/growingfamilieslife Facebook // www.facebook.com/GrowingFamiliesLife YouTube // www.youtube.com/@GrowingFamiliesLife
Email questions or topic suggestions to podcast@growingfamilies.life | |||
| 001 - Is ten minutes all it takes? (Couch Time) | 04 Nov 2024 | 00:54:34 | |
What if there was “one thing” parents could do for 10 minutes a day that would: help their child become smarter, help decrease behavior problems, and help their child sleep better (which means the parents sleep better, too!)? In this episode we discuss one of the most reliable predictors of a child’s emotional security and cognitive success: the husband-wife attachment and how parents can easily provide a necessary visual and tangible representation of their love for each other. We believe that the greatest overall influence parents have on their children is not as mom or dad but as husband and wife. Does this exclude single parents? No! We also specifically discuss how single parents can provide security for their children and a healthy life-giving home environment in which to raise their children. Rich & Julie Young, hosts Gary & Anne Marie Ezzo, founders Want to dive deeper into Couch Time? Here are a few articles to get you started! → https://contactmom.life/blog/questioning-couch-time?rq=couch → https://contactmom.life/blog/couch-time-on-the-road?rq=couch → https://contactmom.life/blog/couch-time-secure-children?rq=couch → https://contactmom.life/blog/couchtime?rq=couch Or watch a few videos on the topic: → https://growingfamilies.life/parenting-from-the-tree-of-lifeblog/2018/6/1/lsv13-04s-reviewing-the-basics-the-neuroscience-of-security?rq=couchtime The Growing Families Website // www.growingfamilies.life Register for a Class // www.growingfamilies.life/find-a-class Our Courses // www.growingfamilies.life/parenting-courses The Bookstore // www.growingfamilies.life/bookshop Contact Mom Ministry // www.contactmom.life Instagram // www.instagram.com/growingfamilieslife Facebook // www.facebook.com/GrowingFamiliesLife YouTube // www.youtube.com/@GrowingFamiliesLife
Email questions or topic suggestions to podcast@growingfamilies.life | |||
| 000 - Teaser Trailer | 20 Oct 2024 | 00:02:07 | |
Welcome to the Life Parenting Podcast, hosted by Growing Families. It is our desire to help you, as parents, create a life-giving home environment in which to guide, nurture, and train your children in a God honoring way. Keep an eye out for our official launch of the podcast coming November 4th, 2024! The Growing Families Website // www.growingfamilies.life Register for a Class // www.growingfamilies.life/find-a-class Our Courses // www.growingfamilies.life/parenting-courses The Bookstore // www.growingfamilies.life/bookshop Contact Mom Ministry // www.contactmom.life Instagram // www.instagram.com/growingfamilieslife Facebook // www.facebook.com/GrowingFamiliesLife YouTube // www.youtube.com/@GrowingFamiliesLife Rich & Julie Young, hosts Gary & Anne Marie Ezzo, founders
Email questions or topic suggestions to podcast@growingfamilies.life | |||
| 026 - Holiday Harmony: Navigating Extended Family, Differing Viewpoints, and Travel (a discussion with Darrell & Janelle Downs) | 15 Dec 2025 | 00:48:21 | |
In this episode, Rich and Julie Young welcome guests, Darrell and Janelle Downs. They dive head first into the beautiful—and sometimes bumpy—reality of spending the holidays with extended family. From navigating differing viewpoints to traveling with kids, they explore how to stay grounded, prayerful, and united when the season gets complicated. They talk about how to show up prayed up, relying on the Holy Spirit to give us the strength to speak life, love well, and handle challenging interactions with grace. You’ll hear practical, heartfelt wisdom on preparing kids for awkward family dynamics, protecting them from what they’re not ready for, and preserving meaningful traditions even while staying in someone else’s home. They also share strategies for keeping kids on track during travel—why you “train at home, not on the road,” the importance of consistent sleep schedules, and how to reset rhythms once you return. Plus, they unpack how unity as a couple shapes the whole family experience (and how GFI principles support that), and what to do when unsolicited advice comes your way. The holidays are a prime opportunity to teach our children how to love well, extend grace, serve joyfully, and engage thoughtfully. Wherever you go, your family identity goes with you—and this episode helps you carry it with confidence, peace, and purpose. Rich & Julie Young, hosts Darrell & Janelle Downs, Growing Families leaders Resources Mentioned in the Episode: → Episode 2: A matter of life and death. (Speaking Life) // Spotify // Apple // YouTube → Episode 3: What’s in your atmosphere? (The Life Giving Home Environment) // Spotify // Apple // YouTube → Episode 1: Is ten minutes all it takes? (Couch Time) // Spotify // Apple // YouTube → Episode 6: Hit the right target. (Vision part 1) // Spotify // Apple // YouTube → Episode 7: Wait for the second marshmallow. (Vision part 2) // Spotify // Apple // YouTube
→ The Growing Families Website → The Australia & NZ Bookstore → YouTube
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| 025 - The Intentional Holiday: Communication, Consistency, and Conquering Holiday Overload (a discussion with Jeff & Cathy Gratzmiller) | 01 Dec 2025 | 00:58:21 | |
In this episode, Rich and Julie Young sit down with Jeff and Cathy Gratzmiller to unpack what it really takes to create an intentional, peaceful, and connected holiday season—no matter your family’s stage or structure. Together, they dive into the real-life challenges that surface when routines get disrupted and expectations run high. You’ll hear practical principles that work whether your kids attend school or you homeschool, insights on how age and family context change the way you approach the holidays, and encouragement for managing expectations and the inevitable disruptions that come with them. If you’re looking to simplify your holiday rhythm, strengthen communication, and build traditions that actually bring joy—not overwhelm—this conversation will give you the clarity and confidence you need. Press play and step into your most intentional holiday yet. 🎄✨ Rich & Julie Young, hosts Jeff & Cathy Gratzmiller, Growing Families leaders Resources Mentioned in the Episode: → Episode 2: A matter of life and death. (Speaking Life) // Spotify // Apple // YouTube → Episode 3: What’s in your atmosphere? (The Life Giving Home Environment) Spotify // Apple // YouTube → Parenting from the Tree of Life
→ The Growing Families Website → The Australia & NZ Bookstore → YouTube | |||
| 024 - Beyond the Gifts: How to Emphasize Generosity and Giving During the Holidays | 17 Nov 2025 | 00:39:42 | |
December is such a special time of year as we celebrate the birth of Jesus—but let’s be honest, it can also get a little crazy! Between shopping, decorating, and keeping up with everyone’s expectations, that sense of peace we long for can slip right through our fingers. In this episode, Rich and Julie Young talk about how, as a family, to stay focused on what really matters this Christmas. They share simple, practical ways to slow down, take the pressure off gift-giving, and help our kids grow hearts of generosity instead of entitlement. Rich & Julie Young, hosts Resources Mentioned in the Episode: → The Love Languages & touchpoints of love → An overview of the Love Languages video → The Love Languages test (for adults) → The Love Languages test (for children) → Episode 17: The Entitlement Epidemic: A Parent's Guide to Recognition and Remedy // Spotify // Apple Podcasts // YouTube Advent Books & Devotionals for the family: → The Crippled Lamb by Max Lucado → Christmas Cross by Max Lucado → Jotham’s Journey (the first in a series) by Arnold Ytreeide // (View the whole series here: https://amzn.to/4ouhB1z) → The CandyMaker’s Gift by David & Helen Haidle → The Power of Christmas Prayer by Stormie OMartian → One Wintry Night by Ruth Bell Graham → The Donkey Who Carried a King by R.C. Sproul → Unwrapping the Greatest Gift by Anne Voskamp → The Advent Book by Jack & Kathy Stockman → The Jesus Storybook Bible: A Christmas Collection → The Jesus Storybook Bible: Advent Activity Book
→ The Growing Families Website → The Australia & NZ Bookstore → YouTube
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| 023 - Intentional Discipleship: Continuously Guiding Your Children to Christ (a discussion with Don & Julie Keating) | 03 Nov 2025 | 00:45:39 | |
In the final episode of our series on Discipline and Discipleship, Rich and Julie Young are joined by Don and Julie Keating for a heartfelt conversation about what it really looks like to disciple our children at every stage of parenting. God has entrusted us with the sacred calling to teach the next generation about Him — and what a privilege that is! But if you’ve ever wondered where to even start, you’re not alone. We’ll talk about how discipleship begins with the posture of our own hearts, how our children learn more from what we model than what we say, and how to walk this out even when we feel overwhelmed or imperfect. With practical steps and real-life encouragement, this episode reminds us that God loves our children even more than we do — and He is faithfully present to guide us every step of the journey. Rich & Julie Young, hosts Don & Julie Keating, Growing Families leaders → Episode 21: Discipline vs. Discipleship: Defining the Difference, Discovering the Benefits // Apple // Spotify // YouTube → Episode 22: Heart-Focused Discipline: Teaching our Children, Not Just Punishing // Apple // Spotify // YouTube Resources Mentioned in the Episode: —-------------------------------------------------- → The Growing Families Website → The Australia & NZ Bookstore → YouTube | |||
| 022 - Heart-Focused Discipline: Teaching our Children, Not Just Punishing (a discussion with Don & Julie Keating) | 06 Oct 2025 | 01:02:15 | |
Don and Julie Keating return as guests on the podcast as we dive deeper into a discussion on the importance and the necessity of discipline in parenting our children well. When we think of disciplining our children we can often think that only means punishment and doling out consequences.. But to discipline actually means to train a child in right behavior. While this does often involves consequences, there is so much more involved to encourage right behavior. (And this may not be something we want to hear, but to train our children well, we have to be disciplined ourselves.) The discussion involves practical ways to discipline our children at each stage of parenting: 1-Discipline phase: 0-5 years 2-Training phase: 6-12 years 3-Coaching phase: Teen years We also focus on the importance of the layer upon layering of the foundation that is vital to raising responsible children who bring glory to God, bless the family, and bless others. Enjoy the conversation involving guidance, practical examples, and plenty of admissions of things we wish we had a do-over on. Rich & Julie Young, hosts Don & Julie Keating, Growing Families leaders Discipline & Discipleship Episodes: → Episode 21 // Apple // Spotify // YouTube → Episode 22 // this episode → Episode 23 // Coming soon! Speaking Life Podcast Episodes: → Episode 2: A matter of life and death. (Speaking Life) // Spotify // Apple // YouTube → Episode 3: What’s in your atmosphere? (The Life Giving Home Environment) // Spotify // Apple // YouTube Resources Mentioned in the Episode: → Episode 11 | No Room for Weeds: Nurturing a Healthy Lawn in Your Parenting // Spotify // Apple // YouTube → Episode 15 | Is First Time Obedience Worth It? The Neuroscience Says Yes. // Spotify // Apple // YouTube → Parenting from the Tree of Life Material → Episode 16 | The Hidden Influence: How Structure & Routine Shape Your Child's Development // Spotify // Apple // YouTube → Episode 10 | Parenting in the Digital Age: Responsibility & Boundaries with Technology // Spotify // Apple // YouTube → Episode 18 | Chores with Purpose: Instilling Work Ethic and a Heart to Serve in Your Children (a discussion with Kurt & Jill Everson) // Spotify // Apple // YouTube → Life in the Middle Years Material Additional Video Segments Related to this episode: → Parenting in Moments of Non-Conflict → The Growing Families Website → The Australia & NZ Bookstore → YouTube
Email questions or topic suggestions to podcast@growingfamilies.life | |||
| 021 - Discipline vs. Discipleship: Defining the Difference, Discovering the Benefits (a discussion with Don & Julie Keating) | 22 Sep 2025 | 00:50:10 | |
Join Rich and Julie Young as they welcome special guests, Don and Julie Keating, for an insightful conversation about their parenting journey. The Keatings open up about the principles that have guided their family, emphasizing the power of being a united team and the importance of speaking life into their children. As they put it, they are truly "better together," and this shared front has been essential to their success in raising 5 children who love the Lord and each other. The discussion also dives deep into a vital distinction for every parent: the difference between discipline and discipleship. While discipline focuses on correcting behavior, discipleship is about training a child's heart. Both are necessary for raising well-rounded children, but an imbalance, as too much of one at the expense of the other can be counterproductive. This episode offers practical wisdom for building a family on a foundation of love and intention. Rich & Julie Young, hosts Don & Julie Keating, Growing Families leaders Speaking Life Podcast Episodes: → Episode 2: A matter of life and death. (Speaking Life) // Spotify // Apple // YouTube → Episode 3: What’s in your atmosphere? (The Life Giving Home Environment) // Spotify // Apple // YouTube Resources Mentioned in the Episode: → Preparation for Parenting Material → Parenting from the Tree of Life Material → Mom Talk Thrive Recording: Discipline vs Discipleship → Join us live on Mom Talk Thrive
→ The Growing Families Website → The Australia & NZ Bookstore → YouTube
Email questions or topic suggestions to podcast@growingfamilies.life | |||
| 020 - Speaking Life into Broken Places: Hope After Trauma and Moral Injury | 08 Sep 2025 | 00:37:49 | |
What happens when one’s emotional growth is stunted by past trauma? It can affect even the most successful, accomplished adults, leaving one with an emotional age far younger than their biological one. In this podcast, the Ezzos and Youngs explore a divine prescription for healing: the Life message. Drawing from an understanding of God’s character and His life-giving virtues, the Ezzos reveal how the Life message and being a part of a life-giving community can be a powerful antidote to a deep wound caused by either a single traumatic event or a wearing down from a lack of the life message in one’s life. Discover the incredible neurological and spiritual implications of the Life message to bring healing and emotional growth to life’s deepest hurts. Rich & Julie Young, hosts Gary & Anne Marie Ezzo, founders Speaking Life Podcast Episodes → Episode 2 // Apple Podcasts // Spotify // YouTube → Episode 3 // Apple Podcasts // Spotify // YouTube Resources Mentioned in the Episode: → Join a Growing Families Class → Find a Growing Families Event —-------------------------------------------------- → The Growing Families Website → The Australia & NZ Bookstore → YouTube
Email questions or topic suggestions to podcast@growingfamilies.life | |||