The Christian Parenting Podcast - Motherhood, Teaching kids about Jesus, Intentional parenting, Raising Christian kids

This week’s episode is one that every parent can relate to. I’m joined by Monica Swanson to talk about a struggle many of us face—raising kids who aren’t entitled in a world that often is.   Here are a few takeaways from today’s conversation: As parents, we need to be intentional about combating entitlement in our homes.   Teaching kids responsibility and real-life opportunities to work hard build...

This week, I’m joined by Melanie Shankle to talk about her book, Here Be Dragons . Our conversation dives deep into important topics like generational trauma, relationships, and the impact of mean girls on young girls. Melanie’s focus on healing and boundaries is so powerful, reminding us that the path to raising emotionally healthy kids starts with becoming emotionally healthy ourselves. Here are...

This week’s episode is extra special as I’m joined by two of my favorite people, Alicia and Kirsta Graf. They are a mother-daughter duo who inspire me deeply. Alicia shares her parenting journey with Kirsta, who has down syndrome, and the lessons she’s learned through adoption, loss, and raising three daughters. Kirsta is truly incredible—funny, joyful, and a shining light. Their story is heartfel...

This week’s episode is extra special as I’m joined by my husband, Trevor, to share how family meetings have transformed our parenting and family life. From improving communication to empowering our kids, family meetings have become a key tool in creating a supportive and faith-centered home. Here’s what you’ll hear in today’s episode: Regular family discussions help parents and kids stay connected...

This week’s episode is packed with insights and practical advice for navigating the complexities of parenting during the middle school years. I’m joined by Courtney DeFeo, and together we dive into balancing love, independence, and the continuous learning process of parenting. Here are four key takeaways from this episode: Parenting evolves as children grow, and middle school years often require c...

This week’s episode is a heartfelt and inspiring conversation with Emily Jensen and Laura Wifler. Together, we discuss the journey of their ministry, the complexities of parenting, and the importance of making faith-based decisions for their families. Here are four takeaways from this episode: Emily and Laura share why they decided to close Risen Motherhood, highlighting the importance of prioriti...

I am beyond excited about this week’s episode because I’m joined by two of my absolute favorites in the Christian parenting space—Lydia Rex and Lynne Jackson from Connected Families. Lynne, the co-founder of Connected Families, has deeply shaped my family through their ministry and parent coaching, and I’m thrilled to have her join Lydia for today’s conversation. Here’s what you’ll hear in today’s...

I’m so excited about today’s episode because I’m joined by Lydia Rex, a certified parent coach from the ministry Connected Families. This ministry is near and dear to my heart, and I can’t wait for you to hear all about their mission and the importance of grace in parenting. In this episode, we discuss: The heart and mission behind this impactful ministry, Connected Families.   How grace plays a c...

We are in the midst of a busy season for parents, which is exactly why this week’s episode is an important one to listen to! I am joined by Laura L. Smith and we are talking about the importance of slowing down and how adding spiritual practices can enrich our daily lives. In this episode, we discuss: The gift of different parenting stages Practical steps to prioritize what matters in our busy liv...

Today’s episode is one you’ll want to listen to more than once—or grab a notebook and take some notes! I’m joined by Amanda and David Erickson from Flourishing Homes & Families.  In this episode, we discuss: The importance of fostering trust and connection in your parenting approach. How discipline can be a meaningful part of guiding our children spiritually. Tangible tips for building strong...

Happy Thanksgiving week! We are so thankful for you, our listeners, and the time we spend growing in faith together. This podcast is a special place for us to be real, learn, and grow, and I am so grateful for every moment! This week, I am beyond thrilled to sit down with the one and only Bob Goff.  We’re diving into his newest book, Chasing Whimsy . Here’s what you’ll hear in today’s episode: Ins...

I am thrilled to share today's episode with you! I had the pleasure of sitting down with Cleere Cherry Reaves, our conversation was rich with insights and heartfelt moments, and I know you’ll love it. In this episode, we discuss: Navigating the complexities of parenting a child with special needs and the lessons learned along the way. Emphasizing the importance of leaning on God's plan and...

I am absolutely thrilled about today's episode! We have the honor of welcoming Sally Clarkson to the show—a voice that has profoundly influenced Christian parenting for many years. Her wisdom and approach have significantly impacted so many of us, and I have long admired her message on parenting. We discussed her newest book, Well Lived: Shaping a Legacy of Gratitude and Grace . Sally shares i...

We’ve reached the final week of our series on identity, and I’m thrilled to be joined by Jill Atogwe. She brings a wealth of wisdom on faith, fashion, motherhood, and more. Here’s what you’ll learn in today’s episode: Parenting in a Digital Age: Jill shares practical insights on the unique challenges and opportunities of raising kids in a digital world. Teaching Diversity and Self-Acceptance:We di...

We’re continuing our series on identity this week, with a focus on finding self-worth and confidence through Christ. Be sure to check out our Identity Simplified Guide on our website! This incredible resource compiles over 90 tools to help affirm your child's identity in Christ. Ashley Henriott is a confidence coach and speaker whose mission is to empower others to discover their worth in Chri...

Welcome back to Week Two of our series on identity! This week, we’re diving into a super important yet challenging topic: sexual and gender identity. I’ll be honest, having this conversation initially felt intimidating. But after hearing Rachel Gilson speak and reading her book, I knew she was the right person to guide us through this discussion. Here’s what you’ll learn in today’s episode: Rachel...

Today, I’m thrilled to be joined by Jay Holland, another Christian Parenting Podcast Network host. His wisdom, kindness, and the way he is led by the Holy Spirit are evident in everything he does. Here’s what you’ll learn in today’s episode: Jay shares the importance of both parents and kids understanding their identity in Christ, modeling this concept as a foundation for family life. How parents...

Today’s episode is a special treat as I introduce you to someone near and dear—my podcast producer and fellow podcast host, Jeanette Tapley! Jeanette hosts the Moms at Work podcast, part of the Christian Parenting Network, and she brings so much joy and wisdom to every conversation.  Here’s what you’ll learn in today’s episode: Whether you’re a working mom of little ones or navigating the teen yea...

We are thrilled to welcome Ruth Chou Simons back to the podcast today! I am so excited to talk with her about her beautiful new children's book, Home Is Right Where You Are . Our conversation is rich with Ruth’s wisdom and practical advice for parenting in every season of family life. Since this conversation was recorded, one of Ruth’s sons, Judah, was in a serious mountain biking accident. Go...

Every once in a while, I love to have a guest who shares a powerful story of God’s faithfulness, and today is just that. I’m joined by Kenisha Nichelle, who opens up about her journey of grief, loss, and God’s continual provision. Kenisha shares her personal story of losing both her parents at a young age, navigating life and parenting without them, and how God has faithfully guided her through th...

If you've been around the podcast for a while, you know I love practical tips that help us parent in a way that honors God and makes life a little easier. Today’s episode is FULL of that! I’m sitting down with Dr. Kelly Cagle who is now a fast friend of the podcast! We’re diving into how to help our kids become lifelong learners—not just in school but in all areas of life. Here’s what you’ll l...

One of my favorite conversations on this podcast was with Sandra Stanley about her book Parenting: Getting It Right , and I still go back to it often. So, when I had the opportunity to talk with Sandra again, this time joined by her daughter Allie, I knew I couldn’t pass it up! We’re diving into building strong, healthy relationships between mothers and daughters. Here’s what you’ll learn in today...

If you're looking for practical ways to incorporate faith into your family’s daily life, you won’t want to miss this episode! I had the pleasure of sitting down with Christie Thomas, and we explored the power of small habits in building a strong faith foundation for our kids. Here’s what you’ll learn in today’s episode: Christie discusses the importance of starting with tiny habits and gradual...

If you’re anything like me, the busyness of life sometimes causes priorities to get mixed up, and I find myself not in the Word as much as I’d like to be. If you can relate, you’re going to love today’s guest. I’m sitting down with Gretchen Saffles, the founder of Well-Watered Women and author of Word Before World , a devotional that helps us keep Jesus at the center of our lives. Here’s what you’...

Hey Friends! We’re continuing our meaningful conversations on navigating politics, and this week, we’re adding a fun twist!  Here’s what you’ll learn in today’s episode: Conner Jones shares practical steps for supporting first-time voters, from understanding what the Bible says about critical issues to finding trustworthy news sources. Tips on having open-minded and respectful conversations with t...