The Families First Podcast

Most parents and church leaders are racing to equip children with faith but often miss the crucial depth needed to withstand today’s cultural challenges. Dr. Josh Mulvihill exposes how the next generation’s faith is under attack and reveals simple, effective strategies to build a rooted, confident faith that endures. If you're serious about helping your kids and congregation defend their beliefs a...

Talking to your kids about sex doesn’t have to be awkward—or avoided. In this episode, host Pastor Jonathan Olavarria sits down with Hillary Morgan Ferrer, founder of Mama Bear Apologetics, to share practical, biblical ways to guide conversations about sex, gender, and God’s design. We’ll tackle when to start, how to talk to boys and girls differently, navigating gender confusion, and what to do i...

What do you do when your child asks, “Why does God allow suffering?” or “Is Jesus the only way?” In this honest and hope-filled conversation, Pastor Curtis Dunlap helps parents navigate the hard questions kids are asking about faith, culture, and truth. Pastor Curt serves as the Family Life and Teaching Pastor at Epiphany Fellowship Church in Philadelphia, where he leads ministries for men, marria...

As Father’s Day approaches, we’re sitting down with three incredible dads and ministry leaders—Bishop Daniel Felipe, Pastor Mark Wagnon, and Pastor Carlos Perez—for a real and refreshing conversation on what it means to father Generation Alpha. From digital distractions to shifting family dynamics, these leaders unpack the joys and challenges of raising kids in today’s world while staying grounded...

In this powerful episode, Arlene Pellicane shares insight on how families can raise emotionally healthy and spiritually strong children in a screen-saturated, AI-driven world. From her book Screen Kids (coauthored with Dr. Gary Chapman) to her wisdom as a mother and advocate for delayed tech, Arlene equips parents and grandparents with practical tools to help kids thrive in real life—not just the...

In this episode, Pastor Jonathan Olavarria interviews Dr. Brian Dembowczyk, who joins us to discuss practical ways families can cultivate a strong, enduring faith in their children. Tune in to discover how you can guide your children to stand confidently in their faith and stay rooted in God’s Word. Dr. Brian Dembowczyk, associate publisher for Thomas Nelson Bibles and author of Family Discipleshi...

In this heartfelt episode of the Families First Podcast, hosts Jonathan Olavarria and Joy Hensley sit down with Melissa McDonald—a seasoned children's ministry leader, author, and foster parent. Melissa shares her faith, fostering, and discipleship journey, offering insights on how the church can better support vulnerable children and families. Whether you’re considering foster care, helping someo...

When you are a kid, you imagine a day when you can do things your way and not like your parents want. However, as many of us have learned, there comes a day when you are thankful for the lessons your parents and grandparents taught. Listen in on this special podcast featuring Bishop Duke & Shirlene Stone and Bishop Scott & Brenda Gillum as they share the pieces of their faith heritage they...

Parenthood is an incredible journey filled with moments of joy, growth, and discovery. For Christian parents, the experience of nurturing girls in the faith is a significant assignment, offering blessings and unique complexities. We all share goals of instilling Christian values, navigating faith, fostering confidence, and nurturing a deep connection to God.  On the second episode of the FAMILIES...

In this inaugural episode, we explore the joys and challenges of raising boys. This month's guests, Dr. William and Angela Lamb, share their story of raising three sons who are all now involved in ministry as young husbands and fathers. In this conversation, the Lambs provide insight, inspiration, and practical wisdom for parents, caregivers, and anyone interested in the spiritual upbringing of th...