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

Folgen

• How to talk to your kids about sex without shame with Kelly Edmiston 30.06.2026 26Min.

  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 ParentsResources MentionedThe Adventure BibleSubstackPrefer 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.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
• You haven’t ruined your kids with Abbey Wedgeworth 23.06.2026 30Min.

  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 ParentingResources MentionedHelp! I’m Ruining my Kids bookAbbey’s websiteInstagramHealthy Mind PlatterPrefer 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.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
• Growing in gentleness when you’re tired and stretched thin with Christie Thomas 16.06.2026 26Min.

  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 ThoughtsResources MentionedEveryday Prayers for Gentleness bookLittle Shoots Deep RootsInstagramPrefer 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.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
• The mom burnout conversation we need to have with Alli Worthington 09.06.2026 26Min.

  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 ResourcesResources MentionedThe Alli Worthington ShowWebsiteInstagramMoms, Dads, and Grads Gift GuideSign up for Morning MinutePrefer 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.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
• Parenting on purpose from the very beginning with Michael and Angela DeAquino 02.06.2026 32Min.

  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 ResourcesResources MentionedThe Parenthood Primer workbookThe Parenthood ProjectMoms, Dads, and Grads Gift GuideSign up for Morning MinutePrefer 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.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
• Build Your Marriage with Prayer with Brad and Heidi Mitchell 26.05.2026 29Min.

  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 PrayerResources MentionedBuild Your Marriage with Prayer bookBuild Your Marriage websiteMarriage articles by Brad and HeidiInstagramFacebookOpen a LearningRX centerSummer Reading PicksPrefer 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.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
• What 40 years of marriage has taught Steven Curtis and Mary Beth Chapman 19.05.2026 30Min.

  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 CouplesResources MentionedStill Here bookSteven Curtis Chapman websiteMary Beth Chapman websiteOpen a LearningRX centerSummer Reading PicksPrefer 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.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
• Giving our kids words for their faith through liturgical prayer with Doug McKelvey 12.05.2026 27Min.

  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 ResourcesResources MentionedRites of Passage bookEvery Moment Holy booksMoms, Dads, and Grads Gift GuideSign up for Morning MinuteOpen a LearningRX centerPrefer 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.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
• How God changes our parenting over time with Kelly Karpe and Kate Hann 05.05.2026 36Min.

  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 MentionedMoms, Dads, and Grads Gift GuideSign up for Morning MinuteOpen a LearningRX centerPrefer 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.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
• How to prioritize your time without guilt as your kids grow Sarah Colbert 28.04.2026 26Min.

  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 MentionedBalanced Mom Life podcastTime Reset workshopSarah’s websiteMoms, Dads, and Grads Gift GuideSign up for Morning MinuteOpen a LearningRX centerPrefer 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.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
• Why our kids need discomfort to grow with David Thomas and Sissy Goff 21.04.2026 33Min.

  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 MentionedDaystar CounselingCapable BookMoms, Dads, and Grads Gift GuideSign up for Morning MinuteOpen a LearningRX centerPrefer 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.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
• Raising Kids with Character in an Entitled World with Monica Swanson 14.04.2026 37Min.

  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 MonicaMonicaSwanson.comInstagramResources MentionedCharacter training courseRaising Prayerful Kids bookRaising Grateful Kids in an Entitled WorldMoms, Dads, and Grads Gift GuideSign up for Morning MinuteOpen a LearningRX centerThe Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
• Healing, boundaries, and raising emotionally healthy kids with Melanie Shankle 07.04.2026 33Min.

  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:The Big Mama BlogThe Big Boo Cast podcastInstagramHere be Dragons bookResources mentioned:Sign up for Morning MinuteOpen a LearningRX centerThe Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
• Discipling our kids doesn’t have to be intimidating with Sarah Holmstrom 31.03.2026 39Min.

  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.comSocial media:@sarahmholmstrom@raisingprayerfulkidsResources mentioned:Raising Prayerful Kids bookGet the digital Discipleship Simplified guideSign up for Morning MinuteOpen a LearningRX centerThe Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
• How understanding God's character changes our parenting with Ruth Chou Simons 24.03.2026 35Min.

  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@ruthchousimons@gracelacedwww.gracelaced.comhttps://pilgrimbook.com/Resources mentioned:Sign up for Morning MinuteOpen a LearningRX centerThe Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
• Investing in your kids’ faith with Lisa Clark 17.03.2026 37Min.

  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:@LisaEClarkLisaclarkspeaks.comRaising SinnersWonderResources mentioned:Sign up for Morning MinuteOpen a LearningRX centerGet 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.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
• Discipling the next generation with Jen Wilkin and J.T. English 10.03.2026 30Min.

  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 https://www.jenwilkin.net/@jenwilkin@knowingfaithpodcastConnect with J.T.@jtenglish@knowingfaithpodcast Links and resources mentioned:You Are A Theologian bookhttp://newcitycatechism.com/https://www.tinytheologians.shop/Sign up for Morning MinuteOpen a LearningRX centerLives of Faith and Grace seriesThe Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
• Bringing joy back to discipleship at home with Amanda Jass 03.03.2026 33Min.

  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:You can partner with the church without outsourcing discipleship, your home still matters mostFaith doesn’t have to feel overwhelming when we make it simple, approachable, and part of everyday lifePlay, story, and imagination are essential, not extra, when it comes to kids understanding and loving JesusYou are not behind, small, consistent moments matter more than getting it “perfect”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,StephResources Mentioned: Amanda’s WebsiteAmanda’s InstagramSign up for Morning MinuteChristian ParentingOpen a LearningRX centerThe Hunt for the KrakenPrefer 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.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
• Rethinking your time with purpose and peace with Elaine Franklin 24.02.2026 32Min.

  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:Why understanding your circle of care vs. circle of responsibility can completely shift how you spend your timeThe importance of defining your purpose and mission before building your scheduleHow margin isn’t lazy, it’s protective for your faith, your family, and your well-beingWhy creating a “to stop” list might be the most freeing productivity tool you’ve never triedThis 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 MentionedSign up for Morning MinuteChristian ParentingOpen a LearningRX centerThe Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
• Navigating faith, doubt, and parenting with grace with Kristin LaValley 17.02.2026 29Min.

  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:Why fear-based faith doesn’t last, and how to replace it with something more rooted in loveThe difference between shame and conviction, especially when helping our kids process emotionsHow to give our children spiritual agency without disengaging from their discipleshipWhat it means to be a non-anxious presence in the midst of theological tensionThis 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 ThoughtsConnect with KristenWebsiteInstagramFacebookGrowing Up Saved bookResources MentionedChristian Parenting resourcesSign up for Morning MinuteI Can Only Imagine 2 movieOpen a LearningRX centerDisciplines of Devotion seriesPrefer 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.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy