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

Why Scripture is the foundation of lasting faith with Andrew and Charlotte Ollerton 18.08.2026 29min

The Bible can feel overwhelming, especially when you're trying to read it with your kids. Where do you start? How do you help them understand it? And how do you make it something they actually enjoy?In this episode, Steph continues the discipleship series by exploring one of the strongest predictors of lasting faith: regularly reading Scripture at home. Joined by Andrew and Charlotte Ollerton, authors of God's Story, Our Story, they discuss why understanding the Bible as one unified story changes everything. They also share practical ways to make family Bible reading simple, engaging, and consistent without adding guilt or pressure.If you've ever felt intimidated by opening the Bible with your children, this conversation will encourage you to start small, stay faithful, and trust God to use his Word to shape your family's faith for years to come.Resources MentionedGod’s Story, Our Story bookGod’s Story, Our Story journey cardsThe Creation of UsHands on BibleMaker of the MountainGet your copy of our latest prayer journal Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation today!Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube!The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.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 actually helps kids follow Jesus for life? With Jana Magruder 11.08.2026 37min

Every Christian parent wants to raise kids with a lasting faith, but with so much parenting advice available, it's easy to wonder where to focus your time and energy.In this episode, Steph kicks off a special discipleship series by sitting down with Janet Magruder of Lifeway Christian Resources to discuss the groundbreaking research behind the book Nothing Less. After years of studying what influences children who grow into adults with a vibrant, enduring faith, the research points to a handful of practices that consistently make the biggest difference.If you've ever wondered what matters most when it comes to discipling your kids at home, this conversation will encourage you to let go of the pressure to do everything and instead invest in the things that have the greatest lasting impact on your child's faith.Resources MentionedLifeway KidsInstagramKids Ministry Calling podcastLifeway researchThe Creation of UsHands-On BibleThe Adventure BibleI Love You, Little LightGet your copy of our latest prayer journal Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation today!Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube!The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.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 college students need most spiritually with Paul Worcester 04.08.2026 40min

The college years can be one of the most defining seasons in a young person's faith. So how can parents prepare their kids to stand firm long before they leave home?In this episode, Steph sits down with longtime college ministry leader Paul Worcester to discuss the spiritual habits that help faith last. They talk about the power of Scripture memory, daily time in God's Word, the challenges today's college students face, and practical ways parents can train, not just teach, their teens to follow Christ. Paul also shares how his new Bible study, Thrive, equips college students and young adults to build a faith that is grounded in Scripture and prepared to withstand the challenges of this pivotal season.Whether your child is heading to college soon or you still have years to prepare, this conversation will encourage you to invest in the kind of faith that enduresResources MentionedThrive Bible StudyInstagramGenSend PodcastCampus Multiplication NetworkThe Creation of UsHands-On BibleThe Adventure BibleGet your copy of our latest prayer journal Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation today!The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.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 the things we pray for can still exhaust us with Melissa Miller 28.07.2026 27min

Have you ever received an answer to prayer only to discover it was much harder than you expected?In this episode, author Melissa Miller talks about "change fatigue," the emotional exhaustion that can come even during the seasons we've prayed for.Melissa shares her family's adoption story, the surprising challenges that followed, and how God met her in the middle of overwhelming change. We talk about why Christians often feel guilty admitting that good change is still hard, how Scripture validates those experiences, and practical ways to process complicated emotions with God.If you've ever felt grateful and overwhelmed at the same time, this conversation will remind you that you're not alone and that God's grace meets you right where you are.Resources MentionedBut I Prayed for This bookMelissa’s websiteInstagramSubstackHands-On BibleThe Adventure BibleBridging ResilienceGet your copy of our latest prayer journal Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation today!Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube!The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Should Christian Parents Be Worried About AI? With Ben Peterson 21.07.2026 27min

Artificial intelligence is changing the way our families learn, work, communicate, and even seek advice. For many parents, it feels like this technology appeared overnight, leaving us wondering how to help our kids navigate it wisely.In this episode, combat veteran, speaker, and author Ben Peterson sits down to discuss why AI is more than a technology conversation. It's a discipleship conversation. Together we explore how parents can embrace the benefits of AI while protecting the God-given roles of family, community, creativity, and the Holy Spirit in their children's lives.If you've wondered where to draw healthy boundaries with AI, how to talk with your kids about using it for school, or how to raise children who seek God's wisdom before artificial intelligence, this conversation is for you.Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube!Resources MentionedWhen Intelligence Isn’t Human bookBen’s websiteThe Ben Peterson Show podcastPre-order When Intelligence Isn’t HumanHands-On BibleThe Adventure BibleBridging ResilienceGet your copy of our latest prayer journal Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation today!The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Helping Kids Experience God, Not Just Learn About Him with Jen Weaver and Gayle Veitenheimer 14.07.2026 28min

Teaching our kids Bible stories is important, but discipleship doesn't stop there. We also want our children to recognize God's guidance in their own stories, bring him into everyday conversations, and develop a genuine relationship with him that grows over time.In this episode, Bible teachers and co-authors Jen Weaver and Gayle Veitenheimer talk about helping kids move from simply knowing about God to experiencing life with Him. They discuss why stories are such powerful discipleship tools, how to answer kids' big questions about prayer and hearing God's voice, and simple ways parents can nurture faith at home.If you've ever wondered how to make faith feel more personal for your kids, this conversation is full of practical encouragement.Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube!Resources MentionedJen’s websiteGayle's websiteKingswell Kids Detective seriesThe Christian Grandparenting PodcastShame-Free Sex Talks bookThe Adventure BibleGet your copy of our latest prayer journal Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation today!The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.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 Gospel for real-life parenting messes with Scarlet Hiltibidal 07.07.2026 29min

Today we are joined by Scarlet Hiltibidal, who is the new host of Pardon the Mess. Scarlet is a wife, mom of four, author, speaker, and follower of Jesus who is passionate about helping parents see the gospel in the middle of everyday family life.In this episode, Scarlet shares about her own parenting messes, including loving each of her kids well in very different seasons and needs. We talk about the pressure moms feel to get everything right, the invisible report card so many of us carry, and the freedom that comes when we remember parenting is not about our performance, but about pointing our kids to Jesus.Scarlet also gives us a look at the new format of Pardon the Mess, where she will take one real parenting struggle each week and help parents untangle it through Scripture, stories, and one small faithful step.Resources MentionedScarlet’s websiteChristian ParentingPardon the Mess podcastShame-Free Sex Talks bookThe Adventure BibleGet your copy of Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation today!Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube!The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.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 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