FamilyLife Today® on Oneplace.com

What does it truly mean to be a woman in a world of conflicting messages? Join FamilyLife Today Podcast hosts Dave and Ann Wilson as they sit down with Kristen Clark, co-author of Made to Be She: Reclaiming God's Plan for Fearless Femininity, to tackle the cultural lies surrounding womanhood. We explore how both secular feminism and rigid Christian traditions can lead us away from God's design. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

In this episode of the FamilyLife Today Podcast, Christian radio host Brant Hansen redefines the gospel as a transformative way of life that frees you from fear, anxiety, and shame. He shares powerful stories from a maximum-security prison and discusses how practical discipleship—like forgiving in traffic—can revolutionize your daily life. Then, Dave and Ann Wilson share a powerful story of Ann's heart crisis, revealing five lessons on trust and prayer that strengthened their marriage. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

Motherhood isn't just a journey; it's a transformation. In this episode of the FamilyLife Today Podcast, hosts Dave and Ann Wilson talk with author Abbie Halberstadt about her book, "You Bet Your Stretch Marks." She shares her personal experiences as a mom of ten, reframing the physical, emotional, and spiritual "stretching" of motherhood not as a burden, but as a path to a deeper faith and a lasting legacy. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

Are digital distractions pulling you away from what truly matters? Join us as we dive deep into a transformative 40-day social media fast with guest Wendy Speake, author of "The 40 Day Social Media Fast" and "The 40 Day Sugar Fast." In this powerful discussion, Wendy and our hosts, Dave and Ann Wilson, explore the surprising parallels between fasting from food and fasting from social media. Discover how intentionally disconnecting from your devices can deepen your spiritual connection with God and strengthen real-life relationships with your loved ones. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

What if the hardest parts of parenting were actually opportunities for growth? On this inspiring episode of FamilyLife Today, Dave and Ann Wilson sit down with Abbie Halberstadt, author of Hard Is Not the Same Thing as Bad. Through candid stories - from the overwhelming joy and challenges of parenting twins with sensory issues to societal assumptions - Abby unpacks her powerful philosophy: difficulty in life isn't negative, but an opportunity for growth and sanctification. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

How can Christian parents confidently navigate conversations about sexuality and gender in today's progressive culture? Rachel Gilson, author of Parenting Without Panic: In an LGBT-Affirming World, Discipling Our Kids with Jesus' Truth and Love, shares her powerful personal experiences and insights with hosts Dave and Ann Wilson. Rachel offers parents a biblical framework for discussing sensitive topics like same-sex attraction and transgender identities. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

Are you in the thick of raising young kids and wondering how to keep your marriage thriving? Join Dave and Ann Wilson on this lively "Wilson Original" episode of FamilyLife Today as they welcome author Arlene Pellicane and the candid Bruce and Maria Goff, parents of four young girls. From essential communication and shared responsibilities to the power of laughter and prayer, discover real-life strategies to strengthen your bond. Even with busy schedules, Arlene, Bruce, and Maria share how to prioritize your relationship and find joy in the journey. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

Are you struggling to reconcile a good God with a hard life? Hosts Dave and Ann Wilson sit down with Mark Vroegop, author of "Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy" to explore the vital biblical practice of lament. Mark reveals how lament, though prevalent in Scripture (making up one-third of the Psalms!), is often missing from modern Christian life. Drawing from his own profound experiences with loss, he explains how lament provides a faith-filled language for expressing grief, pain, and doubt directly to God, preventing despair and even the deconstruction of faith. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

Ever wondered what "that time of the month" really means for relationships? Join us as we courageously tackle PMS with author and comedian Sherri Lynn. Discover her hilarious alter-ego "Patty Michelle Sinclair," get vital "Do's and Don'ts" for husbands, and explore honest insights on singleness and faith. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

How do you parent when your kids are grown? Dave and Ann Wilson chat with Dr. Gary Chapman, author of The Five Love Languages, on this episode of FamilyLife Today, offering vital wisdom for parents of adult children. Learn how to release them to make their own choices, even when it's difficult, and maintain a loving influence through open communication. Drawing from his own family experiences, Gary provides practical guidance on respecting their autonomy and navigating tough conversations with grace and humor. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

Ever feel unable to meet Christian life demands? Author Kevin DeYoung explains that running the Christian race is filled with adventure—chasing holiness, battling for purity, and finding the good news in the ordinary. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

Strengthen your marriage with practical, faith-based strategies! Join Dave and Ann Wilson as they chat with author Arlene Pellicane about her book, "Making Marriage Easier." Learn how four key decisions—play by the rules, give thanks every day, serve your spouse, and take fun seriously—can transform your relationship.Arlene shares hilarious and relatable anecdotes, from her husband's quirky wedding registry suggestions to her own memorable, mud-filled camping adventures. Discover the power of humility in admitting flaws, the importance of shared rules like device-free dinners, and how open communication can build trust around even the toughest topics. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

Are you wrestling with grief, depression, or anxiety? In this powerful FamilyLife Today episode, hosts Dave and Ann Wilson sit down with pastor and author Mark Vroegop ("Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy") and biblical counselor Christine Chappell ("Midnight Mercies: Walking with God Through Depression in Motherhood") to explore the biblical practice of lament.Discover how lament is more than just complaint – it's a prayer language that moves you towards deeper trust in God, even in the midst of profound sorrow. Mark and Christine share insights from their own experiences and ministries, emphasizing the importance of a "theology of sorrow" and why sadness is a valid, even necessary, response to life's brokenness. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

Finding hope in the midst of depression can feel impossible, especially as a mom. In this powerful FamilyLife Today episode, hosts Dave and Ann Wilson sit down with biblical counselor and author Christine Chappell to dive deep into her personal battle with depression, self-harm, and suicidal ideation that led to a psychiatric hospital stay.Christine openly shares the raw details of her journey, from feeling utterly forsaken to finding profound hope in God's steadfast love through Psalm 59. Discover how a quirky moment with a sleeping squirrel became a divine invitation to rest in God, not strive. This episode beautifully weaves Christine's story with biblical examples like Moses, Elijah, and Hannah, who also wrestled with despair but ultimately found God's mercy. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

Are you a parent who feels overwhelmed or ill-equipped to talk about sex with your kids? You're not alone! In this episode, Mary Flo and Megan from Birds Bees unpack how to have ongoing, age-appropriate conversations about sexuality, fostering trust and openness from an early age.We tackle common parental fears and discomforts, especially for Christian families, providing practical steps to build confidence. Learn the "drip, drip, drip" method for normalizing discussions about body parts, boundaries, and sex starting as young as age one, which is crucial for protecting children from abuse. We discuss teaching anatomically correct terms and clear boundaries to empower kids to report violations. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

Parenting in an LGBT-affirming world can be daunting, but Rachel Gilson, author of "Parenting Without Panic," is here to equip you! In this FamilyLife Today episode, hosts Dave and Ann Wilson talk with Rachel about how to guide your children through complex topics like same-sex attraction and transgender identities with biblical truth and grace.Rachel shares her own experiences, from initial fears about her daughter's teacher to candid conversations with her kids about God's design. Learn why starting early, using age-appropriate language, and emphasizing God's "yes-first" vision for male, female, marriage, and singleness is crucial. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

Are you longing for a deeper, more fulfilling Christian marriage? Join us on FamilyLife Today as hosts Dave and Ann Wilson sit down with Dr. Gary Chapman, bestselling author of "The Five Love Languages," to unlock practical insights for a thriving relationship!In this powerful episode, Dr. Chapman, co-author of the new book "A Simple Guide for a Better Marriage," shares his own raw marital struggles and the pivotal moment that transformed his relationship with his wife, Carolyn – inspired by Christ's servant leadership (John 13). Learn the three transformative questions he asked that shifted their marriage toward mutual service. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

Are your kids struggling with who they are in a world telling them to follow their feelings? In this powerful episode, Dave and Ann Wilson sit down with Jonathan Holmes, author of Grounded in Grace: Helping Kids Build Their Identity in Christ, to tackle the pressing issue of identity formation in children and teens.Jonathan, executive director of Fieldstone Counseling, brilliantly uses the "dinglehopper" analogy from The Little Mermaid to expose how society misuses identity, leading to instability and mental health crises in our kids. We dive deep into the cultural pressures — from academics and sports to social media and the rising rates of gender dysphoria — that are shaping our children's sense of self. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

Ever feel like you're running on fumes as a parent? You're not alone! In this candid episode, hosts Dave and Ann Wilson chat with Bruce and Maria Golf, parents of four young daughters, about the raw reality of sleep deprivation and how it impacts their marriage and faith.From hilarious (and relatable) meltdowns to practical tips for soothing night terrors (hello, cat videos!), Bruce and Maria share their honest struggles with sleepless nights due to a newborn, child anxiety, and more. Discover how they navigate irritability and resentment, transforming shared suffering into powerful teamwork. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

Matt Lauren Chandler get brutally honest about their 25-year marriage, parenting struggles, and ministry life in this raw conversation on FamilyLife Today. Discover how they moved past 7 "brutal" early years, found healing through vulnerability and Celebrate Recovery, and built a friendship that sustains them through every season.From navigating differing interests to regretting missed opportunities with their kids, Matt and Lauren don't hold back. They emphasize the power of authenticity, the necessity of deep community, and the illusion of control when raising adult children. Plus, hear candid confessions about spiritual leadership at home and Matt's "icy" demeanor. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

Are you raising resilient kids in a fear-driven world? In this powerful FamilyLife Today episode, hosts Dave and Ann Wilson join Dr. Kathy Cook, founder of Celebrate Kids, to equip Christian parents with the tools to foster true resilience in their children—and themselves—through a biblical lens.Why do kids struggle with perseverance and risk-taking? Discover how well-intentioned overprotective parenting, from "helicopter" to "lawnmower" styles, can actually hinder growth. Kathy shares eye-opening insights on the importance of allowing natural consequences (yes, even a bad grade or spilled milk!) to build character and faith, drawing wisdom from scriptures like James 1:2–4 and Romans 5:3–5. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

Are you carrying the heavy burden of sexual shame? Do you long for freedom and healing in your sexuality? In this crucial episode of FamilyLife Today, hosts Dave and Ann Wilson welcome Dr. Julie Slattery, clinical psychologist and author of Surrendered Sexuality, to address the pain of sexual brokenness and offer a path to liberation.Dr. Slattery compassionately unpacks why so many Christians struggle with shame surrounding their sexuality. She reveals how our sexual issues often stem from deeper spiritual struggles, like doubts about God's goodness or believing identity lies. You'll learn about the four common "identity traps" that keep us bound – self-discovery, shame, performance, and deriving value from relationships – and how to escape them. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

Are you tired of waiting? Feeling impatient with life's delays? You're not alone. In this insightful episode of FamilyLife Today, hosts Dave and Ann Wilson sit down with Pastor and author Mark Vroegop to explore the profound truth that "Waiting Isn't a Waste."Mark, author of the powerful book Waiting Isn't a Waste, shares deeply personal stories and biblical wisdom to reframe our perspective on those frustrating "gap moments" between our current reality and our desired outcomes. Discover why waiting isn't a passive state, but a divinely designed process to cultivate dependence on God and foster profound spiritual growth. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

Making friends as an adult and building authentic Christian community thrives on humility, honesty, and honor, fostering deep bonds through vulnerability and faith, as shared by New Creation Fellowship leaders.Join Dave and Ann Wilson from FamilyLife Today as they sit down with the leadership team of New Creation Fellowship in Orlando, Florida. Pastors Ike and Arian Todd, Recap and Brittany Gray, and Demetrius share their incredible journey of friendship, faith, and church planting. This episode dives deep into what it truly means to build authentic Christian community, emphasizing the power of vulnerability, accountability, and unwavering commitment. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

Ever wonder how to navigate tricky in-law dynamics, prepare for the quiet of an empty nest, or truly "leave and cleave" in your marriage? Join a candid and insightful conversation from the 2025 Love Like You Mean It Marriage Cruise panel featuring Ron and Nan Deal, Jared and Becky Wilson, and Trent and Andrea Griffith, with wisdom woven in by Dave and Ann Wilson. This episode tackles real-life relationship hurdles, offering practical advice on everything from setting healthy boundaries with family to the crucial journey of rebuilding trust after it's been broken. Plus, get actionable tips on taming those pesky phone and social media distractions that can steal connection. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

Have you ever struggled to forgive someone who has deeply hurt you? This powerful episode with Jared Wilson, recorded during our 2025 Love Like You Mean It Cruise, delves into the profound connection between forgiveness, love, and God's grace. We explore how forgiveness isn't just a feeling, but a conscious act of love – a "relational grace" that mirrors the undeserved blessings God pours out on us. By embracing the radical gift of forgiveness as a powerful way to reflect God's love and grace in our relationships, even when it feels difficult and costly, we're reminded that by forgiving others, we not only free ourselves but also make God known in the world. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

This FamilyLife Today episode, hosted by Dave and Ann Wilson, features Jonathan and Carrie Cronkite, who share their passion for making God real to their children through intentional family practices. The episode begins with a discussion about their recent experience on the FamilyLife Love Like You Mean It cruise, highlighting its uplifting atmosphere and authentic speakers. The Cronkites emphasize the importance of parents modeling faith at home, drawing from Jonathan's 15 years as a student pastor, where he identified that kids with lifelong faith had parents who prayed and read scripture together. They introduce their PRAY acronym (Praise, Repent, Ask for others, Yourself) and the use of prayer rocks, inspired by Joshua 4, as visual reminders of prayer requests and answered prayers. These rocks, kept in a bowl and later moved to a memorial platter, help kids see God's faithfulness. The episode addresses handling unanswered prayers, encouraging service to others, and modeling repentance to foster a genuine faith environment. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

Toxic masculinity is as destructive as we think it is. But professor Nancy Pearcey's data shows more of the whole story--of the power of a good man. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

Author and professor Nancy Pearcey explores sociological data to uncover why it's open season on masculinity—and the surprising role of Christian men. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

Author and professor Nancy Pearcey uncovers why the script for masculinity turned toxic—and how Christianity reconciles the war between the sexes. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

On today's FamilyLife Today episode, hosted by Dave and Ann Wilson, we continue the conversation with Bill and Pam Mutz, parents of 12 and grandparents to 37, focusing on their experiences with loss and God's redemptive power. The episode delves into the tragic drowning of their 7-month-old son, Jonathan, at age 26, and the loss of their granddaughter, Gracie, due to their daughter Carrie's preeclampsia. Pam recounts the guilt and blame she faced after Jonathan's accident, emphasizing Bill's immediate forgiveness as a pivotal act of grace. The couple shares how God's sovereignty and preparation sustained them, highlighting moments like a premonitory dream and scripture readings. They discuss avoiding fairness in parenting to reduce entitlement and the importance of looking forward to God's purpose rather than dwelling on past pain. The episode underscores the theme of trusting God through grief, with Bill and Pam's faith and forgiveness strengthening their marriage and ministry. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

On this FamilyLife Today episode, hosted by Dave and Ann Wilson, we feature Bill and Pam Mutz, a couple with 12 children and 37 grandchildren, known for their work with FamilyLife's Weekend to Remember conferences and the Art of Marriage series. The episode introduces their story, starting with their meeting in Indiana and Pam's initial reluctance to marry or have children. Despite her plans to serve Jesus overseas, Pam agreed to marry Bill after guidance from mentors, and their perspective on children shifted after their first child, Carrie, awakened Pam's nurturing instincts. They discuss using the family dinner table as a training ground for respect and devotions, and their decision to trust God with family size, leading to 12 children. The episode touches on their mentoring roles, including hosting a student from Colombia, and their surrender to God's plan, even amidst challenges like the loss of a son and granddaughter, Molly. The hosts highlight the couple's joy, affection, and wisdom gained through decades of marriage and parenting. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

This FamilyLife Today episode, hosted by Dave and Ann Wilson, features counselor David Thomas, who discusses signs of an emotionally unhealthy home, drawing from his book "Raising Emotionally Strong Boys." The conversation explores three key practices—recognize, regulate, and repair—that are often absent in unhealthy homes. David explains how ignoring emotional signals, failing to manage stress, and refusing to apologize contribute to dysfunction. The hosts share personal stories, including Dave's realization of his emotional unhealthiness despite initial denial and Ann's struggle with comparing her children. The episode emphasizes the importance of naming pain, seeking help, and modeling healthy emotional behaviors for kids. Dave's childhood experience of suppressed grief and Ann's encouragement to pray highlight God's redemptive power in transforming pain. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

On this episode of FamilyLife Today, hosted by Dave and Ann Wilson, we feature counselor David Thomas, author of "Raising Emotionally Strong Boys." The discussion focuses on understanding and managing the physicality and emotional intensity of boys, particularly through the lens of Ann's story about neighborhood boys breaking wood on their foreheads. David shares insights from his 25 years at Daystar Counseling, emphasizing the need to create outlets for boys' energy, such as a designated “space” for physical release. He introduces the ABCs of emotional development—coping, breathing, and naming feelings—explaining that boys often need to release energy before identifying emotions. The episode addresses common parenting mistakes, like excessive talk and emotion during discipline, and encourages narrating personal experiences to model emotional health. David's podcast with Sissy Goff, "Raising Boys and Girls," is highlighted as a resource for parents. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

On this FamilyLife Today episode, hosted by Dave and Ann Wilson, we feature a segment from the FamilyLife Blended podcast with Ron Deal and guest Dr. Adrian Hickmon, founder of Capstone Treatment Center in Arkansas. The discussion focuses on parenting children with addictive behaviors, such as drugs, alcohol, or pornography. Dr. Hickmon explains the underlying causes of these behaviors, including trauma, isolation, and disconnection, likening them to a "magma pool" beneath a volcano. He advises parents to find facts, triage the situation, and avoid detaching emotionally, instead emphasizing attachment and healthy boundaries. Ron shares a personal story about his son's near-fatal alcohol incident, illustrating the balance of moving toward a child with love while setting boundaries. The episode underscores the gospel's rupture-repair-masterpiece model as a framework for family restoration. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

This FamilyLife Today episode, hosted by Dave and Ann Wilson, continues the discussion of "The Road to Kay Luma," a five-part audio drama produced by FamilyLife, Cru, and Jesus Film Project. Co-creators Perry Wilson and Landon Holly share insights into the drama's development, inspired by the Prodigal Son parable, reimagined in a fantasy world from the perspective of the prodigal's grandson, Orric. The episode explores family dynamics, parental expectations, and the pressure children feel to perform, with personal anecdotes from the hosts and creators. Clips highlight the drama's immersive storytelling, music, and characters, emphasizing its role in fostering family discussions. A discussion guide is introduced to aid parents and children in vulnerable conversations about identity and approval. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

On this FamilyLife Today episode, hosted by Dave and Ann Wilson, we introduce you to "The Road to Kaeluma," a five-part audio drama by FamilyLife, Cru, and Jesus Film Project. Co-creators Perry Wilson and Landon Hawley discuss its inspiration from the Prodigal Son parable, reimagined in a fantasy world from the prodigal's grandson's perspective. The episode features clips showcasing high-quality production, epic music, and compelling characters. Themes include grace, family dynamics, and spiritual growth, with personal stories from the hosts and creators connecting to the parable. The drama aims to spark family discussions on faith. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

Wondering how to be engaged and do it right? Sean Perron and Spencer Harmon offer biblical, practical wisdom for a beautiful now and a forever future. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

Want to do relationships differently? Authors Sean Perron and Spencer Harmon point you in the right direction for dating, engagement, or marriage with purpose and depth. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

You're dating—but man, do things get sticky. Authors Sean Perron and Spencer Harmon help you approach marriage on purpose, and done right. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

What emotional skills does your son need? Counselor David Thomas sheds light on common emotional struggles, including anger, anxiety, and depression. Find practical ways you can help your son be resourceful, aware, resilient, and empathetic—breaking patterns of dysfunction and embracing maturity for life. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

What does it take to raise emotionally strong boys? Veteran counselor David Thomas knows males typically aren't equipped with skills to name and navigate their experience—and the fallout is grave. Thomas lays out strategies to equip boys for a powerful present and future. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

In this emotionally resonant and deeply insightful episode of FamilyLife Today, hosts Dave and Ann Wilson continue a heartfelt discussion with Jennifer and Allen Parr, focusing on marriage dynamics, spiritual leadership, and the power of softness, particularly from wives toward their husbands. This episode explores the layered meanings of what it means for a wife to approach her husband in a “soft” manner, not as a form of weakness or subservience, but as an intentional act of humility, encouragement, and grace.Jennifer reflects on her personal growth in communication, having learned the transformative power of open-ended questions like "Are you open to this?" instead of using rigid language like "you should" or "you need to." The Parrs discuss how this subtle shift has positively impacted their marriage and can open the door for honest conversations in others.The conversation then pivots to one of the most common marital tensions: the desire for a husband to be the spiritual leader of the home, especially when he either lacks interest or simply doesn't know how. Allen offers practical insight into the nuances between unwillingness and inexperience. He advises wives to approach their husbands with grace and patience, emphasizing curiosity over criticism.Dave and Ann echo these sentiments by sharing their own experiences with unmet expectations and communication pitfalls, including a powerful moment when Ann praised Dave for praying with their kids—an act that motivated him more than any criticism ever had.The discussion also dives deep into childhood trauma, particularly the lasting impact of growing up in a fatherless home. Allen vulnerably shares how the absence of his dad from age six left him feeling inadequate as a husband and father—despite his current devotion to his family and ministry. This leads to a broader conversation about compassion, empathy, and healing through understanding a partner's personal history.The episode wraps with an acknowledgment of the strength in softness: how humility, grace, and genuine encouragement can transform marriages. The Wilsons and the Parrs agree that this kind of softness is not passivity, but rather a powerful way to cultivate connection, spiritual leadership, and long-term relational growth. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

This episode of FamilyLife Today features a deeply personal and insightful conversation with Jennifer and Allen Parr, centered on the concept of redefining success for women, embracing God-given influence, and the power of softness without weakness. Hosted by Dave and Ann Wilson at the National Religious Broadcasters (NRB) event, the conversation takes place in a relaxed, makeshift studio, giving it an authentic, heartfelt tone.Jennifer Parr shares her emotional journey of stepping away from a high-achieving corporate role—her dream job at her dream company—to fully embrace her role as a present wife and mother. She candidly discusses the identity struggle and internal wrestling that came with surrendering a position she had worked hard to attain. With two young children and a growing ministry alongside Allen, Jennifer felt a divine calling to shift her focus from corporate success to family and faith-driven influence.Throughout the discussion, Jennifer highlights how women are inherently created with a softness and tenderness that is not synonymous with weakness. Instead, it's a quiet strength—a powerful form of influence that doesn't demand the spotlight but transforms every space it enters. The Parrs discuss how stepping into that softness, rather than bristling at it, has allowed Jennifer to thrive personally and within their marriage and ministry.Allen supports Jennifer's journey, noting how her stepping back not only brought more peace to their home but also improved her overall well-being, including healing from insomnia and anxiety. The couple explains the importance of shared decision-making, heart posture, and recognizing each person's capacity in different seasons of life.The conversation also dives into the struggles women face when they feel the need to "do it all", often out of fear, control, or past trauma. Jennifer openly acknowledges how fear rooted in “what ifs” about her husband's potential absence or failure to provide drove her initial resistance to leaving her job. The panel reflects on how fear, pride, and anxiety can distort our understanding of roles within marriage and family life.The tone turns humorous and vulnerable as Dave and Ann share a story from their past—complete with corded phones, hotel mishaps, and a memorable line from Dave telling Ann to "cut it off"—illustrating the all-too-relatable dynamic of a wife jumping in to "fix" what she perceives her husband can't handle.The episode wraps with a discussion on healthy communication in marriage, including when to speak, when to stay silent, and how to approach difficult conversations with humility and prayer. Jennifer emphasizes that surrender-driven success—rooted in trusting God—is more fulfilling than any worldly achievement. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

Mom of seven, wife of an NFL athlete, and podcaster Kirsten Watson is asked, “How do you do it?” She believes to take a breath of God's Word is to exhale peace. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

God's story for Kirsten Watson and NFL Super Bowl Champ Benjamin Watson has spiraled them through 15 NFL seasons, seven kids, and plenty of plot twists. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

Kirsten Watson and NFL Super Bowl Champ Benjamin Watson know well the scramble for identity apart from connections, accomplishments, and best-laid plans. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

Is it unloving or selfish to set a boundary? Are Christians ever called to walk away from a relationship that's no longer safe or sustainable? Lysa TerKeurst deeply understands these hard questions in the midst of relational struggles. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

Do you struggle with saying no? You're not alone. Join bestselling author Lysa TerKeurst in a compelling conversation about true identity and setting healthy boundaries in relationships. With biblical wisdom to navigate chaos and insights on self-care, this episode is a must-listen. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

In this emotionally rich and spiritually grounded episode of FamilyLife Today, Dave and Ann Wilson dive into one of the most personal, transformative aspects of their marriage—how powerful, life-giving words can uplift and transform a spouse, especially within the context of Christian marriage.The episode centers on themes from Ann Wilson's book, specifically focusing on how women can speak life into their husbands even when all they want to do is criticize or “coach” them. Dave vulnerably shares the impact of Ann's affirmations over their 45 years of marriage—how both praise and constructive criticism shaped him into a better man, father, husband, and spiritual leader.One pivotal story revisited multiple times is when Ann expressed disappointment in the difference between Dave's passionate presence at church and his disengaged presence at home. While Dave's initial reaction was defensive, he later realized through prayer that God was speaking through Ann, awakening him to the need for spiritual leadership at home.They unpack the idea of the wife as a “helper suitable” (from Genesis 2:18), diving deep into the original Hebrew words “ezer” and “k'negdo.” These terms, often misunderstood as denoting subservience, are redefined as symbols of strength, equality, and divine partnership. Ann shares insights from theologians and Jewish scholars, painting a picture of a wife not as a passive supporter but a warrior who stands toe to toe with her husband, helping him become all that God created him to be.The Wilsons emphasize the importance of affirming the good in each other rather than tearing each other down, especially when trying to correct faults. Critique alone rarely motivates change, but love-filled truth, built on a foundation of encouragement, does. They compare it to making deposits in an emotional bank account: affirmations are deposits, and critiques are withdrawals. Without a balance of positivity, correction only causes further distance.The episode ends with a reflection on the spiritual reality of marriage. They stress that spouses must first be filled by God, or they will look to each other to meet needs only Christ can fill, resulting in disappointment and relational strain. Instead, if both partners are spiritually nourished, their love and support become an overflow rather than a demand.This candid conversation offers practical insight, biblical wisdom, and personal vulnerability that challenges and encourages both husbands and wives to build marriages that reflect God's design and grace. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

In this candid and emotionally powerful episode of FamilyLife Today, co-hosts Ann and Dave Wilson sit down to talk about their deeply personal journey of transformation within their marriage — a journey that led to the writing of their new book, "How to Speak Life to Your Husband When All You Want to Do is Yell at Him."What begins as a lighthearted moment with Dave calling Ann his favorite guest quickly turns into a raw exploration of how words— especially those said (or not said) in marriage—can either give life or slowly crush someone's spirit. Ann shares the heartbreaking realization that her constant critiques, though intended as help, came across as boos to Dave — a far cry from the encouragement he needed.The episode dives into a pivotal moment when Dave, during an impromptu speaking engagement at a women's group, publicly revealed that after their marriage, he no longer felt cheered on by Ann but instead heard “boo, boo, boo” when walking in the door. This blindsided Ann and led to a very tense ride home, followed by a powerful personal reckoning with God. Ann's honest prayer and God's gentle but firm response (“Yes”) started a spiritual and emotional transformation that impacted their marriage and parenting deeply.They discuss how expectations, unmet hopes, and internal scripts shape how women view their husbands — and how the enemy (Satan) can fuel those disappointments with subtle whispers that deepen discontent. Brain science also comes into play, as Ann notes that 85% of our thoughts are negative and 95% are repetitive, illustrating how easily women can spiral into patterns of criticism.Throughout the episode, the Wilsons reflect on Scripture (especially Proverbs 18:21 and Matthew 7:3-5), the role of pride, and how important it is to take thoughts captive. They talk about how Ann began intentionally looking for and vocalizing the good in Dave. It started with thanking him for simple things — like working hard — and grew into genuine, spirit-building encouragement that transformed not just their marriage but their legacy.They emphasize that this message is not for abusive relationships, but for average, well-meaning marriages where miscommunication and unmet expectations erode intimacy. By inviting God into her mindset, Ann became a woman who spoke life, not just to her husband but to everyone around her. Dave affirms how this change brought vibrancy back into their home — and calls on women to reflect on their own “way of being” toward their husbands.The episode ends with a passionate call to action: support the FamilyLife Today ministry so more marriages can be transformed through God's truth and grace. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29