Podcasts about christian parenting podcast

What do you do when your child makes choices that don't align your faith system? In this heartfelt episode, Pastor Joe and his wife, Karen offer wisdom and encouragement for parents facing this challenge. They remind us of our true mission as parents: to love our kids with grace and stay faithful to God's calling. Together, they explore how to release control, trust God with your child's journey, and focus on their growth without making it about your own expectations. This episode is a powerful reminder to remain steadfast in love, even when the road gets hard.

In this episode, we're joined by two individuals who work closely with teens and remember their own journey through the pressures of growing up. Together, we unpack how parents can equip their kids to face peer pressure with confidence while offering key insights on what to remember as you guide them through these challenging moments. From practical strategies to personal stories, this conversation will help you support your child and stay grounded as a parent.

In this episode, we sit down with Zach Weihrauch, Lead Pastor at CCC, to explore how parents can guide their kids through the rich, sometimes challenging stories of the Old Testament. Pastor Zach shares practical tips on making scripture come alive for your family, cultivating a love for God's Word, and navigating difficult topics with grace and truth. Whether you're new to teaching your kids about the Bible or looking for fresh ways to deepen their faith, this conversation is full of wisdom and encouragement you won't want to miss.

This week's episode is extra special because we are celebrating two years of the Christian Parenting Podcast! I can't believe it! And to make it even more special, my very first guest, Jinger Vuolo, is back with us today. She's here to talk about the struggles so many of us face in trying to meet others' expectations.  Here are four key takeaways from this episode:Trying to please everyone can actually be more about ourselves than truly serving others.  Showing up as your true self, rather than what others expect, is a way to glorify God.  Jinger shares how she is beginning to guide her own children away from people-pleasing tendencies.  We discuss real ways to break free from people-pleasing and the importance of finding a strong mentor.  Jinger Vuolo is an author, speaker, and former reality TV personality known for her book Becoming Free Indeed and her latest release, People Pleaser. She is passionate about helping others find freedom in Christ and live with confidence in who God made them to be.  Thank you all for two incredible years of this podcast! I'm so grateful for you, and I hope this conversation encourages you to seek confidence in Christ rather than in the approval of others. (00:00) Life Updates and New Beginnings(01:58) Understanding People Pleasing(06:06) The Impact of People Pleasing on Relationships(10:10) Parenting and Teaching Kids about People Pleasing(17:01) Practical Steps to Overcome People Pleasing(22:09) Final Thoughts on Parenting and CommunityConnect with JingerInstagramhttps://www.jingerandjeremy.com/Resources MentionedBecoming Free IndeedPeople PleaserChristian Parenting storeThe Unbreakable Boy movieA Simply Healthy LifeThe 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

It's hard to cultivate gratitude in today's materialistic and self-satisfying culture.  In this episode, we sit down with a dynamic parent-and-child trio to uncover the secrets behind nurturing a life rooted in kindness and gratitude. Through laughter, touching stories, and practical wisdom, they share how their family intentionally fostered a culture of love, empathy, and thankfulness in their home.Tune in for meaningful conversations, actionable insights, and a beautiful reminder that generosity starts at home—and its ripple effects can change the world.

In this episode, we're tackling the unimaginable: parenting through a cancer diagnosis. How do you balance doctor's appointments and treatments with helping your kids with homework and sharing bedtime stories? How do you talk to your children about something that even adults struggle to understand? Join us as we hear stories of strength, resilience, and love from Katy Masone, a wife and mom navigating this challenging journey. Together, we'll explore how to find hope, keep your faith, and hold onto joy—even on the hardest days.

This episode is dedicated to the raw, real journey of miscarriage and infertility. We dive into the emotional rollercoaster, the unanswered questions, and the resilience it takes to keep going. With compassion, honesty, and insights from our host, Holly, and her own journey, we aim to break the silence around this hard topic, offer support, and remind you that you're not alone. Whether you're in the midst of the journey, supporting a loved one, or seeking understanding, join us for a heartfelt conversation about infertility and finding your faith in difficult times.

In this episode, we're bridging the generational gap! Join us as we delve into the unique perspectives, challenges, and (sometimes hilarious) differences between Baby Boomer and Millennial parents. We sit down with our very own Becca and her mom to explore how parenting has evolved—and what each generation can learn from the other. Whether you're a parent, grandparent, or somewhere in between, tune in for insights, laughs, and a fresh perspective on navigating parenthood across the decades!

Did you know that about 96% of Americans celebrate Christmas? In the U.S., Christmas has become a largely cultural event filled with twinkling lights, jingle bells, and festive carols. While those traditions contain a special kind of magic, it's easy to let the busyness of the season overshadow the real reason we celebrate. In this episode, Amy and Sara share practical ways to slow down the holiday hustle and create meaningful moments with your kids that keep Jesus at the center of it all. From advent devotionals to baking, they offer 10 simple ways to shine a light on Jesus and make this Christmas not just merry, but deeply meaningful.Blog: 10 Ways to Keep Jesus at the Center of ChristmasAdvent Video Series by The Bible ProjectFree Family Advent Guide by LifewayBook: Advent Blocks Tradition SetCookbook: Bake through the Bible at ChristmasUnwrap Camp for Christmas--Questions of the Week: What is your favorite Christmas tradition that we do as a family, and why?--Hosts: Amy Lowe & Sara JonesProducers: Emily Alters & Cody Braun--Learn more about WinShape Camps at WinShapeCamps.org!Instagram: @WinShapeCampsTikTok: @WinShapeCampsFacebook: @WinShapeCamps

This week, we're diving into the world of almost-teenagers and all the wild, wonderful (and occasionally weird) changes ahead. From navigating new moods, new bodies, and new steps in independence, we're talking about what to expect and how to prepare yourself. Whitney Heightmeyer, mom of four, gets real as we discuss gearing up for the journey. Get ready for tips, laughs, and real talk on prepping for preteens—because if you think toddlers have meltdowns, you haven't met a 12-year-old!

Body image is something we all struggle with at times, regardless of age. So, how can we raise kids to feel confident in their own bodies? What should we be doing or saying—and, just as importantly, what should we definitely avoid saying?

Mom guilt is real, and it's no match for Instagram faith. Becca, Sara, and Holly discuss what realistic quiet time looks like for busy, tired, and overwhelmed moms. We share practical ideas, encouragement, and a few challenges to help ensure we're equipped to be the best version of ourselves for our kids.

In this episode of the BKF podcast, Scott and Vanessa discuss a challenging issue that impacts all blended families: understanding and managing screen time. With statistics showing kids spend up to 9 hours a day on screens, they explore practical solutions to create balanced and healthy media habits. They share their own family's rules on screen time, discuss the dangers of excessive exposure, and offer strategies for parental controls. Tune in to learn how to build a media plan that encourages communication, family time, and healthier digital habits for your children.We pray this episode blesses you today!Want to join the Blended Kingdom Families Community? Connect with us: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, To support this ministry and help ensure that blended families around the world continue to receive biblical equipping click here: https://blendedkingdomfamilies.com/donate/ For more resources visit: Blended Kingdom Families Website

We take our kids to check-ups and teeth cleanings, but do we check in on their mental health? Often, we don't consider mental health in our parenting unless we sense something is wrong. In this episode, our favorite clinical counselor talks to us about how to stay attuned to our kids' mental well-being. What are the day-to-day things we can do to promote and equip our kids with a foundation for whole-body healthy living?

What does the "Whole Child Approach" mean? In today's episode, it means looking at our kids through four key pillars: social, emotional, academic, and spiritual. As we explore these areas, reflect on where your children excel and where they could use a little more support. Along the way, we'll provide simple and practical tips that you can easily incorporate into your day-to-day to empower your kids in each of these fields of development. We'll also discuss how being intentional in these areas not only helps kids thrive but also strengthens your relationship with them. Join us as we explore ways to build a well-rounded foundation of growth for our kids, helping them flourish in all aspects of life!Podcast: Raising Boys and Girls - David Thomas & Sissy GoffBlog: Raising Joyful Kids: Our WinShape Camps Story - Lynn Alters--Question of the Week: What questions do you have about the Bible that you haven't gotten good answers for yet?--Hosts: Amy Lowe & Sara JonesProducers: Emily Alters & Cody Braun--Learn more about WinShape Camps at WinShapeCamps.org!Instagram: @WinShapeCampsTikTok: @WinShapeCampsFacebook: @WinShapeCamps

With all the kids heading back to school, there's always the anxiety that goes with unknowns and new beginnings. And that's just for us as parents! Joking.    Sissy Goff and David Thomas from Daystar Counseling are with me today, and they are bringing the heat. They are literally the wisest, kindest, and dearest people you'll ever meet. I could go on and on, but instead I'm giving you a few of the topics we cover today: What your kids wish you knew How anxiety presents in girls vs. boys  Thoughts on teenage dating Kids friendships and the value that can come from loneliness   Sit back and take a deep breath as Sissy and David answer our back-to-school questions while simultaneously bringing us peace and perspective. And do yourself a favor, if you don't listen to Raising Boys and Girls (their podcast), do that ASAP. Fun fact, they were unbelievably kind to allow me to be a guest on their podcast last spring—and that may have been my life highlight!

It's August, and Heather and I are still on our summer quest to surprise each other with cool guests on Sidetracked. Today is no exception as Heather comes in hot, surprising me with the one and the only Jess Connolly.  Let's be honest, it's the end of summer and I'm guessing there's some portion of you that's tired physically, spiritually, or emotionally trying to do it all? Jess Connolly addresses just that as we talk about her new book and all the research behind the how, where, and why of rest. Jess's life is full with her being an author, Bible teacher, podcaster, and coach, so she knows the challenges of finding pockets of rest in a full schedule.  I love how we discuss that there is no one-size-fits-all formula for resting, and we are all made differently by our Creator with unique ways to recharge.  Jess reminds us that Jesus has true rest for us even in busy seasons, leading us to be more awake, alive, and present in our families, ministries, and careers.  We end the podcast by getting sidetracked and talk about everything from theology books to ice machines—join us for tons of truth and fun.     All things Cynthia Connect with Jess Connolly:  Website:  Jess Connolly Facebook: Jess Connolly Instagram:  Jess Connolly | Author + Bible Teacher (@jessaconnolly) Links Mentioned:   Quiz — Jess Connolly Tired of Being Tired: By Jess Connolly Breaking Free from Body Shame: By Jess Connolly You Are the Girl for the Job: By Jess Connolly Dance, Stand, Run: By Jess Connolly From Pentecost to Patmos: by Craig Blomberg Nobody's Mother: By Sandra Glahn Paul Behaving Badly: by E. Randolph Richards Nugget Countertop Ice Maker with Soft Chewable Pellet Ice Sun Visor Hats for Women Wide Brim Straw Roll-Up    

In this episode of Parenting for the Everyday, we explore parenting for the long game—focusing on raising resilient, compassionate, and independent adults. Discover practical strategies for building lasting relationships, instilling lifelong values, and making decisions that prioritize your child's future. Perfect for parents at any stage, this episode offers valuable insights on parenting with intention and vision. Tune in!

I'll never forget the time in high school when Kate and I had a disagreement, and she threw down these inflammatory words: “welllll I am 18 years old.” I believe my response was something like, “yes dear one, you're an 18-year-old that drives our car, uses our cell phone, lives in our house, wears our clothes, and exists on our money.” (Perhaps I should have paused a bit before responding.)    Nonetheless, if you have older kids, you've probably had similar moments of trying to adjust to kids reaching adulthood-ish while they are still financially dependent and oftentimes making questionable decisions. Thank goodness Lisa Clark is here today!   Lisa is an author, mother, grandmother, and incredible lady who is giving some much-needed advice on parenting our adult-ish children. Some of the topics we cover include:  Best advice on sending a kid to college How to respect our child's independence while also giving them important advice  Practical ways to connect with older kids Recognizing they are adults even when they don't act like it   Even if you don't have older kids yet, the day is coming, so tune in for some great wisdom from precious Lisa Clark!     All things Cynthia Yanof  Lisa Clark Raising Sinners by Lisa Clark   

Sibling rivalry is a common challenge in many households, and it can stem from various factors such as competitive nature, differing personalities, and changing dynamics. In this episode of the Parenting for the Everyday Podcast, we dive deep into understanding the roots of sibling conflicts and explore effective strategies to manage and even prevent them. Is it truly possible to have a household free from sibling rivalry? Tune in to find out as we discuss real-life experiences and practical tips to foster a harmonious environment for your children. Don't miss out on today's enlightening conversation!

Do we really know how to honor the Sabbath as Christian parents? In this episode, we explore the true meaning of the Sabbath as a rest from work, not just a day to relax or watch TV. We'll discuss how to be intentional about observing this sacred day, following God's model of resting to reconnect with Him. Discover practical tips to help your family embrace the Sabbath and strengthen your relationship with God.Sources:https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/the-most-important-reason-we-workhttps://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/sabbath-rest-moms/

I've been trying to slow down and enjoy the “moments” this summer with my family. It slips by so quickly if we aren't careful, and that seems especially true now that we have one in college (and another one going away in a year).    Tonight we played pickle ball and let's be clear, my kids get their athletic ability from Mike. But we laughed, watched the sunset, and ended with homemade ice cream. It feels like the perfect night full of pure joy.    Speaking of joy (how about that transition, right?) . . . ., we're talking with Jenna Griffith today about finding joy even when it feels elusive. Jenna is the host of the popular Joy Filled Podcast, and has five great tips that you don't want to miss today. I think one of my favorite things we talk about is figuring out how we best connect with God, because it's not one size fits all.    Enjoy every second of time with your people this week. And remember, joy is most often found in the small things!     All things Cynthia Keep up with Jenna Griffith   

On this episode of Parenting for the Everyday, we bring on guest speakers Pastor Zach Weihrauch and Jimmy Kozy to discuss the fast-paced trend of faith deconstruction. We dive into what it means to deconstruct one's faith, the negative connotations associated with it, and how to reflect on your faith in a healthy manner. Tune in to today's episode to learn more.

Today's episode is so fun and uplifting! I'm joined by comedians Leeann Dearing and Michelle Fortin of Top Knot Comedy. I've been a fan of theirs for a long time, and I highly recommend you follow them on social media—they are an absolute delight!Here's what you'll hear in today's episode:Leeann and Michelle share their path into the comedy world and the unique challenges of combining faith and humor.The importance of laughter during life's tough seasons and how it has been a vital tool in their own journeys, especially through experiences of loss.Insights on maintaining strong friendships, setting up touchpoints, and how being good friends has helped them work together successfully.How comedy has served as a source of healing and bonding for both Leeann and Michelle.About Leeann Dearing and Michelle Forton:Leeann Dearing and Michelle Forton are the hilarious duo behind Top Knot Comedy. They are not just comedians, but also strong advocates for integrating faith into every aspect of life, including comedy. Their ability to find humor in everyday situations and share it with others has made them beloved figures in the comedy world. I know their stories will leave you feeling lighter and more connected.00:00-Introduction and Welcoming the Guests03:16-One Thing Every Parent Should Know06:14-How Leann and Michelle Got Into Comedy11:23-Balancing Faith and Comedy21:53-Loss and Grief25:21-Using Comedy as a Tool for Healing29:42-The Power of Friendship34:37-Maintaining Long-Term Friendships39:06-Humor and Connection44:15-Finding Joy in Everyday LifeConnect with Michelle & Leeann on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/topknotcomedy/The Christian Parenting Podcast is part of The Christian Parenting Podcast Network. As a donor funded ministry, we rely on generous supporters like you to keep this show going. If you enjoy this podcast, please consider giving a gift today. Join the Christian Parenting Legacy Builders communityPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Parenting at any stage is hard. And as parents, we want to understand our kids better. But it always seems like as soon as we get one phase of life down, they quickly move onto the next one. For the next few episodes, join Pastor Joe as he spends some time looking at parenting in each of these phases of our kids' lives and learn from some of the best! Next up is parenting high school students.According to new research from the Fuller Youth Institute, today's high schoolers represent the most anxious, diverse, and adaptive generation in history. And now, more than ever, they are not shying away from asking tough questions. So, how can we, as parents, maximize this season of life with our kids and continue to foster their relationships with Jesus? On this episode of Coming and Going, Joe sits down with Dr. Kara Powell, executive director of the Fuller Youth Institute, to talk about this season of life for parents!Want to win your own copy of 3 Big Questions?? Click this link to enter: https://forms.office.com/r/5XKyBv3WJtResources:The Fuller Youth Institute - https://fulleryouthinstitute.org/3 Big Questions that Change Every Teenager | https://bit.ly/445GdoxSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Did you know parental burnout is a real thing? As parents, we often feel tired, defeated, and worn out. Did you know it's both normal and not normal at the same time? Join us as we talk about the real science behind parental burnout, the danger of ignoring it, and practical ways to overcome it.

This time on Ask Christian Counseling Associates, we meet with author and father of 4 children, Peter Daniel James, to discuss his most recent publication, Not Another Christian Parenting Book.  Join us as we focus on biblical parenting strategies for challenging family situations.

Today we're talking about body image, learning to love our body, and calling out the false narratives we've bought into from culture and other places relating to our physical body.    Talking about body image kinda feels like no-man's land, and I'm thinking I might as well hit politics and money while I'm at it. Joking. But having a discussion around how to love our body is something that is important, and I believe it is not discussed enough in Christian circles. So we're doing it here today!    Liz Rodriguez and Rebecca Carrell from the Honestly, Though podcast are with us today. Liz is currently on her own personal health journey after receiving some tough diagnoses a few years ago. She speaks honestly about the physiological aspects of losing weight and working through the well-intentioned but hard comments she receives from others.    Rebecca is healed from an eating disorder that she struggled with for many years. She has a great word on loving and accepting our God-given bodies while also raising daughters who can hopefully do the same.    I understand this can be a touchy topic, and I assure you that we will do our very best to encourage you wherever you are in your health journey. Take a minute to listen and also share with your friends.   Also, if you enjoy MESSmerized will you please consider rating and reviewing the show? This helps others find us and hopefully encourage people to chase after Jesus even when everything around us.    Sign-up for the Life is Messy, God is Good summer book club!   All things Cynthia Yanof For more of their discussion on body image listen to Honestly, Though here. The Body Project by Joan Jacobs Brumberg   Catch up with Rebecca and Liz below: Rebecca Carrell IG: @RebeccaCarrell  Twitter: @RebeccaACarrell  FB: Rebecca Ashbrook Carrell   Liz Rodriguez IG: @lizannrodriguez  FB:  Liz Rodriguez  

In this episode of Parenting for the Everyday, we sit down and discuss how to help give our kids gospel sighted vision. What can we do in our homes to equip our kids to have compassion, grace, and kindness towards people who look and act differently than them? We sit down withLori, mother of five and Heather, CCC's CCC's Ability Inclusion Director to talk through practical tools we can use to grow our kids in this area. Guest: Heather Gleason and Lori Thomas

Kids are constantly learning lessons, and most of the time it's not even in the classroom. As they grow, they learn through relationships, discovering new abilities, and quite often they learn through failure! As parents, we get to come alongside them and help them understand that taking risks, and failing is OK! It's hard to watch our kids take risks when our instincts are telling us to protect and to rescue. But it's also important to look for opportunities where our kids can feel the freedom to choose, to take risks, and to fail in a controlled setting. In today's episode we'll be talking about the "why" of allowing our kids to take controlled risks, and sharing some tips we've discovered for helping our kids learn through risk-taking and mistake-making.Book: Parenting with Love & Logic--Questions of the Week: What was the last risk you took or new thing you tried? How did it work out?--Hosts: Amy Lowe & Sara JonesProducers: Emily Alters & Cody Braun--Learn more about WinShape Camps at WinShapeCamps.org!Instagram: @WinShapeCampsTikTok: @WinShapeCampsFacebook: @WinShapeCamps

Tune into the final part of this three part series with Dr. Juli Slattery as we discuss all things LGBTQ+. What it means for our children growing up in a community where one in five adolescents consider themselves LGBTQ and how we navigate the ups and downs that come with questioning gender and sexuality. 

Today on Parenting with the Everyday, we continue with our second part of this three-part series with Dr. Juli Slattery. In this captivating episode Dr. Slattery walks us through the phenomena of biological sex, what it means to be created by God, and what the Bible tells us about gender awareness. 

It's May and if you're anything like me, you're already tired just thinking about all of the end-of-year conferences, award ceremonies, track meets, class picnics, and everything else headed our way. But don't worry, we will survive it all together!    That being said, I'm SUPER EXCITED that May is finally here because TODAY is the day we start a new series on MESSmerized. (And trust me, you're  going to LOVE it! ❤️❤️❤️)   The next few months we're examining “how do I _______?” questions on the show. In other words, each week will be conversations with amazing guests who will give their top 5 tips for “how do I” topics like these:   How do I save money?  How do I deepen my friendships?  How do I strengthen my marriage?  How do I accept my child's hard diagnosis? How do I find joy?  How do I survive summer with teens?    And that's just the tip of the iceberg of what's coming your way. So tune in each week for shorter, summer-friendly podcasts complete with 5 timely, practical, and biblical tips for living out the messy places of life.     Oh, and speaking of practical and biblical, I can't think of anyone better than my dear friend Courtney DeFeo to kick-off this series today. Courtney is host of the Pardon the Mess podcast and joins us to talk about cheering on other women in our lives. This is especially near and dear because Courtney has done this so incredibly well in my own life.    Tune in this week as we kick-off our new series with Courtney DeFeo. Oh, and leave a review and rate MESSmerized pretty please wherever you listen to podcasts!   All things Cynthia Yanof Order Life is Messy, God is Good All things Courtney Defeo Christian Parenting Pardon the Mess Podcast

Have I told you this week how much my family loved Duck Dynasty? It was/is such a genius way to get people laughing while still instilling biblical truth and good old fashioned family values. The prayers around the table at the end of each show still get me.    Today I have the privilege of chatting with Willie Robertson about all things Duck Dynasty, and it's far past due since I've interviewed basically everyone in his family except for him.    Willie's stories are amazing, including how he tried to fire Cy, how Duck Dynasty got started, and how he got Phil signed on to the idea of reality TV.     But Willie is really passionate about sharing his faith, and that's a big part of our conversation today. He talks about how his parents instilled this in his life, and how he's trying to do that for his children as well. Willie's new book Gospeler (which I mispronounced all throughout the show

On todays episode of Parenting for the Everyday we sit down with Dr. Juli Slattery, clinical psychologist, author and co-founder of Authentic Intimacy, a ministry dedicated to helping Christians navigate their sexuality. Today we ask Dr. Juli Slattery, what does the bible say about sexuality? Tune into today's episode as we dive into purity culture, when to talk to your kids about sex, and how to explore your own sexuality. 

Seeing as though I have a first-grader and all, empty nesting seems a lifetime away. But for so many of us it's one of those things that sneaks up in an instant leaving us and wondering what's next and how to parent these new adults in our lives.   Jim Burns is an absolute delight and comes today with lots of practical information on how to prepare for the empty-nesting years. We discuss how women tend to cope with kids leaving home versus men, and he shares plenty of super relatable insights from his own experience.    We also talk about how to parent our adult children and when to give advice and when to shut-up and smile until called upon. I think one of the mic drop moments in this interview for me came was the reminder that “our words have the power to bless and to curse.” (Remind me to buy a gag for my mouth.)    Please take a few minutes to listen to this fun conversation with Jim Burns, and then share it with your friends who are approaching this same empty-nesting road.     All things Cynthia Life is Messy, God is Good Jim's ministry: HomeWord Finding Joy in the Empty Nest Doing Life with Your Adult Children  

Today we sit down with experts in the field of one of the most common mental disorders affecting children today, Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Tune in as we determine the definition of ADHD, what the disorder's symptoms are, and how to parent children struggling with ADHD. 

I hope you're taking some time this week to slow down and spend a few minutes pondering Holy Week and all that it means to your faith. My prayer is that we don't come out on the other side of Easter the same way we went into it. I pray that the very reminder of Jesus' ultimate sacrifice on the cross sparks a new hope in our lives, causing us to want more God in our lives than we currently have.    Every year on Good Friday, my husband pulls out the ol' “It's Friday . . . but Sunday's Coming” message at some point when we're all in the car together. He gets mocked for this predictable move every year, but gosh it's a message we need to hear on repeat. Take a minute to listen this week and even follow Mike's lead and throw it on the car radio for the fam.    On today's show we have Lisa Whittle talking with us about revival, and how to experience it both on a corporate and personal level. Lisa is passionate about the importance of desiring and wanting more God in our lives—which leads to a personal revival that can literally change everything about how we live.    I especially appreciate her list of things that keep us from revival, or wanting more God. Things like our need for comfort, control, and even popularity. This is a perfect word for us going into Easter, and I pray it challenges you in the coming days.  

Social Media is something that every parent should be talking about. It's an unavoidable place for kids and parents. We make plans about potty training and dating but most of us feel unprepared how to lead our kids through this digital age. We sat down with Middle School teacher and youth advocate James Talbert and asked the hard questions. What do we need to know? What is social media doing to our kids? How do we protect them? What boundaries should we have? 

According to the CDC, mental illnesses are the most common health conditions in the United States, with more than one in five adults suffering in some capacity. I say this not to be a downer, but to provide perspective as we consider the importance of treating ourselves well and seeking out the help we need.   Laura Smith is with us today talking about her new book, Holy Care for the Whole Self. After years of counseling, she's come to realize that the very techniques medical professionals suggest for improving our mental health are also the biblical principles we read about throughout Scripture. Things like gratitude, community, rest, and exercise.    If you're anything like me, it often feels like taking care of yourself is a luxury we don't have time for in this season. I'm praying today's show helps remind us that self-care is not a luxury, but a necessity, if we want to be our best selves to our friends and family.    Take a few minutes today to listen to my conversation with Laura, and also get a little info on the book I'm reading right now and the “secret place” I set up while my family was out of town this weekend.     P.S. Many of you have reached out about having me speak at your upcoming events, and I'm so honored. Yes, I do lots of speaking and would love to talk about foster care, parenting, marriage, the messiness of life, or anything else! Reach out here and let's get things rolling.   Holy Care for the Whole Self by Laura Smith Practicing the Way by John Mark Comer All things Cynthia Support MESSmerized!

I've had the unbelievable fortune of interviewing Bob Goff several times over the last few years, and he never disappoints. Yes, he's an author, podcaster, philanthropist, attorney, and much more. But I think my favorite thing is how he gives the most ordinary situations a “Bob Goff spin,” showing us how to live out the gospel in ways that are simple yet profound.    Today we're discussing how he got talked into writing books and the details behind that little career pivot. He also shares some insight on discerning when God is leading us into new callings. If you take nothing else from this interview, I hope you're challenged to consider what your “next brave step” may be in following Jesus in today's culture.    I realize it's Spring Break for many and there's lots of traveling. This is a PERFECT podcast for the whole family. So listen in—you won't regret it.   Order Life is Messy, God is Good Support MESSmerized  All things Bob Goff    

Often, it feels like Easter Sunday is second to Christmas on the scale of Christian holidays. We sat down and discussed the danger of setting this expectation intentionally or unintentionally in your household. We discuss ways to avoid this trap and share some great age-appropriate resources and ideas for a gospel-centered Easter this year.  

Today's episode is a blend of humor and heart with the delightful Molly Stillman as our guest. Many of you might know Molly from her podcast, Can I Laugh on Your Shoulder?, or her newly released memoir, If I Don't Laugh I'll Cry. Beyond her roles in the media, Molly is a dedicated mom with an incredible journey to share.Molly's story is a testament to the power of grace, laughter, and faith in the parenting journey. From her childhood to finding faith later in life, and now in her approach to parenting, Molly opens up about the realities of navigating life's ups and downs. Today, we dive into some truly meaningful discussions:Imperfect parenting: Molly shares her take on the beauty and challenges of parenting with authenticity, including the importance of apologizing to our kids when we fall short.Modeling a faith-filled life: we explore what it means to live out our faith in a way that our children can see, learn from, and be inspired by.Finding balance: Molly discusses the delicate act of sheltering our kids from the world while also exposing them to culture in a way that's healthy and constructive.Today's conversation feels like sitting down with friends — a space to be real, to share laughs, and to find comfort in the shared experiences of parenthood. Molly's journey reminds us all that amidst the trials and the messiness of raising kids, there is immense joy and grace to be found.I hope you leave this episode feeling a little lighter, a bit more encouraged, and equipped with a fresh outlook on parenting through the lens of faith and humor. Molly's story is a reminder that in the chaos of parenting, a good laugh and a sincere apology can go a long way in fostering a loving and faith-filled home.Don't forget to check out Molly's memoir, If I Don't Laugh I'll Cry, for more of her heartfelt and hilarious insights into life and parenting.Connect With Molly online at https://www.stillbeingmolly.comPre-Order your copy of If I Don't Laugh I'll Cry HEREOr on Instagram @stillbeingmolly/The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual guidance to help you grow into the perfectly imperfect parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Visit HomeThreads.com/CPPODCAST today and get a 15% off code for your first order!Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Joni Eareckson Tada had a diving accident as a teenager, leaving her a quadriplegic. Since that time God has used her life in incredible ways to impact millions of people all over the globe for Jesus.   Joni has an incredible word for us today on finding peace in our lives by abiding with Jesus. I don't know about you, but I know how to spend time with Jesus, praise Jesus, and even talk about Jesus. But sometimes “abiding” with him feels complex and needs a little more explanation. Joni's doing that for us today.   Also, can I suggest that if you or someone who has been walking through a hard time, waiting for God to answer and it seems he's silent—today's show is a great one to share? Joni knows all too well how to trust Jesus in seemingly impossible circumstances.    I truly can't wait for you to hear more from Joni today!   Joni and Friends The Practice of the Presence of Jesus by Joni All things Cynthia Order Life is Messy, God is Good  

Guess who's back on our podcast this week? The incredible Pastor Craig Groeschel. If you caught his last episode with us (which we'll link for you), you know you're in for a treat, as the pastor of Life Church in Tulsa, OK, the voice behind The Craig Groeschel Leadership Podcast, and the author of 15 books, Pastor Craig shares so much wisdom and insight with us.But today, we're diving into themes from his latest book, Think Ahead: 7 Decisions You Can Make Today for the God-Honoring Life You Want to Live Tomorrow.As parents, we juggle countless decisions daily, often feeling overwhelmed by these choices' sheer volume and weight. Pastor Craig joins us with a message of hope and strategy: the power of pre-deciding.Craig's message is a breath of fresh air for any parent feeling weighed down by the day-to-day decisions. It's a call to focus on what truly matters - our relationship with our kids and leading a life that honors God's plan for us and our families. In this conversation we cover:The challenge of decision-making: why making decisions feels so daunting and how this impacts our family life.The art of pre-deciding: Craig shares how pre-deciding on certain aspects of our lives can significantly simplify our decision-making, making consistency with our kids more attainable.Reflecting family values: our decisions paint a picture of what we value as a family. Craig helps us see how our choices can reflect the God-honoring life we aspire to live.Prioritizing relationships: above efficiency, structure, or image, Craig reminds us that our relationship with our kids should always take precedence.I promise you this conversation with Craig is enlightening and incredibly uplifting. It's a reminder that, despite the challenges of parenting, there are strategies we can adopt to make the journey less burdensome and more fulfilling.Connect With Pastor Craig Groschel online at https://www.craiggroeschel.com/Grab your copy of Think Ahead HereOr on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/craiggroeschel/The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual guidance to help you grow into the perfectly imperfect parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Visit HomeThreads.com/CPPODCAST today and get a 15% off code for your first order!Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Yesterday was an incredible day and I'm so grateful for your support of Life is Messy God is Good. As we continue the push towards getting this word out, I would be so grateful if you would leave a review on Amazon (or wherever you purchased the book) as well as continue sharing on social media and recommending it to friends. Please accept my deepest and heartfelt THANK YOU!   Today's show is a continuation of our discussions with friends and family  who made a cameo in my book. Darin Kinder is not only in the book, but his story of surviving the 9/11 attacks as a Secret Service Agent has impacted my life in the messiest and best of ways.    Darin is with us today to talk about living courageously and raising kids willing and able to do the hard things. And let me assure you, Darin's words are powerful and unforgettable. In fact, I'm not sure a story outside the Bible has impacted me more than Darin's account of 9/11 and seeing God show up in the messiest and most tragic of situations.    Take a listen today and even share with a friend! So grateful for you.   All things Cynthia Order Life is Messy, God is Good Darin Kinder's The Valiant Ministries Darin Kinder's Story in Episode 2 of MESSmerized

We are back with Week 3 of our discipleship series; how are you feeling? What are you learning, and what is encouraging you? Today, I'm honored to have Josh Mulvihill with us. As the Executive Director of Church and Family Ministry at Renewanation and a father himself, Josh brings a wealth of experience in guiding families towards a deeper understanding of a biblical worldview.In this episode, we tackle some crucial questions that many parents grapple with: What exactly is a biblical worldview? When is the right time to start having these conversations with our children? And how do we differentiate and discuss biblical worldviews versus worldly views, especially with the challenging topics prevalent in today's world?Josh will break down these questions, offering his insights and practical advice. Together we'll explore the importance of shaping a biblical worldview from a young age and how this foundation can significantly impact our children's lives. Josh shares valuable resources, including Bible stories and methods for engaging in respectful dialogue, helping us to confidently share our beliefs with our children.In a time when our kids are exposed to many perspectives, understanding how to navigate these discussions is more important than ever. Josh's expertise in this area is genuinely enlightening, providing us with the tools to guide our children effectively.Don't miss the valuable resources Josh shares towards the end of our conversation. These resources are tailored to support you in fostering a biblical worldview in your home.Also, remember to check out our 'Discipleship Made Easy' guide, available now at cpgive.org. This guide is an excellent resource for parents striving to deepen their family's faith and understanding of the Bible.P.S. Be sure to subscribe to the Christian Parenting Podcast and leave a review if you find our series helpful. Your feedback helps us reach more parents seeking guidance in their faith and parenting journey. Let's continue to support each other in raising godly children in an ever-changing world.Connect With JoshWebsite:https://gospelshapedfamily.com/https://www.renewanation.org/Grab the CP Discipleship guide cpgive.orgLife is Messy God is Good by Cynthia YanofThe Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual guidance to help you grow into the perfectly imperfect parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out HelloFresh and use my code cppodcastfree for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/* Visit HomeThreads.com/CPPODCAST today and get a 15% off code for your first order!Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

It's hard to believe that we're approaching THREE weeks until my book releases on February 6th (small panic attack as I'm typing this). In honor of the big day coming up, we're going to do a fun series on MESSmerized the next few weeks where I interview people who are written about in the book. It's a behind the scenes look at the ways life gets messy for so many of us, and how to find God in the midst of it.    This week my dear friend Sharon Haynes is joining us. If you have not heard our story about fat camp and the french fry, you MUST LISTEN today. Aside from Sharon's hilarious story, she has a poignant word on the hard places of losing our parents, raising kids who make rogue decisions, and keeping it real with our closest friendships. I can't tell you how much I love today's show and Sharon's willingness to lay it all out there.    On a side note, I'm going to be sending out an email later this week with some ways you can help me promote Life is Messy, God is Good in the coming weeks. I would be so grateful if you would take a minute to read that email and consider sharing news of my book with your friends, family, and small groups. And of course, if you haven't already ordered a copy can I ask you to do that today?    So grateful for you and can't wait for you to listen to our series on going “behind the mess.”     Pre-Order Life is Messy, God is Good

If you're anything like me, your heart remains heavy for Israel in these days. It's hard to wrap our heads around the war, God's bigger plan for their nation, and the hardships so many are facing in the Middle East.    Knowing this, I am so excited to have JoAnn Doyle from Uncharted Ministries joining us today. She's got an amazing perspective on Israel through the lens of someone who has been ministering to Jews and Muslims in the Middle East for many decades.    While the news coming from Israel has been hard, there's also an encouraging story behind the story that more Muslims have come to faith in Christ in the last 10 years than in the last 14 centuries. And more Jews have come to embrace Jesus as Messiah in the last 20 years than in the last 2000 years.    All this comes as a much-needed reminder that God continues to pursue his people—and he's doing it right now in Israel. Take a few minutes to be encouraged as you listen to JoAnn share incredible stories of how God's working in Israel and Gaza, and ways we can make a difference individually during this critical time.    P.S. Guys, we are ONE MONTH away from the release of my first book Life is Messy, God is Good. Pre-orders are a ginormous deal and it would be such a blessing if you would consider grabbing a copy (or two or three) today! So grateful for you and can't wait for you to read it. ❤️     Pre-Order Life is Messy, God is Good Uncharted Ministries

If you're in a post-Christmas coma, you're not alone! Eating cookies for breakfast and watching Hallmark movies instead of entertaining your kids is fine everyone . . . we are doing our best!    That being said, can I invite you to join me and two of my favorite people for a few minutes to talk about love? Yes, it's the last week of our Advent series and love is our topic.     It's easy to see God's unrelenting love for his people through Jesus' life, from the manger to the cross. But how does this kind of love change us practically in our everyday lives?    Heather and Stephanie are lots of fun, and I promise you will be encouraged as we're facing a new year and all of the unknowns. And speaking of a new year, I want to thank every single one of you for being a part of the MESSmerized family, and the calling God has placed on my life.    It's been a privilege to walk through parenting, faith issues, spiritual rhythms and so much more the last eight months. I can't wait to see what God is up to in 2024!       All things Cynthia Pre-Order Life is Messy, God is Good Sidetracked with Heather and Cynthia