Podcasts about families podcast

On today's episode, Jon Pemberton guest-hosts the podcast as the tables are turned on Melissa. He interviews her on all things podcasting and what she has learned over the past year. Jon is one of the funniest people, so you won't want to miss this one! For FULL SHOW NOTES, go to https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com/mending-families-podcast Where to find Mending Families: Instagram - @mendingfamilieswa TikTok - @mendingfamilieswa Facebook - @mendingfamilieswa YouTube - @mendingfamilies1594 https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

Text us your sleep questions.I'm Unnati Patel, your certified pediatric sleep consultant, and virtual mom bestie. A mama of two IVF miracles who had no support with her fair share of sleep struggles. That is why I am on a mission to create well-rested families by supporting you with all of the baby sleep help you need. Start feeling more confident in the approaches you take in your parenting journey. Are you ready to make sleepless nights a thing of the past? Tune in to learn how.Want a free sample baby sleep schedule?

Rock Solid Families - EP260 - Should I Home School My Kids?Lisa Cox - certified teacher that chose to bring her craft into her homeConsidering homeschooling your kids? In today's episode, we're unpacking the world of homeschooling, an educational path that's gaining traction among many Christian families. Lisa Cox, an experienced homeschooling parent, offers a firsthand look into the dynamics and decisions surrounding this approach to education. Key to the conversation is the unity of parental values, a foundation ensuring cohesion and mutual commitment to the child's education. While some children might champion the idea of homeschooling, it's essential for parents to discern their underlying motives. Is it truly in the child's best interest or merely a means to bypass challenges of traditional schooling? For parents contemplating this path, diving into homeschooling communities, conventions, and co-ops can be enlightening. This exploration helps in discerning the right homeschooling style that aligns with the family's core values.Transitioning into the role of a primary educator goes beyond curriculum choices. It demands dedication and a hands-on approach, ensuring lessons resonate with the child's unique needs. Many parents worry about the perception that homeschooled children don't have enough social opportunities. Lisa shares that contrary to popular belief, homeschooling offers a wealth of socialization avenues. From community engagements to co-op activities, children can foster friendships and social skills. Parents play a pivotal role in facilitating these opportunities.Lisa offers reassurance that with a faith-driven perspective and thorough preparation, homeschooling offers a transformative educational journey, nurturing children into the well-rounded Christian individuals that God intended them to be.Key Takeaways:Homeschooling requires a strong commitment and willingness to put in the hard work.It is important for both parents to be on the same page and make the decision together.Doing thorough research and talking to other homeschooling families can help in making an informed decision.Homeschooling allows for individualized education and flexibility in scheduling.Providing healthy opportunities for socialization is crucial for homeschooled children.Quotes:"I wanted my kids to have the opportunity to be who God intended them to be without all the expectations and peer pressure that gets put on them to be like everyone else." (10:31 | Lisa) Audiogram"There's a difference between what I would say is home education and school at home." (13:06 | Lisa) SM Quote"It has to be parent-driven, and parents have to be extremely involved." (22:17 | Lisa)"If you feel called and you and your spouse feel called to do this, God's going to give you what you need." (35:45 | Linda)LinksInstagram: @RockSolidFamiliesWebsite: https://www.rocksolidfamilies.org/Support the show

Guest Host - Meredith ScudderWaiting is not a passive act, but an opportunity for growth. In this episode of the Rock Solid Families podcast, the hosts delve into the topic of waiting and the challenges it presents in our fast-paced, instant gratification society. They discuss how the younger generations, particularly millennials and Gen Z, struggle with patience due to growing up in a culture of convenience and immediate access to information and resources. The hosts emphasize the importance of aligning oneself with the biblical view of waiting, which calls for patience and trust in God's timing. They also explore the idea of using the waiting period as an opportunity for personal growth, refining character, and deepening one's relationship with God. The episode concludes with practical steps to navigate the waiting season, including seeking God's guidance, taking action, and trusting in His plan.Key Takeaways:Waiting is a common experience in life, regardless of age or stage, and it can lead to feelings of frustration and questioning.It is important to turn to God and seek His guidance during seasons of waiting, rather than relying solely on our own desires and plans.Waiting can be a time of growth and refinement, where we learn important lessons and develop patience, self-discipline, and trust in God's timing.Taking action and being proactive during the waiting period is crucial, as it allows us to make progress and continue growing, even if it's not in the exact way or timing we had hoped for.Trusting in God's plan and His faithfulness is essential during times of waiting, as He knows what is best for us and is working behind the scenes to prepare and guide us.Quotes:"When you're in those seasons of waiting and confusion, we're not ready for what we're asking for." (00:41 | Meredith)"We have to train our mind and our body and our emotions for that self-regulation, that self-discipline, and allowing hard things to really grow us." (10:22 | Linda) Audiogram"If you feel like you're not hearing from God or, you're asking and and you are spending time with him, but you're not hearing anything, I wanna encourage you. God will still give you peace. And sometimes what he's speaking to us, when we don't hear it, it's like, hey, just like rest in me.” (33:31 | Merrill)"Trust that God knows best and He's protecting and preparing you." (35:43 | Meredith) SM QuoteLinksInstagram: @RockSolidFamiliesWebsite: https://www.rocksolidfamilies.org/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=rock%20solid%20familiesSupport the show

Rock Solid Families -  EP258 - Inviting God to School "Bringing God into our schools and homes is not about pushing an agenda, but about equipping our children with the tools to defend their faith and stand for what they believe. It's about instilling in them a strong identity and purpose in Christ, so that they can navigate the confusion and challenges of the world with confidence and hope." - Rock Solid FamiliesIn this episode of the Rock Solid Families podcast, hosts Linda and Merrill Hutchinson discuss the importance of bringing God into schools and homes. They emphasize the need for parents to help their children understand their identity and purpose in Christ, regardless of whether they attend public, Christian, or homeschool. The hosts debunk the notion that God has been pushed out of schools, highlighting the opportunities for religious activities and expressions that exist within the education system. They also encourage parents to support their children in defending their faith and standing up for their beliefs, as well as to be proactive in bringing God into their communities and schools.The hosts provide practical tips for parents, such as being cooperative with schools, initiating and supporting religious activities, and teaching children to be bold witnesses of their faith. They also stress the importance of understanding one's own faith and why it is meaningful, rather than simply going through the motions. Additionally, they remind listeners of the power of voting and influencing legislation to support religious freedom in schools. The episode concludes with a call to action for parents to take an active role in bringing God into their homes, schools, and communities, and to support positive initiatives that promote faith and values.Key Takeaways:It is important to involve God in our homes and schools to help children understand their identity and purpose in Christ.Parents should provide tools for their children to defend their faith and stand for what they believe, regardless of whether they are in public schools, Christian schools, or homeschooling.Rather than blaming schools for pushing God out, parents should focus on bringing God into their own homes and teaching their children about faith.Parents should support their children's schools and be cooperative with the staff, volunteering and getting involved in positive activities.Voting and supporting legislators who align with Christian values can help influence the presence of God in schools and society.Quotes:"Regardless if they're in the public schools, a Christian school, homeschool, we've got to help our students and our children understand what it means to have that identity and purpose in Christ." (00:53 | Linda Hutchinson) "We are seeing a resurgence of faith and hope and trust in the Lord because this world has been getting very dark, and our students are so desperate for hope that they're seeking it, they're searching for it." (08:26 | Linda Hutchinson) "If you can get them around healthy, positive community, everybody wins. And that is just what we want for our students and our families." (37:13 | Linda Hutchinson)LinksInstagram: @RockSolidFamiliesWebsite: https://www.rocksolidfamilies.org/Support the show

"Men are not less than, they are different. Understanding their needs and meeting them where they are is the key to bringing them back into the church and empowering them to lead their families." - Merrill HutchinsonIn this episode of the Rock Solid Families podcast, hosts Merrill and Linda Hutchinson discuss the importance of men's involvement in the church and the home. They highlight the concerning trend of fewer men attending church and being actively engaged in family life. Drawing from the book "Why Men Hate Going to Church" by David Morrow, they explore the reasons behind this phenomenon and the need to address it. The hosts emphasize the significance of meeting men's physical, emotional, and spiritual needs in order to engage them in church and family life. They provide practical suggestions for creating a more inviting and inclusive environment for men, such as avoiding judgment, open communication, and prayer.Throughout the episode, Merrill and Linda stress the importance of understanding and meeting men's needs in order to encourage their involvement in the church and as leaders in the home. They discuss the hierarchy of needs, as outlined by Maslow, and how it applies to men's engagement in church and family life. The hosts also address the feminization of the church and the need for a more male-friendly environment. They encourage women to pray for wisdom in their approach and to avoid comparing their spouse to others. The episode concludes with a challenge for listeners to have open conversations about faith and church involvement with their partners, and to pray for guidance and unity in their spiritual journeys.Key Takeaways:Men are leaving the church at a greater rate, and it is important to understand why and address their needs.The hierarchy of needs (physical, emotional, and spiritual) plays a role in men's involvement in the church.Men may feel disconnected or undervalued in the church, and it is important to create an environment that meets their needs.Avoid nagging, guilting, or comparing men to others when it comes to church attendance.Quotes:"The research tells us that there is less men, and we've seen that, whether it be going to church, whether it be… Even our Thursday morning Bible study, at the middle school level, it's a two-to-one ratio when it comes to girls to boys." (00:00 | Linda)"And so this is no new conversation. Where are all the men in the church? Why have men sort of fallen off the table when it comes to a lot of healthy families and keeping marriages together?" (03:09 | Merrill)“A lot of times churches will connect with men to maybe work on projects. Maybe they're helping fix the roof, or maybe they're helping them cut the grass, or maybe them helping widows that are in need of winterization or something like that, where men feel like, I am putting my faith into action, and that's how I worship. And so, yeah, we've gotta help men meet those physical needs. That's why your Strong Dads has a workout component to it. You have Bible study, but half of it is getting up, getting sweaty, working out, and meeting those physical needs.” (16:10 | Linda) "Pray for yourself. Pray for wisdom to know how to handle this man of yours. Pray for an understanding of how a man works and stop trying to think that he should work more like you, okay? " (36:44 | Merrill) SM QuoteInstagram: @RockSolidFamiliesWebsite: https://www.rocksolidfamilies.org/Support the show

Rock Solid Families - EP256 - Thanks for 5 Years! Merrill and Linda HutchinsonIn this heartfelt 5 year anniversary episode, Linda and Merrill reflect on half a decade of their dedicated ministry, Rock Solid Families. They recount the myriad of lives they've impacted: from young adults, parents, and teens, to empty nesters and couples facing challenges. They open up about the inspiring tales of renewal and healing they've seen, attributing these changes to the profound influence of the Holy Spirit and the timeless teachings of God's Word. The duo also takes a moment to convey their deep appreciation for the unwavering support they've received and reiterate their pledge to persistently serve families and individuals grappling with various challenges.As the conversation unfolds, the two spotlight the significance of being in sync with God's essence and consistently seeking His wisdom in every life facet. Sharing the Bible verses that have guided their paths, they emphasize the transformative role of the Holy Spirit in ushering hope and healing. Recognizing the myriad hurdles their clients face, from personal traumas to heart-wrenching losses, they extend a comforting hand of hope and solace. Unwavering in their mission, Linda and Merrill underscore their dedication to consistently offering aid and resources to those in need, all the while inviting listeners to join hands with them in fortifying and rejuvenating families.Quotes“Yeah, so there's thousands and thousands of people who have been reached through those downloads and through those podcasts, not to mention the classes we've taught. Just today, just today, we got an email through someone who heard us speak over a year ago, and they looked at their spouse at the time and said, we need to get help. And today, they messaged and said, ‘we are reaching out for help and it's long way overdue.'” (15:10 | Linda). Audiogram“I have to constantly remind myself that God, He is able to do more than I could ever dream of. that I can ever imagine, and I'm going to trust in Him to do that.” (36:50 | Linda) SM Quote“When people come into us and they're challenged, right? They're on that last string of hope. right? And sometimes people come in to us and they'll say, you are our last hope. And right away we're going, no, no, no, no, no. Okay. But really they're saying, man, we don't know what else could happen, what could work here. And so for me, it really is, man, we, we get aligned with the way of Christ. Okay. Which is God's way. We align ourselves and seek it out, learn it…it's how we start getting blessed. So that would be my takeaway that I really wanna run into in the next years.” (39:26| Merrill)LinksInstagram: @RockSolidFamiliesWebsite: https://www.rocksolidfamilies.org/Support the show

Rock Solid Families - EP254 - Calming Your Child's Emotional StormsCo-Host - Meredith Scudder - Assistant Director at Rock Solid FamiliesRegulating our emotions is not about suppressing them, but rather about learning to respond instead of react. By modeling calmness and practicing co-regulation, we can create a safe space for our children to navigate the storms of life.In this episode of the Rock Solid Families podcast, Merrill and Linda are joined by guest co-host and returning contributor, Meredith Scudder.  The team dives into a big topic in parenting, helping your child develop emotional awareness and regulation skills.  They discuss the necessity of co-regulation, the important role parents play in mastering their emotions, and setting the stage for their children to mirror healthy behaviors.Listeners are introduced to an intuitive hand model of the brain, a tool aimed at demystifying emotions and their regulation for both parents and children alike. Filled with actionable insights, the episode advises parents on techniques like aligning physically with the child's height, harnessing the power of gentle tones, and tapping into the calming effects of deep breaths. Throughout their discussion, the hosts continually return to the importance of proactive emotional management. They urge parents to be alert to their personal emotional triggers and, crucially, to take a beat before responding, ensuring a more considered, controlled reaction. Balancing compassion with discipline, they discuss the significance of acknowledging children's feelings while concurrently setting clear behavioral limits. They emphasize the value of being fully present, even when it means embracing moments of discomfort, and champion seeking authentic emotion-regulating strategies over easy digital diversions.Key Takeaways:Mastering our emotions sets a precedent for our children.Employ the hand model of the brain for a tangible grasp on emotions and their regulation.Recognize personal triggers and practice the pause, enabling a thoughtful response.Amid the parenting journey, bestow grace abundantly, both to oneself and one's children.Quotes“I have so many teens that they're struggling to go to their parents to talk about things that are going on because they're scared of their parents' reaction, which then I have to help them see that reaction is more fear-based for the parent. The parent's scared or worried or they're sad, their child's going through something. when they aren't taking the time to kind of collect themselves and regulate, they're then reacting and it's coming off scary to the child.” (16:45 | Meredith) AUDIOGRAM“Well, and as a parent, be okay with modeling to your child, like, hey, I'm actually not in a good space right now to talk. I'm feeling frustrated too. I need to take a minute. And respecting your child when they're not in the space either. So if you, as the parent, take a step back and collect yourself, and then you're ready to talk, if your child's not ready to talk, don't push it. Still make sure you come back to it. You'll have your time.” (20:56 | Meredith)“I really want to warn parents, please do not use screens at any age as a co-regulating. It's not. It's actually a deregulating tool.” (30:23 | Linda) QuoteInstagram: @RockSolidFamiliesWebsite: https://www.rocksolidfamilies.org/Support the show

Teaching our children about physical relationships is not about imposing rules, but about guiding them towards God's perfect design. It's about equipping them to make wise choices and protecting their hearts, minds, and bodies. Let's empower our children to understand their value and purpose, so they can navigate the challenges of this world with grace and integrity.In this episode of the Rock Solid Families podcast, hosts Linda Hutchinson and Merrill discuss the challenges of talking to teenagers about sexual topics in today's culture. They begin by addressing the issue of censorship and cancel culture, sharing their own experiences of being deleted from social media platforms for discussing sexual content from a Christian perspective. Despite these challenges, they emphasize the importance of having open and honest conversations with teenagers about sex and relationships, while also aligning these discussions with biblical values.The hosts provide practical tips for parents on how to approach these conversations with their teenagers. They emphasize the importance of creating a safe and open environment where teenagers feel comfortable discussing these topics. They encourage parents to invite opportunities for conversation, ask open-ended questions, and listen actively to their teenagers' thoughts and opinions. They also highlight the significance of teaching teenagers the value of waiting until marriage and the potential consequences of engaging in premarital sex. Ultimately, they stress the importance of guiding teenagers to make choices that align with God's word and lead to blessings in their lives.Throughout the episode, Linda and Merrill emphasize the need for parents to be proactive in addressing these topics with their teenagers. They acknowledge the challenges of navigating a culture that promotes permissiveness and distorted views of sex and relationships. However, they encourage parents to stay true to their values and provide their teenagers with a solid foundation rooted in biblical principles. By fostering open and honest conversations, parents can equip their teenagers to make informed and healthy choices regarding sex and relationships, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and God-honoring lifeKey topics:Invite opportunities for open and casual conversations about sex and relationships with your teenagers.Use open-ended questions to encourage dialogue and discover your teenager's thoughts and beliefs about sex and sexuality.Timing is important, so be ready to seize the moment when natural curiosity or relevant situations arise.Focus on building a strong relationship with your teenager, listening to their feelings and validating their experiences.Teach your teenagers the value of waiting until marriage for sexual intimacy and the benefits of following God's design for relationships.Quotes:"Invite opportunities, but then don't push, but gently invite them into the conversation." (11:38 | Linda) "We need to do more listening than talking and validating how our kids feel along the way." (18:49 | Linda)"We want to help teens understand that there is such a thing as second chance virginity and God's forgiveness when we mess up." (33:24 | Linda)“Not teaching God's way and allowing us to go the world's way makes for great TV movies, books, all kinds of smut on social media. So it makes for that stuff to be interesting. But the reality of it is it makes for heartache. It makes for breakup. It makes for emotional and psychological destruction.” (42:10 | Merrill) AudiogramLinks:Instagram: @RockSolidFamiliesWebsite: https://www.rocksolidfamilies.org/Support the show

Christian parents, are you wondering how to have "the sex talk" with your school-age sons and daughters? Merrill and Linda delve deeply into this question, offering candid insights in the latest Rock Solid Families episode. They underscore the urgency of addressing this subject, especially as kids today encounter sexual content far earlier than past generations. The episode spotlights the need for accurate terminology and the emphasis on principles of modesty and self-respect. Beyond just discussions on physical intimacy, the duo highlights the profound importance of instilling an understanding of one's identity in Christ and the inherent value this brings.With the ever-growing influence of media and the internet, Linda and Merrill tackle the difficulties Christian parents encounter. They advocate for vigilant monitoring of what children consume online, co-watching television shows and observing your children when they are gaming as a way to protect your children from inappropriate content. These co-watching moments also create a space where open teaching dialogue can happen naturally. Crucially, the couple stresses the role of parents as role models, exemplifying respect across genders and assisting their children in discerning the eternal wisdom of God from the things they may see and hear in the world.In essence, this episode is a great resource for parents who are continuing the conversation of sexuality with their maturing children (be sure to check out Part 1 of this series, episode 250, if you have younger children or if you need to revisit foundational topics you may have missed). Key Takeaways:Adopt clear, age-appropriate language when discussing sex with older children.Reinforce lessons on self-worth, modesty, and mutual respect, grounded in their identity in God.Actively supervise media exposure and encourage open discussions about content.Serve as exemplary figures, displaying respect and guiding children in contrasting God's word from worldly views.Equip kids with a robust Christian foundation to confidently face contemporary challenges.Quotes:"We really have to approach it differently than our parents did. We have to not put our head in the sand and pretend like this is not happening because it is." (02:03 | Linda Hutchinson)"This is that time where your kids are going to get their first look, their first hear, of different things that are related to sex." (02:37 | Merrill Hutchinson)"It is near to impossible to keep your children from being exposed. And so you've got to get ahead of it and decide, OK, I want my children to learn the right thing at the right time and hear it from us instead of the kid down the street." (00:06:14 | Linda Hutchinson) Quote"And this is where at these elementary ages, where boys and girls are starting to recognize that there is a difference between boys and girls. And so this is where us as parents really want to start talking and teaching about modesty, about protecting your own private parts and about protecting and being aware of those with others. And so this is when we're actually having talks at these early elementary ages of, your private parts are yours and you're not to allow other people to touch them without your parents present and you're not to touch others." (16:11 | Merrill Hutchinson)"Finally, teaching your children to discern between what his word, God's word, teaches and what the world is teaching is super important." (36:47 | Linda Hutchinson)Instagram: @RockSolidFamiliesSupport the show

"Teaching our children about sex is not just about the act itself, but about instilling in them a deep understanding of their worth and purpose as beautifully created beings in God's image." - Linda HutchinsonWelcome to the Rock Solid Families podcast! In this episode, Linda and Merrill Hutchinson kick off an important new series called "Sex: The Right Talk at the Right Time." They understand that talking to our kids about sex can be a challenging and uncomfortable topic, but it's crucial for parents to approach it in a way that aligns with their Christian values. Over the next four weeks, they will dive into different age groups and developmental readiness to help parents navigate this sensitive subject with confidence.This week, Linda and Merrill focus on the early years, from birth to preschool. They emphasize the importance of building a strong foundation for children by teaching them about God's design and intention for their bodies. By instilling a biblical worldview from a young age, parents can help their children understand their identity, purpose, and the value of their bodies. They encourage parents to use appropriate language, teach modesty, and protect their children from exposure to inappropriate content.The hosts also address common misconceptions and challenges parents may face in today's culture. They emphasize the need to rely on God's word as the guiding authority and to avoid promoting ideas that go against His design. They also discuss the importance of open communication and addressing any confusion or questions children may have. By approaching the topic of sex with grace, understanding, and a biblical perspective, parents can equip their children to navigate the complexities of the world with confidence and clarity.Join Linda and Merrill as they provide practical advice, personal anecdotes, and biblical wisdom to help parents lay a solid foundation for their children's understanding of sex and relationships. Whether your children are in the early years, elementary school, or the teen years, this series will provide valuable insights and guidance to help you navigate this important aspect of parenting.Key Takeaways:Start teaching children from a young age about their identity and purpose as created by God.Use age-appropriate language and explanations when discussing topics related to sex and gender.Protect children from exposure to inappropriate content and conversations.Teach modesty and the importance of protecting one's body from a young age.Address and correct any inappropriate behavior or exploration in a calm and educational manner.Quotes:"We want to give you greater confidence in the way that God has designed and intended for us to really tackle some of these problems and these topics of sex and development and dating and all these kind of things." (04:39 | Linda)"We want to help them navigate this really uncertain world of sex and gender. And how do we approach this as parents, Christian parents that God has called us to be?" (12:05 | Linda)"We're trying to let God's word be the clear path. It's the clear path. And so we're trying to alleviate the confusion by directing them to God's word." (35:32 | Merrill)Instagram @RockSolidFamiliesWebsite https://www.rocksolidfamilies.org/Support the show

“As parents, you've got to know what your values are before you can set healthy boundaries,” says co-host Linda Hutchinson. The art of instilling and maintaining healthy boundaries with children can be challenging for parents. Merrill and Linda reflect on personal experiences, emphasizing the detrimental consequences of overindulgence and the importance of letting children experience the ramifications of their actions. As parents, it's essential to differentiate between occasional favors and habits that could hinder a child's growth into a self-sufficient individual.Merrill and Linda further discuss the pitfalls of a child-centered home, advocating instead for a balance where God and family values take precedence. By setting clear boundaries and expectations, parents can guide their children towards becoming responsible and well-adjusted adults.The hosts stress the importance of listening, adapting, and ensuring that your child's dreams and aspirations are genuinely their own. Too often, parents find themselves unconsciously pressuring their children into fulfilling dreams that aren't genuinely theirs. Merrill and Linda share the complexities they encountered in their personal journey with their children, reminding listeners that no one is perfect, and parenting is a continuous learning curve. The key takeaway? It's not about control but cultivating an environment of safety, security, and genuine understanding, rooted in solid values. Whether you're a new parent, a seasoned pro, or somewhere in between, this episode offers invaluable insights to guide your family towards health and harmony.Quotes"The child centered home, in and of itself, sounds great on paper. It's extremely dangerous and it's where entitlement comes from." (33:51 | Merrill Hutchinson)"So please, set a boundary. You're the parent. So treat your child lovingly, but as a child." (34:35 | Linda Hutchinson)"The fact is, you're going to get pushback from your kiddos. And so, you're really going to have to evaluate like, again, am I living my life through them or is this healthy that I'm asking this boundary of them?" (37:00 | Linda Hutchinson)"We are always working the underlying value system, that at the end of the day, that's what your kid is going to walk out of your home with. And if it's a value system that only values them, then you certainly do not want to negotiate that benefit of them being more self-centered." (38:46 | Merrill Hutchinson)#HealthyBoundaries #ChildCenteredHome #ParentingWisdom #RaiseResponsibleKids #FamilyValues #Rocksolidfamilies, #familytherapy,  #marriagecounseling,  #parenting,  #faithbasedcounseling, #counseling, #Strongdads, #coaching, #lifecoach, #lifecoaching, #marriagecoaching, #marriageandfamily, #control, #security, #respect, #affection, #love, #purpose, #faith,LinksInstagram Rock Solid Families | https://www.instagram.com/rocksolidfamilies/?hl=en Website | https://www.rocksolidfamilies.org/Support the show

Hosts - Merrill and Linda HutchinsonGuest - Meredith Scudder - Assistant Director at Rock Solid FamiliesIn today's episode, your hosts Merrill and Linda welcome back special guest Meredith Scudder to join their discussion on defense mechanisms. Together, they emphasize that defense mechanisms are unconscious ways to reduce internal stress, acting as protective barriers against uncomfortable emotions or experiences and encourage listeners to acknowledge their own defense mechanisms and understand how they might impact relationships and personal growth.This episode of Rock Solid Families podcast delves into the intriguing realm of defense mechanisms and emotional healing. Together with hosts Linda and Merill, Meredith explore various defense mechanisms people adopt to shield themselves from emotional wounds, ranging from humor and denial to projection and reaction formation. By acknowledging that these defense mechanisms stem from past traumas and serve as protective shields, they emphasize the need for self-awareness to comprehend the underlying emotions behind these coping strategies. Meredith and the hosts stress the value of finding safe spaces and accountability partners to process emotions and cultivate healthier coping mechanisms.Don't feel ashamed of your defense mechanisms, as they are a natural response to past experiences. Instead, be open to change and consider healthier ways of dealing with emotions. In the end, everyone has defense mechanisms to overcome. But with the right support and awareness, personal growth and deeper connections can be achieved.Quotes"Sometimes these defense mechanisms create a boundary from us actually getting a little deeper either into ourselves or into our relationships.” (2:15 | Merrill)“Repression is where we subconsciously block out experiences. We've experienced something traumatic and we're conscious when it happens, but the brain shuts it out. Whereas suppression is when we consciously push it down.” ( 21:32 | Meredith)“These defense mechanisms are coming up for a reason. So you need to ask yourself, how are you feeling? And what are you trying to protect yourself from in that moment?” (26:24 | Meredith)#EmotionalHealing #DefenseMechanisms #SelfAwareness #CopingStrategies #HealthyEmotionsLinksDefense Mechanisms | https://docs.google.com/document/d/1lJOCtOK6zmY80g7r_FYB07Qo_zvhioObGn7pkzJLqIQ/edit?usp=sharingInstagram Merrill Hutchinson | https://www.instagram.com/hutchinsonmerrill/?hl=en Instagram Rock Solid Families | https://www.instagram.com/rocksolidfamilies/?hl=en Website | https://www.rocksolidfamilies.org/ Support the show

“God designed marriage to be a covenant modeled from the one that He made with us,” explains co-host Linda Hutchinson. Nowadays, 50% of all marriages end in divorce. This is a startling statistic. The good news is that when you consider only the marriages of couples who pray together, less than 1% of those marriages end in divorce. In the first 4 parts of their Summer of Love Series, co-hosts Merrill and Linda Hutchinson introduced their Summer of Love Marriage Assessment for evaluating the quality of a marriage and walked through 3 of the four categories— communication, emotional connectedness and physical intimacy. Today, they discuss spiritual intimacy and share ten ways to build and strengthen spiritual intimacy within a marriage. Technically, you cannot have a marriage in the way that God intended without spiritual intimacy. There are immense benefits to deepening your relationship with your partner through a shared connection with God. One such benefit is that God acts as a third party in your relationship, providing mediation during times of conflict. By reflecting on your covenant with God and looking to his Word for guidance, it will be easier for you and your spouse to be on the same page when making decisions. God's love is unconditional. So when you mirror your marriage with God's covenant with humanity, it will be easier to love your spouse unconditionally and extend them grace when they make mistakes. When you strengthen your spiritual intimacy with your spouse, it solidifies why God is important to your family and weaves faith into the fabric of the futures you are creating for yourselves and your children. If you are not sure where to begin with developing your spiritual intimacy, start with having an open, honest conversation with your spouse about God. Find a church where you both feel comfortable and turn to the scriptures anytime you are questioning what decisions to make for your family. Start creating faith based traditions for your children and really showing them the importance of prioritizing a relationship with God. When you commit to growing your spiritual intimacy, you and your spouse will be able to experience the joy and connection with one another that God intended for all His children.Quotes“If the spiritual side is not in your marriage, then you're not as deep as you can go yet.” (9:33 | Merrill)“Oftentimes marriages as soon as it gets difficult, they throw the divorce word. But what would happen if you both humbled yourself and said, ‘What does God ask us to do here?'.” (11:51 | Merrill)“God designed marriage to be a covenant modeled from the one that He made with us.” (12:29 | Linda)“Belief or even faith is empty without deeds.” (18:43 | Merrill) “If we pray together on a daily basis… those marriages divorce at less than 1%.” (20:58 | Merrill)“Love your spouse the way God loves you.” (39:27 | Linda) LinksSummer of Love Assessment: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1MqDxgddfmr7rzbQRFV1jC0VaUdok3XnG/view?usp=sharingInstagram Rock Solid Families | https://www.instagram.com/rocksolidfamilies/?hl=en Website | https://www.rocksolidfamilies.org/ Support the show

Rock Solid Families - Ep 246 - Summer of Love - Part 4 - Physical Intimacy “We're called to be unconditionally loving and respectful but when we're hurting each other, we start to throw conditions,” shares co-host Merrill Hutchinson. When it comes to building intimacy within a relationship, men and women often approach the idea from very different perspectives. Men tend to be more focused on sex as the main form of physical intimacy whereas women tend to combine physical, emotional, and spiritual intimacy into one thing. In the first 3 parts of their Summer of Love Series, co-hosts Merrill and Linda Hutchinson introduced their Summer of Love Marriage Assessment for evaluating the quality of a marriage and walked through 2 of the four categories, communication and emotional connectedness. Today, they discuss physical intimacy and provide insight into how both men and women view intimacy in a relationship.Even though men might think otherwise, it is not possible to separate physical intimacy from emotional and spiritual intimacy when considering the overall wellness of a marriage. Just as women may need foreplay before getting physically intimate with their spouse, men often require warming up before engaging in emotional or spiritual intimacy. It's important to remember that neither the husband nor the wife is right or wrong in their perspective of intimacy, they are just wired to think differently. To reconnect and grow your physical intimacy, you will need to take the time to understand one another while extending grace, unconditional love, and respect. There are several intimacy busters that can cause issues within a marriage such as withholding one form of intimacy in order to get another, constantly criticizing your spouse, or acting in a way that seems emotionally distant. Often, these issues come from the lack of understanding that stems from the inherent differences between the sexes. When you and your partner can approach intimacy from a place of unconditional love and respect and show grace and forgiveness, then you can walk hand in hand with Christ toward a Summer of Love. Quotes“Men have to be warmed up in emotional intimacy and in spiritual intimacy.” (15:01 | Merrill)“Please do not use one [type of intimacy] as a weapon to get the other or vice versa.” (16:03 | Linda)“If we're going to improve the physical intimacy, we can't just throw aside the emotional and spiritual intimacy, because that's how the female brain is more connected.” (17:50 | Merrill) “We're called to be unconditionally loving and respectful but when we're hurting each other, we start to throw conditions.” (20:03 | Merrill)LinksSummer of Love Assessment: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1MqDxgddfmr7rzbQRFV1jC0VaUdok3XnG/view?usp=sharingIntimacy Builders and Intimacy Busters -https://drive.google.com/file/d/1QGgjyGeDalAQjt0vBN8oe-Kszk62d3Lw/view?usp=sharingRock Solid Families: http://rocksolidfamilies.orgInstagram Rock Solid Families | https://www.instagram.com/rocksolidfamilies/?hl=en Website | https://www.rocksolidfamilies.org/ Support the show

“There's a lot of evil and hopelessness out in the world, but we don't have to experience that when we have each other and when we know Christ,” explains co-host Linda Hutchinson. Emotional wellness within a relationship is what keeps marriages healthy and strong year after year. In Parts 1 and 2 of their Summer of Love Series, co-hosts Merrill and Linda Hutchinson shared their Marriage Assessment tool for evaluating the quality of a marriage, breaking it down into four categories, emotional connectedness, spiritual connectedness, physical intimacy, and communication skills. Today, Merrill and Linda discuss emotional connectedness and provide five specific ways to reignite the spark, so you can both begin to dream again for the future you are building together.Emotional wellness is all about how you and your partner feel about each other. Think about how you felt about your spouse back when you were still dating. Do you still feel that same level of excitement now? Do you still dream for your future with them in mind? If you and your partner have lost some of this emotional connection, don't worry. You can start to rekindle emotional wellness through intentional communication and empathy. Check in on your partner's emotional state, making note of how they are doing, and doing what you can to lighten their load. Remember that when you decided to marry, two became one. Try to view situations from your partner's perspective. Fuel one another's hearts and the hope for the future you will share together will begin to flourish again. Consider whether your actions are helping or hurting your partner's heart. You both decided to commit your lives to one another and that means that you cannot be selfish with your behavior. Complete the linked Marriage Assessment to see where you and your partner stand on emotional connectedness and start taking steps today to reignite dreaming with one another. Quotes“Sometimes we have very unrealistic expectations and we really set our partner up for failure when we put them on a pedestal, when we expect them to complete us, and to give us something that really God is the one that's intended to give us, not our partner.” (8:26-8:45 | Linda)“Let's go about pursuing those dreams and seeking out that connection with your partner the right healthy way.” (10:27-10:33 | Linda)“Are you helping or hurting your partner's heart?” (18:07-18:09 | Linda)“When you committed your life to one another, you committed to share the load together.” (23:37-23:42 | Linda)“The key is empathy.” (24:14-24:15 | Merrill)“There's a lot of evil and hopelessness out in the world, but we don't have to experience that when we have each other and when we know Christ.” (25:55-26:02 | Linda)LinksSummer of Love Assessment: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ZPpGt0BsmNwkaBsUSwoUBTsYtf4K4dDFqJJI1uDxoOs/edit?usp=sharingYouTube: https://youtu.be/ubpZ1AggkiU Podcast:https://www.buzzsprout.com/636718/13113598-rock-solid-families-podcast-summer-of-love-series-part-3-emotional-wellness-episode-245.mp3?download=trueWebsite | https://www.rocksolidfamilies.org/ Support the show

Welcome to the Strong Families Podcast with Jo & Amy, launching Monday 24th of June!

Rock Solid Families - Ep 244 -  Summer of Love Series - Part 2 - Communication“We're not saying you're not going to have conflict. It's how you resolve the conflict and the tools that you have in your toolbox,” explains co-host Linda Hutchinson. Healthy communication strategies are pivotal for maintaining and building intimacy within a marriage. In Part 1 of their Summer of Love Series, co-hosts Merrill and Linda introduced their Marriage Assessment, a tool for couples to determine their strengths and weaknesses within their partnership. This assessment breaks marriage quality down into four categories, emotional connectedness, spiritual connectedness, physical intimacy, and communication skills. Today, Merrill and Linda Hutchinson discuss communication skills through sharing their ten key rules of engagement for communicating with a significant other. These ten rules of engagement are game changers when it comes to building intimacy and communicating effectively. By taking the time now to recognize and resolve breakdowns in communication, you can prevent larger marital issues from popping up down the road. Effective communication starts with intentionality. Make time each day for a heart check with your partner, prioritizing checking in on how one another is feeling over any and all distractions. When speaking with your spouse, give them your full undivided attention and resist the urge to interrupt the conversation. Research shows that it can take around eight minutes to progress past surface level talk, so it is critical that you allow enough time for these daily check-ins. When you do have a conflict, set a time limit for resolving it instead of allowing it to linger and grow. By using ‘I statements', you can take ownership of your feelings and be assertive without putting your partner on the defensive. Most importantly, make time to pray with your partner. Couples who pray together statistically have a much lower likelihood of divorce.Following these ten rules of engagement will help you build more intimacy so that you and your partner can enjoy a Summer of Love. Be sure to complete the linked Marriage Assessment to get a clear picture of the quality of your marriage and use it as a guideline for which areas to invest more work into. Quotes“Men are slow to warm up to talking about how they are feeling about things.” (12:47-12:52 | Merrill)“Research says it takes about seven to eight minutes before you get past surface talk.” (14:05-14:10 | Linda)“Trust the process and show that you are invested in it.” (15:31-15:36 | Merrill)“Pray together with your spouse on a regular basis.” (31:47-31:50 | Linda) LinksSummer of Love Assessment: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ZPpGt0BsmNwkaBsUSwoUBTsYtf4K4dDFqJJI1uDxoOs/edit?usp=sharingYoutube: https://youtu.be/MHdbrBwDSVU. Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/636718/13113572Instagram Rock Solid Families | https://www.instagram.com/rocksolidfamilies/?hl=en Website | https://www.rocksolidfamilies.org/ Support the show

Rock Solid Families - Ep 242 -  Summer of Love Series - Part 1Summer of Love Assessment: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1MqDxgddfmr7rzbQRFV1jC0VaUdok3XnG/view?usp=sharing“You take your car in for regular oil changes, you go to the doctor for your regular checkups and go to the dentist for your regular cleanings. Why are we not being as intentional or really focused on our marriage and keeping it fresh?”, asks co-host Linda Hutchinson. Continuing to grow love and intimacy within your relationship takes work. Both you and your spouse must be on the same page about wanting to put in the time and energy required for building a healthy marriage. Today, Merrill and Linda share their Summer of Love Marriage Assessment and walk through each of the steps for scoring the quality of your marriage. When you know where your relationship is lacking, you can begin to actively work on fixing the problems and build a healthier marriage going forward. The assessment breaks the quality of a marriage down into four categories, dreaming or emotional connectedness, spiritual connectedness, physical intimacy, and communication skills. Depending on where you and your partner each score yourselves for each question, you may find that you both have very different perspectives on the current health of your marriage. This is natural and gives you a great starting point for beginning to repair your relationship.A healthy marriage requires dedication to continuing to grow your love and intimacy each day. Complete the Summer of Love Marriage Assessment with your spouse to see where your marriage is thriving and where it may need some additional work. Quotes“You take your car in for regular oil changes, you go to the doctor for your regular checkups and go to the dentist for your regular cleanings. Why are we not being as intentional or really focused on our marriage and keeping it fresh?” (7:06-7:21 | Linda)“Even on a simple level, we have to have a commonness in how we have the faith to move on each day.” (11:38-11:44 | Merrill)“It's not about having conflict. It's about how well you repair it.” (18:26-18:30 | Linda)“If you don't take the time to understand each other and listen to one another, then you're not going to have that trust level and you're not going to have that intimacy that we're looking for.” (24:52-25:02 | Linda)“How do we get healthier so we can have a summer of love?” (34:00-34:03 | Linda) LinksYouTube: https://youtu.be/EW4gSIwi7zU Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/636718/13074279-rock-solid-families-podcast-summer-of-love-series-part-1-episode-242.mp3?download=trueInstagram Merrill Hutchinson | https://www.instagram.com/hutchinsonmerrill/?hl=en Instagram Rock Solid Families | https://www.instagram.com/rocksolidfamilies/?hl=en Website | https://www.rocksolidfamilies.org/ Support the show

God has designed all living creatures to fight for life.  Built in to our creation is the idea that life should be valued and protected.  We have intrinsic responses to danger such as our fight or flight responses, to help us in life threatening moments. We make it a priority to have protective measures in place to keep us from harm.  We are motivated to spend time, money, and energy to protective ourselves from threats to our lives and potential harm. At what point does our fear of dying become obsessive and even counterproductive to living?  The fear of death can be crippling to many people.  Fear so great that the person feels trapped and unable to live with the abundance that God desires for them. Fear of dying comes from so many aspects related to death.  Uncertainty in the time,  the process, the emotions, and the relationships. What will it look like?  This great fear stems from the unknown.  During this show, Merrill and Linda discuss the importance of finding a reassuring certainty in our death that is promised by Jesus Christ.  This promise that Jesus gives is what allows us to look death in the face with a settle heart and a clear path forward with Christ.  Our Christian Faith is the anti-fear of death. To live our fullest we must not allow fear to dictate our motives and actions.  We must respect the potential dangers and risks but not be paralysed by them.  Christ promises so much more when we give our fears to him and trust in his ways.http://rocksolidfamilies.orgSupport the show

Rock Solid Families - Ep 241 - Father's Day 2023“We would do very well for the next generation to start celebrating the women and men for how God designed them to be,” explains co-host Merrill Hutchinson. Research shows that 31% of children in the US are being raised without their biological father in their home. This is an alarming statistic, as fatherlessness has been shown to have direct correlations to hardships such as drug use, homelessness, and crime. Today, co-hosts Merrill and Linda Hutchinson approach Father's Day with a discussion about celebrating the important role of fathers and the value of protecting and obeying the Biblical family structure that God created for His people.It is not enough to just have gratitude for the blessings that have been passed down from generation to generation. As a parent, you are responsible for not only passing down those blessings to your own children but also teaching them that those blessings came from God. Fathers, especially, must teach their sons to protect the concept of the traditional family structure and the roles that men and women were designed for by the Lord. Just dropping your kids off at Sunday school is not enough to ensure your children have a strong foundation in faith. You have to demonstrate God's word by living it and show your children what a healthy, Godly family looks like. When you model what it actually means to live by God's Word, your children will be better able to recreate that for their own families in the future.God wants His children to all reach the blessings of the Promised Land of milk and honey. It is up to you as parents to help your children live by God's design, so that they too can receive the blessings of the Lord. Quotes“31% of the kids in our country are being raised without their biological father in the house.” (5:35-5:42 | Merrill)“Stop bashing the men. We need our men as much as we need our women, neither is better. Both are essential to a healthy culture.” (23:17-23:25 | Linda)“Once you start teaching your sons what it is to be of God in terms of how they behave and act; then you teach them, especially us dads to our sons, how to protect that whole concept.” (25:30-25:48 | Merrill)“Mom and dads, we have got to practice obedience to God's design.” (28:07-28:10 | Linda)“We would do very well for the next generation to start celebrating the women for how God designed them to be, the femininity of the women, the caring, the strength of the women, and celebrating men for how God designed them to be.” (30:21-30:36 | Merrill)“Do not apologize for having a mom and a dad, for being called a woman and a man. Please, let us as followers of Christ, celebrate and fight for the protection of the way God designed us to live our lives.” (31:56-32:12 | Linda) LinksYouTube: https://youtu.be/oY5ssOrDDS8 Podcast:https://www.buzzsprout.com/636718/12977842-rock-solid-families-podcast-fathers-day-2023-episode-241.mp3?download=trueInstagram Merrill Hutchinson | https://www.instagram.com/hutchinsonmerrill/?hl=en Instagram Rock Solid Families | https://www.instagram.com/rocksolidfamilies/?hl=en Website | https://www.rocksolidfamilies.org/ Support the show

Rock Solid Families - Ep 240 - Preparing Your Kids for Battle“As Christ followers, it's important that we band together and equip our kids for the culture war that we are in today,” shares co-host Linda Hutchinson. When you were growing up, you may never have needed to defend your faith because Christianity was more accepted. Nowadays, kids are growing up in a very different world where Christianity is no longer the dominant culture. Most alarmingly, those who stick by God's Word are now often viewed as evil, judgmental, and old-fashioned. Studies show that 70% of college aged children in the United States will walk away from their faith, and although many will return when they have their own families, around 30 to 35% will remain lost. Today, co-hosts Merrill and Linda Hutchinson discuss how to equip your children for the spiritual battles they will face throughout their lives, so that they know how to defend their faith and stand strong on the foundation of God's Word.It is no longer enough to rely on Church and Sunday School alone when training your children to have faith in God's Word. There is an active battle for your children's hearts and minds and it is important for parents to prepare themselves for questions and possibly even backlash about their spiritual beliefs. In the book Mama Bear Apologetics, there are ten steps outlined for parents to follow when laying a strong foundation of faith for their children. It is up to you as the parent to set a healthy example of what having a personal relationship with Christ looks like. Teach your children to seek the truth in God's word and to think critically when their faith is challenged. When you properly equip your kids to defend their faith, you give them the tools to live Godly lives and share the good news of God's love with the world.Quotes“At least 70% of students who go off to college or are college age will walk away from their faith as a Christian.” (6:03-6:11 | Linda)“As Christ followers, it's important that we band together and equip our kids for the culture war that we are in today.” (11:54-12:00 | Linda)“You're losing 30 to 35% of your total church population with every generation.” (14:05-14:11 | Linda)“Earlier and earlier our children are being confronted with very sweet sounding teachings which are lies and a very appealing worldview.” (25:34-25:43 | Linda)“The only way we can reverse some of these statistics is to recognize the lies for ourselves, and then help our kids recognize them.” (26:16-26:23 | Linda)“What we know is that when we go against God's way, God's nature, things don't work well.” (35:02-35:09 | Merrill)LinksYouTube: https://youtu.be/BkYLOoJl0oc. Podcast:https://www.buzzsprout.com/636718/12945917-rock-solid-families-podcast-preparing-your-kids-for-battle-episode-240.mp3?download=truehttp://rocksolidfamilies.orgInstagram Merrill Hutchinson | https://www.instagram.com/hutchinsonmerrill/?hl=en Instagram Rock Solid Families | https://www.instagram.com/rocksolidfamilies/?hl=en Website | https://www.rocksolidfamilies.org/ Support the show

Rock Solid Families - Ep 239 - The 5 Essentials of Trust Merrill and Linda Hutchinson“If you are a person who can't trust people, you live a life of paranoia. If you are a person who can't be trusted, you live a life of frustration and anger,” explains co-host Merrill Hutchinson. Trust is the foundation for all healthy relationships. Without it, you are unable to form relationships with others and will end up isolated. On the other hand, if you give your trust too freely, you open yourself up to getting hurt. Today, co-hosts Merrill and Linda Hutchinson discuss building trust based on the 5 essentials outlined in Dr. Henry Cloud's book, Trust. They share examples from their own life experiences along with a look into what the Bible has to say about trust and establishing healthy boundaries.Trust is the most difficult part of a relationship to rebuild after it has been broken. The five essential elements for determining whether to trust somebody are understanding, motive or intentions, ability, character, and reputation or track record. In addition to these essential elements, Merrill suggests that time is also a critical component of building trust, especially in regard to track record and making up for past mistakes. When you choose to trust someone, you are taking a very real risk with your heart. In order to protect yourself from unnecessary risk, you can use the five elements as a sort of litmus test for whether to open up to that person or not. The Bible says to trust in God and His Word above all else. When you establish boundaries around who is worthy of your trust, you set yourself up for forming healthier relationships. The next time you are in a position where you are deciding whether to trust someone or are trying to build trust within a relationship, consider these five essential elements before making yourself vulnerable. Quotes“Trust is the fastest thing to fall apart and the hardest thing to rebuild back in relationships.” (1:51-1:58 | Merrill)“I don't want anyone out there listening to be boundaryless and unprotected, because that's when we really are hurt.” (9:21-9:28 | Linda)“The Bible says, ‘The heart is deceitful, above all things', so if we just trust in our own heart, not God and His Word, then we set ourselves up for failure.” (11:02-11:10 | Linda)“We need to trust people whose motives align with God and His Word.” (17:22-17:25 | Linda)“The best predictor of the future is the past. When we trust someone, we place ourselves in a vulnerable position, so we need to do due diligence of looking at their record.” (27:06-27:16 | Linda)“If you are a person who can't trust people, you live a life of paranoia. If you are a person who can't be trusted, you live a life of frustration and anger.” (33:42-33:53 | Merrill)YouTube -https://youtu.be/gZvSZGq_TLs Podcast -https://www.buzzsprout.com/636718/12878013 Webpage - https://rocksolidfamilies.orgInstagram Merrill Hutchinson | https://www.instagram.com/hutchinsonmerrill/?hl=en Instagram Rock Solid Families | https://www.instagram.com/rocksolidfamilies/?hl=en Website | https://www.rocksolidfamilies.org/ Support the show

Rock Solid Families EP237: Life Transformation - Their StoriesMerrill and Linda Hutchinson“Trust is not rebuilt overnight. We've got to just keep showing each other that we have the right intention, and we're going to try, and we're going to relearn some new practices,” shares co-host Merrill Hutchinson. Periods of life transformation are often uncomfortable and take time and hard work. But God is ready to walk with you every step of the way. Today co-hosts Linda and Merrill Hutchinson discuss the power of life transformation through sharing with permission the stories of some of the people who have sought their guidance over the years. Merrill and Linda share several stories of clients who have come to them seeking help at times in their lives when they were struggling and in need of help to transform their lives. Many sought help with their marriages, while others were needing help healing from past traumatic experiences. Merrill and Linda explain that regardless of the uniqueness of each situation, everyone came to the same realization in the end, that by prioritizing God above all else, they could heal and transform their lives and interpersonal relationships. Learning how to surrender to God is a huge part of the process of transformation. Take the time to invite God in by talking with Him, seeking out His Word, and seeking Godly counsel whenever necessary. Whether you are trying to rebuild your marriage, heal past wounds, or work on yourself, improving your relationship with God is step one. Quotes“Trust is not rebuilt overnight. We've got to just keep showing each other that we have the right intention, and we're going to try, and we're going to relearn some new practices.” (17:29-17:37 | Merrill)“It gives me hope that even when you begin to drift as a couple, or when you think you've got it all on the outside, according to the world, you don't. And, man there is something better out there.” (18:49-18:59 | Linda)“Sometimes our trauma in our life is constantly leaking out of our pores, and we don't even know it.” (21:47-21:54 | Merrill) “Stop living guilty. God wants to bless you. And as long as you're out there living, it is not about all of you being perfect and trying to check every box. It's about you just using your gifts to serve and to love people and God.” (37:01-37:17 | Merrill)LinksYouTube: https://youtu.be/rn0ZMu20odc Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/636718/12797486-rock-solid-families-podcast-life-transformation-our-stories-episode-236.mp3?download=trueInstagram Merrill Hutchinson | https://www.instagram.com/hutchinsonmerrill/?hl=en Instagram Rock Solid Families | https://www.instagram.com/rocksolidfamilies/?hl=en Website | https://www.rocksolidfamilies.org/ Support the show

Rock Solid Families Podcast  EP236: Life Transformation - Sharing Our StoriesMerrill and Linda Hutchison“The idea of going through the transformation oftentimes means you're going to go through a difficult time. And if you right now are in a difficult time, rather than looking for quick fixes, just start your talk with God,” explains co-host Merrill Hutchinson. Transformation is often uncomfortable and it definitely is not easy, but it can open your life to possibilities you never would have imagined for yourself. Today co-hosts Linda and Merrill Hutchinson discuss the power of life transformation through sharing their own personal experiences with being guided through the transformation process by putting their faith in God. One of the most difficult times in Merrill and Linda's lives was when they were facing Merrill's struggle with an anxiety disorder. It had gotten to the point where he was questioning his faith and questioning why they were even going to Church. He was having frequent panic attacks and closing himself off, and Linda did not know how to help him alongside her own challenges of being a new mom. They found themselves at a new Church, seeking guidance and knowing that in order for transformation to occur, they needed to change their approach. Even though this period of time was difficult for Merrill and Linda, it was also an incredible opportunity for transformation that ultimately led them to the beautiful relationship they have with God. Instead of reaching for quick fixes like self-medicating, open yourself up to the immeasurable power of God's love. Transformation is not an overnight fix and in fact is a lifelong journey. When you embrace this journey together with God, you will begin to see a beautiful transformation take place as God opens the doors to the life that He desires for you.Quotes“The idea of going through the transformation oftentimes means you're going to go through a difficult time. And if you right now are in a difficult time, rather than looking for quick fixes, just start your talk with God.” (15:43-16:02 | Merrill)“When you start to really need God, you know you've got to do something different.” (19:10-19:13 | Linda) “We want to invite you along the journey and opportunity for transformation.” (24:26-24:31 | Merrill)“I believe in the power transformation. I believe that God is able to do immeasurably more than all we can ever ask or imagine.” (25:26-26:04 | Linda)“Transformation is not always fun, but to get to the other side is amazing.” (27:42-27:46 | Merrill)LinksYouTube: https://youtu.be/6T1zisn8oDcPodcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/636718/12799388-rock-solid-families-podcast-life-transformation-sharing-their-stories-episode-237.mp3?download=trueInstagram Merrill Hutchinson | https://www.instagram.com/hutchinsonmerrill/?hl=en Instagram Rock Solid Families | https://www.instagram.com/rocksolidfamilies/?hl=en Website | https://www.rocksolidfamilies.org/ Support the show

Rock Solid Radio -  Ep 235 - Intimacy Builders and Intimacy BustersMerrill and LindaPodAmp“Everybody has a desire for emotional intimacy and physical intimacy and even spiritual intimacy, but the amount that you need could be different. And neither one is right or wrong,” explains co-host Merrill Hutchinson. Men and women tend to have very different ideas when they hear the word intimacy. These differences mean that oftentimes husbands and wives end up busting the intimacy in their marriage rather than building it up. Today co-hosts Linda and Merrill Hutchinson discuss how to build and strengthen physical, emotional, and spiritual intimacy within a marriage by sharing ten intimacy builders and busters.Although women may tend to be more focused on emotional intimacy and men on physical intimacy, all three areas are important for a healthy and fulfilling marriage. Much of intimacy building comes down to understanding the ways your intimacy needs differ from that of your spouse and working together within that set up to strengthen your relationship. Merrill and Linda talk about ten different areas of intimacy builders and busters, some of which are acts of service, affirmation and appreciation, appropriate humor, unconditional respect, and spiritual connection. A marriage is a partnership and it is important that you and your spouse work as a team 100% of the time. Acknowledge and respect one another's differences and come together to build a stronger connection and deeper intimacy. To truly honor both your relationship with God and your relationship with your partner, approach one another with grace and understanding, unconditional love, and respect always. Quotes“Everybody has a desire for emotional intimacy and physical intimacy and even spiritual intimacy, but the amount that you need could be different. And neither one is right or wrong.” (12:00-12:13 | Merrill)“Ladies, we've got to understand that we can't just go and expect the world from our man without some warm up, without helping to connect with him in a way that he receives it.” (13:00-13:12 | Linda)“When you have been asked by your spouse, whether it be to have sex, or to have this deep discussion, emotional connection, please don't put them off day after day after day after day.” (20:25-20:37 | Linda)“If there's a ‘but' after your affirmation or your compliment, then you just might as well erase the compliment or affirmation.” (24:07-24:16 | Linda)“Being available for the acts of service is a real turn on for the intimacy, especially when you see without being asked.” (25:40-25:47 | Merrill)“If you want to build intimacy, you better have grace flowing out of your relationship.” (39:49-39:54 | Merrill) LinksYouTube | https://youtu.be/PCX0rHm235Q Podcast | https://www.buzzsprout.com/636718/12739145-rock-solid-families-podcast-intimacy-builders-and-intimacy-busters-episode-235.mp3?Instagram Merrill Hutchinson | https://www.instagram.com/hutchinsonmerrill/?hl=en Instagram Rock Solid Families | https://www.instagram.com/rocksolidfamilies/?hl=en Support the show

Rock Solid Families - Ep 233 - Rock Solid Families - The Heaviness of GriefMerrill and Linda Hutchinson“Everyone grieves differently, and there's no one right way to grieve. We're just here to give you permission to grieve, whether that be in anger, depression, denial, or acceptance. It's not meaning you didn't love that person, it means that you have decided to keep moving on in life,” explains co-host Linda Hutchinson. When you are dealing with a tragedy like a death or loss, there are several stages of grief that you may experience. People often talk about these stages as if they are linear, but in reality, you may bounce back and forth between them as you process your emotions. Today, co-hosts Merrill and Linda Hutchinson talk about the heaviness of grief and seven things to consider doing when helping others through the grieving process.When a tragedy occurs, people often go directly to denial, not wanting to believe that something so upsetting has taken place. They may become angry and direct that anger inwardly, outwardly, or even toward God Himself, especially in the case of an untimely death. As healing progresses and people allow themselves to feel the sadness of loss, they will naturally progress toward depression and finally, acceptance. Sometimes people can become trapped in their grief. And at that point, they may need to seek professional help. If you are helping someone through their grief, do not try to hurry them through it. Allow them the time to process at their own speed and provide a safe space where they can share their feelings.Everyone will experience grief at some point throughout their lives. However, not everyone will process their grief the exact same way. Some ways you can help guide others through their grief is to acknowledge their loss, provide practical help such as babysitting or cooking a meal, offer to pray for them, and share scriptures where appropriate.Quotes“When you finally start to experience the reality of a loss, we're not denying it, we're not bargaining out of it. Depression is actually a good sign that you are coming out of it.” (9:59-10:12 | Linda)“There's so many of our clients that believe that if I accept it, then that means I wanted it to happen.” (11:12-11:18 | Linda)“People have to solve their own problems. They have to walk through their own stuff. And so giving advice that is unsolicited, really most of the time is hurtful.” (15:05-15:15 | Merrill)“Don't assume that somebody should progress at a certain rate.” (16:49-16:53 | Merrill) “Talk less, listen more.” (20:18-20:20 | Merrill)“Everyone grieves differently, and there's no one right way to grieve. And so we're just here to give you permission to grieve, whether that be in anger, that be depression, whether that be denial, acceptance. It's not meaning you didn't love that person, it means that you have decided to keep moving on in life.” (30:39-31:01 | Linda)LinksInstagram Merrill Hutchinson | https://www.instagram.com/hutchinsonmerrill/?hl=en Instagram Rock Solid Families | https://www.instagram.com/rocksolidfamilies/?hl=en Website | https://www.rocksolidfamilies.org/ Support the show

Merrill and Linda Hutchinson on Insecure Parenting on Rock Solid Families PodcastCaption: Rock Solid Familieshttps://www.rocksolidfamilies.org/podcast/rock-solid-radioMerrill and Linda are the co-hosts of Rock Solid Families Podcast as well as the co-founders of Rock Solid Families, a 501c3 nonprofit, faith-based organization. Combined, they have over 70 years of experience in teaching, counseling, ministry, coaching and public speaking. In 2018, they left their full time positions in the Church and public school system to focus on strengthening families. Their goal is to guide and empower families to be all that God wants for them to be. In this episode, they talk about the epidemic of ‘woke' parenting and the challenges that come from parents allowing their own fears and insecurities to influence how they raise their children.“We don't have any idea what the future is going to hold, and we don't know whether we're going to protect our kids from all things. But we know that God gives a way and provides,” explains co-host Merrill Hutchinson. Everyone has insecurities and fears stemming from their own life experiences and how they were raised. It's when these insecurities spill over into how you choose to parent that it can become a real issue for not only your kids, but society as a whole. Today, co-hosts Merrill and Linda Hutchinson talk about what it means to be insecure parents and provide 5 insecurity busters to help you set your family up for success.Listen to, or watch, the full podcast interview by Merrill Hutchinson with Linda Hutchinson on your preferred podcast channel.Apple PodcastsSpotifyiHeartYoutubeIn this podcast, the host covers:What insecure parenting is and where these insecurities stem fromHow natural human survival instincts are affected by the amount of information available todayWhat the epidemic of ‘wokeness' is and how it is impacting parentingWhat are the 5 insecurity busters that can help parents create a secure, safe environment for their children to growCaption: Merrill and Linda HutchinsonLink: https://www.rocksolidfamilies.org/aboutPodcast Quotes:“This ‘wokeness' is now epidemic and all it has done is create nothing but insecurities.” (16:32-16:42 | Merrill)“The more we attempt to protect our kids, the more we handicap them.” (17:25-17:30 | Linda)“We don't have any idea what the future is going to hold, and we don't know whether we're going to protect our kids from all things. But we know that God gives a way and provides.” (20:16-20:26 | Merrill)“We can't provide a storm free life for our children, but we can help them storm proof it.” (24:52-24:56 | Linda)“If you're going to put your faith and trust in something, put it in something like God. Don't put it in yourself, because we're fallen human people with weaknesses and limitations. God has none of that. And so that's why we believe He's the rock to build our lives on.” (35:17-35:31 | Linda)“Obviously we want to warn our children and protect them, but we don't want to bubble wrap them and kind of build them up into these fears where they're so afraid to go live life.” (39:05-39:15 | Linda)“Reasonable risk and adventures are healthy and they are necessary for your child to grow to their fullest potential.” (39:19-39:28 | Merrill)About the Podcast Co-Hosts:To learn more about Merrill and Linda, visit their website (Rock Solid Families).Support the show

This is the very first episode of the ADHD Family's Podcast. This episode dives into The Functional Family story, and what this podcast is about. Here are some good parts (and the time stamp): - The Functional Families backstory (1.40m) - What to expect from this podcast (7.45m) Listen & Subscribe on iTunes Listen & Subscribe on Spotify

How do you build one family culture from two different upbringings? Join Ps Andy Kirk in this discussion about family culture with Joey & Hannah White. Hosted at our Glow Gold Coast location and joined by a variety of special guests, the Families Podcast aims to empower and equip parents. Subscribe: http://bit.ly/2kZSBms Stay up to date: http://glowchurch.com.au Glow Church: Like us on Facebook: http://facebook.com/glowchurch Follow us on Instagram: http://instagram.com/glowchurch Listen to our Podcast on: iTunes: http://apple.co/1JycExw SoundCloud: http://soundcloud.com/glowchurch Glow Church is a dynamic, Christ-centered church, passionate about people! With Pastors Joel & Ellen Cave located in Australia.

How do you build resilient kids? Join Andy & Christie Kirk as they talk about strategies around building resilience in kids at home, as well as identifying behaviours and practical skills in identifying support. Hosted at our Glow Gold Coast location and joined by a variety of special guests, the Families Podcast aims to empower and equip parents. Subscribe: http://bit.ly/2kZSBms Stay up to date: http://glowchurch.com.au Glow Church: Like us on Facebook: http://facebook.com/glowchurch Follow us on Instagram: http://instagram.com/glowchurch Listen to our Podcast on: iTunes: http://apple.co/1JycExw SoundCloud: http://soundcloud.com/glowchurch Glow Church is a dynamic, Christ-centered church, passionate about people! With Pastors Joel & Ellen Cave located in Australia.

Welcome to the Emerging Minds Families podcast. Each fortnight, we chat with parents, family members and practitioners from all over Australia. We discuss a range of topics close to families hearts and always with a mind to supporting children's mental health and wellbeing.

This is a surprise mini-episode as part of a fun new series I am going to be doing once a month where I introduce you to other wonderful podcasts that might bless and benefit your life.  These shows are all produced by or part of the podcast network that I am apart of, Cloud10 Media. It has been so rewarding for me to collaborate with other podcasters who are working hard to get their important messages out into the world.  The show I am featuring today is a podcast that I love called Simple Families, which I have been listening to for several years. The host Denaye Barahona is a mother of two who also has a PhD in child psychology, so as she says in her podcast intro, "you're going to hear conversations that are based in research but more importantly real life."  Simple Families is a podcast for parents who are seeking a simpler, more intentional life, covering topics such as minimalism with kids, positive parenting, family wellness, and decreasing the mental load. For today's mini-episodes, I hand-picked an excerpt from Denaye's show to air for you so you could get a taste of her work, and it comes from a recent episode she aired titled "Raising Critical Thinkers" with guest Julie Bogart. There was a segment in that conversation that struck me to the core, all about how important it is to allow people in our families, including our own children, to have different beliefs from us and to know that they are still deeply loved, valued, and HOME when they are with us.  You are going to want to  listen to every word of this excerpt from the Simple Families podcast and then head on over to Denaye's feed to listen to the entire episode! **Listen to the full episode here, and subscribe to Simple Families here.  **Also check out Denaye's guest appearance on 3 in 30 here  and Rachel's guest appearance on Simple Families here!

In conversation with Rebecca Hyman . volunteer for Mencap . Becky is sharing with you information on the Mencap Treat Me Well Campaign and speaking about reasonable adjustments for people with a learning disability

S4 EP.15 – Joe McGee is a minister, author, national conference speaker, and host of Faith for Families Podcast. Joe presents some of the most entertaining yet practical teaching on the family available today. We are so excited that Joe's wife Angel joined him for this special episode to discuss marriage, ministry, and everything in between. You will be inspired and encouraged by Joe and Angel's story and we're pretty confident you will laugh out loud more than once.

In this episode, Eugene and Paul look back on the Divided Families Podcast, two years later. The two also reflect on 2021, the current status of the Divided Families Podcast, and plans for producing Season 3 in 2022. Thank you so much to everyone who donated so far to our fundraiser, and we would appreciate any additional support for as long as our fundraiser is live: https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-the-divided-families-podcast?utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet&utm_medium=copy_link_all&utm_source=customer For updates, follow us on Instagram at @DividedFamiliesPodcast. You can also contact us with any questions or suggestions for Season 3 at dividedfamiliespodcast@gmail.com or on any of our social media pages.

In the final episode of 2021 you will hear mother and daughter Jo and Jess share their experience and story of a recent hospital stay and what this was like from the beginning to where Jess is now. Speaking honestly and hoping to see changes nationally to support others to have the similar experience to Jess

In this episode Nicola Payne is joined by Penny Thatcher, mother of Zoe who attends MacIntyre residential school. Penny talks about the time 3 years ago when Zoe was moving to the school, and about her own experience of going through that transition: how important it was to be included in plans and conversations about Zoe's future.

Classnotes Podcast (September 27, 2021). The digital divide affects millions of Texas households that cannot get broadband Internet access. When ... read more The post Digital Inclusion is Vital for Students and Families – Podcast Episode 212 appeared first on IDRA.

In this edition of the MacIntyre Families Podcast Nicola Payne chats to Liz Lyman, Programme Co-ordinator for MacIntyre No Limits in Milton Keynes. Liz shares information about how young people are supported through further education. No Limits aims to enable young people with disabilities and complex additional needs to successfully transition from school environments to adult life .

#000 - Welcome to the Building Wise Families Podcast! Alan & Corrie, hosts of the Building Wise Families Podcast, are parents in the thick of raising young children, and they love doing research and finding answers to parenting questions. The Bible says in Proverbs 24:3-4, "By wisdom a house is built and by understanding it is established. By knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches."  Their goal is to build their house with God's wisdom by finding wise mentors, experts, and other parents who can help them answer their many questions, and they want to bring you along with them! Subscribe to the Building Wise Families Podcast to join them in building your wise family!

Licensed family therapist Leslie Keenan and our Families Director, Mandy Damon, discuss what it looks like to talk with our children about their fears and anxiety and offering practical tools we can employ to help our families hold the unknown.

In this edition of the Families Podcast, host Nicola Payne is joined by Rowan Jackson, an Area Manager at MacIntyre . Rowan and Nicola chat about How to make sure that when families come into MacIntyre, they are made to feel welcome. You will hear about MacIntyre's approach and how we use some key resources to offer support to families and staff teams to make sure that relationships are supported from the very start .

This is the 5th Children Youth and Families Podcast from Southern Counties Baptist Association, where Clare Hooper chats to Jayne Newton from Weymouth about some of the joys and challenges of toddler ministry within her context.

Families podcast --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

This week Gar is joined by Leonie Smith aka ‘The Cyber Safety Lady' and host of the Digital Families podcast. Leonie has had an incredibly diverse career with a pedigree in graphic design, performing arts and was the CEO of social media training and strategy company Digital Breezes. Leonie was an early adopter of the internet and the common thread in her work is meaningful communication and effecting change. Leonie and Gar discuss the important ways parents and carers can better navigate the internet, social media and gaming but more importantly how they can help their children. Leonie also lets us know about the three things she would have us do to be safer online, where the responsibility lies for keeping children safe online, the roles of campaigns and regulations for societal level changes, how to go about keeping kids safe while gaming and how to help our kids if something awful like cyber bullying or grooming should occur. Check out the Digital Families podcast here: https://apple.co/3kZQVVf

Check out my appearance on Dr. Scott Haggerty's podcast! In this episode Dr. Scott Haggerty and Julia Meyer founder of Cleveland Home Birth explore homebirth and discuss the following topics: The training of a homebirth midwife The holistic care approach of a Homebirth Midwife Why you may want to consider Homebirth as your first option Who is a good candidate Why choose a Homebirth Midwife What to expect from a Homebirth experience Check out Dr. Haggerty's Podcast: Growing Healthy Families What topics would you like to hear us discuss? Let us know! Don't forget to rate and review The Homebirth Experience on iTunes, Spotify and Stitcher! Facebook Instagram  http://clevelandhomebirth.com/

Kennedy Hall joins Dr. Taylor Marshall to review the theology about Saint Joseph and the titles of Saint Joseph. Kennedy is a teacher and author, who writes on a variety of Catholic topics. He writes for the Fatima Center, Catholic Family News, the Angelus Magazine and Meaning of Catholic. His first book, Terror of Demons: Reclaiming Traditional Catholic Masculinity is set to be released May 2020. He is married with 4 young children. Take Dr. Marshall's online Catholic courses by signing up as a student at newsaintthomas.com Watch this new podcast episode by clicking here: Or listen to the audio mp3 here: If you’d like to order a copy of Taylor’s new book Infiltration: The Plot to Destroy the Church from Within, you can order it in Hardback, Kindle, or Audiobook. Check out Patreon Patron Benefits for Donating to Dr Taylor Marshall’s Show! All these video discussions are free. Do you want to recommend a show, get signed books, and show support? Here's how: click on Patreon Patron link: Become a Patron of this Podcast: I am hoping to produce more free weekly podcast Videos. Please help me launch these videos by working with me on Patreon to produce more free content. In gratitude, I'll send you some signed books or even stream a theology event for you and your friends. Please become one of my patrons and check out the various tier benefits at: https://www.patreon.com/drtaylormarshall If the audio player does not show up in your email or browser, please click here to listen. If you find this podcast episode helpful, please share this podcast on Facebook. Get more from the Taylor Marshall Show: * Read Taylor Marshall’s historical fiction Sword and Serpent Trilogy. * Download the Study Guide at: http://swordandserpent.com * Take classed with Dr Marshall at the New Saint Thomas Institute. Please visit newsaintthomas.com for more details. Please Share Your Feedback for Taylor Marshall Show: * I'd love to read your feedback: While you listen to today's podcast, would you please take 30 seconds to write a review? Please click here to Rate this Podcast! * iTunes: 3,549,958 downloads * Youtube: 10,311,915 downloads * SHOUT OUTS: A huge “shout out” to all 1,692 of you who wrote amazing 5-star reviews at iTunes. Please rate this podcast by clicking here. From there you can leave a review. I appreciate you for this! Thank you! How to Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher, Spotify, or Youtube: Apple/Mac Users: Please subscribe via iTunes by clicking here and then clicking on “View in iTunes.” Android Users: For listening to The Taylor Marshall Show on A...