What do we do when God’s calling for our child’s life looks nothing like we expected? This week’s episode is such a gift. I’m joined by Katie Davis Majors, a mom, missionary, and founder of Amazima Ministries who shares her journey from a planned gap year to a lifelong mission in Uganda. Her story will stretch your perspective on calling, parenting, and what it means to truly trust God with your kids. Here are four key takeaways from our conversation: God’s plans often surprise us. Katie's “one-...
Jul 08, 2025•27 min
We’ve reached the final week of our school choice series, and I’m so excited for you to hear this conversation. Today, I’m chatting with my friend, Brittaney Devane about what it looks like to choose online school even when it wasn’t the original plan. Her family made a big pivot, and what followed was growth, flexibility, and a deeper sense of purpose in their schooling journey. Here are four key takeaways from our conversation: Online school brings unexpected flexibility for schedules, learnin...
Jul 01, 2025•33 min
We’re continuing our school choice series, and today’s episode is such a thoughtful one. I’m joined by Ashley Grutzmacher—a public school teacher, mom, and passionate advocate for loving your neighbor and showing up well in your community. Ashley offers such a grounded and honest look into the public school experience, and I think this conversation will leave you feeling both encouraged and equipped. Whether public school is your current path or you're simply exploring options, Ashley brings cla...
Jun 24, 2025•41 min
We’re continuing our special series on school choices today, and I’m so excited to share this conversation with Leigh Nguyen, a mom who never planned to homeschool but followed God’s nudge and hasn’t looked back. Her story is honest, inspiring, and full of practical insight for anyone wondering if homeschooling could actually work for their family. Whether you’re curious about it, overwhelmed by it, or already in the thick of it, Leigh brings a calm, grace-filled perspective that might just be t...
Jun 17, 2025•39 min
We’re continuing our special series all about school options, and today we’re diving into private Christian education. This is a conversation that I think will really help if you’re trying to figure out what role faith can (and should) play in your child’s school life. I'm joined by Katelyn Freitas, the middle school principal at my kids’ school, and her insight is full of heart, wisdom, and practical encouragement. Here are four takeaways from our conversation: Faith-based learning shapes chara...
Jun 10, 2025•38 min
We’re kicking off a brand-new series all about school choices because let’s be honest, it’s something many of us didn’t realize would be such a big parenting decision. Over the next five weeks we will be covering the pros and cons of multiple different school options: public school, private school, homeschool, and online school. In this first episode, I’m joined by my husband, Trevor, as we share our personal journey through public school, homeschooling, and Christian private school and why we’r...
Jun 03, 2025•28 min
This week we’re diving into something every family longs for...Joy. I’m joined by Tauren Wells, and we’re talking about how to create a home filled with lasting joy, not just fleeting happiness. We unpack what it looks like to live out the beatitudes, how our identity shapes our parenting, and why emotional health matters so much in our homes. Here are four key takeaways from this episode: Joy > Happiness, Tauren reminds us that true joy is rooted in Jesus—not in perfect circumstances. Knowin...
May 27, 2025•32 min
Today’s conversation is so timely and practical. I’m joined by Clare Morell, author of the upcoming book The Tech Exit , and we’re talking all about how digital technology is shaping our kids—and what we can do about it. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by screen time, smartphone battles, or social media pressure, this episode will leave you feeling hopeful and empowered. Here are four key takeaways from this episode: Clare breaks down how today’s tech works against our efforts to raise emotional...
May 20, 2025•42 min
Hello Friends, This week’s episode is incredibly special to me. I’m joined by Lee Strobel , whose book The Case for Christ played a huge role in reigniting my faith back in college. Getting to sit down with him felt like a full-circle moment—and I can’t wait for you to hear this conversation. Lee shares his personal journey from atheism to belief, and we dive into the fascinating topic of the supernatural side of our faith. Here are four key takeaways from this episode: Lee explains how miracles...
May 13, 2025•34 min
I’m so excited about this week’s episode because I’m joined by two of my favorite guests Sissy Goff and David Thomas from the Raising Boys and Girls podcast! They’re sharing incredible insights from their counseling practice and offering encouragement for every parent navigating the emotional ups and downs of raising kids today. Here are four key takeaways from this episode: Anxiety and emotional overwhelm are on the rise, but there are simple, effective ways to help our kids cope. Sissy and Dav...
May 06, 2025•31 min
This week’s episode is special because I’m sitting down with my friend and pastor, Brian Suter. Brian and his wife Courtney, planted Branch Church here in Minnesota about four years ago, and my family has been part of it since the beginning. We’re talking all about how our church approaches kids’ ministry, and it’s a little different than what you might expect! Here are four key takeaways from this episode: Every church and family is different, what matters is creating space for kids to grow spi...
Apr 29, 2025•31 min
Today’s episode is such a fascinating and encouraging conversation. I’m joined by Justin Brierley, journalist, author, and Christian apologist—and we’re diving into how we as parents can guide our kids through some of life’s biggest questions about faith, doubt, and belief. Here’s what you’ll hear in today's conversation: Helping kids ask honest questions about God and faith builds a stronger foundation for lasting belief. Topics like the resurrection, suffering, and science can be discussed in ...
Apr 22, 2025•40 min
Today’s episode is powerful, tender, and full of hope. I’m joined by Lori Apon, a widow, a single mom of eight, and now a grandmother to twenty! Lori shares her deeply personal story of walking through grief and the chaos of early widowhood, and how God’s promises sustained her through it all. Here’s what you’ll hear in today's conversation: Even in deep grief, Lori shares how clinging to God’s promises brought strength and comfort. Building a community of mentors and support is crucial—especial...
Apr 15, 2025•28 min
Today I’m joined by Kyle Worley, and we’re breaking down what it actually means to have union with Christ and anchor our children’s identity in God in the middle of a world full of noise, confusion, and competing worldviews. Here’s what you’ll hear in today's conversation: Understanding our connection to God through Jesus gives kids a steady anchor in a shifting world. Kyle explains how we can teach our kids that faith is about relationship, not just rules. A solid identity in Christ shapes how ...
Apr 08, 2025•34 min
Hello Friends, Today’s episode was such a gift. I’m joined by Willa Kane and Sally Breedlove. Their journey—from personal tragedy to launching a global prayer movement—left me deeply inspired, and I know it will move you too. Here are four key takeaways from this episode: Whether parenting littles or guiding grown children, prayer and scripture remain the foundation. Everyday moments—like carpool lines or worship music—can become tools for spiritual growth in your family. They share honestly abo...
Apr 01, 2025•39 min
Hey there! This week’s conversation is one that got me thinking ahead—way ahead. While my oldest is still in middle school, college feels like it’s going to be here before I know it. That’s why I’m so grateful to have *Dr. Greg Jones*, president of Belmont University, on the podcast today to talk about helping our kids prepare for life beyond high school with purpose, faith, and community at the center. Here are four key takeaways from this episode: —Choosing a school isn’t about prestige—it’s a...
Mar 25, 2025•38 min
Time management can feel overwhelming—especially for moms! That’s why I’m so excited to have Kendra Adachi, also known as The Lazy Genius , on the podcast today. We’re talking about her latest book, The Plan , and how we can approach time management with grace, flexibility, and a mindset that actually works for moms. Here are four key takeaways from this episode: Many systems don’t account for the unpredictability of parenting, so we need a different approach. Embracing flexibility and realistic...
Mar 18, 2025•36 min
Today’s episode is such a fun one! I’m talking with Danny Loeffelholz all about summer camp and how it helps build resilience, independence, and faith in our kids. We dive into the challenges of letting our kids take risks and the incredible growth that can come from stepping out of their comfort zones. Here are four key takeaways from this episode: Allowing kids to experience age-appropriate challenges helps them develop resilience and confidence. Camp experiences can deepen kids’ faith and fos...
Mar 11, 2025•38 min
Friendship plays such a huge role in both our lives and the lives of our kids, and today’s episode is all about fostering healthy, meaningful relationships. I’m joined by Grace Valentine, for a super fun and insightful conversation on navigating friendships with faith and intention. Here’s what you’ll hear in today's conversation: Community doesn’t happen by accident—it’s something we cultivate with intention. Learning to handle friendship struggles in a healthy, Christ-centered way is a crucial...
Mar 04, 2025•30 min
This week, I’m joined by Trillia Newbell for a meaningful conversation on the importance of community, celebrating differences, and how intentional family time can shape our kids' understanding of love, faith, and culture. Here’s what you’ll hear in today’s episode: Intentional time spent around the table fosters communication, connection, and love within families. Food, stories, and shared experiences are great ways to introduce kids to different cultures and traditions. Parents can have meanin...
Feb 25, 2025•30 min
This week’s conversation is a deeply meaningful one. I’m sitting down with Annie Downs to talk about grief, faith, and supporting others during hard times. Annie and her sister wrote a children’s book, Where Did TJ Go? , after her sister lost her son, TJ. This book is an incredible resource for families navigating loss with young kids, and our conversation is full of wisdom and encouragement. Here’s what you’ll hear in today’s episode: Where Did TJ Go? is a beautiful resource to help families ta...
Feb 18, 2025•35 min
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 ...
Feb 11, 2025•26 min
This week’s episode is one that every parent can relate to. I’m joined by Monica Swanson to talk about a struggle many of us face—raising kids who aren’t entitled in a world that often is. Here are a few takeaways from today’s conversation: As parents, we need to be intentional about combating entitlement in our homes. Teaching kids responsibility and real-life opportunities to work hard builds character. Helping our kids develop a heart of gratitude is one of the best ways to fight entitlement....
Feb 04, 2025•37 min
This week, I’m joined by Melanie Shankle to talk about her book, Here Be Dragons . Our conversation dives deep into important topics like generational trauma, relationships, and the impact of mean girls on young girls. Melanie’s focus on healing and boundaries is so powerful, reminding us that the path to raising emotionally healthy kids starts with becoming emotionally healthy ourselves. Here are four key takeaways from this episode: Raising emotionally healthy children starts with doing the wo...
Jan 28, 2025•32 min
This week’s episode is extra special as I’m joined by two of my favorite people, Alicia and Kirsta Graf. They are a mother-daughter duo who inspire me deeply. Alicia shares her parenting journey with Kirsta, who has down syndrome, and the lessons she’s learned through adoption, loss, and raising three daughters. Kirsta is truly incredible—funny, joyful, and a shining light. Their story is heartfelt, inspiring, and filled with wisdom. Here are four key takeaways from this episode: Alicia emphasiz...
Jan 21, 2025•51 min
This week’s episode is extra special as I’m joined by my husband, Trevor, to share how family meetings have transformed our parenting and family life. From improving communication to empowering our kids, family meetings have become a key tool in creating a supportive and faith-centered home. Here’s what you’ll hear in today’s episode: Regular family discussions help parents and kids stay connected and on the same page. Involving children in activities like meal planning and decision-making gives...
Jan 14, 2025•34 min
This week’s episode is packed with insights and practical advice for navigating the complexities of parenting during the middle school years. I’m joined by Courtney DeFeo, and together we dive into balancing love, independence, and the continuous learning process of parenting. Here are four key takeaways from this episode: Parenting evolves as children grow, and middle school years often require creative ways to re-engage with your kids. Allowing children to experience failure helps them develop...
Jan 07, 2025•42 min
This week’s episode is a heartfelt and inspiring conversation with Emily Jensen and Laura Wifler. Together, we discuss the journey of their ministry, the complexities of parenting, and the importance of making faith-based decisions for their families. Here are four takeaways from this episode: Emily and Laura share why they decided to close Risen Motherhood, highlighting the importance of prioritizing family and trusting God. They provide practical tips for making wise, God-honoring decisions th...
Dec 31, 2024•43 min
I am beyond excited about this week’s episode because I’m joined by two of my absolute favorites in the Christian parenting space—Lydia Rex and Lynne Jackson from Connected Families. Lynne, the co-founder of Connected Families, has deeply shaped my family through their ministry and parent coaching, and I’m thrilled to have her join Lydia for today’s conversation. Here’s what you’ll hear in today’s episode: The challenges, joys, and opportunities in raising kids with big emotions and strong perso...
Dec 24, 2024•39 min
I’m so excited about today’s episode because I’m joined by Lydia Rex, a certified parent coach from the ministry Connected Families. This ministry is near and dear to my heart, and I can’t wait for you to hear all about their mission and the importance of grace in parenting. In this episode, we discuss: The heart and mission behind this impactful ministry, Connected Families. How grace plays a central role in guiding and disciplining our children. Lydia opens up about her experiences with foster...
Dec 17, 2024•35 min
