In this inspiring episode, Don and Suzanne Manning are joined by longtime friend and missions expert Dr. Chris Searcy to discuss the life-changing impact of mission trips on children and teens. With over 25 years of experience and 2,500+ students led on global trips, Chris shares powerful stories and practical advice for families. 

Discover why mission trips aren’t just for "super Christians," but are actually a core part of discipleship. Learn how sending your child to serve beyond their comfort zone can awaken purpose, grow their faith, and transform their view of the world. Whether your child is 5 or 15, you’ll walk away with ideas to cultivate a family on mission. 

Perfect for families seeking to raise kingdom-minded kids. Listen today and take your first step toward building a family that lives on mission. 

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In this episode of the Crazy Cool Family Podcast, Don and Suzanne Manning dive into the power of parenting with unity—even when you have different methods. 

Plus, they share helpful tools like “pillow talk,” the family dashboard, and the idea of safe words to help you work through conflict with grace. 

If you want to strengthen your marriage and create a more unified family culture, don’t miss this episode. 

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In this episode, Don and Suzanne Manning unpack a powerful concept that will radically transform your relationship: agreeing on values, not methods. 

You’ll learn:

Discover the Marriage Unity Triangle and how to stop trying to fix your spouse — and start supporting them instead. If you're ready to parent as a united team and build a strong, joy-filled marriage, this episode is for you. 

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Back-to-school season can feel like a whirlwind—supplies, sports, schedules, and stress. In this episode of the Crazy Cool Family Podcast, Don and Suzanne unpack how to approach August with peace, purpose, and powerful parenting strategies. 

They share real-life stories and practical tips for helping your kids through transitions, easing anxiety, and setting them up for a confident start. From preparing emotionally and spiritually to casting vision for the year ahead, this episode walks you through how to replace back-to-school dread with excitement. 

You’ll learn how to affirm your child’s identity, speak truth over their fears, and use everyday moments—like haircut appointments and school shopping—as opportunities for connection. Whether you’ve got toddlers starting preschool or teens headed to high school, this conversation is filled with grace and encouragement for every stage. 

Plus, learn how to involve dads, stretch the to-do list over time, and start early so you don’t lose your peace under pressure. 

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In this episode of the Crazy Cool Family Podcast, Don and Suzanne Manning tackle the chaos and pressure of August head-on. From back-to-school shopping to emotional transitions, they unpack practical strategies to help families navigate the busiest time of year with clarity and connection. 

You'll learn:

Whether you're a seasoned homeschooler, a school-drop-off pro, or a first-timer sending your little one off to kindergarten, this episode is packed with practical wisdom to help you and your kids thrive. 

🎧 Tune in now to make this your most intentional back-to-school transition yet. 

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In this episode of the Crazy Cool Family podcast, we’re wrapping up summer with the most essential parenting topic: leading your kids to Jesus. Whether your children are toddlers or teens, creating a family culture where God conversations happen naturally is one of the most powerful tools you have. 

Don and Suzanne walk through how to talk about faith with kids at different stages: Littles (ages 0–6), Middles (elementary age), and Bigs (middle and high school). They emphasize that helping your children follow Jesus isn’t about doing more—it’s about being intentional with the everyday moments. From thanking God for the sunshine to sharing how you handle frustration at work, your children learn what a real relationship with Jesus looks like by watching you live it. 

They also offer practical encouragement for parents who feel unsure, are new in their faith, or have kids pushing away from God. Real stories, relatable struggles, and timeless truth make this episode a must-listen. 

🎧 Listen now + grab our $3.99 Deep Dives to keep the conversation going!

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In this summer-focused episode of the Crazy Cool Family Podcast, Don and Suzanne unpack one of the biggest tensions in parenting: control. Should parents stay in charge, or is it time to pass the baton to the kids? 

You'll discover why summer is the perfect season to transition from parent control to self-control, helping your children develop responsibility, confidence, and real-world readiness. From laundry to technology boundaries to mealtime training, the Mannings offer real-life examples and practical steps to give kids “jurisdiction” over parts of their lives—without giving up your values or sanity. 

The episode dives into the difference between self-discipline and self-indulgence, showing how giving your child responsibility actually creates peace at home. Plus, you’ll learn how lack of self-control invites chaos, while wise training builds strong family foundations. 

Whether your child is 3 or 13, this conversation will equip you to rethink your approach, create growth opportunities, and enjoy a more connected, freedom-filled summer. Bonus: It all ties back to Proverbs 25:28 and the vital role of self-control. 

🎧 Listen now and grab the $3.99 Deep Dive into Summer for more actionable steps!

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In this episode of the Crazy Cool Family Podcast, we dive into one of our favorite summer themes: raising leaders under your roof. Whether your kids are toddlers or teens, summer offers the perfect opportunity to build leadership skills in a low-pressure, high-relationship environment. 

We explore what leadership looks like in everyday moments—from assigning simple responsibilities around the house to encouraging kids to take initiative, manage conflict, and serve others well. You’ll learn: 

We also talk about speaking leadership identity over your kids and giving them a vision for who they can become. 

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In this episode of the Crazy Cool Family Podcast, we unpack how to teach your kids to fight well, using biblical principles and practical tools. You’ll learn: 

This is a must-listen for every parent navigating sibling chaos. 
🎧 Plus: Check out our new Deep Dive: Teaching Kids to Fight (Well) for even more help!

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Welcome to our Summer Series! In this episode, Don and Suzanne talk about how to intentionally plan your family’s summer so it’s filled with peace, purpose, and connection—not just chaos. 

They introduce the powerful idea of “washing the school year off” your kids—helping them reset emotionally, mentally, and spiritually from the demands and structure of school life. 

Topics covered include:

You only get one Summer 2025—let’s make it one to remember. 

🎧 Listen in and learn how to create a family culture this summer that builds joy, purpose, and connection. 

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