What a thrill to interview my oldest daughter and one of her very best friends. Ella and Landry have been friends since 3rd grade and it’s so special to hear from two young women that are keeping their faith a priority in college. I ask them about their “favorites” from tennis shoes to rom-coms and then we get into some more serious topics.

My favorite moment is when I ask each of them, “What is God teaching you right now?” I was blown away by their answers and also felt so thankful that they are both engaged in their college church communities. Ask your kiddos that question this Christmas break and let them share about their faith. I am always astounded when I learn how much depth and wisdom is in these teens. They are wiser than you know.

You also don’t want to miss my opening story about an “elf on the shelf” adventure gone wrong. I am still feeling a little rattled from it. 

Enjoy!

Courtney 

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introductions

07:05 High School Experiences and Advice

10:02 Navigating Junior Year Challenges

14:54 Senior Year Reflections and Relationships

18:26 Maintaining Faith in High School

23:35 Parental Guidance and Support

25:37 Navigating High School Dynamics

26:56 Understanding Teen Communication

28:04 The High School Experience: Challenges and Growth

30:51 Transitioning to College Life

33:35 Building Friendships in College

37:48 Spiritual Growth and Lessons Learned

43:18 Legacy of Love: Lessons from Grandmothers

Connect with Pardon The Mess:

Christian Parenting

Pardon The Mess 

Courtney DeFeo

ORDER YOUR 2026-2027 PRAYER JOURNAL NOW

Resources from today’s show:

Ella’s new sneakers - Back 70

Yahtzee Game

Nertz Game

Quiplash (on Apple TV)

New Morning Mercies devotional

Support Christian Parenting

Prefer video? This episode is on YouTube!

The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Everyday Dose and use my code CPPODCAST for a great deal: https://everydaydose.com


Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy