Real Talk with Ben and Kimi

In this episode of Real Talk with Ben and Kimi, we dive into a reminder we all need from time to time — you’re doing better than you think.

It’s easy to scroll social media and feel like everyone else has it all together — nicer homes, better vacations, bigger successes. But what if the truth is, you already have more than you realize?

Ben and Kimi talk about how gratitude, stewardship, and faith can completely change your perspective. From the story behind their new favorite tradition, “Steaksgiving,” to a reminder to “water your own grass,” this episode will help you refocus on what truly matters — your faith, your family, and the blessings right in front of you.

They also share:

• 💬 The dangers of comparison on social media (and how to stop it)

• 🙌 Why gratitude is the antidote to envy

• 🏡 How to invest in your own marriage, fitness, and faith instead of wishing for someone else’s life

• 💡 A faith-based reminder: contentment isn’t about having everything you want — it’s about trusting God with what you have

• 🥩 Plus, why the Barkers ditched turkey for Steaksgiving

By the end, you’ll be encouraged to slow down, look around, and realize: “Who’s richer than us?”

In this episode of Real Talk with Ben and Kimi, we’re diving into a powerful message from our pastor: “Blessings can become curses when they turn into excuses.”

As Christian parents, it’s easy to let good things—like kids, work, or even church livestreams—become reasons we stop showing up for God. Ben and Kimi share personal stories about how comfort and convenience crept into their faith life, from skipping church after COVID to juggling serving and parenting on Sundays.

Listen in for real talk about:

• How blessings can quietly become spiritual distractions

• The importance of physically showing up in community (Hebrews 10:25)

• Encouragement for tired moms and dads trying to make it to church

• Why modeling faithfulness for your kids matters more than perfection

This episode is for anyone who loves Jesus but sometimes struggles to stay consistent when life gets busy. Tune in, be encouraged, and let’s get back to showing up for what matters most.

🎧 Subscribe to Real Talk with Ben & Kimi for more conversations on faith, family, and fun.

In this episode of Real Talk with Ben and Kimi, we dive into five hot-button topics for Christian families in 2025—faith, marriage, parenting, and even fitness. From debating Disney’s direction and how Christian parents should approach Halloween, to tackling the tension of screens and Sabbath, this conversation is raw, real, and practical.

We also unpack why fitness matters for marriage (hint: it’s about more than looks), and discuss the real-life question every couple faces: how much money can you spend without asking your spouse first?

Whether you’re a parent trying to raise strong kids, a couple looking to strengthen your marriage, or a believer wrestling with culture in 2025, this episode will encourage you to think deeply, laugh often, and keep Christ at the center of family life.

👉 Topics We Cover:

• Fitness as a marriage builder (why it matters more than you think)

• Screens, Sabbath, and family rest in a digital world

• Disney in 2025: harmless fun or too far gone?

• Halloween as Christians: celebrate, separate, or redeem?

• Marriage & money: when do you need to ask before spending?

Suffering is inevitable—but how we respond to it shapes our faith, our family, and our future. In this episode of Real Talk with Ben and Kimi, we dive into the story of Job, one of the Bible’s most powerful examples of enduring hardship with faith. From losing everything to still declaring, “Blessed be the name of the Lord,” Job’s life reminds us that joy isn’t about circumstances—it’s about trusting God’s promises.

We also share personal reflections on choosing joy in busy seasons of parenting, building resilience in marriage, and leaning on God when life feels overwhelming. Plus, some fun banter with our Overrated/Underrated game (spoiler: soup, flat bill hats, cats, and spontaneous dining out all make the list).

Whether you’re walking through a tough season or simply want to strengthen your foundation before storms come, this conversation will encourage you to keep your eyes on Christ and find joy—even in the struggle.

🔑 What you’ll learn in this episode:

• Why suffering is inevitable for believers (John 16:33)

• How Job’s story teaches us to trust God in trials

• Practical ways to choose joy in marriage and parenting

• How to support your spouse when they’re struggling

• Why faith gives families strength that circumstances can’t shake

👉 Subscribe to Real Talk with Ben and Kimi for weekly encouragement in faith, family, and fun.

In this episode of Real Talk with Ben and Kimi, we dive into the power of encouragement—at home, in marriage, with your kids, and in your community. We kick things off with a fun round of “Overrated or Underrated” (spooky season, DIY decorations, meal planning, and more), then move into a heartfelt conversation about why encouragement matters more than ever in today’s world.

We share personal stories about love languages, how small words of affirmation can create a ripple effect, and practical ways to uplift your spouse, children, and others in everyday life. Whether it’s complimenting someone’s effort, showing love in the way they receive it, or modeling encouragement in your home, this episode will challenge you to be intentional with your words and actions.

If you want to strengthen your marriage, parent with more compassion, and spread positivity in your circle, this episode is for you.

Sometimes the best memories come from the moments you don’t plan. In this episode of Real Talk with Ben and Kimi, we share stories from our recent trip to St. Louis—including an unforgettable day at the zoo, exploring the City Museum, and how our kids decided their favorite meal was a random Mexican restaurant on the drive up.

We also dive into:

• Why hosting a small group is worth the effort (and how it’s changing our perspective).

• The underrated joy of “grown-up” luggage and a great breakfast spot.

• How the simplest moments—like playing football in a hotel pool—created the biggest laughs with our kids.

Whether you’re planning a big vacation or just looking for intentional ways to connect with family, this episode is packed with encouragement to slow down, laugh more, and enjoy the season you’re in.

Homeschooling kids while living through home renovations? It’s messy, it’s loud, and it’s full of lessons you didn’t see coming. In this episode of Real Talk with Ben and Kimi, we share the highs and lows of homeschooling, the chaos (and comedy) of home improvement projects, and the joy of seeing God answer prayers in everyday life.

You’ll hear:
✅ Why we chose homeschooling and how we make it work
✅ The unexpected lessons marriage and family learn during renovations
✅ Real stories of God’s faithfulness through answered prayers
✅ Encouragement for parents juggling faith, family, and home life

If you’re a parent trying to balance homeschooling, family projects, and your walk with God, this episode will remind you that you’re not alone—and that God shows up in the details.

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In this episode of Real Talk with Ben and Kimi, we kick things off with our Overrated/Underrated segment (bodysuits, kids in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, leftovers, and more) before diving into real-life family updates.

We share what’s new in our homeschool journey and co-op life, how we’re feeling about the upcoming fall season, and the behaviors we noticed in our kids that signaled a need for more one-on-one time.

You’ll hear our new weekly rotation plan for connecting individually with each of our four kids — from simple, free outings like errands or hiking to fun “payday” activities like dinner dates or laser tag. We also share why we’re saving one week a month for just us as a couple.

Whether you’re a homeschooling parent, juggling multiple kids, or simply looking for ways to connect more intentionally with your family, this conversation is packed with practical ideas, relatable laughs, and encouragement to slow down and make moments count.

Marriage takes teamwork—but it also takes fun. In this episode of Real Talk with Ben and Kimi, we dive into the balance between planning and spontaneity in marriage and family life. From swim nights with the kids to carving out time for date nights, we share real stories about how easy it is to give all your energy to your kids and forget to invest in your spouse.

You’ll hear us talk about:

• Why some spouses are natural planners and others thrive on spontaneity

• How to bring the same playful energy you give your kids back into your marriage

• Practical (and funny) ideas for keeping your relationship fresh

• The importance of dates, downtime, and biblical wisdom for lasting love

Whether you’re the schedule keeper, the spontaneous adventurer, or somewhere in between—this episode will encourage you to plan to win together while still leaving room for fun.

👉 If you want to strengthen your marriage, grow closer as parents, and laugh along the way, this conversation is for you.

In this episode of Real Talk with Ben and Kimi, we kick things off with our Overrated/Underrated segment (bodysuits, kids in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, leftovers, and more) before diving into real-life family updates.

You’ll hear our new weekly rotation plan for connecting individually with each of our four kids — from simple, free outings like errands or hiking to fun “payday” activities like dinner dates or laser tag. We also share why we’re saving one week a month for just us as a couple.

Whether you’re a homeschooling parent, juggling multiple kids, or simply looking for ways to connect more intentionally with your family, this conversation is packed with practical ideas, relatable laughs, and encouragement to slow down and make moments count.