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 talk about grief with young children.  
• Grief isn’t meant to be carried alone—having people who show up and walk with you makes all the difference.  
• We talk about the tough questions surrounding loss and how faith sustains us through them.  
• Knowing how to be present and offer comfort to those grieving is one of the greatest gifts we can give.  

Annie F. Downs is a bestselling author, speaker, and podcast host known for her humor, authenticity, and deep faith. She has written numerous books that inspire and encourage readers in their walk with Christ. Where Did TJ Go?, co-written with her sister, is a heartfelt resource for families navigating grief with children.  

I hope this conversation leaves you feeling encouraged in your faith and equipped to support those around you. If you know someone who could benefit from this episode, please share it with them.

(02:59) The Journey of Loss: Annie's Story

(05:54) Creating Hope Through Literature

(09:07) Navigating Grief: Personal Experiences and Insights

(12:01) The Importance of Talking to Kids About Death

(15:11) Finding Hope in Heaven

(18:12) The Role of Community in Grief

(20:46) Encouragement for Parents and Grieving Individuals

Connect with Annie

Website

That Sounds Fun Podcast

Instagram

Resources Mentioned

Where Did TJ Go?

The Unbreakable Boy movie

Christian Parenting store

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

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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 what others expect, is a way to glorify God.  
• Jinger shares how she is beginning to guide her own children away from people-pleasing tendencies.  
• We discuss real ways to break free from people-pleasing and the importance of finding a strong mentor.  

Jinger Vuolo is an author, speaker, and former reality TV personality known for her book Becoming Free Indeed and her latest release, People Pleaser. She is passionate about helping others find freedom in Christ and live with confidence in who God made them to be.  

Thank you all for two incredible years of this podcast! I’m so grateful for you, and I hope this conversation encourages you to seek confidence in Christ rather than in the approval of others.

 

(00:00) Life Updates and New Beginnings

(01:58) Understanding People Pleasing

(06:06) The Impact of People Pleasing on Relationships

(10:10) Parenting and Teaching Kids about People Pleasing

(17:01) Practical Steps to Overcome People Pleasing

(22:09) Final Thoughts on Parenting and Community

Connect with Jinger

Instagram

https://www.jingerandjeremy.com/

Resources Mentioned

Becoming Free Indeed

People Pleaser

Christian Parenting store

The Unbreakable Boy movie

A Simply Healthy Life

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

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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.  
• Parenting is a learning process, and it's okay to wrestle with these challenges while seeking wisdom and growth.  

Monica Swanson is an author, speaker, and host of The Monica Swanson Podcast (formerly The Boy Mom Podcast). As a mom of four boys, she shares practical wisdom on raising kids with strong character, work ethic, and faith in today’s world.  

This conversation is just two friends trying to figure it out together, and we’re so glad you’re stepping into it with us. I hope you leave feeling encouraged and equipped to guide your kids toward gratitude, responsibility, and strong character. Enjoy!

(00:00) Understanding Entitlement in Today's Culture

(02:49) The Role of Technology and Parenting

(06:12) Celebrating Achievements: A Double-Edged Sword

(08:56) Instilling Gratitude as an Antidote

(12:00) Teaching Work Ethic and Responsibility

(16:56) Building Character and Responsibility in Kids

(18:01) Fighting Entitlement and Cultivating Gratitude

(19:45) Modeling Gratitude as Parents

(22:05) Intentional Parenting in a Selfie Culture

(24:58) The Importance of Service and Perspective

(29:35) It's Never Too Late to Start

(32:58) Surrounding Kids with Positive Influences

Connect with Monica

MonicaSwanson.com

The Monica Swanson Podcast

Instagram

Resources Mentioned

Character training course

Raising Prayerful Kids book

Raising Grateful Kids in an Entitled World

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

Our Sponsors:
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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 work to heal yourself. It’s never too late to begin.  
• Boundaries are essential for protecting your emotional health and that of your family.  
• Melanie encourages parents to pause and evaluate areas in their lives that need healing or adjustment for their own and their children’s benefit.  
• We discuss the influence of relationships and mean-girl culture on young girls, and how parents can guide them toward healthy connections.  

Melanie Shankle is a bestselling author, speaker, and host of The Big Boo Cast podcast. Her latest book, Here Be Dragons, explores the complexities of relationships and the importance of emotional health. Melanie’s heartfelt writing and practical advice have made her a trusted voice for parents seeking to raise emotionally resilient children.

This episode is filled with both challenges and encouragement, offering actionable steps to prioritize emotional health in your family. I hope you find it as impactful as I did!

(02:57) The Evolution of Parenting: Embracing Change

(06:03) Healing from Generational Trauma

(08:57) Navigating Relationships: The Impact of Motherhood

(11:51) Breaking Generational Cycles in Parenting

(15:10) The Mean Girl Epidemic: Caroline's Experience

(17:59) Understanding the Roots of Mean Behavior

(21:00) The Importance of True Friendship

(24:00) Finding Grace in Relationships

(27:00) Final Thoughts: Embracing God's Plan for Our Kids

Connect with Melanie

The Big Mama Blog

The Big Boo Cast podcast

Instagram

Here be Dragons book

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

Our Sponsors:
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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 emphasizes treating your family as a team and studying each child to meet their unique needs.  
• Relationships with those a season or two ahead in life can make a big difference in your parenting journey.  
• Kirsta’s journey—graduating from Bethel University, working at the school, and contributing to Jack’s Basket—shows the incredible potential of every child.  
• Parenting is full of surprises and challenges, requiring reliance on God and grace for yourself.  

This conversation is a beautiful reminder of the power of teamwork, grace, and celebrating the unique gifts of each family member. I hope you feel as encouraged as I did!

(06:01) Parenting Insights and Surprises

(11:45) God's Guidance in Parenting

(17:55) Kirsta's College Experience at Bethel University

(23:56) The Impact of College Programs for Special Needs

(30:40) Public Speaking and Personal Growth

(37:04) Reflections on Parenting

(42:45) Advice for Parents

Resources Mentioned

Bethel University BUILD program

Ruby’s Rainbow

Jack’s Basket

Jack’s Basket Instagram

Kirsta’s college drop-off video

The New Language of Toys book

A Word in the Hand book

Baby Sign Language Made Easy book

Mercy Watson book set

Christian Parenting Family Meeting Guide

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

Our Sponsors:
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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 them a sense of ownership and responsibility.  
• Keeping family meetings short, focused, and consistent builds trust and strengthens family bonds.  
• Remember, God sees you as capable and worthy of the parenting role you’ve been given. 

This episode is full of practical tips and encouragement for prioritizing family time. I hope it inspires you to try family meetings in your home!

Check out our latest resource, our digital Family Meeting Guide. I took what works for us in our family meetings and made this guide just for you! Every week you will be emailed a template to hold your own family meeting. I know you will love it!

(04:59) The Importance of Family Meetings

(11:03) Implementing Family Meetings: A Game Changer

(18:11) Navigating Challenges in Family Meetings

(23:56) Empowering Kids Through Family Meetings

(29:57) Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Parents

Resources Mentioned

What’s In Mommy’s Tummy?

Family Meeting Guide

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

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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 responsibility and confidence.  
• Overparenting can hinder independence—parents should guide their children through problems, not shield them from them.  
• Self-care for parents is crucial to maintaining balance and avoiding guilt in the parenting journey.  

Courtney DeFeo is the host of the Pardon the Mess podcast here on the Christian Parenting Podcast Network where she encourages parents every week to be the imperfectly perfect parent God created them to be. She is also an author, speaker, and advocate for empowering parents to create lasting family connections. With her relatable approach and passion for practical parenting, Courtney inspires families to navigate challenges with grace and joy. 

We had a ton of fun recording this episode and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!

(01:57) Navigating Parenting Stages

(06:10) Engaging with Middle Schoolers

(10:07) The Balance of Hovering and Letting Go

(13:57) Preparing for Independence

(18:02) Overparenting: Understanding the Roots

(21:06) Navigating the Challenges of Letting Go in Parenting

(24:35) The Importance of Self-Care and Mom Guilt

(26:54) Recognizing Red Flags in Parenting Dynamics

(28:54) Practical Strategies to Avoid Over-Parenting

(31:37) Embracing Independence and Building Confidence in Kids

(34:49) The Balance of Love and Guidance in Parenting

Connect with Courtney

Pardon the Mess podcast

Pardon the Mess Instagram

Courtney’s Instagram 

Courtney’s website

Resources Mentioned

What’s In Mommy’s Tummy?

Family Meeting Guide

In This House We Will Giggle

Sissy Goff episode on Apple

Sissy Goff episode on Spotify

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

Our Sponsors:
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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 through prayer, spiritual disciplines, and the gospel story.  
• Involving children in decision-making helps teach them to seek God’s guidance and make choices that honor him.  
• Faith offers hope and perspective, encouraging parents to lean on God and approach family life with humility and grace.  

Emily and Laura are sister-in-laws and co-founders of Risen Motherhood, a nonprofit ministry that has reached countless parents with the message of the gospel in daily life. Their shared passion for encouraging moms through biblical truths shines through in their work and their lives. Their latest book is called Gospel Mom. 

This episode is filled with wisdom, encouragement, and practical advice for parents who want to align their decisions with their faith. I hope it blesses you as much as it did me!

(03:02) The Birth of Risen Motherhood

(06:09) Navigating the Decision to Close Risen Motherhood

(09:58) The Challenge of Saying No to Good Things

(14:01) Biblical Decision Making for Moms

(19:47) Guiding Kids Through Decision-Making

(23:25) Navigating Differences in Decision-Making

(30:27) The Importance of Humility in Parenting

(36:04) Finding Identity and Hope in Christ

Connect with Emily and Laura

Risen Motherhood

Laura’s Instagram

Emily’s Instagram

Resources Mentioned

Risen Motherhood

Risen Motherhood Podcast

Gospel Mom 

Give to Christian Parenting

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

Our Sponsors:
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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 personalities.  
• How to identify the strengths hidden within your child’s difficult behaviors.  
• Strategies for managing stress cycles and implementing sensory solutions to help your child and yourself.  
• The significance of weaving grace and biblical wisdom into your parenting approach.  

Together, Lynne and Lydia offer a wealth of wisdom, practical tools, and encouragement to help families navigate the unique challenges of raising sensitive and intense children.

This episode is packed with insights and tools you can apply right away. I believe you’ll walk away encouraged and equipped to parent with grace and intention. 

(00:00) Introduction and Background of Connected Families

(03:07) Understanding Sensitive and Intense Kids

(06:10) Gifts Gone Awry: Recognizing Strengths in Challenges

(08:55) Navigating Parenting Cycles and Stress Management

(11:47) Sensory Strategies for Regulation

(14:59) Building Confidence and Identity in Children

(17:56) Practical Tools and Resources for Parents

(20:54) The Role of Grace and Biblical Principles in Parenting

(23:58) Conclusion and Resources from Connected Families

Connect with Lydia and Lynne

https://connectedfamilies.org/

Instagram

Resources Mentioned

Connected Families parent coaching

Connected Families courses

Sensitive and Intense Course

Give to Christian Parenting

Wild Interest podcast

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

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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 care, adoption, and how these have shaped her parenting approach.  
• Tangible tools and strategies to navigate difficult moments with your kids.  

Lydia Rex is a certified parent coach with Connected Families, a ministry dedicated to equipping parents with grace-filled approaches to guide their children. Her personal journey through foster care, adoption, and parenting has given her profound insights into the challenges and joys of raising children. Lydia combines her experiences with practical strategies to help parents navigate tough times and build strong, faith-centered family connections.

Connect with Lydia

https://connectedfamilies.org/

Instagram

Resources Mentioned

Connected Families parent coaching

Connected Families courses

Give to Christian Parenting

Wild Interest podcast

(03:06) Understanding Connected Families

(06:08) The Role of Parent Coaching

(08:56) Experiencing Grace in Parenting

(14:57) Practical Strategies for Parenting Challenges

(17:56) Preparing and Recovering from Parenting Challenges

(25:10) Encouragement for Overwhelmed Parents

(28:01) Final Thoughts and Resources

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

Our Sponsors:
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