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:
* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com


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

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:
* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com


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

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

Our Sponsors:
* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com


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

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:
* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com


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

We are in the midst of a busy season for parents, which is exactly why this week’s episode is an important one to listen to! I am joined by Laura L. Smith and we are talking about the importance of slowing down and how adding spiritual practices can enrich our daily lives.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The gift of different parenting stages
• Practical steps to prioritize what matters in our busy lives
• The significance of adding spiritual practices like prayer and fasting into daily routines.
• How fasting is a way to remember our reliance on God and why setting intentions for fasting helps focus our spiritual journey.

Laura L. Smith is a popular speaker and best-selling author. The Urgency of Slowing Down is her fourteenth book. Smith speaks around the country sharing the love of Christ at conferences, churches, and events.

The conversation emphasizes that Jesus loves us unconditionally and encourages parents to find time for themselves and their relationship with God. I know you will leave it with some action steps to slow down, reprioritize some things, and deepen your relationship with the Lord.

With love,

Steph

(06:02) The Importance of Slowing Down

(11:57) Adding Spiritual Practices to Your Life

(17:50) Preparing for a Fast

(24:10) The Benefits of Fasting

(30:06) Conclusion and Resources

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

Our Sponsors:
* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com


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

Today’s episode is one you’ll want to listen to more than once—or grab a notebook and take some notes! I’m joined by Amanda and David Erickson from Flourishing Homes & Families. 

In this episode, we discuss:

• The importance of fostering trust and connection in your parenting approach.
• How discipline can be a meaningful part of guiding our children spiritually.
• Tangible tips for building strong family relationships and fostering emotional maturity in kids.
• Amanda and David share their own experiences and practical advice for implementing these principles in everyday parenting.

Amanda and David Erickson are the founders of Flourishing Homes & Families, a ministry dedicated to helping Christian families embrace grace-filled parenting. They are the authors of The Flourishing Family and are passionate about integrating the teachings of Jesus with modern neuroscience to create lasting and meaningful family connections.

This conversation is packed with wisdom and actionable insights. I know you’ll leave feeling encouraged and equipped to nurture trust, connection, and spiritual growth in your family.

Enjoy!

(03:05) The Role of Trust in Parenting

(05:52) Trust-Based Obedience Explained

(08:51) Navigating Obedience and Connection

(11:59) Creative Discipline Strategies

(14:56) Discipline as Discipleship

(17:50) Consequences and Repairing Relationships

(21:05) Modeling Repentance and Growth

(23:46) Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways

Connect with Dr. David and Amanda Erickson

Flourishing Homes and Families

Instagram

Resources Mentioned 

Flourishing Homes and Families

The Flourishing Family book

How to set up an Alexa routine

Wild Interest Podcast

Christmas Gift Guide

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

Our Sponsors:
* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com


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

Happy Thanksgiving week! We are so thankful for you, our listeners, and the time we spend growing in faith together. This podcast is a special place for us to be real, learn, and grow, and I am so grateful for every moment! This week, I am beyond thrilled to sit down with the one and only Bob Goff.  We’re diving into his newest book, Chasing Whimsy.

Here’s what you’ll hear in today’s episode:

• Insights on fostering faith in your family and raising kids with a love for God and life.
• How do you cultivate a spirit of whimsy and joy in your family life, and why does it matter?
• Embracing teachable moments and living with a sense of adventure, even in the everyday.
• Tips for recognizing and celebrating the unique differences of each of your children.

Bob Goff is a New York Times bestselling author, including works like Love Does and Everybody, Always. A former lawyer, he left his practice to pursue writing and speaking full-time. Bob’s infectious energy, storytelling, and heart for adventure and faith inspire people around the globe. He is also the founder of Love Does, a nonprofit dedicated to pursuing justice and hope for those in need.

This conversation is packed with laughter, wisdom, and practical ways to infuse whimsy, adventure, and meaningful moments into your family life. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!

With Love,

Steph

Chapters

(03:08) Living in Anticipation: Family Values and Faith

(05:55) The Role of Humor and Fun in Faith

(08:53) Creating Teachable Moments Through Shared Experiences

(11:48) Balancing Routine and Adventure in Parenting

(14:57) Understanding Individuality in Parenting

(17:47) The Importance of Genuine Interest in Children

(21:07) Navigating Love and Discipline in Parenting

(24:05) Embracing Whimsy and Wonder in Family Life

(26:54) The Legacy of Parenting and Grandparenting

(30:14) The Structure of 'Catching Whimsy' Devotional

(33:10) Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Parents

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

Our Sponsors:
* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com


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

I am thrilled to share today's episode with you! I had the pleasure of sitting down with Cleere Cherry Reaves, our conversation was rich with insights and heartfelt moments, and I know you’ll love it.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Navigating the complexities of parenting a child with special needs and the lessons learned along the way.
• Emphasizing the importance of leaning on God's plan and embracing grace in our parenting journey.
• Utilizing rituals and declarations to foster deep, meaningful connections and spiritual growth.
• We must be fully present with our children and cherish the moments we have with them.

Cleere Cherry Reaves is the owner and creator of Cleerely Stated, a successful online boutique whose inspirational products can be found in retail stores all over the United States. She also hosts the growing Let's Be Cleere podcast. Known for her relatable writing style, Cleere's mission is to help others see themselves and the world around them through the eyes of Jesus. Cleere and her husband, Will, live in Greenville, North Carolina, and welcomed their first child, Sledge, into the world in the summer of 2021. 

This conversation felt like catching up with an old friend; you’ll feel the same way. Enjoy!

(02:59) Parenting Journey and Special Needs

(05:59) The Complexity of Parenting

(09:05) Navigating Parenting Challenges

(11:56) The Importance of Surrender

(14:56) Decluttering Thought Lives

(18:06) Squirreling Out: Managing Overwhelm

(20:53) Intentional Declarations and Family Dynamics

(23:54) Practical Applications of Declarations

(26:58) Creating Family Rituals

(30:01) The Role of Grace in Parenting

(32:54) Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Connect with Cleere

https://www.cleerelystated.com/

@cleerelystated

Resources Mentioned

Revive: Declarations of God’s Truth to Renew Your Spirit

Cleerely Stated Store

Christian Parenting Christmas Gift Guide

Christian Parenting store

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

Our Sponsors:
* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com


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

I am absolutely thrilled about today's episode! We have the honor of welcoming Sally Clarkson to the show—a voice that has profoundly influenced Christian parenting for many years. Her wisdom and approach have significantly impacted so many of us, and I have long admired her message on parenting.

We discussed her newest book, Well Lived: Shaping a Legacy of Gratitude and Grace. Sally shares invaluable insights on:

• Emphasizing our crucial role in nurturing our children.
• Reflecting on her own challenges and the growth that came from them.
• Discussing the joys and responsibilities that come with our role as parent.
• Offering practical advice on instilling faith and gratitude in our families.
• Sharing the joy of seeing her family carry on these practices in their own lives.

Sally Clarkson co-founded Whole Heart Ministries with her husband, Clay, where she serves as the women’s ministry director. She is the author of numerous popular books, including Own Your Life and Desperate (co-authored with Sarah Mae). As a mother of four, Sally has inspired thousands of mothers through her Mom Heart Conferences and small groups since 1998. 

This conversation is filled with gentle wisdom and practical advice. I hope you find it as enriching as I did.

(02:59) The Legacy of Parenting and Writing

(05:55) Embracing the Role of 'Queenie' in Family

(09:05) Challenges in Parenting and Reliance on God

(11:57) Daily Parenting Practices and Building Legacy

(14:59)The Importance of Unconditional Love

(17:59) The Joy of Grandparenting and Passing on Legacy

Connect with Sally

https://sallyclarkson.com/

At Home with Sally podcast

Resources Mentioned

Well Lived book

Christian Parenting store

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

Our Sponsors:
* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com


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

We’ve reached the final week of our series on identity, and I’m thrilled to be joined by Jill Atogwe. She brings a wealth of wisdom on faith, fashion, motherhood, and more.

Here’s what you’ll learn in today’s episode:

• Parenting in a Digital Age: Jill shares practical insights on the unique challenges and opportunities of raising kids in a digital world.
• Teaching Diversity and Self-Acceptance:We discuss the importance of teaching our kids to appreciate diversity and embrace who they are.
• Faith and Identity: How our faith serves as the foundation for a healthy, Christ-centered identity.

Jill Atogwe is a writer, speaker, and entrepreneur behind Gold and Graphite, where she shares her thoughts on faith, family, and style. She also authors The Gold Standard, a weekly newsletter focused on intentional living, and her children’s book Left Out encourages young readers to embrace uniqueness and inclusivity. Jill’s thoughtful approach to life and parenting makes her a trusted voice for families navigating faith and identity.

This conversation is packed with encouragement and practical wisdom, especially as we seek to raise children grounded in Christ in an ever-changing world. I can’t wait for you to listen!

(02:49) The Evolution of Influencing and Writing

(05:59) Navigating Social Media and Parenting

(09:01) Embracing Uniqueness in Children

(11:48) Faith and Identity in Christ

(15:00) Modeling Faith and Trust for Kids

(21:54) Practical Ways to Celebrate Uniqueness

(30:03) Final Thoughts and Resources

Connect with Jill:

https://goldandgraphite.com/

Instagram: @jillatogwe

Resources Mentioned

Identity Simplified

Christian Parenting Christmas Gift Guide

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever

Left Out by Jill Atogwe

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

Our Sponsors:
* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com


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