No matter where your kids are in school this year, every mom will take away encouragement and wisdom from this conversation about homeschooling. In this episode, Karen and Emily sit down with Wire Talk producer (and homeschool mom of four) Katie Leipprandt, who shares the truths she’s learned over 15 years of parenting and schooling at home. From choosing relationship over results, to leaning on community, to remembering your “why” when days get hard, Katie’s wisdom applies to every mom—no matter how your kids are educated.

Episode Recap:

• How did you get started homeschooling? (4:00)
• I wish someone had told me to prioritize relationship first (7:33)
• How has your ‘why’ changed for your homeschool? (11:30)
• What does a typical day look like homeschooling four kids? (14:30)
• How do you differentiate between your “mom hat” and your “teacher hat”? (18:00)
• What would you say to the homeschool mom who is already overwhelmed? (21:43)
• How do you teach a child who doesn’t want to do the work? (26:32)
• How do you juggle multiple ages and teach with toddlers? (32:24)
• What fruit have you seen because of homeschooling? (37:40)
• What’s your encouragement for the homeschool mom this year? (42:40)

Scripture: Deuteronomy 6:6–7 (NIV)
“These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.”

Discussion Questions:

1. What is your “why” for the educational path you’ve chosen for your children? How can you remind yourself of it on hard days?
2. Katie talked about prioritizing relationships over results. How does that idea challenge or encourage you in your current season?
3. In the early years, expectations for homeschooling (and parenting in general!) can be sky-high. What expectations might you need to lay down to create more peace in your home?
4. What role has community played in your parenting journey? How can you pursue encouragement and support if you’re feeling isolated?
5. Katie shared that one of the sweetest fruits of homeschooling has been the bond between her children. What “fruit” do you see or hope to see in your family through the choices you’re making now?

Resources:

• Connect with Katie online: www.instagram.com/leipprandt 
• Dumbing Us Down by John Taylor Gatto: https://amzn.to/4fONcrK
• Purchase Birds on a Wire curricula in the store: https://store.birdsonawiremoms.com/collections/available-for-purchase-1
• Reach out to https://birdsonawiremoms.com/book-karen-to-speak to have Karen come speak in your community!
• Join our private FB group, BOAW Moms: https://www.facebook.com/groups/BOAWmoms

School today looks a lot different than when we were kids, and moms often feel stuck between supporting their children and not piling on more pressure. In this episode, Karen and Emily sit down with longtime educator and principal Jerome Huff to share how parents can help their kids thrive during their middle and high school years. We loved the reminder that your child’s school still needs you! Your prayers and presence can make a lasting impact, not only on your child but on the entire school community.

Episode Recap:

• “Principal Coach” Jerome Huff joins us today to talk about helping our middle and high schoolers thrive (2:20)
• How coming from a single parent home influenced the way he ran his schools (5:45)
• How schools have changed over Jerome’s time as a principal (8:30) 
• What do you wish more parents understood about what teachers are dealing with day to day? (16:30)
• High schools need parent volunteers as well! Ask, “what can I do?” (23:18)
• The role the Holy Spirit played in Jerome’s approach to being a principal (26:45)
• What are you most proud of from your career? (30:12)

Scripture: Philippians 4:6–7
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God…”

Discussion Questions:
1. How do you balance encouraging your child to do their best but not overwhelming them with pressure?
2. Jerome mentioned the importance of letting kids advocate for themselves—what opportunities could you give your child this week to practice independence?
3. Jerome emphasized the role of balance (school + outside interests) in thriving kids. How can you help your child find that healthy balance this year?
4. What’s one way you can support teachers or administrators at your child’s school in a tangible way this semester?
5. How can you begin praying more intentionally for your child’s school, teachers, and classmates?

Resources:
- Grab a pad of Lunchbox Notes to start your year off strong! https://store.birdsonawiremoms.com/collections/gifts/products/lunch-box-notes
- Reach out to https://birdsonawiremoms.com/book-karen-to-speak to have Karen come speak in your community
- Join our private FB group, BOAW Moms: https://www.facebook.com/groups/BOAWmoms

If you’re parenting an elementary-age child, this episode is for you! Today Karen and Emily sit down with elementary school principal Amber Lamb to share practical ways you can partner with teachers, encourage independence, and help your child navigate friendships during these formative years. With 20+ years in education, Amber offers encouragement and practical tips to set your family up for a strong and connected school year.

Episode Recap:

• Elementary school principal Amber Lamb joins us today (4:15)
• What has changed in the school world since you became an administrator? (6:45)
• Fewer parents are coming into the building now (8:30) 
• How can parent involvement make a difference at this stage? (11:15)
• I wish more moms understood education is a journey (14:45)
• Put your “kids lens” on when talking to your kid about what’s going on at school (21:15)
• Go in to talking with your teacher with positive intent (29:02)
• No contribution to the classroom is too small! (30:26)
• Encourage independence and be curious about your child this school year! (34:42)

Scripture: Colossians 4:5-6 (NIV)
“Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.”

Discussion Questions:

1. What’s one way you can build good communication with your child’s teacher this year?
2. How do you currently encourage independence at home? What’s one age-appropriate step you could add?
3. Think about a time your child didn’t have the “perfect” teacher match; did it help them grow? How so?
4. How can you support your child as they navigate friendships when conflict arises?
5. Where do you have margin this year to serve and/or encourage your child’s school staff?

Resources:

• Grab a pad of Lunchbox Notes to start your year off strong! https://store.birdsonawiremoms.com/collections/gifts/products/lunch-box-notes
• Reach out to https://birdsonawiremoms.com/book-karen-to-speak to have Karen come speak in your community
• Join our private FB group, BOAW Moms: https://www.facebook.com/groups/BOAWmoms

Starting preschool can feel overwhelming, both for moms and our little ones! That’s why Karen and Emily are joined today by veteran preschool director Lisa Lucas, who brings 20 years of wisdom to this conversation. Lisa shares how preschool has changed over the years, what kids really need to be ready, and how moms can ease the transition with a few small habits at home. Whether you’re a first-time preschool mom or just looking for a reset, this episode is packed with tips to help your family thrive this school year!

Episode Recap:

• Preschool director Lisa Lucas and Karen go way back! (2:45)
• How the preschool environment has changed over the past 20 years (7:00)
• Preschoolers are capable of a lot more than we think (14:40) 
• Solid sleep habits and good nutrition make a world of difference (17:20)
• How can I ease separation anxiety? (19:40)
• How can moms support their preschool teachers? (26:30)
• The small chane that will make a BIG difference in your school year (29:51)

Scripture: Luke 2:52 (NIV)
“And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.”

Discussion Questions:

1. What were your biggest emotions or concerns when sending your child to preschool for the first time?
2. Lisa mentioned that preschoolers are more capable than we give them credit for. In what areas could you offer your preschooler more responsibility at home?
3. How do you think your family's technology use impacts your child’s behavior, imagination, or attention span? What changes might you consider for the year ahead?
4. What’s one new habit or routine (e.g., sleep schedule, communication skill, attitude shift) that could help your preschooler feel more confident about school?
5. How can you support and encourage your child's teacher/school this year?

Resources:

• Grab a pad of Lunchbox Notes to start your year off strong! https://store.birdsonawiremoms.com/collections/gifts/products/lunch-box-notes
• Reach out to https://birdsonawiremoms.com/book-karen-to-speak to have Karen come speak in your community
• Join our private FB group, BOAW Moms: https://www.facebook.com/groups/BOAWmoms

As we turn the corner into a new school year, we’re bringing back part two of one of our most-loved mini-series: the State of Motherhood. In this candid conversation, Karen doesn’t hold back! She challenges us to take ownership of our world, root out laziness, and remember that all the hard work of motherhood is worth it. Whether you're clinging to the last days of summer or knee-deep in school prep, we hope this episode reminds you that everything we do, including being a mom, is to be done unto the Lord.

Episode Recap:

• Focus on progress over perfection as a mom (3:45)
• Go back and listen to part 1 for Truths 1 & 2 (5:00)
• Truth #3 - Take ownership for your mom life (6:30)
• Stop playing the blame game (12:50)
• Truth #4 - Stop being lazy (18:05)
• It’s all worth it (31:51)

 
Resources:

• Want Karen to come deliver some tough love and major encouragement to the moms in your community? Reach out: https://birdsonawiremoms.com/book-karen-to-speak
• Grab Peace for the Anxious Mom as your Bible study for the new school year: www.boaw.mom/peace
• Need a devotional for the school year? Grab Karen’s devotional: https://store.birdsonawiremoms.com/collections/books/products/copy-of-moments-with-god-for-moms-daily-devotional-faux-leather
• Join our private FB group, BOAW Moms: https://www.facebook.com/groups/BOAWmoms
• Follow BOAW Moms everywhere: @birdsonawiremoms

As July comes to an end, many moms are turning their eyes toward the school year ahead. That’s why we’re bringing back one of our most-loved mini-series: the State of Motherhood. This honest two part conversation dives into the good, the hard, and the unfair parts of motherhood and offers the loving kick in the pants we all need to reset our perspective. Whether you’re wrapping up summer or bracing for new routines this fall, we hope this episode helps you gear up for what lies ahead!

Episode Recap:

• Check out all our new curriculums (6:30)
• Join our private Facebook group this year (9:20)
• The amount of complaining we do doesn’t change how hard motherhood is (19:21) 
• Life is not fair (24:02)
• You are doing a good job and you are going to get through this (38:42)

Resources:

• Find all Karen’s FREE curricula in the BOAW Moms app: https://store.birdsonawiremoms.com/collections/free-curriculum
• Purchase brand-new curricula in the store: https://store.birdsonawiremoms.com/collections/available-for-purchase-1
• Reach out to https://birdsonawiremoms.com/book-karen-to-speak to have Karen come speak in your community!
• Join our private FB group, BOAW Moms: https://www.facebook.com/groups/BOAWmoms

Today Karen and Emily dive into the dynamics of marriage and parenting by reminding us that we are not our husband's Holy Spirit! Karen shares her own story about letting go of the urge to control her husband's spiritual journey and offers practical wisdom for managing the emotional ups and downs that come with doing life together. Lean in for practical advice about navigating differences with your spouse, remembering that it is God who ultimately guides our faith journey!

Episode Recap:

1:49 We diminish God’s power when we try to control our husbands

6:10 How do I let go of my husband’s lack of a quiet time? 

9:05 Allow the Holy Spirit to do its job, your job is to love and respect your husband

10:15 My husband is harsh when he disciplines, what do I do? 

14:10 How can I get my husband to take more initiative and help me more?

17:30 Be specific when you ask for help

18:45 My husband’s moodiness brings me down! 

Scripture for Reflection:

1 Corinthians 3: 6-7 (NIV): "I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow."

Questions for Discussion:

1. Can you relate to the feeling of wanting to control your husband's spiritual walk? When has this happened in your own marriage, and how have you handled it?
2. How do you and your spouse parent differently? What strengths does your husband’s style bring to the family? What strengths does your style bring? Do you think you make a good team or is there a lack of balance?
3. Do you ever struggle with resentment or feeling overwhelmed in your role as a wife and mother? What steps have you taken to address these feelings, and how did your husband respond?
4. When your husband is in a "blue mood," how do you typically react? Have you found any strategies that help both of you during those times, and how do you maintain your own emotional balance?
5. Have you or your husband used this idea of space to deescalate tension in your relationship? Was it effective?

Resources:

• Looking for a summer study? Check out Peace for the Anxious Mom: https://boaw.teachable.com/p/peace-for-the-anxious-mom
• Sign up for Soar at Sea: https://www.soaratsea.com

Today Karen and Emily are talking about one of the biggest challenges moms face—knowing when (and how) to say no. With stories from their own families and practical advice for every season, this conversation will help you evaluate what’s best for your family right now. Whether you're navigating sports schedules, volunteer asks, or the push to "do it all," this conversation will give you permission to prioritize wisely and protect your peace, so you can say yes to what matters most.

Episode Recap:

8:02 How can I say no to one more thing? I feel guilty! 

11:00 Travel soccer used to be fun but now it’s expensive and overwhelming…what do we do?

15:05 I’m struggling to prioritize time with my husband, any tips? 

17:30 You need to determine for your own family what are your non-negotiables

18:26 What steps can I take to prevent over commitment? 

20:22 - Your best yes looks different from other families 

Scripture for Reflection: Philippians 1:10 (NLT)
“For I want you to understand what really matters, so that you may live pure and blameless lives until the day of Christ’s return.”

Questions for Discussion:

1. How do you evaluate whether a commitment is a “best yes” for your family? What criteria do you use to make sure your commitments support your family’s well-being?
2. How can you ensure that your marriage remains a priority amidst the busyness of life? Is this easy for you or is it a struggle? 
3. Karen talks about dividing your time into three categories: essentials, non-negotiables, and bonuses. How do you currently categorize your commitments? What activities or priorities fall into each category in your life? Are there any adjustments you feel called to make after reflecting on this idea?
4. What strategies can you implement to create intentional rest and unstructured family time in your weekly routine?

Resources:

• Looking for a summer study? Check out Survival Guide to Motherhood: https://boaw.teachable.com/p/survival-guide-to-motherhood
• Sign up for Soar at Sea: https://www.soaratsea.com

Discipline is one of the hardest parts of parenting—and one of the most frequently asked-about topics from Wire Talk listeners. In this popular re-air, Karen breaks down discipline into three practical stages and shares wisdom from her book Survival Guide to Motherhood. Whether you're parenting toddlers, school-aged kids, or teens, grab your headphones and get ready to reframe your mindset with the powerful biblical principle: pain now equals peace later.

Episode Recap:

8:14 Discipline starts with your mindset 

9:36 Pain now equals peace later

12:24 Discipline has to be consistent.

13:34 The three stages of discipline each require a different focus from moms

16:17 The “B”s of discipline with young kids are: Be Consistent, Be United, Be Clear

17:05 In the middle years it’s time to teach the “why” behind the no

18:11 You have to slow down and make time to teach your child

20:20 During the “coaching” stage, parents have to let consequences play out

Scripture for Reflection: Hebrews 12:11 (NIV)
“No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.”

Questions for Discussion:

1. Are there any negative behaviors you see in your child now that you are tempted to ignore, thinking they will grow out of it? 
2. Karen mentioned the idea that "pain now will equal peace later" when it comes to parenting. Have you experienced this in your own life? How have you seen this in your parenting journey? 
3. Which stage of discipline are you in right now? (Laying the Foundation, Teaching the ‘Whys’, The Coaching Years)
4. Do you think the pace of your life is preventing you from disciplining effectively? How so? 
5. Of the three “B”s (Be Consistent, Be United, Be Clear), which do you struggle with most? 
6. Have you ever prayed and asked for wisdom to know how to discipline your child? Pray together as a group today for the wisdom to discipline effectively. 

Resources:

• Get your copy of Karen’s book Survival Guide to Motherhood: https://amzn.to/3I8jxNx
• Sign up for Soar at Sea: https://www.soaratsea.com
• More Wire Talk episodes on discipline: Laying the Foundation, The Middle Years, The Coaching Years
• Find ALL the episodes we’ve ever recorded on discipline HERE. 

We can’t shield our kids from everything—but we can prepare them. In today’s episode, Karen answers your questions about navigating tricky situations that stem from outside influences. From toddlers to teens, the answer isn’t control—it’s conversation. Listen and learn why awkward talks now might be the most powerful gift you can give your kids!

Episode Recap:

3:39 - My preschooler is coming home using potty words, how do I address it? 

5:41 - My neighbors’ kids are obnoxious and I don’t want my kids around them…

9:46 - My teenager’s friend (the son of a friend of mine) uses foul language in his texting, should I address it with her? 

13:34 - How do I balance our family values and God’s command to think about praiseworthy things with my daughter’s taste in popular music that isn’t God-honoring?

20:05 - These conversations are awkward and hard but if we don’t teach our children, who will?

Scripture for Reflection: Deuteronomy 6:6–7 (NIV)
“These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.”

Questions for Discussion:

1. When have you had to address a peer-related influence or issue with your child? How did it go?
2. Are there any boundaries you need to reinforce in your home—around language, media, or friendships?
3. How can you create a safe environment for your child to be honest with you about what they’re seeing and hearing?
4. What makes it hard for you to have uncomfortable conversations with your kids—and what truth from Scripture gives you courage?

Resources:

• Register today for Peace for the Anxious Mom: https://boaw.teachable.com/p/peace-for-the-anxious-mom
• Sign up for Soar at Sea: https://www.soaratsea.com