Christian Parent, Crazy World

• Parenting Through Pain: How God Transforms Our Broken Places Into Beauty (w/ Andy Howard) - Archive Ep. 71

  God does not waste our brokenness—in fact, He weaves it into something beautiful. For Christian parents facing heartache, disability, or shattered expectations, this truth is not only comforting—it is transformative. In this powerful “Best Of” episode, host Catherine shares one of her most beloved interviews with Andy Howard, author of When Words Don’t Come Easy and father to a daughter with profound special needs. Together, they wrestle with the question: How does God bring beauty from the most broken parts of our lives? Andy recounts his family’s journey after their daughter Peyton’s diagnosis—her lifelong inability to walk or speak, and the deep despair that followed. Yet, through a moving moment on a beach, God showed Andy that He cherishes the broken as much as the whole. Peyton’s life, though different from what he imagined, has become a source of profound joy, purpose, and testimony, touching more lives than Andy ever expected. Catherine and Andy also discuss critically needed ways Christians can support families with special needs: by offering acknowledgment, compassion, and connection—treating every child and parent with the dignity and attention they deserve. Key Insights and Takeaways: The Beauty in Brokenness – God often reframes what the world calls “broken”; Peyton’s life exemplifies beauty, purpose, and joy, reminding us that divine value supersedes worldly milestones. A Call to Compassion – Andy offers practical advice for supporting special needs families: acknowledge them, approach them, and affirm the dignity and purpose of every child. A simple greeting or act of kindness can mean the world. Strength for the Journey – For parents wondering if they are “strong enough,” Andy reiterates that it’s not about innate strength, but about building on the foundation of Christ. “Keep your foundation on God, on Christ. No matter what comes your way, you can do it. You really can with His help.” Perspective and Purpose – While Andy once prayed for a viral miracle, God had a different plan. Today, Peyton’s quiet witness and Andy’s message of hope encourage families across the globe. About Andy Howard:For over 20 years, Andy Howard has served in ministry as a youth pastor and marriage ministry pastor. A passionate advocate for mental health awareness, Andy has personally walked through the valley of depression—at one point tipping the scales at 345 lbs. as he tried to cope with family trauma through food. But God had more in store. Together with his wife Tiffany, Andy has lost over 350 lbs. combined and co-founded a transformational health coaching business called Taking Back My Life, helping thousands reclaim physical and emotional wellness. Andy is the host of the When Words Don’t Come Easy podcast and author of a book by the same name. He lives in Bryan, Texas with Tiffany and their three beautiful daughters: Payton, Parker, and Presley. Resources Mentioned: Andy’s WEBSITE Andy’s podcast: When Words Don’t Come Easy Andy’s book: When Words Don’t Come Easy Catherine’s episode on Andy’s podcast: From Grief to Redemption: Catherine Segars’ Powerful Story of Faith, Love, and Redemption Download Catherine Segars’ free ebook for moms, “Beyond the Lies: Uncovering Five Myths Our Culture Spreads to Mothers,” at catherinesegars.com For every parent walking through shadows, this conversation is a reminder: Your brokenness can become a testimony, and the hope of Christ is strong enough to transform any story. Want more inspiration? Subscribe, review, and share Christian Parent/Crazy World, and follow Catherine on Instagram and Facebook for new episodes and resources. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

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• When God Says No: Holding On to Faith When the Answer Hurts (w/ Andy Howard) - Archive Ep. 70

  There are few things more painful than hearing God say no. Especially when we’re pleading—not for riches or success—but for healing. For hope. For our child. We fast. We pray. We believe. We speak life over the situation. And still, the miracle doesn’t come… at least not the one we hoped for. In this special Best Of archive episode from two years ago, we revisit a deeply moving conversation that is just as relevant today as the day it aired. This story is evergreen, because the struggle to understand God’s will in seasons of sorrow is one we all face—especially as parents. My guest, Andy Howard, knows that struggle intimately. When his firstborn daughter, Payton, received a devastating diagnosis at Dallas Children’s Hospital, Andy’s world collapsed. The weight of that moment spiraled into a four-year battle with depression. But God didn’t leave him there. In this first installment of our two-part conversation, Andy shares how God met him in the most unexpected and intimate ways in his darkest valley. You’ll hear: How Andy and his wife navigated a life-altering diagnosis The gut-wrenching process of accepting an answer from God that wasn’t what they prayed for The tender message God spoke to Andy in the midst of the heartbreak Why suffering doesn’t mean God has abandoned us—and how beauty can truly rise from brokenness Next week, we’ll hear Part 2, where Andy shares the redemptive turn in his story, how Payton is doing today, and how we as the Church can come alongside special needs families with compassion and strength. This episode will speak to the places in your heart that still carry questions. It’s a sacred story you don’t want to miss. Let’s Stay Connected!To see video clips from this conversation, as well as powerful quotes and encouragement for your parenting journey, connect with me on Instagram and Facebook.For updates on each new podcast episode and free resources like: Scripture songs Bible verses to pray over prodigal children A topical index of Scriptures for prayer ...be sure to subscribe to my website. About Andy Howard:For over 20 years, Andy Howard has served in ministry as a youth pastor and marriage ministry pastor. A passionate advocate for mental health awareness, Andy has personally walked through the valley of depression—at one point tipping the scales at 345 lbs. as he tried to cope with family trauma through food. But God had more in store. Together with his wife Tiffany, Andy has lost over 350 lbs. combined and co-founded a transformational health coaching business called Taking Back My Life, helping thousands reclaim physical and emotional wellness. Andy is the host of the When Words Don’t Come Easy podcast and author of a book by the same name. He lives in Bryan, Texas with Tiffany and their three beautiful daughters: Payton, Parker, and Presley. Resources Mentioned: Andy’s WEBSITE Andy’s podcast: When Words Don’t Come Easy Andy’s book: When Words Don’t Come Easy Catherine’s episode on Andy’s podcast: From Grief to Redemption: Catherine Segars’ Powerful Story of Faith, Love, and Redemption CPCW Episode 66: “How Can A Good God Allow So Much Evil and Suffering in the World?” (w/ Dr. Douglas Groothuis) Scriptures Referenced: Matthew 11:6 Job 13:15 Isaiah 61:1-4 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

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• My Conversation with the Newsboys—And What the Church Needs to Hear (w/ Adam Agee & Jeff Frankenstein) - Ep. 151

  Nothing shakes the church—and Christian families—like the shattering fall of a trusted leader. With the recent explosive scandal surrounding the Newsboys and Michael Tait, this episode of Christian Parent/Crazy World tackles the urgent, sobering question: Why do so many Christian leaders keep falling, and how can parents respond and lead their families through the fallout of hypocrisy in the church? In this must-listen episode, Catherine sat down with Adam Agee and Jeff Frankenstein of the Newsboys for what was meant to be a joyful, lighthearted Father’s Day special on faith, family, and legacy. Just hours after recording, devastating news of one of the biggest scandals in Christian music history broke—bringing the darker reality of double lives and hidden sin to center stage. The conversation with Adam and Jeff dives into their lives as fathers, their experiences balancing family with the demands of a global touring band, and the multi-generational legacy of the Newsboys. They reflect on the influence of their own fathers, sharing powerful stories of integrity, faith, sacrifice, and steadfastness—qualities now more critical than ever in light of public failures within Christian circles. Yet, as Catherine points out in her heartfelt message at the end of the episode, the discussion takes on new and poignant meaning: what does it mean to be authentic behind closed doors? How do we raise our children in a world where even spiritual heroes fall? And, ultimately, what must the Western church do to break the cycle of idolizing celebrities instead of worshiping Christ alone? Episode highlights: The candid, behind-the-scenes reality of life in a band famous for its ministry and impact over forty years Jeff and Adam’s reflections on fatherhood, work-life balance, and lessons learned from their own dads A moving discussion of legacy—what truly matters when all the spotlight fades Catherine’s unfiltered, Spirit-led call to the church: a challenge to stop worshipping the gifts and start seeking the Giver, to reject celebrity culture, and to “climb the mountain” into God’s presence and holiness The episode closes with a stirring reminder from Catherine: “We must rid ourselves of these idols and climb the mountain to worship the one true God.” Every parent, leader, and believer will find encouragement, conviction, and hope in the call to stop seeking our own glory and to, instead, turn our eyes upon Jesus. Guest Bios: Adam Agee is Newsboys’ newest lead singer, formerly part of Audio Adrenaline and Stellar Kart, a veteran musician and devoted dad. Jeff Frankenstein has been the Newsboys’ keyboardist for over thirty years, a father of five, and a thoughtful leader both on and off stage. Takeaways: How Christian parents can help their kids process the pain of public scandal and hypocrisy in the church Why integrity at home—and in private—is the cornerstone of spiritual legacy A biblical reminder that the Western church must stop elevating personalities and start seeking God’s presence above all For listeners shaken or disillusioned by recent events in the church, this episode delivers both realism and a rallying cry to return to Christ—our only true foundation and fortress. EPISODE RESOURCES: EXCLUSIVE: Former Newsboys Frontman Michael Tait Accused of Sexual Assault, Grooming, and Substance Abuse, Dating Back to 2004 by Jessica Morris, The Roys Report Michael Tait Admits to “Living Two Distinctly Different Lives,” Involving Cocaine and Sexual Assault by Jessica Morris, The Roys Report K-LOVE Pulls Newsboys and DC Talk From Rotation Following Tait Sex Abuse Allegations by Jessica Morris, The Roys Report Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

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• Medical Freedom & Parental Rights: This Former Disney Star Speaks Out (w/ Leigh-Allyn Baker) - Ep. 150

  When the world feels upside down, Christian parents are called to stand firm—but what happens when the very systems meant to protect our children threaten their bodies, minds, and hearts? Catherine sits down with Leigh-Allyn Baker—former Disney star turned medical freedom advocate and children’s author—to unpack one of the most divisive and urgent issues facing families today: how to safeguard our kids’ health and souls in a culture that often disregards parental rights, pushes conformity, and floods young minds with spiritually corrosive media. Key Highlights from This Episode: The Battle for Medical Freedom: Leigh-Allyn details her family’s experience with vaccine injury, the shocking aftermath, and why she fled California to protect her children from mandates and discrimination. When Standing Up Comes with a Price: Hear Leigh-Allyn’s account of going viral after speaking to a Tennessee school board—only to be publicly labeled a “domestic terrorist.” What Parents Aren’t Being Told: Learn why informed consent is more important than ever—from questionable laws stripping exemptions, to stories that never make the news. A Deeper Look at “Safe” Expert Advice: Featuring an eye-opening segment with Dr. Marty MaKary on how misguided medical recommendations (like those that caused America’s peanut allergy epidemic) remind us to question everything. Guarding Kids' Hearts AND Minds: Leigh-Allyn shares the transformation in her own faith, how “what you let into your body and your spirit” truly matters, and the link between physical and spiritual health. Raising Kids with Courage: Discover Leigh Allyn’s new book, One Small Little Voice, and her work with Kirk Cameron on Iggy and Mr. Kirk—a wholesome, biblical kids’ show designed to counteract Hollywood’s harmful messages. Why CONTENT Matters: Understand the real agenda behind children’s programming today—and what you can do to fill your child’s mind with truth and light. Why This Conversation Matters:In an era when every sphere—from schools to screens—competes for our children’s hearts, Christian parents can’t afford to be passive or uninformed. This episode is both a wake-up call and a roadmap: Stand up. Ask questions. Protect your rights. And above all, pour godly wisdom, beauty, and love into the next generation. About the Guest: Leigh-Allyn Baker is an American actress. She had recurring roles on Charmed and Will & Grace, and a starring role as mother Amy Duncan on the Disney Channel sitcom Good Luck Charlie. After leaving California, she became an outspoken advocate for parental rights and medical freedom, drawing on her own family’s journey through vaccine injury. Now based in Tennessee, she has teamed up with Brave Books to release One Small Little Voice and is starring with Kirk Cameron in “Iggy and Mr. Kirk.” Episode Resources: One Small Little Voice by Leigh Allyn Baker Brave Books Brave Streaming Service “Iggy and Mr. Kirk” Episode 1, Episode 2, Episode 3 Leigh-Allyn’s Viral School Board Meeting “Exposing the Truth about Peanut Allergies” The Megyn Kelly Show Blind Spots by Dr. Marty Makary Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

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• How Ancient Signs Explain Today’s Headlines: A Powerful Tool for Christian Families (w/ Jonathan Cahn) - Ep. 149

  What if a 2,700-year-old prophecy could explain the chaos in America today—and offer your family a roadmap to understand our times? If you’ve ever wondered whether Scripture speaks to the headlines—or how to make biblical prophecy compelling and relatable for the next generation—this episode is for you. Catherine welcomes back internationally acclaimed best-selling author and prophetic voice Jonathan Cahn for a powerful conversation that bridges ancient truth with modern turmoil. Known by many as one of the most influential Christian leaders of our time, Jonathan returns to discuss the reimagining of his groundbreaking book The Harbinger—a New York Times bestseller for over 100 weeks—now released as a stunning, fully illustrated graphic novel designed to captivate a new generation. Together, Catherine and Jonathan explore why biblical prophecy isn’t just a theological niche—it’s a vital tool for apologetics and a faith-building resource for parents and teens alike. With clarity and conviction, Jonathan unveils the uncanny and often chilling ways that the prophetic patterns of ancient Israel are unfolding in America today. In this episode, you’ll discover: The shocking biblical parallels between Israel’s fall and America’s spiritual decline How prophecy can transform your family’s faith and spark meaningful dialogue with your teens Why modern-day prophetic fulfillment serves as a powerful and often overlooked defense of the Christian faith Jonathan shares how specific warnings from Scripture—originally spoken to ancient Israel—are now echoing in America through real-world events, political acts, and public declarations. These harbingers manifest in physical objects and moments of national significance—often through leaders who are unaware they are echoing the voice of God. From the fallen sycamore tree at Ground Zero to prophetic utterances on Capitol Hill, this conversation builds a compelling case for the supernatural accuracy of God’s Word. Don’t miss these unforgettable moments: Jonathan’s miraculous journey from never having written a book to penning The Harbinger, and the prophetic confirmations that guided him The jaw-dropping fact that Isaiah 9:10—the very verse warning of judgment—was the daily reading in the One Year Bible on September 11th… sixteen years before 9/11 A powerful discussion about America’s current “window of opportunity” for revival—and how humility, repentance, and prayer are key to changing the course of our nation Jonathan delivers a sobering reminder: “If we change the laws but don’t change the people, the unchanged people will change the laws back… The only thing that can save America is repentance and revival.” And Catherine challenges parents to respond with faith, not fear: “The signs of the times are not a cause to be afraid, but a call to return.” As you listen, ask yourself:What might God be saying to your family through the shaking of our times?How can you use prophecy—not only to defend your faith—but to plant seeds of unshakable hope in your children’s hearts? About the guest: Jonathan Cahn has been named along with Billy Graham as one of the top spiritual leaders to have radically impacted our world in modern times. He has spoken at the United Nations, on Capitol Hill, to members of Congress, and to millions around the world. Every one of his books, starting with The Harbinger onward, has become a New York Times bestseller. He is recognized as a prophetic voice for our times. His teachings and prophetic words on YouTube have received over 100 million views. He leads Beth Israel at the Jerusalem Center in Wayne, New Jersey, and Hope of the World ministry, a world outreach of God’s Word and compassion to the world’s most needy. Episode Resources: The Harbinger: A Graphic Novel (June 3, 2025) The Dragon's Prophecy: Israel, the Dark Resurrection, and the End of Days The Return of the Gods Beth Israel Worship Center Hope of the World Ministries Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

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