Christian Parent, Crazy World

Who Gets to Define the Next Generation? Gen Z Finds Its Voice—and Its Anchor—in Christ
Is Gen Z lost in the noise of culture, media, and politics—or are they quietly forging a radical new path of faith? In this powerful episode, Catherine sits down with high school senior and gifted poet Charis Shoemaker to explore how today’s young Christians are wrestling with identity, truth, and calling in an ever-fractured world. If you wonder what the next generation truly believes, and how Christian parents can encourage their kids to pursue God in the midst of cultural chaos, this is an episode you cannot afford to miss.
About Our Guest:
Charis Shoemaker is no ordinary teenager. A state award-winning actress, an eloquent poet, and—most importantly—a passionate follower of Christ, she represents a new wave of young believers speaking up for authentic faith. Charis’ original poem, “They Say,” recently brought a packed house to their feet at her homeschool graduation, voicing the hopes and struggles of a generation determined to follow Christ—no matter the cost.
What You’ll Discover in This Episode:
Gen Z Under the Microscope
Listen as Charis shares firsthand what it’s like to grow up constantly defined—often unfairly—by societal labels, politics, and the relentless barrage of social media. In an era of fractured opinions, what do young people really hear about who or what they’re supposed to be?

The Power of Godly Influence
Charis opens up about her own journey, including profound family challenges and the steady faith of her mother, a night-shift nurse who made time for Scripture and prayer no matter how hard life got. Her story testifies to the quiet resilience that shapes faith behind the scenes.

A Poetic Anthem for Gen Z
Hear Charis' captivating poem, “They Say,” in full. Her words challenge generational stereotypes and culture’s attempts to define identity—while serving as an anthem for those who choose to be defined not by people, but by the voice of God.
“If my life is to revolve around opinions, I would much rather they come from a God who is preeminent than a people who are insignificant... I would much rather they be words spoken by the Word who became flesh for me.” – Charis Shoemaker, 19:15

Dealing with Church Hurt and Pain
Charis recounts personal battles—including abuse and disappointment with the Church—and how those wounds could have derailed her faith. Yet, she found hope, healing, and her truest identity in Jesus. Parents will find wisdom here for helping kids process pain with grace rather than anger or withdrawal.

Who Gets to Define Us?
The conversation zeroes in on the theme of authority, urging listeners to ask tough questions: Is our identity determined by culture, by the Church, by ourselves—or solely by God, the Creator who names us and calls us His own?

Hope Rising in Gen Z
Contrary to stereotypes, Charis reveals that a growing number of her peers are returning to church and hungry for real, unfiltered truth. She challenges parents not to underestimate Gen Z's capacity—and desire—for deep faith, and encourages both generations to risk bold, loving conversations about what matters most.
“There’s a generation coming up after you that wants truth…Be there for us. Give us that thing to hold on to.” – Charis Shoemaker, 53:38

Why This Matters:
In a season when so much is said about the failures and fears of the next generation, this episode highlights a surprising undercurrent: Gen Z isn’t just walking away—they’re wrestling, seeking, and often returning to the God who defines them. Catherine and Charis Shoemaker’s honest exchange offers hope to every parent praying for their child’s faith journey.
Memorable Moments:
The story of Charis Shoemaker's friend whose final words were simply, “Trust Jesus”—a moving reminder of the enduring legacy of authentic faith (35:33).

An inspiring encounter with a peer who worships “mother earth” and how open conversation sows seeds of truth and friendship (52:53).

The recognition that every generation faces labels, but the only voice that matters is God’s.

Modern Application:
Christian parents, take heart! The next generation is listening, watching, and longing for truth—especially from you. Your example, prayers, and honest conversations matter more than ever. As you foster their search for identity, remember: God alone must anchor our children in a world desperate to define them.
Call to Action:
How are you helping your children—or the young people in your life—listen to God’s voice above all others? This week, try having an open conversation about identity and faith at home. Share your own story, and invite them to share theirs—uncut, unfiltered, and real.
Resources Mentioned:
“Gay Girl, Good God” by Jackie Hill Perry

The Narrow Road (song by Reagan James Boone)

Let us know: How are you equipping your family to anchor their identity in Christ, not in what “they say”? Share your thoughts and experiences with us on social media, or email your parenting questions for future episodes!
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In an age when the foundations of freedom are being shaken around the world, this episode of Christian Parent/Crazy World asks a pivotal question: Can freedom last if we forget where it truly comes from? Far beyond politics or constitutions, is it possible to have real liberty apart from God?
Catherine welcomes world-renowned author, philosopher, and social critic Os Guinness for a thought-provoking conversation that every parent needs to hear. Os Guinness holds a doctorate in philosophy from Oxford and has authored more than 30 books, including The Magna Carta of Humanity: Sinai’s Revolutionary Faith and the Future of Freedom. Few voices are better equipped to explore the intersection of faith, freedom, and society.
What You’ll Discover in This Episode
The True Origin of Freedom: Dive into the biblical roots of liberty as Os Guinness explains why the foundation of our freedom is found not in political documents, but in the Genesis declaration that every human bears the image of God. This “Magna Carta for humanity” has shaped Western civilization and remains the bedrock for genuine human dignity and rights.

Freedom’s Decline—and Hope for Renewal: With authoritarianism on the rise and Western society in decline, Os Guinness calls for a return to the sustaining truths found in Scripture. He unpacks why evil, injustice, and oppression are not to be accepted as normal or final, but always fought in the name of the God who freely creates and redeems.

Can We Keep Our Freedom? Os Guinness shares his "golden triangle" of freedom—freedom requires virtue, virtue requires faith, and faith requires freedom—pointing out that each is under assault in today's culture.

The Power of Family Stories: In a stirring insight, Os Guinness recalls how, on the night of the Exodus, Moses didn’t speak of freedom, but of children. The stories shared in our homes, he argues, are the key to both personal identity and the future of nations—a reminder that parents play a vital, irreplaceable role in transmitting truth to the next generation.

Practical Hope for Parents: Catherine and Os Guinness urge parents not to underestimate the power of daily faithfulness—praying, teaching, modeling, and talking with your children about God’s story. These small, seemingly ordinary acts are what shape the leaders and culture-changers of tomorrow.

Notable Quotes & Moments
“Freedom has everything to do with faith, not fate. Slavery is the norm in history, and abolition is the exception.” — Os Guinness
“The stories parents tell to their children are the key to identity and the key to continuity.” — Os Guinness
“We are the creative minority… We’ve gotta be that with courage and confidence and know that under the Lord, it will make a difference.” — Os Guinness
Why This Matters
At a time when culture and education are shifting rapidly, this episode is a clarion call for Christian parents: the future of faith and freedom lies in your hands. The conversations you have, the scriptures you teach, and the faith you live out day by day can transform generations.
Modern Application
Moms and dads, never underestimate your influence. Building your family on the unchanging truth of Scripture, you hold the key to preserving not only your children’s faith but the very foundations of liberty for the future.
About the Guest
Os Guinness (born 1941) is an English author, theologian, and social critic. Born in China to medical missionaries, he witnessed the 1949 revolution. Educated at the University of London and Oxford, he has written over 30 books—including The Call and The Magna Carta of Humanity—and founded the Trinity Forum
Episode Links
The Magna Carta of Humanity by Os Guinness

Os Guinness Website: ozguinness.com

Additional resources for Christian parents: catherinesegars.com

Reflect & Discuss
How are you passing on the story of God’s freedom to your children? In what ways can your family life become a “creative minority” that shapes the next generation for truth and liberty? Share your thoughts, start the conversation at home, and let’s become the few who make the difference.
Subscribe, review, and share—because Christian parenting may be crazy, but you don’t have to do it alone!
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Is America losing the true meaning of freedom? As we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, this urgent episode probes the foundations of liberty, the threats facing our nation, and what it takes to safeguard freedom for our children and generations to come.
In a riveting and timely conversation, host Catherine welcomes Dr. Os Guinness—esteemed philosopher, prolific author of 30+ books, and Oxford-educated scholar—on Christian Parent/Crazy World. As one of the last surviving Western eyewitnesses to the Chinese Communist Revolution, Os Guinness brings a one-in-eight-billion perspective on Marxism, the power of faith amid crisis, and the unique roots of American freedom.
What You’ll Discover in This Episode:
The Origins of True Freedom
Explore why the American experiment stands apart from every other revolution in history, and how its “ordered freedom” is rooted not in Enlightenment thinkers, but in the biblical model of the Hebrew Republic (13:42).

Discover the “Golden Triangle of Freedom”—the idea that freedom requires virtue, virtue requires faith, and faith requires freedom—and why this cycle is essential for a nation to remain free (05:21).

Firsthand Testimony from History’s Crucible
Hear Os Guinness recount surviving the trauma and reign of terror in Communist China as a child, witnessing trials, executions, and famine that claimed the lives of his own brothers (07:47, 11:28).

Learn how his experiences shaped an unflinching realism about Marxism and the dangers of revolutionary utopianism (09:09).

Dueling Revolutions: Bible vs. Enlightenment
Unpack the stark contrast between the American and French Revolutions—their sources, their visions of justice, and why one led to ordered liberty while the other spiraled into totalitarianism (18:25).

The “Long March” Through Culture
Grasp the strategies used by cultural Marxists to capture education, media, law, family, and religion—aiming to reshape the very core of society (28:02).

Understand why so many college-bound Christian kids lose their faith, and the urgent need for Christian parents to cultivate resilient worldviews in their children (28:53).

Why Freedom Is Fragile—And How to Guard It
Be warned: “Freedom is the great enemy of freedom. When we misuse freedom, we will eventually lose it.” (42:10)

Hear the powerful call to Christian citizens—why voting, cultural engagement, and long-haul disciple-making in families and churches matter now more than ever (34:38).

Quotable Moments & Anecdotes
“Freedom is not the permission to do what you like. Freedom is the power to do what you ought.” (41:13)

The story of Derek Prince’s prayer for a leader in WWII—and how God answered, changing the course of history (37:37).

Why This Matters for Christian Parents:
Our children are being taught that freedom means “license”—the ability to do whatever we want. This episode powerfully reframes freedom as a God-given power and responsibility to do what is right. As parents, understanding and passing on the true source and nature of freedom is nothing less than essential—because only faith-fueled virtue can preserve liberty.
About Dr. Os Guinness:
With a doctorate in philosophy from Oxford, Os Guinness is globally recognized for his insight into faith, freedom, and society. Raised in China and forged amid revolution, his lifetime of scholarship and firsthand experience make him uniquely qualified to speak on the future of freedom. His latest book, The Magna Carta of Humanity: Sinai’s Revolutionary Faith and the Future of Freedom, provides the roadmap for this conversation.
Episode Links & Resources:
The Magna Carta of Humanity: Sinai's Revolutionary Faith and the Future of Freedom by Os Guinness

Os Guinness website
Catherine's Parenting Resources
A Call to Action:
What are you doing to plant deep-rooted seeds of faith and freedom in your children? As America stands at a crossroads, how will your family uphold the true foundations of liberty in a culture drifting from its source? Join the conversation—because lasting freedom begins at home.
Don’t miss next week’s archive episode as Catherine and Os Guinness explore the breath-taking biblical truth that every human is made in the image of God—and what that means for the future of freedom.
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Every parent wants their kids to thrive, but what if the key to their success isn’t just grades or good behavior, but the life lessons we pass on? It’s not just important—it’s essential.
Episode Overview
In this deeply personal and practical episode, Catherine unpacks the three biggest life lessons every parent must teach their kids, weaving wisdom from her years as a performer, mother, and follower of Christ. Drawing from her unique background in theater and comedy improv, Catherine reveals how these powerful truths have shaped her own journey and can equip families to navigate an unpredictable world.
Through heartfelt stories and moments of humor—including the hilarious tale of how pretending to be a British exchange student launched her acting career—Catherine demonstrates how the unpredictable nature of improv mirrors real life. She brings home the point that life rarely goes according to our script, but our response makes all the difference.
The Three Life Lessons
You can't choose what happens to you, but you can choose how you respond.
Life throws curveballs—sometimes it’s a dashed dream, a difficult diagnosis, or a sudden job loss. Drawing from both personal experiences and touching examples, Catherine encourages parents (and their kids) to focus on their response rather than circumstances. [See: 11:02]

Accept what happens and build.
The secret of successful improv—and life—is to accept what you’re given and build on it. Catherine shows how this principle, grounded in biblical truth, calls us not to live in denial or despair, but to trust that God can work with whatever comes our way, using disappointment and surprise for something greater. [See: 14:08]

Allow God to turn mistakes into masterpieces.
Sometimes the biggest mistake sparks our greatest victory. With moving real-life stories—like a stage mishap that became an improv masterpiece and a heartbreaking miscarriage that ultimately led to miraculous new life—Catherine illustrates how, when we surrender our failures to God, He can redeem them beyond what we imagined. [See: 20:33]

Why These Lessons Matter
Parents don’t have the power to control everything in their children’s lives, but they can equip them with a mindset rooted in faith, resilience, and hope. These lessons go beyond advice—they’re lifelines for navigating a broken world with confidence that God is always at work, even in the mess.
Memorable Quote
“It’s often the mistake that turns into a masterpiece.” — Catherine [See: 20:38]
Episode Resources
Catherine’s Website Resources:
https://catherinesegars.com/resources
Access free resources for Christian parents, including the Prodigal Bundle, “Beyond the Lies” ebook, scripture lists, and more.

Call to Action:
How has God turned a mistake or unexpected challenge in your life into a masterpiece? Share your story or reflect on what lesson God may want your family to “build on” right now!
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Sexuality and gender are among the most challenging—and unavoidable—topics facing Christian families today. As cultural voices grow louder, Christian parents can no longer afford silence or uncertainty. This episode of Christian Parent/Crazy World dives deep into these hot-button issues, offering not just “what to say,” but the biblical foundation and practical strategies every parent needs.
Joining Catherine for this vital conversation is Elizabeth Urbanowicz, founder and CEO of Foundation Worldview, a leading expert in equipping children with Christian apologetics. Elizabeth’s latest book, Helping Your Kids Know God’s Good Design: 40 Questions and Answers on Sexuality and Gender, provides the centerpiece for this episode’s candid, grace-filled, and refreshingly practical approach.
What You’ll Discover in This Episode
Clear Biblical Foundations
How to root every conversation on sexuality and gender in God’s intentional, loving design.


Making Sin Understandable
Creative object lessons and analogies to help children grasp what sin—and sexual sin—really is.


Talking Consequences, Not Fear
Strategies to address the real-life impact of sex outside God’s design without shame-based tactics.


Navigating LGBTQ+ & Transgender Topics
The “sandwich approach” for addressing same-sex attraction and gender identity issues with grace and truth for kids of all ages.


Tackling Taboo Topics
A straightforward, biblical framework for honest conversations about masturbation and other uncomfortable questions.


Grace for Imperfect Parents
Encouragement for parents who feel late to the conversation—why faithfulness, not perfection, defines godly parenting.


Why This Matters
In a culture saturated with confusion, Christian families have the opportunity—and the responsibility—to be the “trusted voice, the go-to source” for their children on some of life’s most intimate questions. The episode empowers parents to embrace their calling, equipping them to plant seeds of truth in their children’s hearts, nurture them with love, and trust God for the growth.
About the Guest
Elizabeth Urbanowicz is an award-winning educator and the founder/CEO of Foundation Worldview, known for her apologetics curriculum designed specifically for children. Her new book, Helping Your Kids Know God’s Good Design, is quickly becoming an essential resource for Christian families navigating these complex topics.
EPISODE LINKS
Foundation Worldview

Helping Your Kids Know God’s Good Design: 40 Questions & Answers on Sexuality & Gender (book)

CatherineSegars.com Resources — Email Catherine Here (for more free parenting resources)

Parents, Are You Ready?
Will you step into these conversations with both truth and grace, becoming the safe harbor your children need as they navigate a confusing world? Listen in—and equip your family to see not just what the culture says, but the beauty and goodness of God’s design.
What’s your biggest struggle or question when it comes to talking about sexuality and gender with your children? Join the conversation and share your thoughts!
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.