Christian Parent, Crazy World

Too often, our entire healthcare system is designed to chase symptoms, not solutions. We numb the pain, mask the problem, and patch the visible cracks—rarely pausing to dig for the real reason something is wrong. But what if this approach is quietly failing our children and families, creating lifelong challenges where there could have been correction and healing?
In this memorable episode of Christian Parent/Crazy World, host Catherine pulls back the curtain on one of the most overlooked arenas where symptom-chasing can rob families of true wellness: our children’s oral and airway health during sleep. Bringing practical wisdom, expert insight, and personal experience, Catherine is joined by Dr. Kallie Hale—one of the country’s leading dentists specializing in dental sleep medicine and airway health.
Free Dental Airway Assessment: Visit www.toothpillow.com/cpcw and use CODE: CPCW to get a free upgrade that includes a full video assessment, a $50 value.
Meet the Guest:
Dr. Kallie Hale is the co-founder and Chief Clinical Officer of The Airway Dentists and the founder of Tooth Pillow, a teledentistry platform helping families nationwide address airway-related root causes of health issues. With a national speaking career and a passion for pediatric sleep-disordered breathing, Dr. Hale has made it her mission to change how dentistry and medicine care for children’s well-being—by getting to the source of symptoms rather than merely managing them.
Episode Highlights & Key Insights:
The “duct tape” problem in medicine and parenting: Many health challenges—headaches, poor sleep, crooked teeth, even mental health—are met with short-term remedies rather than curiosity about their origins (Catherine, 03:38).

Oral health, airway function, and your child’s future: Dr. Hale describes how issues like crooked teeth, mouth breathing, tooth grinding, and even bedwetting can signal deep-seated airway problems that affect not just dental aesthetics, but growth, learning, and emotional health (Dr. Hale, 12:00).

Rethinking orthodontics: For generations, standard dental practice has started “too late,” waiting until adolescence to straighten teeth and sometimes extracting healthy teeth—while missing the root cause: underdeveloped jaw and airway structures. Dr. Hale urges, “The way we do our orthodontic treatment on our children now will determine how they live for the rest of their life, and how they age.” (Dr. Kallie Hale, 13:41)

Signs parents can’t afford to ignore: Grinding, snoring, chronic tiredness, allergies, dark under-eye circles, and persistent bedwetting are early warning lights on the dashboard. “That’s your check engine light,” warns Dr. Hale.

From symptom to solution: Tooth Pillow—a simple, child-friendly appliance—offers early, gentle intervention that addresses the root of airway-related dental and sleep struggles, and their virtual platform means families everywhere can access screening and help.

Spiritual parallels: Just like in health, our faith calls us to look below the surface—not just masking the manifest struggles but seeking the deeper heart issues, trusting God to reveal the true diagnosis and pathway to healing.

Catherine shares personal anecdotes—her own long path through dental fixes, her children’s struggles, and the frustration of being offered “duct tape” solutions, never a path to wholeness. Dr. Hale vulnerably discusses what it cost her to become a voice for root-cause medicine in a profession slow to change, and how she’s equipping parents to “challenge the narrative” in everything—from their dentist’s advice to the way they advocate for their children’s health and future.
Are you masking symptoms or courageously seeking the root?
As Christian parents, we’re called not just to fix what’s on the surface, but to ask better questions, seek deeper truth, and partner with God in healing—from head to heart. Don’t miss this episode for hope, wisdom, and a practical roadmap to get out of the symptom-chasing maze and into true wellness for your whole family.
Take Action: Has your parenting or healthcare journey been focused on surface fixes? Visit www.toothpillow.com/cpcw and use CODE: CPCW to get a free upgrade that includes a full video assessment, a $50 value. Instead of just a form response, one of their doctors records a video walking through your child's photos one by one, explaining exactly what they see, why it matters, and what they recommend. You watch it on your own time, revisit it later, or share it with family.
Where is God calling me to look deeper—to discover the root, restore what’s broken, and help my child become all He created them to be?
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There is no greater heartbreak for a Christian parent than watching a beloved child drift away from the faith. Yet in today’s world, navigating doubt and rebellion in our kids is increasingly common — and even the most dedicated parents may find themselves walking the painful road of the prodigal.
In this powerful and hope-filled episode, Catherine concludes her two-part “Best Of” series on Gen Z with Laurie Christine , originally aired on Redeeming the Chaos. Together, they tackle the hard questions: How do you parent a child who’s struggling in their faith? How do you protect your relationship and retain influence when your child is questioning, doubting, or rejecting core beliefs? What actions can help draw a wandering heart back — and what parental mistakes might actually push them further away?
Seven Big Reasons Gen Z Is Leaving the Faith
Catherine briefly recaps the top reasons young people cite for leaving Christianity, referencing Barna Research:
Struggling with the existence of evil and suffering

Perceiving Christians as hypocrites

Belief that science contradicts the Bible

Dismissing Christianity as a “fairy tale”

Disillusionment over injustices in Christian history

Apathy or perceived irrelevance of church

Negative experiences with Christians or church

Guidance for Parents Navigating a Prodigal Child's Journey
With raw honesty and wisdom, Catherine draws from her own family’s story and years of hosting Christian Parent Crazy World. She and Laurie Christine outline practical steps — and critical mindset shifts — for parents of teens and adult children who are wrestling with faith:
Prayer is your first line of defense. Catherine emphasizes the unique spiritual authority parents have in prayer over their children, describing the importance of persistent, faith-filled intercession.

Know your stage of parenting. Are you a caregiver, cop, coach, or counselor? Catherine details how your approach must shift as your child grows, especially in the late teen and adult years.

Lead with unconditional love. Affirm your love no matter your child’s beliefs or choices. Laurie Christine highlights the importance of commending kids when they open up about doubt or disagreement, not reacting with panic or punishment.

Set and communicate healthy boundaries. While extending grace, be clear about the behavioral standards for living in your home — but avoid enabling harmful choices.

Don’t give endless sermons. Teens know what you believe. What they need now is to see the love of Christ in action and to encounter God for themselves.

Reject the urge to convince, convict, coerce, or control. Catherine unpacks how these tactics either step into God’s role or mirror the enemy’s strategies. Instead, keep your focus on love, wise counsel, and prayer.

Humble yourself and own your mistakes. Apologize when you’ve erred. Humility builds bridges and trust.

Releasing Guilt and Entrusting Your Child to God
Every parent will wonder “What did I do wrong?” Catherine compassionately reassures listeners that even a perfect parent—God Himself—had two children in the Garden who chose rebellion. She delineates what is a parent’s responsibility, what belongs to the child, and what only God can do. Parents must let go of crushing guilt and trust God’s relentless pursuit of prodigals.
Practical Resources
Catherine references a bundle of free resources for parents of prodigals, including scripture prayer lists and episode archives, available at her website.
Powerful Reminders
Above all, Catherine reminds parents that God’s love is unconditional — “while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Christian parents must model this same radical love, never shunning, always hoping, and continually interceding for their children.
Guest Bio:
Laurie Christine is host of Redeeming the Chaos and a mother of four boys. Her passion is equipping moms to raise courageous sons rooted in Christ.
This honest and practical episode is a lifeline for any parent feeling the heartbreak of doubt, struggle, or estrangement. Whether your child is beginning to question, entrenched in rebellion, or seemingly far from God, you’ll find encouragement, wisdom, and hope for the journey.
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Parents cannot afford to ignore why so many Gen Zers are walking away from Christianity. Understanding the reasons behind this dramatic cultural shift is essential for any Christian parent hoping to nurture enduring faith in their children.
In this sobering and highly relevant episode of Christian Parent/Crazy World, Catherine is joined by guest Laurie Christine (author, podcast host, and biblical parenting coach) for a deep dive into the top seven reasons Gen Z is leaving the faith.
Pulling from recent Barna research, Catherine outlines the most prominent factors cited by young people, including the prevalence of evil and suffering, hypocrisy within the church, challenges regarding science, accusations that Christianity is “fairy tale,” historical injustices, church irrelevance, and personal bad experiences with Christians. Each of these issues is explored, not only in terms of what is driving the exodus but with practical suggestions and resources for parents at every stage—from young children in the home to teens on the brink of adulthood.
Key Points Covered:
A Crisis of Worldview in Churches
Only 37% of pastors and 51% of evangelical pastors have a biblical worldview (09:24), according to the American Worldview Inventory.

Parents are cautioned not to outsource spiritual formation solely to churches—home must be the primary place for faith development.


The Power and Pervasiveness of Cultural Influence
Social media, internet, and secular worldviews bombard kids daily, requiring parents to proactively engage in conversations about pantheism, secularism, suffering, identity, and more (10:49).


Barna’s Seven Reasons Gen Z Is Leaving the Faith (12:02), (32:55)
1. I have a hard time believing that a good God would allow so much evil or suffering in the world (29%): see EPISODE 66 w/ Dr. Douglas Groothuis
2. Christians are hypocrites (23%)
3. I believe science refutes too much of the Bible (20%) See Dr. Stephen Meyer: Signature in the Cell, The Return of the God Hypothesis, and Darwin’s Doubt; also see Dr. John Lennox (The “God Delusion “ Debate with Richard Dawkins)
4. I don’t believe in fairy tales (19%) see “The Case for Christ” & “The Case for Christ for Kids” by Lee Strobel
5. There are too many injustices in the history of Christianity (15%) see Episode 9: How Does Christian Worldview Creates the World We all Want to Live”, see Episodes 93, 94, & 95 w/ Os Guinness
6. I used to go to church, but it’s just not important to me anymore (12%)
7. I had a bad experience in church/with a Christian (6%) see Episodes 39, 40, 41, & 42; see “When Narcissism Comes to Church: Healing Your Community from Emotional & Spiritual Abuse” by Dr. Chuck DeGroat


Parenting Solutions for Each Season
Practical foundation-building for young children: daily devotions, scripture memory using music, and apologetics resources like Foundation Worldview (21:45).

Teen and adult strategies: prioritizing tough conversations, choosing churches wisely, and seeking out other trusted Christian influences when parental voice decreases (19:08), (25:20).

The unique call to pray for, encourage, and intentionally speak truth into the distinctive gifts and struggles of each child.


Featured Resources
Foundation Worldview curriculum (with discount code)

Books: The Case for Christ by Lee Strobel, Signature in the Cell by Dr. Stephen Meyer, When Narcissism Comes to Church by Dr. Chuck DeGrow

Podcast episode recommendations for parents of prodigals and those wrestling with the problem of evil


Guest bio:
Laurie Christine is an author, podcast host, wife, and mom to four adventurous boys. She leads Redeeming the Chaos, equipping moms of boys to raise courageous kids rooted in Christ.
Want deeper guidance?
Subscribe to Catherine’s website for a free prodigal bundle (podcasts, articles, scripture lists, and music), plus weekly encouragement and parenting resources. For parents walking the prodigal path, there is hope—you are not alone.
Do not miss this critical conversation—because if we want to help Gen Z return to the faith, we must first understand why they’re leaving.
RESOURCES REFERENCED AND CITED:

“Emerging Gen Z may deliver huge blow to religion in U.S.” by Jeff Brumley (June 8, 2018)
The American Worldview Inventory in 2022 highlights worldview beliefs of American pastors.
“Only Half of Evangelical Pastors Possess a Christian Worldview: Incidence Even Lower for Most Denominations” (Cultural Research Cente::ACU)
ACU Cultural Research Center Worldview Inventory 2020-current
Foundation Worldview Curriculum (use “CPCW10” code for 10% discount)
Apologia: What We Believe (4 volume set)

EPISODES CITED:
Episode 57: “How To Teach Your Kids the Christian Worldview” w/ Elizabeth Urbanowicz
Episode 58: “7 Lies Culture is Selling Our Kids: Are They Buying?” w/ Elizabeth Urbanowicz
Episode 72: “What Do People Leaving the Faith often Get Wrong about God?” w/ Elizabeth Urbanowics
Episode 84: “How To Learn More Scripture in 2024 Than You Ever Have Before” w/ Zac Fitzsimmons
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

No parenting strategy—no matter how faithful or intentional—guarantees your child will follow God. In one of the most honest and tender episodes to date, Catherine and her guest, D.J Harry, open up about the heartache and hope of raising children in a culture that stands in stark opposition to biblical truth.
This is a special “best of” episode that revisits a conversation rich with candor, compassion, and wisdom, as Catherine and D.J Harry confront the painful question: Does godly parenting always produce godly kids? Drawing on profound lessons from the book of Daniel, they discuss what it means to parent faithfully in an ungodly world—and what to do when the outcome isn't what you prayed for.
Key Takeaways & Topics:
No Guaranteed Formula
There’s no five, ten, or twenty-step plan that will ensure your child’s salvation. Every child must ultimately make their own faith decision, and parents are called to obedience and faithfulness, not results.

Lessons from Daniel: Parenting in Babylon
The unpredictable timing and nature of faith-testing in the next generation

The importance of a well-rounded education and teaching children how to learn and discern

Faith transference as a relational—not mechanical—process

Training children to appeal to authority and stand firm amid pressure, without parents fighting every battle for them


When the Result Is Not What You Expected
Catherine shares her own experience of parenting a child who wrestled with faith and doubt, giving voice to the pain, uncertainty, and relentless prayer that many Christian parents experience. She emphasizes the foundational role parents play and affirms that their faithfulness is never wasted.

Identity Under Fire
The world seeks to rename and redefine our children’s identities—much like Daniel and his friends in Babylon. Knowing who God says they are is essential for resilience.

Grace for Parents
Catherine dispels shame and blame with biblical wisdom: even the perfect parent—God—had children who rebelled. God judges our faithfulness, not our results.

Hope and Practical Help
Real-life stories of wandering and return

Prayers and scripture resources for parents of prodigals

Catherine's personal update: her daughter's faith journey over several years, highlighting the power of persistent, loving prayer


For Listeners Walking the Prodigal Road:
This episode is a lifeline for parents burdened with worry or sorrow over children who question or walk away from faith. You’ll find encouragement, solidarity, and actionable hope alongside scriptural truth and raw honesty.
Guest Bio:
D.J Harry is a pastor, speaker, podcaster, and father of four. He and his wife, Lori, cohost the Better Together podcast, which explores biblical wisdom for marriage and parenting. Learn more at growingbettertogether.org.
Parenting Resource Highlight:
Subscribers to Catherine’s website receive access to her Prodigal Bundle: podcasts, articles, five pages of scriptures to pray over your kids, and more.
If you need prayer or support, email Catherine at katherine@katherineseekers.com. You are not alone.
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

How do we raise children who stand strong—and even shine—in a culture determined to pull them away from God?
In this special archive series of Christian Parent/Crazy World, host Catherine dives deep into one of the most urgent questions facing Christian parents: How can we prepare our kids to stand firm in a “Babylonian” culture bent on swaying their faith?
To answer this, Catherine welcomes DJ Harry , senior pastor of Needham’s Grove Baptist Church in Central North Carolina and cohost of the Better Together podcast. With over two decades of experience in pastoral ministry (and a background in education), DJ Harry brings powerful insights drawn from the biblical life of Daniel—a young man who stood unwaveringly for God while surrounded by pressure and compromise.

What You’ll Discover in This Episode:
Timeless Lessons from Daniel:
Drawing from the extraordinary story of Daniel and his friends, listeners are invited to reimagine the Book of Daniel as a parenting manual for today. How did teenagers like Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego maintain unwavering faith in the heart of Babylon—a culture that tried to erase everything they knew and believed?

You Can’t Choose When or How Your Child Will Be Tested:
As DJ Harry recounts, “We don’t get to set the time or the age when our children are going to be pressured.” Like Daniel’s parents, we rarely know how or when our children’s faith will face its hardest tests, but we can choose how we prepare them now.

The Power of a Well-Rounded Foundation:
Daniel and his peers were chosen because of their well-rounded competence—in wisdom, learning, and character. Catherine Segars and DJ Harry challenge parents to nurture not just spiritual knowledge but also curiosity, learning, and character in their children.

Facing the Reality of “Babylon” Today:
The episode acknowledges the modern pressures—academic, social, and spiritual—that Christian kids face, often at younger ages than ever before. The analogy to ancient Babylon becomes all too relevant.

Where Most of the Crowd Goes Missing:
Listeners are reminded that most of the young men taken to Babylon “became good Babylonian young men,” disappearing into the crowd. Only a faithful few—like Daniel and his friends—stood apart. What made the difference, and how can parents cultivate that difference at home?

Practical Encouragement for Uncertain Times:
Personal anecdotes, including a health scare in DJ Harry 's family, bring home the message that we don’t know what tomorrow holds. Our task as parents is to lay the seeds now—academically, spiritually, emotionally—without presuming on time.

Standout Moment:
DJ Harry reveals, “If I want my children to have the greatest opportunity to have an impact in their Babylon, then part of that preparation is preparing them to lead in culture.”
Why This Matters:
In an age when research shows most church-raised kids drift from faith under cultural pressure, this episode is a wake-up call: intentional, daily spiritual formation and well-rounded preparation matter more than ever.
About the Guest:
DJ Harry is the senior pastor of Needham's Grove Baptist Church in Central North Carolina and co-hosts the Better Together podcast with his wife, Lori. With a background as both a science teacher and pastor, he brings real-world experience to this biblical discussion on parenting.

Parenting Takeaway:
Are you cultivating an environment where your children gain not just faith, but the wisdom, skills, and confidence to stand apart in their generation? What steps can you take this week to intentionally prepare your child’s heart, mind, and character for the challenges ahead?
Connect with DJ Harry :
Website: Dr. Dennis Harry
Don’t miss next week’s powerful conclusion—and a moment so surprising it changed the course of this interview.
EPISODE LINKS:
Better Together Podcast

CatherineSegars.com

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