Christian Parent, Crazy World

Nothing repairs a parent-child relationship—or models the heart of the gospel—more powerfully than eight humble words: “I’m sorry. I was wrong. Please forgive me.” In a world where authority is often prized over humility, Catherine shines a light on the crucial, yet challenging, words every parent must be willing to say.
In this deeply practical “Best Of” episode, Catherine explores why these eight words are harder to say than most—and how they carry the potential to transform the atmosphere of our homes. With her trademark honesty and grace, Catherine tackles the barriers parents face in admitting fault and offers biblically-grounded wisdom for restoring trust when we inevitably get it wrong.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
The three critical objectives achieved when parents humbly apologize, including healing breaches in trust, modeling biblical repentance, and affirming your child’s growth and autonomy.

Why saying “I’m sorry” isn’t always enough—and the importance of going beyond surface-level apologies to confessing, “I was wrong,” especially when our delivery lacks love.

A breakdown of the four parenting phases—caregiver, cop, coach, and counselor—and how operating in the wrong one can damage relationships with older kids.

Catherine’s actionable, eight bonus words: “What can I do to make it right?”—a powerful next step for restoration and collaboration with your child.

Rooted in 1 Corinthians 13, Catherine reminds listeners that even “if I speak with human eloquence and angelic ecstasy, but I don’t love, I’m nothing but the creaking of a rusty gate.” She vulnerably shares her own journey toward quicker humility and confesses her husband models this with grace she’s always striving to emulate.
Notable Quotes from This Episode:
“Parenting really isn’t about perfection. It’s about formation—ours and theirs.”

“Dictators last for a season. But at some point, there will be a citizens’ revolt.”

“Our kids need to see humility and repentance from us.”

If you want a legacy of trust, openness, and faith in your family, tune in to learn the eight essential words every parent should have in their relational toolbox.
Ask Yourself:
When was the last time you told your child, “I was wrong. Please forgive me”? What might change in your home if humility and grace defined your relationship repairs?
Want more practical steps for rebuilding after mistakes? Don’t miss next week’s "best of" episode, where Catherine welcomes back Kirsten Vossler, host of the Rejoicing in Motherhood podcast, to share seven practical, grace-filled steps for resetting when you’ve blown it with your kids.
Subscribe and invite Catherine into your parenting journey at catherinesegars.com for free resources, encouragement, and faith-filled insight. Parenting as a Christian may be crazy, but you don’t have to do it alone.
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Few topics divide opinion in the church like money. But what if much of what we've been taught about giving isn't truly biblical?
In this eye-opening episode, host Catherine welcomes Bible scholar and award-winning author, Clifton Payne Jr., to set the record straight on what the Bible really says about money, tithing, and generosity. They cut through decades of confusion and misinterpretation, addressing the guilt-driven giving, prosperity promises, and toxic church culture that have warped how Christians view their finances—and God's character.
Clifton Payne Jr. reveals little-known truths from scripture (including the fact that there were actually three different tithes in ancient Israel, not just one!) and explains how biblical principles of stewardship are often misunderstood or misapplied today.
What You Will Discover in This Episode:
The deep mistrust many Christians have toward churches when it comes to money—and how church scandals, manipulation, and legalism fuel that distrust.

Surprising discoveries like the three biblical tithes, special rules for ancient Israel, and what Jesus actually teaches about taxes, tithing, and giving.

Why tithing is a model—not a requirement—for modern believers, and how generosity should flow from gratitude rather than obligation.

The crucial principle of "first fruits": why giving God our best and first, not our leftovers, directly impacts the spiritual life of our families.

The freedom found in New Testament giving, where the heart matters far more than the amount, and how generosity can be an antidote to materialism.

Powerful stories—like the unforgettable account of Otzi, an African woman whose tiny, sacrificial gift became the greatest offering in the eyes of God.

The conversation is both practical and pastoral, exploring how to talk about money with your kids, build healthy giving habits, and reclaim joy in generosity—even if you’ve been wounded by church abuse around this issue in the past.
About the Guest:
Clifton Payne Jr. is the author of What the Bible Really Says About Tithing and Giving: It's Different Than You Think, a book that has earned recognition from both the American Bookfest and International Book Awards. Drawing on years of pastoral ministry and biblical scholarship (including studies at Hebrew University in Jerusalem), Clifton untangles scripture from tradition, helping listeners return to the heart of God in their finances.
Key Takeaways for Listeners:
Don’t start with guilt or pressure—start with prayer and let giving flow from what God puts on your heart.

Giving first is a spiritual discipline that breaks the grip of materialism and invites God’s faithfulness into your life.

Teaching kids to give as a first priority (not last, as our culture encourages) will shape their lifelong habits and trust in God.

Generosity has enormous power to heal wounds, restore faith, and transform communities when practiced in freedom and love.

Episode Resources:
What the Bible Really Says About Tithing and Giving: It’s Different Than You Think by Clifton H. Payne Jr.
Catherine's Free Parenting Resources
Other Episodes in This Series:
EPISODE 175: When Leaders Exploit the Flock: A Biblical Response to Scandals ( w/ Clifton Payne Jr.)
EPISODE 174: Finding Financial Freedom: Breaking Free from Debt and Anxiety (w/ Jade Durham)

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When spiritual heroes fall, what happens to our faith—and that of our children? Financial manipulation and abuse within the church can leave deep wounds, shaking the foundation of trust and faith for entire families.
In this powerful episode of Christian Parent/Crazy World, host Catherine tackles one of the most urgent and painful issues affecting Christian families today: how to respond when trusted church leaders become charlatans, using their position for financial—or even sexual—exploitation. With real-life stories, audio clips, and biblical insight, this episode equips parents to guide their children through disappointment without abandoning the truth of the Gospel.
Joining Catherine is featured guest Clifton Payne Jr., pastor, writer, Hebrew University scholar, and author of What the Bible Really Says About Tithing and Giving: It’s Different Than You Think. Having left the faith for fourteen years after witnessing financial abuse firsthand, Clifton Payne Jr. brings both scholarly expertise and personal experience to this heart-wrenching discussion.
What You’ll Discover in This Episode:
Financial Abuse—A Widespread Scandal: Hear stories of pastors manipulating the vulnerable, including Clifton Payne Jr.’s grandmother and infamous televangelists promising “seed money” blessings for thousand-dollar gifts.
Charlatans Across Denominations: It’s not just one stream of Christianity; financial and sexual misconduct strike churches everywhere—from charismatic circles to mainline denominations to the Catholic church.
The Impact on Faith and Family: Discover why these betrayals don’t just hurt individuals—they threaten the faith of the next generation. Catherine lays bare how hypocrisy often drives children and parents alike away from church and sometimes, from God.
Biblical Wisdom for Difficult Days: Get to the heart of the Bible’s teachings on money, tithing, and generosity. Clifton Payne Jr. strips away manipulation, revealing how God’s desire for our hearts is profoundly different from the “prosperity gospel” sales pitch.
Honest Conversations at Home: Learn how to talk with your children about church scandals—without letting cynicism win. Public harm requires public correction, and as Christian parents, we are called to shepherd our homes by telling the truth.
Why This Matters:
This episode will challenge, grieve, and encourage you to see beyond the headlines and scandals. It’s a reminder that our faith must be rooted in Christ, not in flawed messengers. When parents grapple honestly with church failures and model God-honoring generosity, they provide children with a foundation that lasts beyond any scandal.
Modern Application:
Christian parents, are you prepared to shepherd your children through disappointment in the church? Are you modeling discernment, generosity, and faith that isn’t shaken by human failure?
About the Guest:
Clifton Payne Jr. is a pastor, writer, and biblical scholar with advanced study at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem. His experiences with church financial abuse and long journey back to faith uniquely equip him to address manipulative money tactics and help families find biblical clarity in confusing times. His book, What the Bible Really Says About Tithing and Giving: It’s Different Than You Think, is available on Amazon and other major booksellers.
EPISODE LINKS:
Clifton Payne Jr.’s Book: What the Bible Really Says About Tithing and Giving: It’s Different Than You Think
Subscribe to Catherine's resources for Christian parents on her website.
Mike Winger’s Expose on Shawn Bolz & Bethel Church: The Skeletons in Bethel’s Closet Are Now Going to Speak
Televangelists: Last Week Tonight with John Oliver
Call to Action:
How are you preparing your children to discern truth in a world full of spiritual counterfeits? What honest conversations could you start this week—even in the face of heartbreak—to root their faith in Jesus, not fallen heroes?
Tune in next week as Catherine and Clifton Payne Jr. dig deeper into what the Bible really teaches about tithing and giving—setting your family free from confusion and manipulation.
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Few burdens weigh heavier on Christian parents than the relentless stress of financial uncertainty. How do we model faith, provide for our families, and cultivate peace amid mounting bills and pressure from every side?
With over 60% of Americans living paycheck to paycheck and credit card interest rates soaring to 20% and above, there’s never been a more vital time for families to find clarity, freedom, and a biblical approach to their finances. Catherine and Jade Durham—both Lee University grads—openly discuss how financial stress affects marriages, emotional health, and even our ability to be godly parents in an ungodly world.
In this episode of Christian Parent/Crazy World, host Catherine tackles one of the most pressing—and anxiety-inducing—challenges for families today: navigating debt, financial stress, and economic uncertainty with wisdom and hope.
Joining the conversation is Jade Durham, a certified personal financial counselor and vice president of Trinity Debt Management. With decades of experience guiding families toward clarity and freedom, Jade brings a comforting blend of empathy, practical advice, and spiritual perspective to the money challenges many listeners face.
What You’ll Discover in This Episode:
The Hidden Weight of Money Stress
Learn how financial worries go far beyond bank statements, influencing marriages, parenting, emotional health, and even spiritual well-being.
Breaking the Debt Cycle—Gracefully
Jade Durham explains why so many well-meaning parents find themselves buried in debt—and why there’s no shame in seeking help or making a fresh start.
Real Stories, Real Freedom
Hear moving anecdotes of clients who, facing eviction, medical bills, or family upheaval, have found hope, restored dignity, and practical pathways to financial recovery.
Spiritual Roots of Financial Stewardship
Explore Trinity’s unique, biblically grounded approach to debt management, including a commitment to prayerful compassion, nonprofit ethics, and keeping faith at the center of every financial plan.
Tools for Change
Get actionable steps for budgeting, teaching kids about money early, rebuilding credit, and setting goals that align with both spiritual and financial health.
Why This Matters:
Financial pressure can make Christian parenting feel impossible. But this episode reminds us: God cares about every area of our lives—including our wallets. With faith, support, and the right tools, it is possible to break free from anxiety, model true stewardship, and open up new dreams for your family’s future.
A Call to Action:
What steps can you take this week to invite God into your family’s finances? Is it time for an honest budget conversation, reaching out for help, or simply asking for God’s guidance and peace in seasons of stress?
About the Guest:
Jade Durham is a certified personal financial counselor and Vice President of Trinity Debt Management, a nonprofit agency helping thousands reclaim their financial future with integrity and biblical values. Her warm, client-centered approach has changed countless lives.

Resources & Next Steps:
Visit trinitycredit.org to learn more about faith-based debt solutions
Need support? Call Trinity at 1-800-793-8548
Free Parenting Resources at Catherine Segars Website
This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org

TrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments. https://trinitycredit.org

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Letting Go Isn’t Losing—It’s Trusting God with Your Children’s Future
How do you faithfully release your children into the world while still nurturing connection and influence? In this profoundly honest episode, host Catherine is joined by Jaime Hampton of the Praying Christian Women Podcast to tackle one of the most challenging—and transformative—realities of parenting: letting go.
For Christian parents, “letting go” isn’t about giving up; it’s about surrendering control, deepening trust, and transferring ownership of our children’s faith from our hands into God’s. Drawing from personal experience and biblical wisdom, Catherine and Jaime explore four distinct phases of parenting, revealing how to step back while keeping communication and relationship strong.
What You’ll Discover in This Episode:
The Four Phases of Parenting
Caregiver: From diapers to first steps, parents meet every need.
Cop: Setting boundaries and keeping children safe before they fully understand.
Coach: Explaining the “why” behind rules as children mature.
Counselor: Giving advice only when asked, respecting your adult child’s autonomy while remaining a trusted source of wisdom.
Jesus as the Model for Letting Go: In a powerful discussion on John 17, Jaime and Catherine reflect on how Jesus prepared His disciples, equipped them, and ultimately sent them out, because “greater works than these you will do.” Christ’s example gives parents a biblical blueprint for releasing children in faith, not fear.
Prayer—The Invisible Influence: Letting go doesn’t mean the end of parental influence. As Catherine says, “Our greatest influence over the lives of our kids happens on our knees.” Whether praying through a prodigal season or releasing a child to public school, parents have spiritual authority to intercede for their children, guided by God’s wisdom and timing.
MEET THE GUEST: Jaime Hampton is a wife and mother of three who recently relocated from Alaska to Utah with her family, embracing the challenges of a new climate and culture. With her eldest in college and two younger kids in school, Jaime co-hosts the Praying Christian Women podcast with her longtime friend and prayer partner, Alana Terry. Their show began as an outgrowth of their honest coffee-time conversations about faith and prayer, offering encouragement for women to grow spiritually.
EPISODE RESOURCES:
The Praying Christian Women Podcast
Jaime’s Website, Instagram, Substack
Catherine’s Website & Resources
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.