The Christian Parenting Podcast - Motherhood, Teaching kids about Jesus, Intentional parenting, Raising Christian kids

• Choosing a school - our story & why it’s okay to pivot with Trevor Thurling

  We’re kicking off a brand-new series all about school choices because let’s be honest, it’s something many of us didn’t realize would be such a big parenting decision. Over the next five weeks we will be covering the pros and cons of multiple different school options: public school, private school, homeschool, and online school.In this first episode, I’m joined by my husband, Trevor, as we share our personal journey through public school, homeschooling, and Christian private school and why we’re always open to changing paths if that’s what’s best for our family.Here are four key takeaways from our conversation:Your school decision doesn’t have to be forever. We’ve learned it’s okay to reevaluate and pivot when needed.God’s guidance matters more than a perfect plan. Seeking him first gives peace in the uncertainty.Every option has pros and cons. We talk candidly about what worked (and what didn’t) in each of our experiences.This is a judgment-free zone. This whole series is about informing, not convincing so you can make the best choice for your family.Trevor is my husband, parenting partner, and co-navigator of all things school-related. He’s walked through this journey with me step by step, and together we’ve faced the highs, lows, and many “what now?” moments that come with raising school-aged kids in today’s world.I hope this episode encourages you and reminds you that you’re not alone in figuring this stuff out. Let’s keep seeking God and trusting him to lead the way.(00:00) Navigating School Choices(02:52) The Impact of COVID on Education(06:08) Homeschooling vs. Private School(08:52) Values and Priorities in Education(11:48) Making Informed Decisions(15:00) The Role of Finances in Education(17:53) Understanding Your Child's Needs(20:57) Making Big Decisions Together(23:54) Finding Peace in UncertaintyChristian Parenting ResourcesThe Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out Happy Mammoth and use my code CPPODCAST for a great deal: https://happymammoth.com* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com* Check out Marianne and the Maker: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

  --------  

  28:13
• Choosing joy and peace in parenting with Tauren Wells

  This week we’re diving into something every family longs for...Joy. I’m joined by Tauren Wells, and we’re talking about how to create a home filled with lasting joy, not just fleeting happiness. We unpack what it looks like to live out the beatitudes, how our identity shapes our parenting, and why emotional health matters so much in our homes.Here are four key takeaways from this episode:Joy > Happiness, Tauren reminds us that true joy is rooted in Jesus—not in perfect circumstances.Knowing who we are in Christ helps us parent from a place of peace, not pressure.Creating a peaceful home means modeling grace and leading with humility—even in conflict.We talk about the importance of letting our kids (and ourselves) feel emotions and grow from them.Tauren Wells is a Grammy-nominated Christian artist, pastor, and speaker known for blending powerful music with deep biblical truth. He’s passionate about helping people find purpose, identity, and joy in Christ and that passion shines through in both his music and his message to families.This episode will leave you feeling encouraged, equipped, and ready to build a home full of the kind of joy that lasts. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.(02:57) Understanding Joy and Happiness(05:51) The Beatitudes: A Path to True Happiness(08:45) Identity vs. Activity in Parenting(12:03) The Role of Peacemaking in Families(14:59) Navigating Emotions with Children(18:06) Creating a Peaceful Home Environment(21:02) The Importance of Emotional Awareness(24:01) Encouragement for Parents Seeking JoyConnect with TaurenTauren’s websiteTauren’s podcastsInstagramResources mentionedJoy Bomb bookMarriage SimplifiedChristian Parenting resourcesThe Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out Happy Mammoth and use my code CPPODCAST for a great deal: https://happymammoth.com* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com* Check out Marianne and the Maker: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

  --------  

  32:26
• Breaking free from the screen time trap with Clare Morell

  Today’s conversation is so timely and practical. I’m joined by Clare Morell, author of the upcoming book The Tech Exit, and we’re talking all about how digital technology is shaping our kids—and what we can do about it. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by screen time, smartphone battles, or social media pressure, this episode will leave you feeling hopeful and empowered.Here are four key takeaways from this episode:Clare breaks down how today’s tech works against our efforts to raise emotionally and spiritually healthy kids.Relying solely on settings and filters won’t protect our kids from tech’s deeper impacts.From screen-time rules to alternative phones and community support, Clare shares realistic ways to shift your family’s tech culture.We end the episode with tons of fun, practical activities for keeping kids engaged—no devices required!Clare Morell is a writer, speaker, and mom of four who is passionate about helping families reclaim their homes from digital overload. Her book The Tech Exit offers a hopeful, step-by-step guide to reducing screen dependence and cultivating deeper connection and purpose in your home.Whether your kids are toddlers or teens, this conversation is packed with encouragement and doable next steps to help you raise tech-wise, Jesus-following kids.(02:51) The Dangers of Digital Technology for Kids(06:09) Understanding the Impact of Smartphones on Child Development(08:59) The Limitations of Parental Controls(12:05) Navigating the Challenges of Technology in Parenting(14:50) Building a Tech-Free Culture at Home(22:15) The Impact of Personalized Entertainment(25:06) Balancing Screen Time and Real-Life Responsibilities(28:04) Navigating Technology's Role in Parenting(29:57) Creating Engaging Alternatives to Screens(37:02) Encouragement for Parents of Older KidsConnect with ClareThe Tech ExitClare’s SubstackClare’s X accountResources MentionedMarriage SimplifiedNIV Application BibleThe Tech ExitThe Busy ToddlerWater beadsBaking soda and vinegar activitiesSensory bin ideasIkea drawing paper rollThe Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out Happy Mammoth and use my code CPPODCAST for a great deal: https://happymammoth.com* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com* Check out Marianne and the Maker: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

  --------  

  42:27
• Faith, apologetics, and the supernatural with Lee Strobel

  Hello Friends,This week’s episode is incredibly special to me. I’m joined by Lee Strobel, whose book The Case for Christ played a huge role in reigniting my faith back in college. Getting to sit down with him felt like a full-circle moment—and I can’t wait for you to hear this conversation. Lee shares his personal journey from atheism to belief, and we dive into the fascinating topic of the supernatural side of our faith.Here are four key takeaways from this episode:Lee explains how miracles, dreams, and near-death experiences can deepen our faith and point to the truth of God’s presence.Helping our kids truly know Scripture equips them to grow in faith and navigate the world confidently.Parents need to model and teach their kids how to ask hard questions and defend their faith with both truth and grace.Lee’s story reminds us that belief in Jesus is not blind—it’s grounded in reason, evidence, and personal transformation.Lee Strobel is a former award-winning legal editor for The Chicago Tribune who became a Christian after investigating the claims of Christianity. He’s the bestselling author of The Case for Christ, The Case for Faith, and his latest book, Seeing the Supernatural, which explores spiritual encounters from a biblical worldview. Today, Lee is passionate about helping others discover the truth of the gospel.This conversation will equip and encourage you as a parent to raise kids who love Jesus, trust his Word, and stand firm in their faith. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.With love,Steph(00:00) Introduction to Lee Strobel and His Journey(02:48) The Supernatural: A New Exploration(05:59) Investigating the Supernatural Realm(09:04) Miracles and Documented Evidence(12:03) Supernatural Dreams and Their Impact(14:57) Near-Death Experiences and Visions(18:11) Teaching Kids About the Supernatural(21:04) The Importance of Biblical Literacy(23:59) Encouragement for Parents(26:51) Conclusion and ResourcesConnect with LeeLeeStrobel.comLee Strobel X Seeing the Supernatural bookResources MentionedCase for Christ for Kids The Case for Christ Student EditionMarriage SimplifiedNIV Application BibleThe Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out Happy Mammoth and use my code CPPODCAST for a great deal: https://happymammoth.com* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com* Check out Marianne and the Maker: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

  --------  

  34:11
• Building emotionally resilient kids with Sissy Goff and David Thomas

  I’m so excited about this week’s episode because I’m joined by two of my favorite guests Sissy Goff and David Thomas from the Raising Boys and Girls podcast! They’re sharing incredible insights from their counseling practice and offering encouragement for every parent navigating the emotional ups and downs of raising kids today.Here are four key takeaways from this episode:Anxiety and emotional overwhelm are on the rise, but there are simple, effective ways to help our kids cope.Sissy and David share how their therapy dogs are making a big difference in helping kids feel safe and supported.Small, consistent steps—like routines and regulation tools—can strengthen your child’s emotional health.They tell us about their upcoming Raising Capable Kids Conference and share a special listener discount! (Use RAISING25 for 25% off tickets!)Sissy and David are therapists, speakers, authors, and co-hosts of the Raising Boys and Girls podcast. With decades of combined experience at Daystar Counseling Ministries, they’re known for their practical, grace-filled approach to helping parents raise emotionally healthy, faith-rooted kids.This conversation is packed with wisdom and encouragement for every parent who’s ever felt overwhelmed or unsure. I hope it gives you the tools and confidence you need to support your child with love and clarity.(03:04) The Importance of Encouragement for Parents(06:06) Challenges Facing Kids Today(09:07) Understanding Anxiety in Children(12:01) The Role of Dogs in Therapy(15:03) Tools for Emotional Regulation(18:07) Practical Strategies for Parents(20:59) Upcoming Conference and ResourcesConnect with David Thomas and Sissy GoffConnect with Sissy and DavidDaystar Counseling Daystar dogs - new books – Owen Learns He Has What It Takes and Lucy Learns to Be BraveResources MentionedRaising Capable Kids Conference  Use code: RAISING25 for 25% off ticket prices!NIV Application BibleMoms, Dads, and Grads Gift GuideThe Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out Happy Mammoth and use my code CPPODCAST for a great deal: https://happymammoth.com* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com* Check out Marianne and the Maker: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

  --------  

  31:03

More Kids & Family podcasts

Trending Kids & Family podcasts

About The Christian Parenting Podcast - Motherhood, Teaching kids about Jesus, Intentional parenting, Raising Christian kids