Move Beyond Homeschool Stress: Practical Ideas That Promote Peace
Jun 23, 2025
Homeschooling can be delightful, beautiful, and an amazing privilege! It can also be hard. You can move beyond homeschool stress and experience peace in your home. Today we’ve got Marni Love and Amy Nyvall, homeschool moms and Connected Families certified parent coaches, here to address the real challenges homeschool families face daily. From sibling conflicts, pushback during lessons, and the toxic beliefs about ourselves and our children, they share vulnerable stories and practical strategies for creating a peaceful learning environment.
Check out our website for more resources to support your parenting!
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*This podcast was made possible by members of The Table, whose monthly support creates a ripple effect of change for generations to come. We’d love to have you take a seat at The Table!*
Guest Bio:
Marni Love is a former public school teacher who has been a home educator for 14 years. She is a Homeschool Mentor, a Certified Connected Families Parent Coach, and an instructor for CF coaches-in-training. Marni enjoys spending time with her husband, Eric, and their three sons in the beautiful mountains and beaches of Northern California. You can connect with her through her website, marnilove.com.
Amy Nyvall is a Connected Families Certified Parent Coach who lives near Portland, Oregon, where she homeschools her kids ages 14,11, and 9 and leads a vibrant Charlotte Mason Education Community. Contact Amy at amynyvall@gmail.com or learn more about her here: https://connectedfamilies.org/coaches/amy-nyvall/. Amy is available for coaching and speaking on the Connected Families Framework.
Are math lessons causing meltdowns? Is your homeschool calendar overwhelming everyone?
Join experienced homeschool moms and Connected Families Certified Parent Coaches Amy and Marni for a transformative webinar designed to help you move beyond daily power struggles by fostering genuine connection and nurturing your child’s confidence.
Learn how to connect before you correct, coach your kids toward responsibility, and create a peaceful, joy-filled learning environment.
How to Be the Caring Father You've Always Hoped to Be
Jun 16, 2025
In honor of Father’s Day, Jim Jackson and Mike Tobie have a conversation about empathy. Mike Tobie shares his authentic journey in developing grace and empathy with his family. This powerful conversation explores how showing God’s grace and empathy can be applied in equipping our children and how that models Christ to them. In this episode, you’ll discover the transformational healing that can happen when parents move toward their children in a way that connects with their hearts.
Key Points:
Offering understanding helps our children feel safe and supported rather than alone and ashamed
Understanding God’s unconditional grace can deepen our capacity to extend empathy and grace to our children
These principles of empathy can apply to marriages, ministry, and all other relationships as we become “a light of the Gospel.”
Check out our website for more resources to support your parenting!
Rate this podcast to help others discover the show easily!
*This podcast was made possible by members of The Table, whose monthly support creates a ripple effect of change for generations to come. We’d love to have you take a seat at The Table!*
Guest Bio:
Born and raised in Chicagoland, Mike has been in Sacramento, CA for 10 years. He has been married to Kelly for 9 years, and they have three children, ages 1, 3, and 6. Mike has been in full-time sport ministry for the past 3 years, and is preparing to move to Guatemala this summer to launch a sports ministry. He is currently in Phase 2 of the Connected Families Parent Coach Program.
Screen Addiction: Prevent & Combat It by Giving a Big YES to Your Kids
Jun 09, 2025
Even if your kids aren’t struggling with screen addiction, Connected Families co-founders Jim and Lynne Jackson want to help you shift the conversation away from a big “No” to a big “Yes!” In this episode, you will discover how to apply this transformative approach to managing screen time in your family. Listen in to help your children find their God-given purpose and calling beyond screens!
Key Points:
Jim and Lynne share how their initial parenting approach toward screens escalated with their son, leading them back to the Foundation level of the framework
Mutual accountability with daily screen usage creates trust and open dialogue in a world where screens are here to stay
Helping your children discover real-world activities that align with their God-given gifts
Check out our website for more resources to support your parenting!
Love the podcast? Leave a review to help other parents discover the show!
*This podcast was made possible by members of The Table, whose monthly support creates a ripple effect of change for generations to come. We’d love to have you take a seat at The Table!*
Guest Bio:
Jim and Lynne Jackson are the Co-Founders of Connected Families in Plymouth, MN. With over 50 combined years of professionally helping families and a love for working in the church, Jim and Lynne have been dedicated to bringing reliable, God-centered, research-based parenting resources to all families since 2002.
We’re experiencing the biggest communication shift in history—and most of us haven’t had guidance. Until now.
If you want a clear roadmap for today’s digital world, less screen time, more meaningful offline moments, and a media plan that truly works… this course is for you.
Today we’ve got the author of Good Pictures, Bad Pictures, Kristen A. Jenson, here with us to help us navigate how to talk to your kids about porn and protect them. Stacy and Kristen discuss how parents can proactively prepare children to recognize and reject pornography in our digital world. Listen in to be equipped to start the conversation with your kids.
Key points:
Start conversations about pornography as soon as children access the internet, even at ages 2-3.
Talking with kids about porn must include 3 key parts: defining, warning and making a plan
Understand the ways pornography can lead to addiction, increase vulnerability to abuse, and distort healthy views of relationships.
Use age-appropriate resources: books and tools make these difficult conversations easier and provide structured language for you to use
Check out our website for more resources to support your parenting!
Rate this podcast to help others discover the show easily!
*This podcast was made possible by members of The Table, whose monthly support creates a ripple effect of change for generations to come. We’d love to have you take a seat at The Table!*
Guest Bio:
Kristen A. Jenson is the founder of Defend Young Minds and best-selling author of the Good Pictures Bad Pictures series of read-aloud books. She is also the executive producer of the Brain Defense: Digital Safety curriculum and the owner and CEO of Glen Cove Press, LLC. Kristen is a positive voice for raising empowered, resilient, screen-smart kids who know how to reject pornography. Kristen received her bachelor’s degree in English Literature and her master’s degree in Organizational Communication. She is a mother of three and grandmother of two, and currently lives with her husband and awfully cute dog in Washington State. Connect with Kristen at:
We’re experiencing the biggest communication shift in history—and most of us haven’t had guidance. Until now.
If you want a clear roadmap for today’s digital world, less screen time, more meaningful offline moments, and a media plan that truly works… this course is for you.
Kids & Technology: How to Navigate the Constantly Shifting Landscape
May 26, 2025
Screens cause issues for families everywhere! The full scope of what social media is in today’s world is complex and can be overwhelming. It goes way beyond the typical social media platforms and games we usually hear about. That’s why we’re bringing in Matt & Jill Reed, founders of Know Curtains, who have created an online course for parents to help you parent wisely and put you in the driver’s seat around technology. The Reeds share insights from their “Driver’s Training for Social Media” course, discussing how families can work together to develop healthy digital habits. Matt & Jill emphasize the importance of what we model as parents and creating fun alternatives when it comes to kids & technology.
Key Points:
Parents and kids can work as a team to manage technology, rather than parents simply imposing rules
Kids observe parents’ screen behaviors from a very young age, so your modeling is crucial
Social media is far more than just the popular social networking sites
Intentionally growing your family’s fun and engaging activities without screens
Check out our website for more resources to support your parenting!
Share encouragement with other parents–leave a review where you listen most.
*This podcast was made possible by members of The Table, whose monthly support creates a ripple effect of change for generations to come. We’d love to have you take a seat at The Table!*
Guest Bio:
Know Curtains was founded in 2024 by Matt and Jill Reed. As parents, they saw a huge void in tech resources for families and made it their mission to see past the hype, curate news that keeps tech wizards honest, and produce independent resources to render the public powerful. Tech Insight and Guidance for the Rest of Us. No hype. Know curtains.
In their first online course, “Driver’s Training for Social Media,” you and your family will learn how to navigate the digital world safely, manage screen time, and avoid online traps with a customizable plan you create together. Find it online at training.knowcurtains.com.
Matt & Jill are filmmakers with nearly twenty years of experience in media and communications, plus a rich background in pastoral and volunteer ministry. They have two boys, and they’re based in Minnesota. They love food, travel, history, and sharing adventures on their @wildgooselife YouTube channel.
We’re experiencing the biggest communication shift in history—and most of us haven’t had guidance. Until now.
If you want a clear roadmap for today’s digital world, less screen time, more meaningful offline moments, and a media plan that truly works… this course is for you.
How to Love Your Stepchildren Well with Ron Deal
May 20, 2025
In this bonus episode, Jim Jackson and Ron Deal discuss the unique challenges and opportunities of blended families through the lens of the Connected Families Framework. Ron, a bestselling author and host of the Family Life Blended podcast, shares his 30+ years of expertise in step-family dynamics. The conversation explores how step-parents can build emotional safety with children who may be resistant to new relationships. Ron emphasizes that safety must precede love, explaining that children often bristle against a step-parent’s affection due to grief, loyalty conflicts, or simply not being ready for that relationship.
Key insights include:
The importance of “pacing” with children at their readiness level
How step-parents can acknowledge their role without trying to replace biological parents
Practical approaches to discipline and household rules when facing resistance
Building respectful relationships with biological parents in the other household
Check out our website for more resources to support your parenting! Share encouragement with other parents–leave a review where you listen most.
*This podcast was made possible by members of The Table, whose monthly support creates a ripple effect of change for generations to come. We’d love to have you take a seat at The Table!*
Guest Bio:
Ron is the bestselling author of more than a dozen books and resources, a licensed marriage and family therapist, podcast host, and a Senior Director for the ministry of FamilyLife®. In addition, Ron is one of the most widely read and referenced authors on blended families. His latest #1 Amazon bestselling book, The Mindful Marriage, coauthored with his wife Nan and Terry and Sharon Hargrave brings the proven principles of Restoration Therapy to a mass audience. The Deals live in Little Rock, Arkansas. Learn more at RonDeal.org.
Your Monthly Support Changes the Trajectory of Families Worldwide
Join The Table, our monthly donor community, and become part of a dedicated group committed to spreading the same hope and healing you’ve experienced to countless families worldwide.
Predictable support helps us plan effectively and reach more struggling families with life-giving resources.
The Emotionally Distant Marriage: Don't Stay Stuck
May 19, 2025
Do you feel like you are in an emotionally distant marriage? In this special episode, Jim and Lynne Jackson interview Ron and Nan Deal about their new book, The Mindful Marriage, which combines biblical foundations with brain science. The authors vulnerably share how their marriage hit a crisis point after 20 years, leading them to seek help from a therapist (who later co-authored the book with them). They explain how our “pain cycles” develop from childhood and manifest in four reactive coping styles: blame, shame, control, and escape. The conversation explores their four-step process for moving from destructive pain cycles to “peace cycles.” This approach isn’t just for marriage but applies to all relationships as it’s fundamentally about discipleship—bringing your best self to relationships by following Jesus.
Check out our website for more resources to support your parenting!
Share encouragement with other parents–leave a review where you listen most.
This podcast was made possible by members of The Table, whose monthly support creates a ripple effect of change for generations to come. We’d love to have you take a seat at The Table!
Guest Bio:
Married since 1986, Ron and Nan Deal are the authors of The Mindful Marriage: Create Your Best Relationship Through Understanding and Managing Yourself, as well as popular marriage conference speakers. Ron is the bestselling author of more than a dozen books and resources, a licensed marriage and family therapist, a podcast host, and a Senior Director for the ministry of FamilyLife. Nan retired from teaching after 25 years and currently works for a Christian non-profit ministry. They have three sons, a daughter-in-law, one grandson, and a Golden Retriever and live in Little Rock, Arkansas. Learn more at RonDeal.org.
El Poder de la Empatía en la Disciplina
May 13, 2025
¡Escucha este nuevo episodio en español del pódcast de Familias Conectadas! Esther Reich conversa con Luisa Wendt acerca de cómo la empatía es la llave al corazón de tus hijos en momentos de mal comportamiento. Y de cómo esta llave te ayudará a guiarlos mejor.
¿Te pareció útil este episodio? ¡Por favor compártelo con tus amigos!
*Este podcast fue hecho posible por miembros de La Mesa, cuyo apoyo mensual crea un efecto multiplicador de cambio para futuras generaciones. ¡Nos encantaría que tome un asiento en La Mesa!*
Esther Reich es Asesora de Crianza Certificada por Connected Families. Ella es enfermera profesional especializada en asesoría de lactancia materna y ella y su esposo, Roberto, tienen tres hijos y sirven como misioneros con Serge en Guatemala desde 2018. A través de enfrentar retos en la crianza de sus hijos acudieron a Connected Families para recibir coaching/apoyo. El apoyo que recibieron de Chad Hayenga y de Lynne Jackson les ayudó a ver cambios significativos en ellos mismos y en sus hijos. Todavía hay mucho espacio para crecer como familia, pero la diferencia de antes y después de la intervención de Connected Families es significativa. Además de servir con otros ministerios en Guatemala (Sigo Vivo y Servant Harts), apoyan a padres e iglesias a través de talleres y coaching/apoyo individual para los que enfrentan retos en su crianza de sus hijos incluyendo los que son muy sensibles o intensos. El correo de Esther es esther.e.cummings@gmail.com
Acerca de Luisa:
Luisa Wendt es Asesora de Crianza certificada por Connected Families nació en Bogotá, Colombia y vive en Iowa con su familia. Luisa y su esposo Jarrett tienen seis hijos, tres en el cielo y tres en la tierra. Dos de sus hermosos hijos llegaron a su familia a través de la adopción. Durante un momento muy complejo en la crianza Connected Families los asesoró y continua asesorandolos y guiandolos en el camino de una crianza basada en la gracia de Dios y la confianza y conexión con sus hijos. Jarrett y Luisa tienen un ministerio que se llama Built on Rock Parent Coaching que nació con el gran deseo de compartir esas enseñanzas con tantas familias como sea posible. Te invitamos a seguir su canal de YouTube, donde todos sus videos tienen subtítulos en español: https://www.youtube.com/@builtonrockparentcoaching Para más información acerca de su historia, ministerio y unas lindas fotos de su familia pueden visitar su página de internet: www.builtonrockparentcoaching.org. En este momento toda la información se encuentra en ingles pero si desean contactarlos para más información o asesorías de crianza en español pueden escribirles a jarrettandluisa@builtonrock.org
Navigating Infertility & Loss: A Conversation with Julie Fowler
May 12, 2025
Julie Fowler, speaker and bible curriculum writer, joins us for a meaningful conversation about her journey of infertility and the resources she’s created for other couples coping with infertility and loss. Julie shares how scripture helped her in her grief and how she wove her faith into intentional community connections that served as a lifeline during her years of loss and struggle. Whether you’re supporting a friend or infertility is part of your personal story, you’ll find helpful wisdom in this conversation.
Podcast Key Points:
A raw, honest account of one woman’s journey through infertility to parenthood
Practical ways to maintain faith while acknowledging grief during difficult seasons
Specific strategies for building supportive relationships by clearly expressing your needs
Information about valuable resources designed specifically for those navigating infertility
Check out our website for more resources to support your parenting!
Share encouragement with other parents–leave a review where you listen most.
*This podcast was made possible by members of The Table, whose monthly support creates a ripple effect of change for generations to come. We’d love to have you take a seat at The Table! *
Guest Bio:
Julie is a curriculum writer, speaker, pastoral care leader, and executive director of Julie Fowler Ministries.
Through her years of infertility, failed adoptions, miscarriages, premature birth and loss of identical twins, Julie became devoted to helping women and couples find hope through the Scriptures and connection with others in the same trial. She founded, wrote curriculum for, and led an infertility and miscarriage ministry for over 20 years that hosted over 50 groups, locally and nationwide.
Author of two Bible Studies, Treasures in the Waiting: Finding God’s Comfort, Counsel, and Companionship Amid Infertility and Loss, and a husbands’ study, Navigating Infertility and Loss with Strength and Hope, Julie has spoken for MOPS International and The NEST and on the Don’t Mom Alone and Join the Journey podcasts. She helps churches and lay leaders start infertility ministries that share God’s heart for the hurting.
Julie and her husband reside in Dallas, Texas, and are the parents of three children. They have experienced the blessing of growing their family through both biological and adoptive routes. Connect with Julie at: juliefowlerministries.com. Or on social media at Instagram and Facebook.
Your Monthly Support Changes the Trajectory of Families Worldwide
Join The Table, our monthly donor community, and become part of a dedicated group committed to spreading the same hope and healing you’ve experienced to countless families worldwide.
Predictable support helps us plan effectively and reach more struggling families with life-giving resources.
The Secret Superpower Every Parent Needs: The Art of Listening
May 05, 2025
In this episode, Megan Thorp, MA and Certified Connected Families Parent Coach, joins us to explore why listening is the jet fuel in our relationships with our kids. We examine how effective listening can bridge the disconnect between us and our kids and foster emotional intelligence. We also talk about the importance of being present, understanding underlying beliefs, and the spiritual aspect of listening as a reflection of God’s character. And finally, we share practical tips for improving your listening skills and the hope that it’s never too late to grow in this essential skill.
Key Takeaways:
Listening communicates to kids that they are valued, liked, and that you care about what’s happening inside them
Active listening builds relational influence that becomes crucial during challenging moments
Active listening grows your child’s confidence by showing them they are “called and capable”
God models perfect listening for us – He is fully present, understands our circumstances, and feels what we feel.
Check out our website for more resources to support your parenting!
Share encouragement with other parents–leave a review where you listen most.
This podcast was made possible by members of The Table, whose monthly support creates a ripple effect of change for generations to come. We’d love to have you take a seat at The Table!
Guest Bio:
As a parent coach, Megan’s desire is to come alongside parents and help them gain confidence and equip them to lead their families. She will help you create an environment in your home where everyone feels valued and connected, and skills for you to build a relationship with your kids that will last long after they leave your home. She strongly believes that you are the expert on your child, and I would love to walk with you as you bring more peace and joy into your home.
Megan has a Master’s in Counseling Psychology from Bethel University and is a Certified Parent Coach and Parent Coach Trainer through Connected Families. She loves to spend time with her husband and 3 kids. Connect with Megan at: megan@connectedfamilies.org or here.
How to Turn Fast, Large, & Loud into Slow, Low, & Listen Mini-Course
Struggling with yelling at your kids?
Transform your approach in just 10 minutes a day for four days with this mini-course. Blend brain science, biblical wisdom, and “slow, low, and listen” strategies to foster a safer connection with your children.
Brain Science for Parents: How to Return to Joy When You Feel Like Yelling
Apr 28, 2025
We chat with Chris Coursey from THRIVEtoday to discuss “return to joy,” a crucial skill for moving from reactive parenting to thoughtful responses. Chris explains the three-step process of feeling, sharing, and quieting emotions, while offering strategies to increase your emotional capacity during challenging interactions with your kids. The conversation highlights the brain science behind […]
De la ira a la paz: Cambiando la forma de criar
Apr 22, 2025
¡Escucha este nuevo episodio en español del pódcast de Familias Conectadas! Esther Reich conversa con Luisa Wendt acerca de cómo Dios está cambiando a sus familias a través del marco de referencia y la ayuda práctica que trae el primer nivel de “Cimiento.” Podrás escuchar cómo “ir lento, relajar el cuerpo y escuchar” hacen la […]
Want to Stop Yelling at Your Kids? Try Slow, Low, & Listen
Apr 21, 2025
Listen in as Jim & Lynne Jackson, Connected Families Co-Founders, teach the parenting concept “Slow, Low, & Listen.” This simple tool can help you develop and maintain an emotionally safe presence for your kids. Jim and Lynne will equip you with the understanding you need to apply the concept next time you feel your emotional […]
Attachment Myths Busted: How Your Attachment Style Shapes Everything
Apr 14, 2025
Listen in as we talk with Dr. Nicole Wilke about attachment and its profound impact on family relationships. Dr. Wilke, a researcher, missionary, author, and marriage and family therapist, shares about attachment styles and explains how attachment shapes not just our parent-child relationships but establishes the pattern for how our children will approach all future […]
Emmanuel in the Ambulance: How God Shows Up in Our Darkest Hours
Apr 07, 2025
In this episode, listen in as Brendon and Naomi Yoder share how they’ve maintained faith through multiple hardships, including the loss of their infant daughter, Taliyah. They describe modeling authentic faith by letting their children witness their reliance on God during difficult times and recount moments how God shows up consistently during their darkest hours. […]
Retained Primitive Reflexes: Understanding and Supporting Your Child’s Development | Ep. 222
Mar 31, 2025
Is your child struggling with emotional regulation, sitting still, or the feel of their clothing? These challenges could be linked to retained primitive reflexes. In this episode, Lynne Jackson, Connected Families Co-Founder and occupational therapist, explores this topic with Connected Families Certified Parent Coaches Amy Nyvall and Courtney Dewey. They explain how these automatic movement […]
Demand Avoidance: When Is My Child's Pushback Actually Pathological?
Mar 24, 2025
Have you ever asked your child to do a simple task, only to be met with an explosive reaction? In this episode, we interview Lydia Rex, Connected Families Certified Parent Coach, about Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), also known as Pervasive Drive for Autonomy. Lydia will help you step into your child’s shoes and understand how […]
From Slamming Doors to Peace: How to Calm a Dysregulated Child
Mar 17, 2025
In this episode of the Connected Families podcast, we explore how to calm a dysregulated child with insights from Certified Connected Families Parent Coaches Alan and Corrie Thetford. Together they share how they evolved from demanding immediate calm to modeling self-regulation, creating playful learning opportunities, and viewing emotional outbursts as chances to experience God’s grace. […]
BONUS: Introducing The Table - A New Path to Transformative Parenting
Mar 15, 2025
In this bonus episode of the Connected Families podcast, host Stacy Bellward and Executive Director Anna Braasch announce the launch of The Table, a new monthly donor community aimed at providing sustaining support for Connected Families resources. Together they highlight the growing global reach of Connected Families, with more parents engaging with their Christ-centered resources […]
From Quirky to Distressing: Understanding Sensory Sensitivities
Mar 10, 2025
If you’ve got a child who complains about the volume of the microwave or who won’t venture into the living room without turning off the overhead lights, this conversation on sensory sensitivities is for you! Listen in as Stacy Bellward interviews Lynne Jackson (Occupational Therapist and Connected Families Co-Founder) Together they dig into parenting sensitive […]
In Your Child's Shoes: Why Is Empathy Important?
Mar 03, 2025
If you feel like you’ve “tried empathy” and you’re not a fan of the results, tune into this conversation about what empathy is and why you need more of it in your life. In this episode of the Connected Families podcast, where host Stacy Bellward and Heidi Eaton (Podcast Manager) have a transparent conversation about […]
Mom Burnout, Tired Dads, & the Soul Care Remedy
Feb 24, 2025
*This resource was made possible by members of The Table, whose monthly support creates a ripple effect of change for generations to come. We’d love to have you take a seat at The Table!* For followers of Jesus, soul care isn’t optional. For burned-out or overwhelmed parents, it offers a rare lifeline. In this podcast, […]
BONUS: 5 Powerful Reasons to Press Play & Transform Lives
Feb 18, 2025
Have you thought of leading a small group through one of the Connected Families video courses? This episode will answer your questions. Small groups help combat parental isolation and create supportive communities for lasting family transformation. Host Stacy Bellward discusses the opportunity to lead Connected Families small groups with guests Pam Thompson (Certified Parent Coach) […]
The Science Behind Building Unshakeable Kids
Feb 17, 2025
Dr. Nicole Wilke is back in this episode to explore another layer of building resilience in kids–affirming character development. Dr. Wilke shares practical wisdom on speaking healing words to our children and fostering resilience through appropriate levels of challenge and support. In addition, Stacy highlights how you can use the ABC’s of Affirmation tool to […]
Your Marriage Isn't Broken: It's Growing
Feb 10, 2025
Got questions about marriage? Feeling like, “My marriage is broken”? Join Jim and Lynne Jackson as they candidly answer real questions about marriage from parents like you. They touch on everything from balancing time for one another with parenting to avoiding “parenting” your spouse and navigating your differences. Jim and Lynne share share their journey […]
Why 'Kids Are Resilient' Is Only Half the Story
Feb 03, 2025
**Content warning: this podcast discusses mental health issues, including suicide.** Whether you’re dealing with tantrums or teen anxiety, you won’t want to miss this honest, down-to-earth conversation with Josh and Rachel Keller (Connected Families Certified Parent Coaches) as they dive deep into the topic of building resilience in children. As therapists and educators, they share […]
Words That Shape Hearts: The Art of Blessing Your Kids
Jan 27, 2025
You won’t want to miss parent coaches Chad Hayenga and Katie Johnson exploring the meaningful practice of blessing your kids. They unpack what “blessing” meant throughout the Bible and what your heart needs to receive so that you can bless your children. And, of course, they offer plenty of ideas about when and how you […]
The Power of Affirmation: 3 Ways Your Words are Life-Giving
Jan 20, 2025
Does your child get discouraged? Does it feel like your child’s misbehavior seems to drown out the positive things you might notice? There is science behind the power of affirmation. You can learn to shine a bright spot on the small things that go well and begin to unravel this cycle of discouragement in your […]
Rest for the Weary: Simple Spiritual Rhythms for Parents
Jan 13, 2025
In this episode, Connected Families staff discuss the scriptures and spiritual practices that have helped them stay connected to God in the past year. They also share their vision for the coming year and their commitment to providing “bite-sized” encouragement to overwhelmed parents. Listen in for a few simple ideas on staying centered on your […]
3 Principles to Help Your Child Calm and Regulate
Jan 06, 2025
In this episode on calming for kids, Lynne Jackson (Connected Families Co-Founder) and Lydia Rex (Connected Families Certified Parent Coach) talk with Stacy about what role parents play in helping their kids calm down. This conversation especially has sensitive or intense kids in mind, and the principles shared are paired with practical examples and stories […]
Beyond Obedience: One Mom's Journey from Desperation to Connection
Dec 30, 2024
In this podcast we chat with Danika Delello, who shares how desperate she was for help when dealing with her strong-willed child’s frequent, lengthy tantrums. She talks about switching her parenting mindset from an obedience-focused approach to one based on connection and grace through the Connected Families Framework. Danika relates how this shift allowed her […]
Unwrapping Regret: Making Peace with a Parenting Fail
Dec 16, 2024
If you imagine your most recent parenting fail, do you cringe or just laugh? Do you wallow in shame or regret? Today, we’re talking with Dijea Young about moving beyond regret into hope. She shares experiences as a mom to 8, grandmother, and Certified Connected Families Parent Coach and explains helpful strategies for transforming regrets […]
Moving to the Same Side of the Table: A Father's Journey
Dec 09, 2024
In today’s episode, Connected Families Co-Founder Jim Jackson interviews Stephen Freeman, a father of five, who shares how Connected Families impacted his parenting approach. Through coaching and practical tools, Stephen learned to see challenging behaviors differently and developed a deeper understanding of both parenting and God as Father. Mentioned in this podcast: Check out our […]
Better Parenting Starts Here: Reframing Negative Thoughts
Dec 02, 2024
If you’re not satisfied with what your parenting looks like today, maybe becoming a better mom or dad is more about reframing what you already do than finding new tips and tricks that “work” with your kids. In this episode, Connected Families Co-founders Jim and Lynne Jackson discuss the powerful practice of transforming discouraging mental […]
Holiday Boundaries & Expectations with Family
Nov 25, 2024
Wondering how you can set holiday boundaries and expectations for family gatherings? Are you looking forward to celebrating Christmas with family but dreading unsolicited advice from well-meaning relatives? You are not alone. Changes in your daily routines, travel, lack of sleep, and large gatherings set the stage for parenting challenges. Sometimes, other adults in your […]
Being an Adoptee: What It’s Like to Grow Up Adopted
Nov 18, 2024
Today we chat with Leah Sutterlin, an adoptee, adoptive mom, and adoption advocate, about being an adoptee. Leah shares how early separation affected her later relationships and attachment style and discusses the identity struggles she experienced growing up. She also explains how her parents’ supportive approach allowed her to openly process grief and embrace her […]
Sleep Solutions for Tired Families: Expert Advice
Nov 11, 2024
Listen in as Connected Families Co-Founder Lynne Jackson and Christina Spaeth-Harrer, pediatric occupational therapist, share their expert insights on improving family sleep. From managing bedtime routines to incorporating sensory-friendly activities, Christina and Lynne offer practical tools for common sleep challenges. They also discuss the importance of emotional connection and integrating faith to build healthy sleep […]
Practical Classroom Management Strategies That Work
Nov 04, 2024
Are you a teacher working to create a nurturing classroom environment while managing behavior well? Whether you teach in a school or volunteer at church, this conversation is for you. Dr. Cindy Wilson, Partnership Program Manager at Connected Families, and Maggie Rocke, a kindergarten teacher, and Connected Families Certified Parent Coach, join us to explore […]
Overcoming: How Adversity, Challenges & Childhood Trauma Can Shape Our Children in Positive Ways
Oct 28, 2024
Dr. Nicole Wilke joins us to talk about what it takes to raise kids who can overcome everything from daily challenges to childhood trauma. Nicole discusses nurturing resilience by reframing challenges positively and the importance of fostering your child’s connection with God. She emphasizes modeling resilience for your kids and integrating resilience-building moments into your […]
Resilient Children Are Raised, Not Born
Oct 21, 2024
Join us for a powerful conversation with Jim and Lynne Jackson about raising resilient children. They encourage you to focus on the process and long-term perspective of building character and identity rather than focusing on the result of the task at hand. Whether you’re dealing with homework struggles or life’s bigger challenges, you’ll feel equipped […]
BONUS: Exciting Podcast News!
Oct 19, 2024
You may have heard our exciting news: The Connected Families podcast has reached an amazing milestone – two million listens! 🎉 We’re touched by how many of you have tuned in from across the US and around the world over the past five years. Thank you for listening and sharing with others who could use […]
Ruth Chou Simons: Using Psalm 23 to Communicate God's Presence to Children
Oct 14, 2024
Author and artist Ruth Chou Simons chats about life with God, and her first children’s book, Home Is Right Where You Are. Ruth shares insights on pursuing God’s grace daily and passing it on to our children, emphasizing the importance of reminding kids that their true home is with Jesus. She explains how you can […]
The Flourishing Family: Don't Settle for Merely Surviving
Oct 07, 2024
In this episode, Jim and Lynn Jackson, co-founders of Connected Families, chat with Dr. David and Amanda Erickson from Flourishing Homes and Families about their new book, The Flourishing Family: A Jesus-Centered Guide to Parenting with Peace and Purpose. The Ericksons share their journey of integrating Christ-centered theology with modern neuroscience to provide a holistic […]
Give Yourself Grace with the Do-Over
Sep 30, 2024
In this episode, Jim and Lynne Jackson talk with Ruth Wharton about the transformative power of “do-overs.” They unpack how this practice mirrors the gospel by encouraging us to give ourselves grace, seek forgiveness, and mend relationships. They share the simple steps involved and how do-overs grow and evolve as your children do. By modeling […]
Strengths and Weaknesses: What a Child's Misbehavior Tells Us
Sep 23, 2024
When faced with your child’s misbehavior, it’s tempting to focus on their weaknesses: poor emotional regulation, lack of self-control, or dishonesty. But what if you could see beneath these struggles to recognize the God-given strengths hidden within? At Connected Families, we affectionately refer to these strengths as “gifts-gone-awry.” Listen in as Connected Families Co-Founder Lynne […]
Payoffs & Accidental Rewards: How to Focus on the Right Stuff | Ep. 194
Sep 16, 2024
Have you ever noticed bad behavior increasing the more you attempt to quell it in your child? You might be facing a situation of payoffs, accidental rewards or misplaced “focus fertilizer.” In this episode, Chad Hayenga and Jim Jackson unpack how parents often react and unintentionally reward undesired behavior. They demonstrate how shifting from frustrated […]
Agape Love: The Surprising Time Your Child Needs It Most
Sep 09, 2024
Showing love is easy when your child is doing well, but what does it look like to extend selfless agape love to a child who is misbehaving? Listen in as Jim and Lynne Jackson, Connected Families Co-Founders, share about receiving God’s unconditional love and effectively passing it on to your child (in the midst of […]
How to Talk to Your Child About Difficult Topics (Part 2)
Aug 26, 2024
Expanding on last week’s episode, Josh and Rachel Keller use role-plays to show how you can engage in a difficult conversation with your child. They offer insights for choosing a time and place that will help foster meaningful dialogue and highlight the importance of listening and empathy as you enter the conversation. If you’re feeling […]
How to Talk to Your Child About Difficult Topics [Part 1]
Aug 19, 2024
Whether it’s swearing, sex, racism, or a loved one’s choice, talking about difficult topics is a requirement of parenting. Listen in as Josh and Rachel Keller, MA, LPCC (Connected Families Certified Parent Coaches), join us to share practical ideas for approaching difficult conversations with kids of all ages. In their light-hearted and humorous way, they […]
Stop Power-Struggle Parenting
Aug 12, 2024
Three dads and parent coaches talk about power struggles and how to break the patterns of judgment and defensiveness that get us stuck in power struggles with our kids. Chad Hayenga, Jim Jackson, and Alan Thetford team up to discuss how you can shift from a mindset of control to one of grace and teamwork. […]
How to Stop Arguing With Your Child With One Question
Aug 05, 2024
What if you could stop arguments before they started? If you’re curious about how to stop arguing with your child, you’ll want to listen to this podcast. Stacy Bellward and Sara Paine are passionate that wise questions can stop you from arguing with your child. After all, Stacy even co-authored an online course on it. […]
What’s Your Story? Join the Week of Sharing
Jul 29, 2024
This week, we chat with Joel and Mindy Bolitho, an Australian couple who’ve experienced transformation through the Framework. They talk about significant moments in their journey and how they spread the word about Connected Families in their community. Connected Families’ Director of Development, Adel Irwin, also joins the conversation to highlight the upcoming Week of […]
Perhaps your child always sits politely at the table and eats their Brussels sprouts, but for the rest of us, especially with a food-sensitive child or two, food struggles in families are real. Today we talk to Emily Meade, RD, LD, a dietitian who wants to help us recapture some of the connection and joy […]
How the Happiness Trifecta Might Transform Chores
Jul 15, 2024
What if chores weren’t a constant struggle in your household? Join Connected Families Certified Parent Coaches Marni Love and Corrie Thetford as they discuss the Happiness Trifecta and how it can transform the way chores are done at your house. The Happiness Trifecta is a group of brain chemicals you can tap into to make […]
Screen Time and Kids: How to Say YES More Often, While Kids Have LESS Screen Time
Jul 08, 2024
If you’re struggling with screens and boundary setting with your kids, tune into this interview with Brittany and Kevin Hoffman. Their home has transformed as they’ve learned to ask questions, listen, and point to the bigger YES. If you’re not sure what it means to point to the bigger YES, this episode is for you. […]
How to Be a Great Grandparent to your Grandkids (and Their Parents!)
Jun 24, 2024
Two grandmothers, Dijea Young and Cindy Stonestreet (who also happen to be Connected Families Certified Parent Coaches) chat about the role of play in grandparenting and how they’re learning to be great grandmothers. Cindy and Dijea share personal stories about respecting their adult children’s parenting decisions and finding common ground, even in challenging relationships. They […]
Joyful Kids: What's the Secret?
Jun 17, 2024
Chris Coursey, author of 4 Habits of Raising Joy-Filled Kids, joins us to discuss why joyful kids are joyful and what you can do. Do you feel like you’re often focused on problems and operating out of fear of what may happen? Chris explains how joy can give families the strength to navigate difficulties and […]
The God of Play: Joyfully Embrace the Playful Side of God With Your Kids
Jun 10, 2024
Today, we talk with Joy Wendling, Connected Families Certified Parent Coach and founder of Created to Play, about helping kids come to love God wholeheartedly. Faith can sometimes feel serious or heady, but God is also the God of play, and He created children to learn best through play. Stacy and Joy discuss the significance […]
How to Play with Kids Like a Therapist Would
Jun 03, 2024
Two therapists chat about the benefits of play and how to incorporate play therapy into your family’s routine. The end goal: More connection with your child and a more regulated child. It’s a win-win! In this podcast episode, Lynne Jackson, occupational therapist and Co-Founder of Connected Families, interviews Marlee Thomson, a mental health therapist and […]
Stories of Transformation… from “Fixing” to Connecting
May 27, 2024
We chat with Lindsay Fauver, a mom from the Connected Families community, about her parenting journey with a child who experiences anxiety, sensory challenges, and challenging behaviors. Lindsay shares how she has gained new understanding and tools to support her child and stay calm when her daughter escalates. She also emphasizes the persistence required to […]
How Authentic Community Can Equip Parents to Thrive
May 20, 2024
In this meaningful conversation, we talk to dads Matt Norman (author and President & CEO of Norman & Associates) and Jim Jackson (Connected Families Co-Founder) about their experiences with authentic, vulnerable community. Matt shares his personal journey of seeking more meaningful connections while balancing the demands of marriage, parenting, and his career. He describes the […]
My Co-Parent Sees Things Differently
May 13, 2024
What do you do when you disagree with your partner about how to parent? Perhaps it is even causing a rift in your family. You feel strongly about how to parent your kids but feel stuck on knowing how to encourage your co-parent to see things the way you do. You are not alone! It […]
What Causes You to Micromanage Your Kids?
May 06, 2024
Listen in as we talk with Chad Hayenga (Connected Families Director of Education and Equipping) about parental anxiety and micromanagement, and how these can negatively impact your relationship with your child. Chad and Stacy (podcast host) discuss common scenarios that trigger anxiety in parents and the resulting cycle that can leave the child feeling discouraged […]
Make-It-Right Consequences for Kids
Apr 29, 2024
Start teaching your kids the first steps toward reconciliation and restoration by using “make it right” consequences in their relationships. Parent coach Amy Nyvall shares personal stories illustrating how she has taught her kids to take responsibility for their actions and restore relationships when they’ve done something wrong. Amy emphasizes the importance of creating space […]
Principios para la crianza de una familia conectada (parte 2)
Apr 27, 2024
¡Escucha este segundo episodio especial del pódcast de Connected Families! Donde Luisa Wendt entrevista a Esther y Roberto Reich acerca del marco de referencia de Connected Families. Los tres son asesores en la crianza certificados por Connected Families y hablarán acerca de los últimos dos principios del marco de referencia (entrenar y corregir) para poder […]
Principios para la crianza de una familia conectada (parte 1)
Apr 26, 2024
¡Escucha este episodio especial del pódcast de Connected Families! Donde Luisa Wendt entrevista a Esther y Roberto Reich acerca del marco de referencia de Connected Families. Los tres son asesores en la crianza certificados por Connected Families y hablarán acerca de los 4 principios (cimiento, conectar, entrenar y corregir) para poder disciplinar a nuestros hijos […]
See Your Child’s Strengths in the Craziness | Ep. 175
Apr 22, 2024
Your kids, with all the wild moments they bring, are fearfully and wonderfully made. That means God gave them gifts and strengths. Listen to us chat with Courtney and Joe Dewey (Connected Families Certified Parent Coaches) about finding your child’s giftings and celebrating them. They emphasize the value of self-awareness as a parent, recognizing your […]
Want to Connect With Your Teenager?
Apr 15, 2024
How can you continue to connect and maintain a relationship with your kids as they get older? You CAN connect with your teenager. If you’ve got teens, or will have them someday, listen to us chat with Rachel and Josh Keller about connecting to your teens. In this podcast episode, Connected Families Certified Parent Coaches […]
Become the Self-Aware Parent You Want to Be
Apr 08, 2024
Listen in as Chad Hayenga, Jim Jackson, and Alan Thetford talk about being safe for their kids. Today’s podcast is extra-special! We have three dads who unpack the importance of being an emotionally safe parent, particularly focusing on the role of fathers. Our guest host, Chad Hayenga (Director of Education and Equipping), is joined by […]
Max Lucado: Just In Case You Ever Feel Alone
Mar 25, 2024
Join us for a heartfelt conversation with Max Lucado about loneliness and his new children’s book, Just in Case You Ever Feel Alone. Feelings of isolation and loneliness are increasingly common, and the need for meaningful connection and reassurance is becoming more pressing than ever. In our recent conversation with pastor and author Max Lucado, […]
Holy Week Activities to Nurture Faith in Kids of All Ages
Mar 18, 2024
In this episode, Stacy Bellward (podcast host) and Katie Wetsell (Connected Families Certified Parent Coach) offer insights on how to engage children in the Easter story, emphasizing the Resurrection’s significance through traditions and conversation. They provide age-appropriate scripts for explaining Jesus’ sacrifice and suggest inclusive activities like the Resurrection Sunday Rock Hunt to make the […]
Bonus: Supporting Grieving Families in Your Community
Mar 12, 2024
Join us for this special bonus episode where Stacy invites community members and ministry leaders to explore the delicate and important topic of supporting children and families in times of grief. Stacy is joined by Cindy Wilson, Connected Families Partnership Program Manager, and Stacey Rodenbeck, who shares her personal experience with grief. Together, they offer […]
How to Navigate Grief in Children
Mar 11, 2024
Children experience grief in all different forms. If you’re walking through grief with your kids, tune in to this grace-filled chat with our guest, Stacey Rodenbeck. Stacey, a widowed mother of two young children, shares her personal experience of grief and how she has used the Connected Families Framework to navigate parenting while grieving. The […]
Questions & Doubts: When Your Child’s Faith Is Uncertain
Mar 04, 2024
If your child has serious doubts or has walked away from their faith, it can be scary. Together with parent coaches Bonnie Williams and Chad Hayenga, we explore parenting through a child’s spiritual doubts or unbelief. Chad and Bonnie share the importance of fostering open dialogue through thoughtful questions and building a foundation of connection, […]
Kids’ Arguments: Establish Peace with 4 Steps
Feb 26, 2024
If your kids’ bickering ever drives you bonkers, you’ll want to hear this fresh perspective with our guest and certified parent coach, Megan Thorp. Stacy and Megan unpack the Connected Families’ approach to transform kids’ arguments into opportunities to build lifelong skills. You’ll learn the four-step process to help bring peace to your home and […]
Supporting Your Teen with Empathy and Connection
Feb 12, 2024
Dive into the trials and triumphs of parenting teens with CF Certified Parent Coaches, Katie Wetsell and Julia Rupp and our host, Stacy Bellward. They examine teen anxiety, independence, and the art of calm communication. They also unpack ways to stay available and connected through teen struggles, especially with a sensitive or intense child. We […]
Tame Your Temper: Calming Strategies for Parents
Feb 05, 2024
Listen in as Stacy talks with Julia Rupp and Katie Wetsell (Connected Families Certified Parent Coaches) about strategies you can use to calm yourself in emotionally charged situations with your kids. Whether you’ve already blown it and need to repair, or you’re trying to proactively remain calm, this conversation offers practical ideas to pause and […]
3 Principles to Help Your Child Calm and Regulate
Jan 29, 2024
In this episode on calming for kids, Lynne Jackson (Connected Families Co-Founder) and Lydia Rex (Connected Families Certified Parent Coach) talk with Stacy about what role parents play in helping their kids calm down. This conversation especially has sensitive or intense kids in mind, and the principles shared are paired with practical examples and stories […]
Hope & Healing for Your Sensitive or Intense Child
Jan 22, 2024
Listen in as Stacy chats with parent coaches Jarrett & Luisa Wendt about the parenting course that has equipped them to understand and help their sensitive children. In today’s episode, Jarrett & Luisa Wendt (Connected Families Certified Parent Coach) talk with our host, Stacy Bellward, about the daily meltdowns, sleep issues, stress, and discouragement their […]
Sensitive or Intense Child? Your Questions Answered!
Jan 15, 2024
In today’s episode, parent coaches Lynne Jackson and Lydia Rex answer questions from parents about sensitive and intense kids. We’re excited to share another Q & A conversation with you today. The new questions came straight from parents in the CF community, and you’ll likely relate to the scenarios. Lynne Jackson (Connected Families Co-Founder) and […]
Moving From Discouragement to Freedom | Ep. 161
Jan 08, 2024
Listen as parent coach Lydia Rex shares about building hope and strength for parenting when you’re feeling discouraged. In this episode, Stacy and Lydia discuss current factors that contribute to overwhelm in parents. Lydia goes on to offer strategies that can help you overcome challenges and experience freedom on difficult days or in the midst […]
And the Top Podcast of 2023 is...
Jan 01, 2024
Have you ever been perplexed by the intensity of your child’s big emotions or the frequency of their anger? You really want to help your child! But it can feel confusing and overwhelming, and you may even unintentionally spark more anger. It’s likely that your child’s anger is protecting some softer emotions, such as feeling […]
BONUS: Connected Families Future Plus A Story of Transformation
Dec 22, 2023
Listen as we wrap up 2023 with Jim Jackson and Anna Braasch chatting about Connected Families’ plans for 2024. Plus, Stacey Rodenbeck shares about the hope she’s found through the Framework. In today’s bonus episode, Jim Jackson (Connected Families Co-Founder) and Anna Braasch (Connected Families Executive Director) join Stacy Bellward (podcast host) to share about […]
Refresh Your Parenting with Prayer
Dec 18, 2023
Connected Families Certified Parent Coach Katie Johnson talks with Stacy about how prayer can help transform your parenting. Have you ever wished you could deepen your prayer life? Or does it feel difficult to find time for meaningful prayer in your day-to-day life with kids? In this episode, Katie Johnson (Connected Families Certified Parent Coach) […]
Stories of Transformation…Finding Hope For Change
Dec 11, 2023
Listen as Stacy chats with two families about the grace-filled changes they’ve experienced through the Connected Families Framework. Whether it’s your child’s defiant attitude or your angry reaction, your family likely has patterns that you’d like to change. Changing default responses like these isn’t easy, but it is possible. In today’s conversation, Stacy Bellward (podcast […]
What Mom Needs: An Exciting Chat with the CEO of MOPS Int’l
Dec 04, 2023
Listen as we talk with Mandy Arioto about what moms need today based on a new study by the Barna Group. Moms are powerful influencers in their families and communities, yet they often feel exhausted and alone. In this episode, Mandy Arioto, President & CEO of MOPS International, reflects with Stacy Bellward (podcast host) on […]
A Parenting Framework for Adoption and Fostering? Yes!
Nov 27, 2023
Listen in as Lynn Beckett, Chad Hayenga, and Stacy unpack a grace-filled lens for navigating parenting and discipline in adoptive and foster care families. These creative and compassionate ideas can benefit any parent! When families grow through adoption or foster care, they often experience unique and sometimes challenging circumstances. Today’s conversation highlights ways the Connected […]
Navigating Family Gatherings
Nov 20, 2023
With the holidays fast approaching, we are pulling a classic podcast from the archives where Chad Hayenga joins Stacy Bellward to discuss some ideas for navigating family gatherings. Enjoy! Are you looking forward to celebrating holidays with family but dreading unsolicited advice from well-meaning relatives? You are not alone. Changes in your daily routines, travel, […]
Blocked Care: Rekindle Compassion in Your Heart | Ep. 155
Nov 13, 2023
In today’s episode on blocked care, Stacy talks with author Melissa Corkum about her book Reclaim Compassion. “Blocked care (also known as compassion fatigue) is when a parent becomes emotionally unavailable following repeated rejected attempts to support their child. The parent can still meet the child’s physical needs; however, their ability to be attuned and […]
Stories of Transformation…One Mom’s Journey
Nov 06, 2023
Listen as we chat with Anna Braasch about finding hope through the Connected Families Framework. Do you remember when a friend introduced you to Connected Families? Or, maybe you are brand new to Connected Families’ resources–we’re so glad you found us. Regardless of when you found us and how familiar you are with the Framework, […]
A Circle of Support: What Does a Mentor Do for Your Child?
Oct 23, 2023
Here at Connected Families, we often talk about how you can pass your faith on to your kids. Have you thought about how you can help sustain your child’s faith into their adult years? Research reveals that 60 percent of teens who have faith in high school will leave their faith by the time they […]
Feel Safe: How to Cultivate a Sense of Security in an Unsafe World
Oct 09, 2023
Children today face threats to their safety that are difficult to discuss. How do you help your kids process a school shooting or other violent attack? How can you hold the fear and anxiety they feel when you’re experiencing the same emotions? The answers aren’t simple, but you can support your child in helpful ways […]
Want To Show Grace to Your Kids? Soak In It First
Oct 02, 2023
Self-care is a hot topic, but what about soul-care? How can you open up space in your heart for God to meet you and speak to you in the middle of a busy, chaotic day? Or in the midst of your discouragement or frustration? Today’s conversation will encourage you that God is reaching out to […]
Parenting Topics That Will Fill You With Hope
Sep 25, 2023
Do you wish you had a strong foundation to guide you through challenging situations with your kids? Or, do you know a little about the Connected Families Framework but want to grow your application of it? The parenting topics in today’s podcast can help build your foundation for parenting and help you apply the Connected […]
How to Discipline an Explosive Child—With Grace and Firmness
Sep 18, 2023
Wondering about disciplining an explosive child? You’re not alone! In fact, what to do with kid’s anger is one of our most frequent inquiries here at Connected Families. Aggressive behavior and explosive anger are intense challenges, and there is hope for change as you and your child build skills. In today’s episode, Jessica Brandon (Connected […]
Help! My Child Won't Listen
Sep 11, 2023
My child won’t listen! Sound familiar? If you’ve had that exasperated thought recently, you’re not alone. Obedience and cooperation are common struggles most families encounter. There may be a disconnect between your good intentions and what your kids experience and believe. That disconnect can fuel these listening troubles. In today’s conversation, Chad Hayenga (Connected Families […]
Discipline and Your Kids: Your Questions Answered
Sep 04, 2023
Your kids keep growing and changing, and so do your questions about parenting. Today’s podcast might answer a few of your questions and leave you wishing you had your own parent coach. In this Q&A style podcast, Lynne Jackson (Connected Families Co-Founder) and Lydia Rex (Connected Families Parent Coach) answer some common parenting questions from […]
Bonus Episode: Exciting News from Connected Families!
Sep 01, 2023
Parenting in the complexity of today’s world is stressful! The level of children’s anxiety and behavior challenges has skyrocketed. It can feel overwhelming and discouraging. But despite those struggles, you are still actively seeking God’s grace and truth for yourself so you can pass it on to your children. Some days you probably do that […]
Trust Expert Dr. Henry Cloud Chats With Us About Parenting
Aug 28, 2023
According to today’s guest and trust expert, Dr. Henry Cloud, trust is fuel for all of life. Humans are hard-wired to trust, yet we still have to earn our children’s trust over and over again. Trust is sometimes a challenge in our other relationships as well. In today’s show, Dr. Henry Cloud (psychologist and best-selling […]
Connect With Students: A Framework To Connect With & Nurture Responsibility In ALL Students
Aug 21, 2023
It’s nearly time to head back to school, and today’s episode is especially for anyone in a teaching role. Have you ever considered bringing the Connected Families Framework principles to your classroom at school or church? No matter what environment you teach in, you’ll learn to increase your students’ feelings of safety and acceptance while […]
Support Your Child's Mental Health with Dr. Caroline Leaf
Aug 14, 2023
Life is messy, and sometimes you probably feel like a mess. Your kids might feel like a mess at times too. It’s okay to be a mess! But what can you do when you or your child feels this way? How can you best support your child’s mental health? In today’s podcast, Dr. Caroline Leaf […]
Is Your Child Crying at School or Daycare Drop-Off?
Aug 07, 2023
Maybe you’ve been there. Your child just doesn’t want to go to school or daycare. You’re not sure if she’s truly anxious and struggling or if she is just being defiant. It’s hard to know what to do, especially if your child is truly distressed and crying while she’s there. Today’s podcast offers some real […]
Sensitive and Intense Kids: Your Questions Answered
Jul 31, 2023
Do you ever wish you had a parent coach in your living room to support you in your biggest parenting dilemmas? Well, we’ve got the next best thing. Lynne Jackson (Connected Families Co-Founder) has developed an all-new, research-based small group curriculum for the Sensitive & Intense Kids online course. When you join a small group, […]
[BONUS] Conclusion: Teaching Kids Forgiveness is Essential
Jul 24, 2023
This podcast episode is the conclusion of a podcast we released about the power of forgiveness and teaching that to our children. It is full of practical application and deep insight into the profound impact of forgiveness on our physical, spiritual, and mental health. It dives deep into the grace and mercy of Jesus’ sacrifice […]
Teaching Kids Forgiveness Is Essential: The Why & How
Jul 24, 2023
How do you teach forgiveness to your kids? You probably want to guide them toward the true forgiveness that Christ’s work accomplished. That takes time and intention. Forced apologies can make a conflict blow over quickly, but resentment often lingers. Before we can guide our kids toward true forgiveness, we need to check our own […]
Restoring Relationships: Empower Kids to Want to Reconcile & Heal
Jul 17, 2023
Have you wondered if there is anything you can do to be proactive about the inevitable conflicts in your home? Many parents just want the fighting to stop, but what if you focused instead on restoring relationships? Jesus completed the ultimate restoration through the cross, and as you value this wonderful restoration, you can begin […]
How To Help Siblings Stop Fighting All the Time
Jul 10, 2023
Do you feel like your kids are fighting all the time? They might be bickering, crying, or yelling, and you might feel exasperated and wonder how to turn things around. Conflicts will always be part of family relationships, but you can learn how to help kids stop fighting all the time and bring a richer […]
How to Encourage Critical Thinking for Little Ones
Jun 26, 2023
Do you ever feel like you have to tell your young child over and over again to do something? Parents often feel the need to tell, yet telling can lead to defensiveness and power struggles. Asking questions, on the other hand, engages your child’s whole brain and can lead to more positive interactions. You can […]
My Child Argues About Everything
Jun 19, 2023
“My child argues with everything I say!” Has that thought ever crossed your mind? Whether your child is 5 or 15, you can find yourself wrapped up in the dynamics of arguing, defensiveness, and power struggles. Thankfully, there is hope to break out of this pattern with some curiosity, questions, and a light-hearted attitude. In […]
3 Powerful Questions to Transform Your Parenting
Jun 12, 2023
Dads…today’s episode is especially for you. As a father, you probably have a lot of good intentions for your children. Do you ever wonder, though, if your parenting style gets in the way of your good intentions? If your answer is yes, you’re not alone. If you find your parenting goals and actions are sometimes […]
Family Teamwork: How To Meet Together as a Family
Jun 05, 2023
Imagine your family working together to solve problems. Sounds amazing, right? But how do you get there? Busy schedules and personality differences can make “working together” seem like a big challenge. Thankfully, you can develop a practice to pull everyone together, have fun, and build wisdom. In today’s podcast, Corrie and Alan Thetford (Connected Families […]
How to Help Kids See God in Nature
May 22, 2023
Let’s get outside! No matter where you live (we have listeners all over the world!), getting outside is so good for so many reasons–for us and our kids. Sometimes getting outside means facing some challenges as well–poor weather, pesky insects, and even bad attitudes. It is possible to harness those challenges to build resilience, character, […]
Ever Feel Like the Not-So-Fun Mom?
May 15, 2023
Mama, does your to-do list ever get in the way of having fun with your family? Or is it hard to engage in the activities that your kids enjoy? If you ever feel like a not-so-fun mom, today’s podcast is for you! It is possible to cultivate a light-hearted spirit where fun, joy, and laughter […]
Developing a Screen Plan for Your Family
May 08, 2023
a conversation with Arlene Pellicane
How To Guide Your Child To Love Honesty
Apr 24, 2023
There’s nothing like your child telling a blatant lie to trigger a strong reaction in you. You may want to focus your energy on shutting down the deception, but what if you responded with curiosity instead? Or maybe your child is more skilled with lying, and it’s hard to discern whether they are telling the […]
Healthy Mealtimes for Children Who Are Picky | Ep. 130
Apr 10, 2023
Are healthy mealtimes at your house often a place of struggle? Have you ever thought, “My child won’t eat anything but junk food”? So many families experience these issues, and there is hope to move from “picky, picky” to peace around food. The way may be simpler than you expect through consistency, effort, and flexibility. […]
Practical Ideas for Parenting the Middle Years
Mar 27, 2023
Do you have a child in the middle years, or are those years just a few steps away? (Keep in mind, puberty can begin as early as nine years old!) The middle years can be a tumultuous time for a child. Their body makes significant changes, and so does their brain! So, what does a […]
Is Your Child’s Misbehavior Actually a Gift? | Ep. 128
Mar 20, 2023
What if underneath your child’s misbehavior was a good gift? Sound too good to be true? It’s not! Connected Families teaches this idea as a “Gift Gone Awry.” This gift may not always come out in a helpful way, but it could be shaped and guided to be a blessing to others. In this podcast, […]
Family Activities to Prepare for Easter
Mar 06, 2023
a conversation with Laurie Christine
Why Is My Child So Angry All the Time?
Feb 27, 2023
Are you trying to understand your child’s frequent frustration or angry eruptions? Do you find yourself turning to the internet to ask, “Why is my son so angry with me?” or “Why is my daughter so angry all the time?” The truth is, there is usually more going under the surface of anger. Likely, that […]
Your Child Receives A Diagnosis...Now What?
Feb 20, 2023
Is it worth getting a diagnosis?
Empowering Your Differently Wired Child
Feb 13, 2023
Do you have a child who is wired differently? You’ve probably felt frustrated or discouraged at times about how to support your child through daily routines or going to school. It may be challenging to know what your child needs and offer that at the right time. In today’s podcast, Katie Wetsell and Corrie Thetford […]
Advocating for Your Sensitive or Neurodiverse Child
Jan 30, 2023
Maybe you’ve received a message from your child’s teacher about his behavior at school, or you want to set your child up for a good experience as she begins a new activity. Communicating with teachers, coaches, and other adults about how to support your sensitive or neurodiverse child may feel difficult to navigate, but thankfully […]
How To Know If Your Child Needs a Diagnosis or Extra Support
Jan 23, 2023
Have you ever wondered, “What’s going on with my child? Is this ‘normal’ behavior, or is there something more going on?” If you’ve asked these questions, you may be wondering if it’s worth seeking a diagnosis for your struggling child. All children go through more challenging developmental seasons, but some children are wired differently altogether, […]
Teaching Kids the Framework | Ep. 121
Jan 16, 2023
If you’re reading this, you probably hope to bring more connection, grace, and unconditional love into your parenting this year. And maybe you’re wondering how you can get your whole family on the same page. The Connected Families Framework can help you become the parent you want to be, and teaching the principles to your […]
Our Top Podcast of 2022
Jan 02, 2023
The Connected Families Podcast continues to encourage and equip parents all over the world. Did you know we recently exceeded 1 million listens? THANK YOU! As we head into another year of podcasting, we thought it would be fun to share our most listened-to podcast of 2022. If you have already enjoyed our top podcast, […]
Grandparenting Through a New Lens
Dec 19, 2022
Grandparents, we have something specifically for you today! (If you’re a parent, listen and then consider sharing this episode with a grandparent in your life.) You long to build more connection into your relationships with your grandchildren or to be more supportive of your adult children as they learn to parent. The Connected Families Framework […]
Navigating Family Gatherings
Dec 12, 2022
Are you looking forward to celebrating Christmas with family but dreading unsolicited advice from well-meaning relatives? You are not alone. Changes in your daily routines, travel, lack of sleep, and large gatherings set the stage for parenting challenges. Sometimes these difficult situations may be scrutinized by other adults in your family. This may lead to […]
Gospel in Parenting Part 2
Nov 28, 2022
Today’s podcast is part two of a series on how the gospel informs the Connected Families Framework. Part one explored the gospel in the first three layers of the Framework. Today’s conversation will unpack how the gospel is woven into the final level of the Framework: Correct: “You are RESPONSIBLE for your actions.” Stacy Bellward […]
The Brain Impact of Gratitude
Nov 21, 2022
with Dr. Troy Spurrill
When Parenting Is Harder Than You Thought It Would Be | Ep. 115
Nov 14, 2022
Before you had children you may have held idealistic visions of what family life and parenting would be like someday. For some parents, as their hopes and expectations meet the realities of daily life, they begin to feel disillusioned. Insecurities and anxiety around parenting may surface, and they may ask, “Am I enough? Am I […]
Pursuing Kids Who Push Away
Oct 24, 2022
If you’re here, your parenting goal is likely to have a connected family. But what do you do when you have a child who is pulling away from you? A child who does not seem to want connection? Feelings of disconnection from a child can be painful and challenging for a parent. Even in the […]
How To Pray With Your Child
Oct 17, 2022
Prayer is a meaningful faith practice that you probably want to pass on to your kids, but teaching your kids to pray may feel overwhelming. You may feel unsure how to answer your kid’s questions about prayer or how to incorporate regular prayer times with them into your daily life. In today’s podcast, Stephanie Thurling […]
Daily Sensory Rhythms to Bring Peace to Your Home
Oct 10, 2022
Your child is done with school (or preschool) for the day and instead of relaxing, you’re now navigating meltdown after meltdown. Why do the strategies that worked with one child fall flat with another? Do you find yourself wondering, “Will it always be this way?” In today’s podcast, Lynne Jackson (Occupational Therapist and Connected Families […]
Coaching Your Kids to “Make It Right”
Sep 26, 2022
Do you sometimes struggle to think of an appropriate consequence for your child’s misbehavior? Or dole out punishment only to have your child refuse to accept the punishment? Sigh. Offering consistent and effective discipline can feel like an ongoing and overwhelming challenge. In today’s episode, Chad Hayenga (Connected Families Director of Education & Equipping), and […]
Why "Calm Down!" Doesn't Work
Sep 19, 2022
In today’s episode, Corrie and Alan Thetford (founders of Building Wise Families and Connected Families Certified Parent Coaches) join Stacy Bellward (podcast host) to discuss how to help our children want to calm down when they are experiencing big emotions. The conversation explores what’s going on in us as parents when we try to make […]
Calming Yourself Before Going Into Discipline
Sep 12, 2022
“Why are you so mad all the time?” Do you ever hear this from your child? You probably don’t intend to look mad. You may not even be aware of your furrowed brow or irritated expression. And it’s especially hard to keep your cool in the heat of the moment when your child pushes your […]
Kids and Misbehavior: Sin? Or Something Else?
Aug 29, 2022
[powerpress]
The Gospel in Our Parenting
Aug 22, 2022
What difference does the gospel make in our lives? In our parenting? The message of God’s love communicates the unconditional truth that each of us has been made in the image of God. Our connection with Jesus brings hope and transformation to every area of our lives. The love and grace of God is the […]
My Child Freaks Out Easily | Ep. 106
Aug 15, 2022
And what can I do to make it stop?
Navigating Compassion Fatigue
Jul 25, 2022
Not all families who have been formed through adoption have experienced what is discussed on this podcast. Regardless of how your family was formed, or the challenges you have in your home, there is a wide range of experiences when it comes to compassion fatigue. If you’re struggling to feel joy and hope in your […]
Is Your Child a Rule Follower?
Jul 11, 2022
Do you sometimes worry about your child who is a rule follower? Wait, what?! Don’t we want kids who follow the rules? Parents often express their concerns about their defiant child. But rule-following? That doesn’t seem like a bad thing! And yet, we would suggest that these types of children come with their own set […]
Should Dads Demand Respect?
Jun 20, 2022
Should dads demand respect? Maybe this sounds familiar: “No, I don’t want to!” “This is dumb, you’re unfair!” “Who cares if my homework isn’t done?!” Hey dads, have you experienced this kind of pushback from your kids? It can push ALL your buttons when your child is disrespectful. This can make it especially hard to […]
How to Be a More Playful Parent
Jun 13, 2022
Sometimes parenting can feel like one big list of things you have to get done. It can be so hard to switch gears from the many demands of being a parent to having joyful and playful time with your kiddos! Yet research shows that playfulness brings connection and communicates in a language that helps kids […]
Does Attachment Style Matter?
May 23, 2022
Your relationship with your child might feel “off,” but you’re not sure why. Could it be that the way you were parented impacts the way you parent? Your attachment style affects all your most important relationships – from spouse to children to close friends. So, what is “attachment style” anyway? And does attachment style really […]
Ending the Shame Cycle
May 16, 2022
Are you hard on yourself as a parent? As a person? It’s so easy to get caught up in what feels like failure to us. We want so much to be good parents! Though it’s unintentional, we can project our own feelings of shame onto our kids. Then we feel even worse. Shame can be […]
How Can I Identify Anxiety in My Child?
May 02, 2022
Do you have a child who struggles with anxiety? It can be really hard to know how to help them! Anxiety can be a powerless feeling for both kids and adults. Kids especially do not have all the same tools or brain development as adults to know how to manage it well. They need help. […]
Can I Parent Well When I'm Anxious?
Apr 25, 2022
You can feel the rising tension in your shoulders and the knots in your stomach again. So much going on around you, and inside you. There is no shortage of things to feel anxious about in our world right now! Current data reveals a huge spike in anxiety in recent years, for both parents and […]
Teaching Your Child to Navigate "Mean" Kids
Apr 18, 2022
“He called me stupid!” “She said she doesn’t want to play with me!” It’s so hard when your child comes to you feeling hurt by someone else’s words. Words matter. And they hurt! You want to comfort your kids and protect them from bullying and being hurt again, but unfortunately, that isn’t realistic. How can you […]
Doctrine of Grace in Parenting | Ep. 96
Apr 11, 2022
What does the Bible really say about parenting? Is there such a thing as a Doctrine of Grace in Parenting? As Christian parents, we depend on the Bible as a necessary guide to help us understand God’s direction in both discipling and disciplining our kids. And yet, there’s not a significant number of verses in […]
What Do Kids Really Need From Us?
Mar 20, 2022
Sometimes parenting can seem hopeless. What do kids really need from us? Maybe your kids are struggling and you’re not sure how to get through to them. (This can feel especially hard with teens!) You feel frustrated and your relationship can begin to feel tense. You want to understand them, but you don’t know where […]
Why Do I Feel So Angry?
Mar 13, 2022
“WHY do I feel so angry?” “I’m just an angry parent with an angry kid!” Do you ever find yourself saying or thinking these statements? Anger can be a difficult emotion to navigate. We can feel so defeated when we lose control. We don’t want to react this way, and neither do our kids. It […]
Help! Homeschooling is Overwhelming
Mar 06, 2022
Do you feel overwhelmed as a homeschool parent? Many parents in the Connected Families community homeschool. That number has grown even more since 2020. Homeschooling can bring some unique parenting challenges! From sibling conflict to curriculum choices to intense learning needs, how do you stay connected to your kids, accomplish schoolwork, and maintain sanity? (Even […]
Connecting in Your Marriage
Feb 20, 2022
Building a connected marriage is hard work and it doesn’t always come easily. You want to bring better alignment between you and your spouse and create an environment of love, grace, and emotional safety. But you also might feel stuck in a cycle of negative thinking about your spouse or your marriage. Or maybe you […]
How Can I Better Parent My Adult Children?
Feb 14, 2022
How do you parent your child who is now an adult? What does parenting look like when your child is preparing to launch into adulthood, living away from home, or getting married? You want to remain connected and continue to build trust, but it can also feel scary to watch your adult children make bigger […]
A Powerful New Perspective for Your Parenting
Jan 24, 2022
What do you think of when you hear the word discipline? Maybe it’s just to get your child to behave. Or bring peace to the chaos and gain some control as a parent. This is a totally natural parenting impulse! But what if there is a powerful new perspective for parenting to consider? A different […]
Encourage Kids Who"Just Don't Care!"
Jan 17, 2022
Does it feel like your child just doesn’t care? Maybe even saying the words, “I just don’t care!” Does your child seem unmotivated in school, defensive about doing chores, maybe even withdrawn and depressed? It is so hard to know what to do when your child is discouraged. You may feel frustrated and hopeless. And […]
Be Intentional in Your Parenting
Jan 10, 2022
What do you do when you know you want something to be different in your family this year? Do you ever wonder if there is a more gracious and meaningful way to approach the new year, for you and your kids? How can you be more intentional in your parenting in the new year? If […]
2022 Year-End Wrap-Up
Dec 20, 2021
What does God have in store for Connected Families in 2022?
My Child Never Sleeps
Dec 13, 2021
Finding peace and connection at bedtime
Want to Build Connection in Your Family?
Dec 06, 2021
As parents we long to build a connected family. Connection. We all long for genuine, connected relationships. It’s how God wired us. It makes sense that, when this element is lacking in our relationships, it can cause us to feel so many difficult and discouraged emotions. Especially in the relationships we value most. You want […]
Applying the ABC's of Affirmation
Nov 29, 2021
Does your child get discouraged? Does it feel like your child’s misbehavior seems to drown out the positive things you might notice? And the more you notice misbehavior, the more it seems to happen. We tend to gravitate toward the things we feel need “fixing” in our kids, because our brains prioritize attending to anything […]
Joe and Becky's Story
Nov 22, 2021
Creating a culture of safety in your home
An Honest Conversation About Adoption
Nov 15, 2021
Many of the families in the Connected Families community were formed through adoption. This month, during National Adoption Awareness Month, we look more closely at how the Connected Families Framework can be applied to children who joined their family through adoption (or foster care). Whether or not you’ve adopted, you will not want to miss […]
Why Changing Your Parenting Is So Hard
Oct 25, 2021
Why is changing your parenting just so hard? You’ve tried everything to get a better result in your parenting: You’ve read the books, watched the seminars, tried new methods. You know that you want a different approach to your parenting, but you just don’t know what to do or how to do it. And it’s […]
Is Mom Guilt Good? | Ep. 79
Oct 18, 2021
Mom guilt is real and it feels so heavy. Moms, do you ever find your thoughts spiraling through these statements? “I’m such a mess!” “I can’t get it together and my kids don’t like me!” “I’m a bad mom” Stress, feeling overwhelmed, and lack of sleep can intensify all these feelings. It’s important to know […]
How Do I Get My Child to Obey?
Oct 11, 2021
Does God require your kids to obey immediately? Immediate obedience is probably a familiar concept to you. And, to be quite honest, it’s a hot-button topic! If you’ve ever asked yourself, “How do I get my child to obey?” then this is the podcast for you! Or maybe you feel like your demands for first-time obedience […]
The Key to Unlocking Wisdom and Responsibility in Kids
Sep 27, 2021
Your child is misbehaving and you just want it to, “Stop!” You want to bring some control to the situation. Emotions escalate. The key to unlocking a Christ-like identity, wisdom, and responsibility in your kids is not a method or a formula. It’s connection. Parenting is hard! You want to hold your child accountable when they […]
How to Be Safe for Your Kids | Ep. 76
Sep 20, 2021
It’s normal to feel stuck in the frustration of trying to “fix” your child’s behavior. Despite exploring numerous parenting resources and methods, does your heart still feel unsettled? Like you, many other parents feel the same way. Patterns of control, yelling, blaming, and shaming only seem to bring greater disconnection in your relationship with your […]
Why It’s Better to Parent in Community | Ep. 75
Sep 13, 2021
Ever feel alone or isolated as a parent? Between navigating your kids’ misbehavior in public, enduring other judgmental parents, and the demands of daily life, staying isolated can often feel easier than attempting social connection and events. Yet parenting without a solid community can bring feelings of anxiety, depression, and loneliness. Just like our kids, […]
How to Raise a Responsible Student (Who Has a Social Life) | Ep. 74
Aug 23, 2021
If you’re like most parents, you want your child to be a responsible student. But you also want them to use their time wisely to they can have an active social life. (Aaaannnnd, it would be great if they were good at athletics, debate, excited about youth group every Wednesday night, AND could get their […]
Classroom Anxiety: It’s Common, and You Can Help | Ep. 73
Aug 16, 2021
Is your child struggling with anxiety about going back to school? How do you navigate the uncertainties of a new school year? If you and your child are feeling stressed about all the changes and upheaval surrounding school, you are not alone! Classroom anxiety is more common than you think. We have some super helpful […]
Are We Hardwired to Connect? Part 2- Ep. 72
Aug 10, 2021
What does the Bible say about connection in parenting? How do we work that out practically in everyday family life? Of course theology is important. But theology alone doesn’t always tell you how long your kids should play a video game, or how to specifically respond when your child asks tough questions. That’s where scientific […]
Are We Hardwired to Connect? Part 1-Ep.71
Aug 09, 2021
Are you longing for practical parenting resources that address both the spiritual and the scientific? Why are they both important? God created our souls, brains, and bodies, and He wants us to understand His creation. Research affirms the biblical truth that you and your kids are hardwired to connect. The science of connection combined with […]
Teach Your Child to Have a Growth Mindset with These Four Steps | Ep. 70
Jul 26, 2021
Have you heard the buzz about having a “growth mindset”* versus a “fixed mindset”? How can you teach your child to have a growth mindset? When our kids lack the skills to do what we are asking them to do it can create discouragement in your home. Maybe you’ve even asked yourself the following: “Why […]
Help! My Child Keeps Unbuckling and the Kids are Spitting! | Ep. 69
Jul 19, 2021
Your child keeps unbuckling their seatbelt in a tantrum while you are driving down a busy road. One of your kids spits at his sibling when he gets angry. What do you do when your child has big emotions and actions, and despite your best efforts to implement connection and correction, the behavior doesn’t seem […]
Christian Discipline: The story behind our unique framework for parenting | Ep. 68
Jul 12, 2021
As a parent you might feel overwhelmed with the mountain of resources available to you regarding Christian discipline. From podcasts, to books, to seminars, there is no shortage of available content you could access. But, when you are Christ-follower AND you are tuned into the latest in research and attachment-based parenting, you are looking for […]
My Kid is Looking at Porn
Jun 21, 2021
“My kid is looking at porn! What should I do?” Have you experienced this? Or maybe you are concerned about how to prepare your child for future encounters with something inappropriate. Pornography is highly accessible in today’s culture. Marketers seem to sexualize everything to sell products. In a world where we are unable to shield […]
Setting Boundaries with Screens | Ep. 66
Jun 14, 2021
“My kid is obsessed with gaming! Are they addicted? What should I do?” If you’ve found yourself making these kinds of statements you are not alone. It’s amazing how something small on a screen can have such a big impact. And screens are everywhere. How do you set boundaries when you think your child is […]
How to Leave a Legacy | Ep. 65
Jun 07, 2021
What comes to your mind when you hear the word “legacy”? We feel inspired when we hear stories about the legacy of someone who has made an impact in the world. Hearing these stories may inspire you to want to leave a valuable legacy of your own. OR maybe that idea feels painful to you. […]
Help! My Child is Violent! | Ep. 64
Jun 01, 2021
You ask your child to do something simple and they respond with violence. Your five-year-old comes at you forcefully with a toy and is going to hit you. Maybe your teenager is physically fighting and things are getting out of hand. You start to realize your child is violent. Now what? As a parent in […]
What’s the Best Way To Handle Shared Parenting? | Ep. 63
May 27, 2021
Navigating the challenges of being a single mom or single dad
Being a Single Mom is Exhausting | Ep. 62
May 24, 2021
Being a single mom is exhausting. And when we hear from single moms, they often say things like, “I feel SO alone.” “I don’t know if I can make it.” “Are my kids and I beyond hope?” Maybe you wrestle with thoughts and beliefs like these too. Do you wonder if God is listening, and […]
Grace and Truth for Moms | Ep. 61
May 03, 2021
Does the stress and struggle of parenting leave you feeling unworthy or incapable of being the mom you long to be? Do these statements sound familiar? “I’m a failure as a mom and I have ruined my kids!” “I’m an angry parent with an angry child!” Perhaps it feels like you are parenting from a […]
How Can I Teach My Child to Pray Heartfelt Prayers? | Ep. 60
Apr 26, 2021
Do you struggle to teach your child how to pray? How do you instill something deeper when your child just wants to pray for a new xbox? Like many parents, you likely desire to see your kids engage in a meaningful prayer life. That can be hard! Sometimes kids just get bored when we pray! […]
Help! How do I keep a conversation going with my child? | Ep. 59
Apr 21, 2021
Frequently parents focus on conversation skills when there is conflict. But what about in the normal day-to-day interactions? Do you feel like it is more difficult than it needs to be to have a “normal” conversation with your child? Do you feel like you spend a lot of time telling your child what to do […]
What Should I Do When My Child Is Having a Meltdown in Public? | Ep. 58
Apr 14, 2021
You’re in the grocery store. Or the park. Or at a family gathering. And you sense a major meltdown coming. It’s so embarrassing when your child has a meltdown in public – especially when you know other people are watching! Join Jim and Lynne Jackson, co-founders of Connected Families, as they offer practical and down-to-earth […]
My Child Quits Everything | Ep. 57
Mar 24, 2021
In today’s episode we dig into the second part of our series on raising overcomers! Stacy Bellward (podcast host) and Jim and Lynne Jackson (co-founders of Connected Families) talk about how to help kids develop resilience and, in the process, uncover the unique purpose God has for them. If you feel like your child quits […]
Raising Overcomers: How to Model Resiliency to Your Kids | Ep. 56
Mar 16, 2021
In this raw and candid episode, Stacy Bellward (podcast host) is joined by Jim and Lynne Jackson (co-founders of Connected Families) to discuss both the challenges and the beauty of raising overcomers. When you are in Christ you are an overcomer, and you can graciously raise your child to move beyond feeling overwhelmed to being […]
Kids Struggling to Sleep? Here’s How to Equip Them to Sleep Well | Ep.55
Mar 10, 2021
Do you feel like bedtime struggles are a losing battle? Does bedtime leave you feeling exhausted? Your child wants another glass of water, another bedtime story. They’re afraid of the dark. Or overflowing with wound-up energy from the day. You are exhausted. Frustrated. And if your kids are struggling to sleep, you don’t sleep! We […]
How to Take Advantage of Sibling Rivalry to Explain Emotions and Feelings to a Child
Feb 25, 2021
Few things can be more frustrating as a parent than trying to mediate sibling rivalry. You want your kids to be friends but instead they are fighting, badgering, and teasing each other. It feels like you are getting nowhere! You think, “How do I stop him from hitting others?” or “Why can’t my kids just […]
The Power of Empathy: How to Teach Your Child to “Feel Another’s Feelings” | Ep. 53
Feb 17, 2021
“How do you think that makes your sister feel?” or “You can’t do that to him!” Sound familiar? As a parent you likely want your child to be known as kind, generous, sensitive, and empathetic. These expectations can cause stress and anxiety if we see our child behaving in a way that lacks the power […]
Thinking About How to Fix Your Marriage? Try This. | Ep. 52
Feb 10, 2021
Do you ever feel like you want to try and fix your marriage? Or change something about your spouse? The solution to this challenge might surprise you! In this podcast, Jim and Lynne Jackson (co-founders of Connected Families) are hosted by their good friend, Ellie Hope Collins, on her podcast Hope Reclaimed. We are passionate […]
Got a Strong-Willed Child? So Did This Mom. | Ep. 51
Feb 03, 2021
Your strong-willed child is refusing to choose. You are offering two choices, just like you’ve learned. “Give your child some choices,” they said. “It will help them feel some control,” they said. But your child just stamps their foot and refuses to choose. You asked. We answered! Everyday we receive pressing questions about a wide […]
Your Child Struggles to Transition. Here’s What to Do. | Episode 50
Jan 27, 2021
You have work to do and need to move on from playing with your child. They don’t want you to go. And they whine. They fuss. What can you do when your child struggles to transition? You asked. We answered! Everyday we receive pressing questions about a wide range of parenting topics. We consider it […]
The God-Given Gifts in Your Child's Misbehavior
Jan 20, 2021
It takes skill to misbehave! A verbal child often argues with you until you’re exhausted. An emotional child might cry or manipulate. A physical child is more likely to get aggressive or grab something they want. Though it feels frustrating and even counter-intuitive, a shift in attention to your child’s strengths by finding their gift-gone-awry […]
Why Demanding Respect From Kids Doesn’t Work | Ep. 48
Dec 16, 2020
Recently, we introduced you to Juan and Nita from South Africa. Today, we are excited to bring you a more in-depth interview where they share their heart for their two daughters as well as the 196 children who live in LIV village. They are learning that demanding respect from children often doesn’t work in the […]
How to Connect with Your Kids in Any Circumstance | Ep. 47
Dec 09, 2020
As you’re heading into some potentially stressful situations over the next few weeks (changing schedules, relatives who might judge your parenting, or not feeling connected to your kiddos) take some time and listen to this encouraging podcast we pulled out of the archives. (This podcast originally aired in 2015.) Jim and Lynne Jackson, co-founders of […]
What Causes Anger Issues in a Child? | Ep. 46
Nov 11, 2020
What do you do when your child gets angry? What causes anger issues in a child? When kids respond with angry, aggressive behavior, stress and fear are often the underlying emotions. Children who have experienced trauma often react with heightened fear responses. In this podcast episode, Jim and Lynne Jackson, co-founders of Connected Families, continue […]
Parenting Kids from Hard Places with Unique Needs | Ep. 45
Nov 04, 2020
Are you parenting a child through adoption or foster care? Are you struggling with bonding to your child or their attachment to you? Your feelings of isolation and discouragement can be very real and overwhelming. As an adoptive parent, maybe you’ve experienced a heightened sense of grief as you search for answers in unfamiliar parenting […]
Enjoy Your Children the Way You Always Wanted To | Ep. 44
Sep 23, 2020
Are you scrambling to find clarity and help in your parenting? Are you struggling to find practical tools that bring lasting change? Do you wish you enjoyed your children more? Discover the power of connection and the hope of restoring a more peaceful relationship with your child! How one mom learned to enjoy her children […]
Feeling burned out at the end of the day? Does parenting (and discipline) leave you feeling overwhelmed and discouraged? If you are feeling “parenting burnout” there is help and hope. Perhaps you will identify with our guests today, Nate and Amanda. This couple joins us to discuss the burnout parents often face in the discipline process […]
Parenting from a Place of Fear
Sep 09, 2020
“My kids will never grow up to be responsible!” “I am a terrible parent, and my child and I will never get along!” Are you parenting from a place of fear? Even catastrophizing a situation? Do you find yourself replaying negative thoughts in your mind about yourself and your child? You are absolutely not alone! […]
What to Do When Kids Are Scared of the World Around Them | Ep. 41
Jul 29, 2020
Are your kids scared of the world around them? How are you talking about anxiety with your kids these days? In current times coping is harder, and there seems to be more reasons to worry than usual. You may experience tension when your family gathers because everyone views what’s happening in our world through different […]
What to Do About the Things Kids Are Scared of At Home | Ep. 40
Jul 22, 2020
Mealtime battles, bedtime drama, homework struggles… Can you relate to these anxiety triggers in your home? Often there are deeper emotions under the surface, for both parents and children, that contribute to these conflicts. When we acknowledge and validate the emotions that drive our children’s anxiety, we can better equip them to self-regulate. Validating emotions […]
How to Teach Your Child Not to Be Scared | Ep. 39
Jul 15, 2020
How do you teach your child not to be scared? Bedtime, meals, learning at home, performance anxiety, and separation anxiety can all be sources of anxiety for kids. This is especially true for kids who may be highly sensitive. Kids who struggle with anxiety are often more “on alert” than other children, and don’t always […]
My Child is Afraid of Everything | Ep. 38
Jul 08, 2020
Do you feel like your child is afraid of everything? Where does anxiety come from in our kids? This is a huge struggle parents often face, especially when tensions are high in the world around us. A survey Connected Families conducted in spring of 2020 revealed that 70% of families in the CF community have […]
What to Say When Your Child Makes Outrageous Statements | Ep. 37
Jul 01, 2020
Have you ever heard an outrageous statement from your child? Outrageous statements come in all shapes and sizes and can often trigger disbelief or even outrage in parents. Perhaps that’s why they’re called outrageous statements! It’s tempting for us, as parents, to respond to these situations with immediate correction or a lecture. However, this may […]
How to Have a Great Summer Without Pestering Your Kids | Ep. 36
Jun 24, 2020
Are you feeling anxious about this summer? Summer can be a fantastic opportunity to connect with your kids, but it can also present new challenges. You want to have a great summer, but aren’t quite sure how to get there. Uncertainty and disappointment add an extra level of stress, especially with the new reality of […]
Are You Tired of Having to Nag Your Kids? | Ep. 35
Jun 17, 2020
Does it seem like all you do is nag your kids? Are you frustrated because this is the sixth time you have asked your child to take out the garbage? Nagging and arguing can become the frustrating norm in many of families. Parents have good intentions. We want our kids to grow up to be […]
How to Put Screens Back in Their Place | Ep. 34
May 28, 2020
You want to be intentional about screen time with your kids, but you’ve got an uphill battle! The pandemic isn’t making it any easier either. If you’re struggling with how to be intentional about screens, especially when your kids require them more than ever, this is the podcast episode for you. Join Jim and Lynne […]
What To Do When Kids Interrupt Important Conference Calls | Ep. 33
May 19, 2020
Working at home can be challenging! And exasperating. In this difficult season where many parents are juggling kids and working from home, our “new normal” is anything but normal. Parents are asking, “How do I stop kids interrupting conference calls?” It’s hard to know how to respond to the challenges of interrupted conference calls. But […]
Help Your Struggling Child Grieve His Pre-Coronavirus Life | Ep. 31
May 06, 2020
Like many of us, your child might be grieving his pre-coronavirus life. This challenging time can bring strong emotions to the surface in our kids (and in us as parents). These emotions can be signs of a child’s underlying grief. And difficulty in expressing that grief. Read on to learn why it’s important to allow […]
How to Create a Simple Sensory Diet for Restless, Homebound Kids | Ep. 30
Apr 28, 2020
Are you “walking on eggshells” with restless, homebound kids? Do your kids have a case of “Grumpy Child Syndrome”? Your family may need an extra dose of a healthy sensory diet. What is a sensory diet? Why is it important? And how can you incorporate it in practical ways with your kids? Read on. (This […]
Am I a Bad Parent?
Apr 14, 2020
You are not a bad parent. Start learning how to stop parenting out of guilt or anxiety. This content is also available in an audio version. When we’re in crisis, the voices built most deeply in us come out. Sometimes that can be positive. Other times it turns self-critical. Instead of blaming ourselves, we can […]
“God is Always Up to Something!” | Ep. 27
Apr 08, 2020
NOTE: This content is available as a video, a blog post (below), or a 7-minute podcast. We trust this will serve every situation and learning style well. Here at Connected Families we realize this is a tough time for many in our community and in the world as a whole. In response to the current […]
Guiding Kids to Right Their Wrongs | Ep. 26
Apr 01, 2020
When your kids misbehave, and you need to discipline them, have you considered what they are learning? Are they learning to submit to angry power? Or, perhaps, are they learning how to get better at hiding their misbehavior and sin? Guiding kids to right their wrongs is no easy task. Most families have one child […]
Mentoring Our Kids in Skills, Wisdom and Faith | Ep. 25
Mar 25, 2020
What skills would you like your kids to have when they go out into the world? Should you drop what you’re doing to bring them something they forgot? How can you prepare your kids for conflicts they will certainly encounter in their relationships, family, and work environments later in life? What does it look like […]
Connecting With Your Kids…Especially When They Struggle | Ep. 24
Mar 18, 2020
You may have heard, “Move TOWARD the struggling child.” This phrase might seem counter-intuitive. Often, when our child is struggling, the last thing we want to do is connect with them. When we show love unconditionally, especially when our kids misbehave, they will then genuinely understand that our love cannot be earned. And that our […]
Walking in Peace and Joy with Your Kids | Ep. 23
Mar 11, 2020
We all want a peaceful home where kids feel safe. But sometimes safety is hard to attain, especially when life is stressful. How do we respond during hard parenting moments? How can we do better at walking in peace and joy with our kids? In this podcast Jim and Lynne Jackson, co-founders of Connected Families, […]
Find Your Parenting Balance | Ep. 22
Mar 04, 2020
How do you define yourself as a parent? Do you feel stuck in your parenting and want to explore a new way? In this podcast Jim and Lynne Jackson, co-founders of Connected Families, are excited to introduce you to a structured framework for parenting that can help bring balance to your parenting. You CAN find […]
Families on Purpose | Ep. 21
Feb 05, 2020
The most successful companies usually have clear cut goals and strategies to accomplish those goals. However, most families float through life haphazardly. When families get dangerously off track, parents often say, “I just don’t know how we got here.” A lack of intentionality is often implicated when families’ find themselves sinking or even shipwrecked. In […]
Your kids? They’re watching. ALL the time. | Ep. 20
Jan 29, 2020
In this podcast, Chad Hayenga and Jim Jackson will challenge you to think through what you’re modeling as you parent. They’ll equip you with natural, effective ways to “live your life out loud” in a manner that builds faith and wisdom in your kids. You’ll come away with: practical tips on how to make prayer […]
Honoring Our Imperfect Dads | Ep. 19
Jan 22, 2020
If you’ve struggled in your relationship with one (or both!) of your parents, this podcast can give life-changing insight. Hurt and resentment left to brew under the surface can often perpetuate the effects of sin passing from one generation to another. In this podcast, Jim shares his process of working through very difficult feelings and […]
When Doing My Best Isn’t Good Enough | Ep. 18
Jan 15, 2020
In this podcast episode, Jim and Chad take a deeper dive into the dynamics of dads’ good intentions with their kids. If you sometimes feel like you’re doing your best and it’s just not good enough, be encouraged and equipped by the ideas in this practical podcast. In this podcast you’ll: listen as Jim shares […]
Leading Down a Grace-Filled Path | Ep. 17
Jan 07, 2020
Join Jim Jackson, Connected Families co-founder, and Chad Hayenga, LMFT, Certified Life Coach and parent coach, for this first episode in a 5-part series for dads. Moms, of course you’re welcome to listen! But Jim and Chad will be addressing specific issues unique to dads. Often dads are working outside the home and that can […]
Family Gatherings | Ep. 16
Dec 04, 2019
You’ve just had a family event and might still be recovering from the overt or passive-aggressive comments from extended family about your kids’ behavior and your parenting choices. Family gatherings can be HARD…especially if we sense that external pressure is shifting our parenting style to avoid criticism. On this podcast Jim and Lynne Jackson tackle […]
Discipline That Connects FAQ's
Sep 25, 2019
In this podcast, Jim Jackson interviews Stacy Bellward, online course moderator, in a fun and heartfelt conversation. (Find out what even got Jim a little teary!) You’ll get the real scoop on the Discipline That Connects with Your Child’s Heart online course, so you can know whether or not it’s a fit for you and […]
Teaching Kids to Be Responsible for Their Actions | Ep. 14
Sep 18, 2019
Today, Stacy Bellward interviews Jim and Lynne Jackson as they dive deep into ways to correct kids’ misbehavior with the message, “You are RESPONSIBLE for your actions”. Misbehavior is like the tip of the iceberg. If we make misbehavior our primary focus we miss guiding our children toward lasting change and growth. During this episode, […]
Communicating Love in the Midst of Misbehavior | Ep. 12
Sep 04, 2019
Stacy Bellward is joined by Jim and Lynne Jackson to talk about a message that is essential for discipline situations: You are LOVED no matter what! Why is this necessary? Don’t kids already know they are loved? During the frustration of misbehavior, kids can easily internalize a perception that their parents don’t like them. If […]
What Does It Mean to Be an Emotionally Safe Parent? | Ep. 11
Aug 28, 2019
Being an emotionally safe parent is not about being soft or lenient. It’s also not suppressing our anxiety and frustration and trying to look calm when we discipline our kids. If we engage with a heart attitude of “What is wrong with you?!” our kids won’t feel safe with us. The starting place for making […]
My Child Will Not Get Ready for School On Time | Ep. 10
Aug 21, 2019
We’re in back-to-school season, bringing all the joy and anxiety that comes with it. One question we hear when we talk with parents is, “What do I do when my child won’t get ready for school on time?” This week Stacy Bellward and Jim Jackson interview Chad Hayenga, LMFT and parent coach about how to […]
My Child Hits Me | Ep. 9
Aug 14, 2019
Your child is escalating quickly and you have a pretty good idea where this is headed. You know the scenario…the anger turns to screaming, which then becomes a full-blown tantrum. Pretty soon your child hits YOU. In today’s episode Stacy Bellward and Jim Jackson interview Lynne Jackson, OTR as she helps to answer the question: […]
My Tween Wants to Quit Music Lessons | Ep. 8
Aug 06, 2019
“I don’t WANT to practice my trumpet.” “My piano teacher is mean!” “I don’t have time to practice with all this homework. I want to quit!” Sound familiar? In today’s podcast, Stacy Bellward and Jim Jackson interview Chad Hayenga, LMFT and parent coach to explore how our parenting framework gives insight into the question: ”What […]
My Child Lies to Me | Ep. 7
Jul 31, 2019
Your child has just told you something you are pretty sure is not truthful. What should you do? Do you call them out on it? Should there a serious consequence? In today’s podcast episode Stacy Bellward and Jim Jackson interview Chad Hayenga, LMFT, and parent coach. Together they tackle the challenging question: “What should I […]
My Child Says, “I Hate You!” | Ep. 6
Jul 24, 2019
Words are powerful. We can so easily take it personally when we hear hurtful words from our children like, “I HATE YOU!” But instead of reacting in frustration and anger, we encourage you to look below the surface. There may be deep reasons why the child might feel anxious, discouraged or ashamed in a way that […]
My Kids Won't Do Chores Without Nagging
Jul 17, 2019
Have you ever wondered, “My child can’t manage to even take the garbage out. How will she ever survive in adulthood?” Or, maybe it sounds more like, “I do so much for these kids. Why can’t they do a few simple things to help out?!” Today’s episode is loaded with tools and will give you […]
My Kids Fight All the Time! | Ep. 4
Jul 10, 2019
It’s summer and the kids are home from school. Is the constant fighting and bickering more than you can take? This week we welcome Lynne Jackson, parent coach and co-founder of Connected Families. She brings stories and practical solutions you can apply (today!) to the sibling conflict in your home. Your big take-away from this […]
I Feel Overwhelmed and Hopeless
Jul 03, 2019
Parenting is hard. It takes everything we have…and then some. What happens when we get to the point of feeling totally overwhelmed and hopeless? On this Connected Families Podcast episode, we discuss these overwhelmed feelings, pull them apart, and ask what we can do about them. Our guest today is parenting coach and Connected Families […]
My Child Won’t Get Off Screens | Ep. 2
Jun 26, 2019
SCREEN TIME!!! It’s a persistent battle in almost every home. And it is one of the questions we receive most frequently. What should you do when your child constantly asks you for screen time? And more screen time? We expand on the following three ideas in this podcast: Get yourself calm. Be clear about expectations, […]
My Child Won’t Calm Down | Ep. 1
Jun 19, 2019
“My child won’t calm down!” Have you ever said these words? Perhaps even this morning? 😉 On this Connected Families Podcast episode we discuss this relevant parenting concern and provide steps that you can take to move forward with grace and connection. Our guest today is parenting expert, and Connected Families co-founder, Lynne Jackson, OTR. […]
Connected Families Podcast
May 21, 2019
Welcome to the Connected Families Podcast! We are committed to bringing you content that will challenge, encourage, and equip you to be the thoughtful and confident parent you long to be. Beginning June 19th, the Connected Families podcast will be coming your way! Season 1 explores the question, “What should I do when…..?” . Subscribe […]
WHAT-EVER!! Ideas for Responding to Sass With Class
Jul 11, 2018
What-EVER! (with an eye roll) You’ve seen it a hundred, maybe even a thousand times. Your child doesn’t like what you’ve said and responds with a head tilt, and eye roll, and the grand pronouncement, “What-EVER!!!!” What do you do when this happens? The tendency is to shut it down, NOW! But your angry response […]
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