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

The Hunt for the Kraken

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The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org

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Rethinking your time with purpose and peace with Elaine Franklin Feb 24, 2026

Show notes

Have you ever felt busy all day long but still wondered if any of it really mattered?

This week’s episode is a little different and so special. I’m sharing a conversation from another Christian Parenting podcast, Pardon the Mess, hosted by the wonderful Courtney DeFeo. I first heard her interview with Elaine Franklin years ago, and honestly, it stuck with me in such a meaningful way. So when I saw them sit down together again, I knew I had to share it with you.

This conversation is all about time, but not in the way you might expect. It’s not about doing more or getting more organized. It’s about living with intention, clarity, and peace in the middle of full lives.

Here are four takeaways that really stood out:

Why understanding your circle of care vs. circle of responsibility can completely shift how you spend your time
The importance of defining your purpose and mission before building your schedule
How margin isn’t lazy, it’s protective for your faith, your family, and your well-being
Why creating a “to stop” list might be the most freeing productivity tool you’ve never tried

This episode is packed with practical wisdom, but more than that, it’s an invitation to step out of the hustle and into a more thoughtful, life-giving rhythm. If you’ve been feeling stretched thin or a little out of alignment, I think this one will really meet you right where you are.

Elaine Franklin is a speaker, coach, and author who helps individuals and families align their time and priorities with their God-given purpose. Through her teaching, she offers practical and biblical tools for creating margin, setting healthy boundaries, and living with intention in every season of life.

Resources Mentioned

The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org

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Navigating faith, doubt, and parenting with grace with Kristin LaValley Feb 17, 2026

Show notes

Hey friends,

Have you ever felt like you’re trying to pass on faith to your kids while quietly wrestling with your own? If so, this episode is for you.

This week I’m joined by Kristin LaValley, writer, retreat host, and mom of five, who brings so much vulnerability and hope to the table. Kristin’s story is one many of us can relate to: growing up in the church, facing seasons of doubt and deconstruction, and learning how to build a gentler, deeper faith in the aftermath. Her wisdom is rooted in real experience, and she reminds us that asking questions doesn’t disqualify us, it invites us to know God more fully.

Here are just a few of the things we unpack in today’s conversation:

Why fear-based faith doesn’t last, and how to replace it with something more rooted in love
The difference between shame and conviction, especially when helping our kids process emotions
How to give our children spiritual agency without disengaging from their discipleship
What it means to be a non-anxious presence in the midst of theological tension

This one is tender, thoughtful, and full of grace. I hope it reminds you that God can hold both your faith and your questions.

Kristin LaValley is a writer, retreat leader, and mother of five living in New England. She helps women process faith, trauma, and spiritual transformation with honesty and hope. Her latest book, Growing Up Saved, is a heartfelt reflection on evangelical culture, mental health, and rebuilding faith after deconstruction.

(01:28) Transitioning from Homeschooling to Public School

(02:41) The Power of Writing in Healing

(05:19) Navigating Church Hurt and Parenting

(10:36) Giving Kids Agency in Their Faith

(20:38) Understanding Shame and Its Impact on Faith

(28:38) Kristen's Book and Closing Thoughts

Connect with Kristen

Christian Parenting resources

Facebook

Growing Up Saved book

Resources Mentioned

I Can Only Imagine 2 movie

Disciplines of Devotion series

Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube!

The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org

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What 3 years of interviews have taught me about parenting with faith Feb 10, 2026

Show notes

Hi friends,

This week’s episode is a little different and really special. It's just me, Steph, reflecting on the past three years of hosting the Christian Parenting Podcast. As I look back on the many conversations I’ve had with incredible guests, a few themes have come up over and over again. And I wanted to take a moment to name them, reflect on them, and remind you (and myself!) that faithful parenting is not about doing everything perfectly, it's about showing up with humility, love, and trust in God.

In this solo episode, I share some of the truths that have encouraged me the most over the years:

Relationship comes before instruction. Our kids don’t need a lecture, they need connection.
Consistency matters more than intensity. One big moment doesn’t outweigh everyday faithfulness.
Modeling an authentic faith makes a lasting impact. Your honesty and humility preach louder than perfection.
You’re not responsible for the outcome. You’re invited to be faithful, present, and full of grace, and let God do the rest.

These reminders have shaped how I approach my own parenting and I hope they encourage you as you walk alongside your kids in faith, love, and truth.

With Love,

Steph

Resources Mentioned

Christian Parenting resources

I Can Only Imagine 2 movie

Raising Daughters

The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org

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Teaching kids to handle money with wisdom with Stephen Day Feb 03, 2026

Show notes

Hey friends,

Let’s be honest, talking about money with our kids can feel a little awkward. Whether it’s figuring out allowance, answering “Why can’t we just buy that?” at Target, or teaching the value of hard work without turning into the fun police, we’ve all been there.

That’s why I’m so excited for you to hear today’s episode with Stephen Day. He’s a dad of four, a professor, and the author of Teach a Kid to Save. Stephen brings a gentle, practical approach to money conversations that is full of wisdom and grace. He shares a framework he calls a “mini economy,” and honestly, it’s brilliant. This episode is packed with insight that will make you feel a lot more confident in raising money-wise kids without overcomplicating it.

Here’s what we talk about:

A simple family economy system that teaches saving, spending, and giving in real time
Why allowances can work, but only if they're tied to your values, not just chores
How to model contentment and generosity in a consumer-driven world
Creative ways to connect money with character-building, not just behavior control

Stephen is a former middle school teacher, a current university professor, and a dad of four who is passionate about helping families teach financial literacy with confidence. His book, Teach a Kid to Save, is a practical guide full of tips, strategies, and encouragement for families wanting to build good money habits from the ground up. He believes kids learn best through experience, and that parents don’t have to be financial experts to make a lasting impact.

This conversation will help you ditch the overwhelm and step into intentional parenting around money, with wisdom and peace.

With Love,

Steph

Connect with Stephen

Substack

Resources Mentioned

Teach a Kid to Save

Mini economy downloads

Raising Daughters

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The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org

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How to help kids calm their thoughts with Pastor Max Lucado Jan 27, 2026

Show notes

Hey friends,

I am so glad you’re here today because this episode is such a gift. I had the absolute honor of welcoming back Pastor Max Lucado to the podcast, and his gentle wisdom and encouragement are exactly what we need as we navigate parenting in an anxious world.

Max has spent decades speaking into our hearts with truth and grace. And now, he’s turned his attention to helping our kids better understand and manage fear and worry through his new devotional Calm Thoughts for Kids. It’s full of faith-based tools and age-appropriate encouragement, and today, we’re talking about how we, as parents, can come alongside our kids in their emotional and spiritual growth.

Here are a few things you’ll hear in our conversation:

How anxiety shows up differently in children, and how to recognize it
Why open, ongoing conversations are essential for helping our kids grow in faith
How to anchor your child’s identity in God’s truth instead of fear
Encouragement for you as the parent: why your presence matters more than perfection

Max Lucado is a pastor, speaker, and best-selling author whose books have sold over 145 million copies worldwide. Known for his approachable teaching style and heart for helping people experience God’s grace, Max has written countless books for adults, and now, for children too. His newest devotional Calm Thoughts for Kids is designed to help kids trust God in anxious moments and develop lifelong habits of hope and faith.

This episode is a beautiful reminder that we can model calm, point our children to Jesus, and be safe places for them to land, no matter what they’re walking through.

With Love,

Steph

Connect with Max

@maxlucado

https://maxlucado.com/

Resources Mentioned

Calm Thoughts For Kids

Bible Nerd Ministries YouTube

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The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org

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No more boring Bible study with Faith Womack Jan 20, 2026

Show notes

Hey friends,

Let’s be honest, studying the Bible as a busy parent can feel overwhelming. We want to be in the Word, but sometimes we just don’t know where to start. Today’s episode is a lifeline if you’ve ever stared at your Bible and thought, “I want to read this… I just don’t know how.”

I’m so excited for you to hear from Faith Womack (aka Bible Nerd), who is on a mission to help people fall in love with scripture in a way that’s approachable, meaningful, and, dare we say…fun. This conversation is the reminder we all need that Bible study isn’t about performance; it’s about presence. And it is possible to make time for God’s Word in our full and fast-moving lives.

Here are a few things Faith shared that really stuck with me:

Bible study doesn’t have to be intense or intimidating, it’s an invitation, not a test.
The Gospels make an incredible starting point when you need a reset or a place to re-engage with Jesus.
We model a love of scripture to our kids not with perfection, but by simply showing up with curiosity and consistency.
Worship can happen while we study, it’s not just something we do after we understand everything.

Whether you’re brand new to Bible study or just need some fresh encouragement, this episode is going to feel like a deep breath of grace and motivation.

Faith is the founder of Bible Nerd Ministries, where she equips Christians to understand and enjoy scripture. Her new book, No More Boring Bible Study, is a practical and inspiring guide for anyone who wants to connect with God’s Word in a real and transformative way. Faith’s mission is to help people study the Bible with joy, confidence, and depth, no seminary degree required. She lives with her husband and kids and is passionate about making the Bible accessible to everyone.

Let’s start where we are, open our Bibles, and remember that God delights in meeting us there.

With love,

Steph

(00:00) Introduction to Bible Study Passion

(03:04) The Journey of Understanding Scripture

(06:02) Overcoming Intimidation in Bible Study

(08:52) The Importance of a God-Centric Approach

(12:07) Practical Steps to Engage with the Bible

(14:55) Adapting Bible Study Habits as a Parent

(17:57) Encouraging Kids in Their Faith Journey

(21:03) Navigating Bible Study Resources

(23:58) Conclusion and Resources

Connect with Faith

How to Faith a Life podcast

Resources Mentioned

No More Boring Bible Study book

Dwell Bible in a Year

Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube!

The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org

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When faith hits you fresh with Cynthia Yanof Jan 13, 2026

Show notes

Hey friends,

You know those conversations that feel like sunshine and strong coffee at the same time? That’s what today’s episode is. I’m sitting down with the one and only Cynthia Yanof, OG host of the Pardon the Mess podcast and someone who knows how to bring laughter, truth, and grace into every room she walks into.

We’re talking about her brand new book, How’d I Miss That? and it’s all about those holy “aha” moments, when something you've heard a million times in Scripture suddenly lands differently and stirs your heart in a new way. If you've been craving encouragement that’s both lighthearted and deeply rooted, this episode is for you.

Here’s what we unpack:

Why love is the Christian brand and how we often forget that
How mustard seed moments can shape your legacy as a parent
What it means to live your faith in ordinary, everyday ways
How to create a personal “Mount Rushmore” to guide your parenting and faith

It’s hopeful. It’s hilarious. And it will make you want to lean in just a little closer to Jesus today.

Cynthia is a speaker, author, and podcast host passionate about encouraging parents to pursue Jesus in the middle of the mess. She’s the original host of Pardon the Mess and now serves as a frequent voice in the Christian Parenting community. Her latest book, How’d I Miss That?, is all about rediscovering the simple but powerful truths of our faith that we often overlook. Cynthia lives in Texas with her husband and kids and brings wisdom wrapped in wit wherever she goes.

Let’s keep choosing the small things, because they’re often the big things in disguise.

With love,

Steph

(00:00) Welcome Back and Introduction

(03:11) Navigating Parenting and Faith

(05:45) How'd I Miss That? Moments in Faith

(09:00) The Importance of Love in Our Lives

(12:11) Parenting Perspectives: Lessons Learned

(14:51) The Mustard Seed Mistake

(18:03) Building a Personal Mount Rushmore

(21:01) The Impact of Small Acts of Love

(24:00) Conclusion and Resources

Connect with Cynthia

https://www.instagram.com/cynthiayanof/

MESSmerized podcast

Sidetracked podcast

Feeding the Mouth that Bites You podcast

Resources Mentioned

How’d I Miss That? book

Dwell Bible in a Year

Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube!

The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org

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Navigating mental health with faith and community with Erin Kerry Jan 06, 2026

Show notes

Hey friends,

You know those conversations you know are important, but they still feel a little intimidating to start? That’s exactly what we’re diving into today. In this episode, I’m joined by Erin Kerry who’s bravely sharing her story and helping us hold space for the hard things, especially when it comes to mental health in our homes.

As parents, we’re often navigating silent battles, whether it’s our own struggles or the ones our kids are facing. And while it might feel easier to push through or avoid the topic altogether, what if we could learn to meet it with grace, faith, and even some practical tools?

Here are a few takeaways from today’s conversation:

The importance of naming emotions and removing the shame from mental health conversations
How nutrition and nervous system regulation play a vital role in healing and well-being
Why spiritual and emotional health can walk hand-in-hand
Encouragement for when you’re in the thick of it faith, community, and rest are not optional luxuries, they’re lifelines

I’m praying this episode feels like a warm cup of tea and a deep exhale. You’re not alone, friend.

Erin is a writer, speaker, and serves as an Integrative Health Coach at Living Well Counseling and Wellness Center in Tyler, Texas. Diagnosed with PTSD, depression, and bipolar disorder as a young adult, Erin has spent years learning how to live with resilience, faith, and grace.

Here’s to sparking healing and honest conversations in your family and beyond.

With Love,

Steph

(06:01) The Role of Faith in Healing

(11:55) Living Beyond Labels in Mental Health

(17:51) Navigating Anxiety and Its Protective Nature

(20:46) Nervous System Regulation and Co-Regulation

(22:54) Understanding Anxiety and Its Physical Roots

(25:51) Navigating Conversations on Mental Health

(30:01) The Intersection of Nutrition and Mental Health

(34:51) Practical Tools for Holistic Mental Health

Connect with Erin

Sparking Wholeness podcast

Live Beyond Your Label book

Resources Mentioned

Dwell Bible in a Year