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

Latest Episodes:

Preparing for the College Years with Dr. Greg Jones Mar 25, 2025

Show notes

Hey there!

This week’s conversation is one that got me thinking ahead—way ahead. While my oldest is still in middle school, college feels like it’s going to be here before I know it. That’s why I’m so grateful to have *Dr. Greg Jones*, president of Belmont University, on the podcast today to talk about helping our kids prepare for life beyond high school with purpose, faith, and community at the center.

Here are four key takeaways from this episode:

—Choosing a school isn’t about prestige—it’s about finding a place where your child can grow, thrive, and live out their calling.

—Relationships formed during the college years play a vital role in shaping a student’s identity and faith.

—Not getting into a dream school isn’t the end—it can be a redirection toward God’s best.

—Each child’s path is unique, and our job is to guide them with patience, grace, and a big-picture mindset.

Dr. Greg Jones is the president of Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee. With a background in theology, leadership, and education, Dr. Jones is passionate about helping students discover their God-given purpose and equipping families to think beyond rankings and toward flourishing futures.

This episode is full of wisdom for parents at every stage. Whether college is around the corner or years away, I hope it encourages you to guide your kids with faith and intentionality.

With love,

Steph Thurling

(02:56) The Role of Community in College Selection

(06:04) Finding Purpose and Character Formation

(08:45) Navigating College Decisions and Parental Guidance

(11:58) The Importance of Relationships in College

(14:46) Helping Kids Discover Their Purpose

(18:08) Trends in College Students Today

(20:51) Dealing with Rejection and Redirection

(23:56) The Long View of Parenting

(27:11) Final Thoughts on Faith, Hope, and Love

Resources Mentioned

Subscribe to Christian Parenting

Easter Bundle

Adventure Bible

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

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Time management that works for moms with Kendra Adachi Mar 18, 2025

Show notes

Time management can feel overwhelming—especially for moms! That’s why I’m so excited to have Kendra Adachi, also known as The Lazy Genius, on the podcast today. We’re talking about her latest book, The Plan, and how we can approach time management with grace, flexibility, and a mindset that actually works for moms.

Here are four key takeaways from this episode:

Many systems don’t account for the unpredictability of parenting, so we need a different approach.
Embracing flexibility and realistic goals helps reduce stress and make time management sustainable.
Making tiny, intentional changes can create lasting rhythms that serve both you and your family.
Time management isn’t just about productivity—it’s about managing life in a way that allows you to be fully present with your family.

This episode is packed with practical wisdom and encouragement, and I hope it helps you find rhythms that bring peace and presence to your days. Enjoy!

Connect with Kendra

The Lazy Genius Collective

The Lazy Genius Podcast

Instagram

Resources Mentioned

The PLAN book

The Lazy Genius Way book

The Lazy Genius Kitchen book

Christian Parenting website

Christian Parenting Easter Bundle

(02:46) The Concept of Compassionate Time Management

(05:58) The Discrepancy in Time Management Literature

(08:53) The Need for a New Paradigm in Time Management

(12:04) Introducing the PLAN Framework

(14:58) The Importance of Adjustment in Time Management

(17:56) Mindsets for Adjusting Expectations as a Parent

(20:39) Adjusting Expectations in Parenting

(23:36) The Power of Starting Small

(24:37) Understanding Big Black Trash Bag Energy

(26:34) Navigating Seasons of Parenting

(30:59) Embracing Change and Flexibility

(32:21) Practical Tips for Parents

(34:16) Finding Goodness in the Everyday

(37:50) The Freedom of Diverse Parenting Paths

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

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Building resilience and faith through summer camp with Danny Loeffelholz Mar 11, 2025

Show notes

Today’s episode is such a fun one! I’m talking with Danny Loeffelholz all about summer camp and how it helps build resilience, independence, and faith in our kids. We dive into the challenges of letting our kids take risks and the incredible growth that can come from stepping out of their comfort zones.

Here are four key takeaways from this episode:

Allowing kids to experience age-appropriate challenges helps them develop resilience and confidence.
Camp experiences can deepen kids’ faith and foster personal growth in ways we don’t always expect.
Sending kids away can be tough, but it’s an opportunity for them to learn independence and rely on God.
Even if a child has a so-so experience at camp, they can still grow from it and want to return!

Danny Loeffelholz is a camp director, mentor, and advocate for the transformative power of summer camp. With years of experience in Christian camping, he has witnessed firsthand how camp experiences shape kids' faith, character, and resilience.

If you’ve ever wondered if summer camp is worth it for your kids or struggled with the idea of letting them go, this episode is for you! I hope it encourages you to embrace the opportunities that help our kids grow in confidence and faith.

(05:56) Navigating Parenting Fears and Risks

(08:50) The Importance of Controlled Risks for Kids

(12:01) The Role of Summer Camp in Child Development

(14:56) Influence of Camp Counselors on Kids' Faith

(17:56) Finding Community and Faith in Adolescence

(19:08) The Impact of Christian Camping on Faith Development

(23:23) Navigating Parental Concerns About Camp

(25:48) The Importance of Community and Adventure

(29:00) Growth Through Challenges at Camp

(32:10) The Ultimate Goal: Meeting Christ

(35:02) Resources for Finding the Right Camp

Connect with Danny

Sky Ranch Camps

Instagram

Resources Mentioned

cpgive.org

Christian Camp and Conference Association

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

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Raising kids to build strong friendships with Grace Valentine Mar 04, 2025

Show notes

Friendship plays such a huge role in both our lives and the lives of our kids, and today’s episode is all about fostering healthy, meaningful relationships. I’m joined by Grace Valentine, for a super fun and insightful conversation on navigating friendships with faith and intention.

Here’s what you’ll hear in today's conversation:

Community doesn’t happen by accident—it’s something we cultivate with intention.
Learning to handle friendship struggles in a healthy, Christ-centered way is a crucial skill for both parents and kids.
Grace shares wisdom on building confidence and setting boundaries in friendships.
As parents, we have the opportunity to show our kids how to connect, communicate, and care for others.

Grace Valentine is a bestselling author, speaker, and advocate for young women seeking faith-filled encouragement. Her latest book, The Better Friend, dives into what it means to create lasting, meaningful friendships that reflect God’s love and grace.

This conversation is such a breath of fresh air! If you’ve ever wondered how to support your kids in building strong friendships—or how to set healthy boundaries in your own relationships—you won’t want to miss this episode.

(02:59) The Importance of Friendships

(06:00) Building Intentional Friendships

(09:11) Understanding Different Types of Friendships

(11:53) Navigating Conflict in Friendships

(14:55) Insecurity and Confidence in Relationships

(17:59) Modeling Friendship for Our Kids

(20:51) Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Connect with Grace

https://gracevalentine.org/

Water into Wine Podcast

Resources Mentioned

The Better Friend book

The Unbreakable Boy movie

Christian Parenting

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

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Celebrating differences & intentional family time with Trillia Newbell Feb 25, 2025

Show notes

This week, I’m joined by Trillia Newbell for a meaningful conversation on the importance of community, celebrating differences, and how intentional family time can shape our kids' understanding of love, faith, and culture.

Here’s what you’ll hear in today’s episode:

Intentional time spent around the table fosters communication, connection, and love within families.
Food, stories, and shared experiences are great ways to introduce kids to different cultures and traditions.
Parents can have meaningful, scripture-based conversations with their kids about diversity and celebrating differences.
God’s Word is central to helping kids understand and appreciate the beauty in how He made each of us.

Trillia Newbell is a speaker, writer, and author of multiple books, including Celebrating Around the Table. She is passionate about faith, family, and fostering meaningful conversations about race, culture, and community through a biblical lens.

This conversation is both refreshing and practical, giving parents tangible ways to celebrate diversity, build strong family connections, and create a home centered on faith and love. I hope you enjoy it!

(02:57) The Importance of Celebrating Around the Table

(06:03) Understanding and Celebrating Differences

(08:54 )Incorporating Culture and Food into Family Life

(12:08) Practical Tips for Discussing Race and Culture with Kids

(15:55) The Role of Scripture in Conversations about Diversity

(18:52) Creating Resources for Families to Learn Together

(22:04) The Cookbook as a Tool for Connection

(24:47) Lamenting and Bonding Through Shared Stories

(27:46) Final Thoughts on Parenting and God's Love

Connect with Trillia:

https://www.trillianewbell.com/

Instagram

Resources mentioned:

The Unbreakable Boy movie

Celebrating Around the Table

God’s Very Good Idea

ChristianParenting.org

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 grief with kids and supporting others with Annie F. Downs Feb 18, 2025

Show notes

This week’s conversation is a deeply meaningful one. I’m sitting down with Annie Downs to talk about grief, faith, and supporting others during hard times. Annie and her sister wrote a children’s book, Where Did TJ Go?, after her sister lost her son, TJ. This book is an incredible resource for families navigating loss with young kids, and our conversation is full of wisdom and encouragement.

Here’s what you’ll hear in today’s episode:

Where Did TJ Go? is a beautiful resource to help families talk about grief with young children.
Grief isn’t meant to be carried alone—having people who show up and walk with you makes all the difference.
We talk about the tough questions surrounding loss and how faith sustains us through them.
Knowing how to be present and offer comfort to those grieving is one of the greatest gifts we can give.

Annie F. Downs is a bestselling author, speaker, and podcast host known for her humor, authenticity, and deep faith. She has written numerous books that inspire and encourage readers in their walk with Christ. Where Did TJ Go?, co-written with her sister, is a heartfelt resource for families navigating grief with children.

I hope this conversation leaves you feeling encouraged in your faith and equipped to support those around you. If you know someone who could benefit from this episode, please share it with them.

(02:59) The Journey of Loss: Annie's Story

(05:54) Creating Hope Through Literature

(09:07) Navigating Grief: Personal Experiences and Insights

(12:01) The Importance of Talking to Kids About Death

(15:11) Finding Hope in Heaven

(18:12) The Role of Community in Grief

(20:46) Encouragement for Parents and Grieving Individuals

Connect with Annie

Website

That Sounds Fun Podcast

Instagram

Resources Mentioned

Where Did TJ Go?

The Unbreakable Boy movie

Christian Parenting store

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

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Overcoming people pleasing with Jinger Vuolo Feb 11, 2025

Show notes

This week’s episode is extra special because we are celebrating two years of the Christian Parenting Podcast! I can’t believe it! And to make it even more special, my very first guest, Jinger Vuolo, is back with us today. She’s here to talk about the struggles so many of us face in trying to meet others’ expectations.

Here are four key takeaways from this episode:

Trying to please everyone can actually be more about ourselves than truly serving others.
Showing up as your true self, rather than what others expect, is a way to glorify God.
Jinger shares how she is beginning to guide her own children away from people-pleasing tendencies.
We discuss real ways to break free from people-pleasing and the importance of finding a strong mentor.

Jinger Vuolo is an author, speaker, and former reality TV personality known for her book Becoming Free Indeed and her latest release, People Pleaser. She is passionate about helping others find freedom in Christ and live with confidence in who God made them to be.

Thank you all for two incredible years of this podcast! I’m so grateful for you, and I hope this conversation encourages you to seek confidence in Christ rather than in the approval of others.

(00:00) Life Updates and New Beginnings

(01:58) Understanding People Pleasing

(06:06) The Impact of People Pleasing on Relationships

(10:10) Parenting and Teaching Kids about People Pleasing

(17:01) Practical Steps to Overcome People Pleasing

(22:09) Final Thoughts on Parenting and Community

Connect with Jinger

Instagram

https://www.jingerandjeremy.com/

Resources Mentioned

Becoming Free Indeed

People Pleaser

Christian Parenting store

The Unbreakable Boy movie

A Simply Healthy Life

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

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Raising Kids with Character in an Entitled World with Monica Swanson Feb 04, 2025

Show notes

This week’s episode is one that every parent can relate to. I’m joined by Monica Swanson to talk about a struggle many of us face—raising kids who aren’t entitled in a world that often is.

Here are a few takeaways from today’s conversation:

As parents, we need to be intentional about combating entitlement in our homes.
Teaching kids responsibility and real-life opportunities to work hard builds character.
Helping our kids develop a heart of gratitude is one of the best ways to fight entitlement.
Parenting is a learning process, and it's okay to wrestle with these challenges while seeking wisdom and growth.

Monica Swanson is an author, speaker, and host of The Monica Swanson Podcast (formerly The Boy Mom Podcast). As a mom of four boys, she shares practical wisdom on raising kids with strong character, work ethic, and faith in today’s world.

This conversation is just two friends trying to figure it out together, and we’re so glad you’re stepping into it with us. I hope you leave feeling encouraged and equipped to guide your kids toward gratitude, responsibility, and strong character. Enjoy!

(00:00) Understanding Entitlement in Today's Culture

(02:49) The Role of Technology and Parenting

(06:12) Celebrating Achievements: A Double-Edged Sword

(08:56) Instilling Gratitude as an Antidote

(12:00) Teaching Work Ethic and Responsibility

(16:56) Building Character and Responsibility in Kids

(18:01) Fighting Entitlement and Cultivating Gratitude

(19:45) Modeling Gratitude as Parents

(22:05) Intentional Parenting in a Selfie Culture

(24:58) The Importance of Service and Perspective

(29:35) It's Never Too Late to Start

(32:58) Surrounding Kids with Positive Influences

Connect with Monica

MonicaSwanson.com

The Monica Swanson Podcast

Instagram

Resources Mentioned

Character training course

Raising Prayerful Kids book

Raising Grateful Kids in an Entitled World

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

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Healing, boundaries, and raising emotionally healthy kids with Melanie Shankle Jan 28, 2025

Show notes

This week, I’m joined by Melanie Shankle to talk about her book, Here Be Dragons. Our conversation dives deep into important topics like generational trauma, relationships, and the impact of mean girls on young girls. Melanie’s focus on healing and boundaries is so powerful, reminding us that the path to raising emotionally healthy kids starts with becoming emotionally healthy ourselves.

Here are four key takeaways from this episode:

Raising emotionally healthy children starts with doing the work to heal yourself. It’s never too late to begin.
Boundaries are essential for protecting your emotional health and that of your family.
Melanie encourages parents to pause and evaluate areas in their lives that need healing or adjustment for their own and their children’s benefit.
We discuss the influence of relationships and mean-girl culture on young girls, and how parents can guide them toward healthy connections.

Melanie Shankle is a bestselling author, speaker, and host of The Big Boo Cast podcast. Her latest book, Here Be Dragons, explores the complexities of relationships and the importance of emotional health. Melanie’s heartfelt writing and practical advice have made her a trusted voice for parents seeking to raise emotionally resilient children.

This episode is filled with both challenges and encouragement, offering actionable steps to prioritize emotional health in your family. I hope you find it as impactful as I did!

(02:57) The Evolution of Parenting: Embracing Change

(06:03) Healing from Generational Trauma

(08:57) Navigating Relationships: The Impact of Motherhood

(11:51) Breaking Generational Cycles in Parenting

(15:10) The Mean Girl Epidemic: Caroline's Experience

(17:59) Understanding the Roots of Mean Behavior

(21:00) The Importance of True Friendship

(24:00) Finding Grace in Relationships

(27:00) Final Thoughts: Embracing God's Plan for Our Kids

Connect with Melanie

The Big Mama Blog

The Big Boo Cast podcast

Instagram

Here be Dragons book

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

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Faith, family, and special needs advocacy with Alicia and Kirsta Graf Jan 21, 2025

Show notes

This week’s episode is extra special as I’m joined by two of my favorite people, Alicia and Kirsta Graf. They are a mother-daughter duo who inspire me deeply. Alicia shares her parenting journey with Kirsta, who has down syndrome, and the lessons she’s learned through adoption, loss, and raising three daughters. Kirsta is truly incredible—funny, joyful, and a shining light. Their story is heartfelt, inspiring, and filled with wisdom.

Here are four key takeaways from this episode:

Alicia emphasizes treating your family as a team and studying each child to meet their unique needs.
Relationships with those a season or two ahead in life can make a big difference in your parenting journey.
Kirsta’s journey—graduating from Bethel University, working at the school, and contributing to Jack’s Basket—shows the incredible potential of every child.
Parenting is full of surprises and challenges, requiring reliance on God and grace for yourself.

This conversation is a beautiful reminder of the power of teamwork, grace, and celebrating the unique gifts of each family member. I hope you feel as encouraged as I did!

(06:01) Parenting Insights and Surprises

(11:45) God's Guidance in Parenting

(17:55) Kirsta's College Experience at Bethel University

(23:56) The Impact of College Programs for Special Needs

(30:40) Public Speaking and Personal Growth

(37:04) Reflections on Parenting

(42:45) Advice for Parents

Resources Mentioned

Bethel University BUILD program

Ruby’s Rainbow

Jack’s Basket

Jack’s Basket Instagram