Wire Talk with Karen Stubbs

443: Holiday Survival Guide for Grandparents Nov 19, 2024

Navigating the holidays as a grandparent can be tricky, but holding plans with open hands can make all the difference. In this episode, we talk about how to foster unity, embrace flexibility, and keep a spirit of grace at the center of holiday gatherings. Whether you're a mom of grown children or still in the thick of raising kids at home, Karen offers practical tips to help you approach the season with love and understanding.

Episode Recap:

4:56 Grandparents need to hold holiday plans with open hands

7:45 Remember what it was like to be a young adult and all of the pressures they are facing

10:00 Be open and flexible to new traditions

13:00 Enjoy the kids when they are around and be okay if they are not present some years

14:55 Learn how to communicate plans early

16:30 It’s okay for grandparents to spoil the grandkids and overindulge them once a year!

19:30 Ask your grown children, “what can I do to make holidays easier/better for you?”

23:00 The holidays aren’t about exactly ‘when’ or ‘how,’ they are about being together

Scripture for Reflection:

Philippians 2:3-4 (NIV): "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others."

Questions for Discussion:

In what ways can you be more understanding of the pressures your grown children face during the holiday season?
What new traditions could you embrace that might help create a more joyful and flexible holiday experience for everyone?
How can you learn to hold your holiday traditions with open hands? Is there anything specific you know will be hard to let go of?
What steps can you take to communicate our holiday plans early, while still being considerate of everyone’s needs and desires?
How can you maintain a spirit of grace if plans change or things don't go as expected?

Resources:

Download the BOAW Moms app (for FREE!) [App Store] [Google Play]

442: Protecting Your Kids from Screen Addiction with Practical Tech Limits Nov 12, 2024

Today, DeDe Wilbanks joins us to explore how we can set healthy boundaries around the technology in our homes. With John 10:10 as our guide, DeDe reminds us of our God-given role to protect our children's hearts and minds from the addictive nature of technology. While we can't control everything, we can be intentional about setting limits that nurture our families, trusting God with the rest.

Episode Recap:

4:30 What downtime and screen time parameters do you put on your devices?
9:43 Is there a right age to give kids a phone?
13:09 Why do screen time limits matter?
15:15 What mistakes have you made when it comes to technology in your home?
19:10 I had to learn to enjoy the “no”
22:00 How do you actually set limits on the iphone?
31:22 What simple practical tips can you offer to get started?

Scripture for Reflection:

John 10:10 (NIV) "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”

Questions for Discussion:

What boundaries are in place around the tech that your kids have access to? (Games, ipads, TV, phones, etc.)
Have you made any mistakes with the technology you have allowed in your home?
How do you model healthy technology habits for your children?
What challenges do you face when setting screen time limits, and how do you handle them?
What action steps are you taking after listening to this episode?

Resources:

Download the BOAW Moms app (for FREE!) [App Store] [Google Play]
The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt

441: A Faithful Approach to an Anxious World Nov 05, 2024

Election Day can bring a lot of uncertainty and even fear into our lives. Today, Karen and Emily remind us to keep our focus on God, no matter who ends up in the White House. They encourage us to pray for our leaders and show us how to foster peace, especially if our families are divided on political views. Karen shares powerful biblical truths to help us navigate the ups and downs of the election season with faith and grace, reminding us that our hope is always in Christ and that we are citizens of heaven.

Episode Recap:

7:12 How should Christians approach political elections?

10:20 What does Jesus say about engaging with governments and politics?

13:04 Daniel 2:21 says God “deposes kings and raises up others”

14:30 We have to focus our eyes on God and not our circumstances

15:45 Go vote! And also, pray for our leaders

17:45 Look at the story of Nebuchadnezzer, God can turn the hearts of evil leaders

20:39 We can have different opinions and still love one another

21:58 Your children are watching you

Scripture for Reflection:

Romans 13:1 (NIV) "Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God."

Questions for Discussion:

Do you enjoy talking about politics, would you rather ignore it, or do you fall somewhere in between?
Has this election season disrupted your internal peace?
Do you pray for the leaders in our country? Would you be willing to commit to praying for the President Elect until Inauguration Day?
Did any of the verses Karen mentioned during this episode resonate with you? What is something you can do to practically apply the message of this conversation?

Resources:

Download the BOAW Moms app (for FREE!) [App Store] [Google Play]

440: How Can I Effectively Discipline My Young Children? Oct 29, 2024

“You just have to last one second longer…” If you are constantly fighting discipline battles these days, we hope those words stay with you long after this episode! In this conversation, Karen tackles questions about disciplining your younger children. From chaos in the car, to rough play, to bad behavior that only happens at school, Karen offers practical advice for finding consequences that work for your child.

Episode Recap:

6:37 My four year old is constantly getting in trouble at school - what can we do?

12:30 Car rides are the worst! How can I stop the cycle of craziness?

17:00 You just have to last one second longer than they do!

18:25 My son plays too rough at school - does he need therapy?

21:30 How do I know which things are discipline worthy and which things I should let go?

27:18 My son gets really angry- we don’t want to punish him for feeling emotions, but know we need to find ways to help him regulate, any advice?

Scripture for Reflection:

Proverbs 29:17 (NIV) “Discipline your children, and they will give you peace; they will bring you the delights you desire.”

Questions for Discussion:

What are some of the biggest discipline challenges you face with your young children?
Have you found any specific consequences that seem to work well with your child? What hasn’t worked as well?
How do you decide which behaviors are worth disciplining and which ones to let go?
How do you handle situations where your child gets very angry? Are there strategies that help them regulate their emotions?

Resources:

Send Karen your questions using the BOAW Moms app (for FREE!) [App Store] [Google Play]
Raising Emotionally Strong Boys by David Thomas: https://amzn.to/48r4ZkZ
Listen to Wire Talk episode 347 with David Thomas: https://wiretalk.transistor.fm/episodes/347-raising-emotionally-strong-boys-with-david-thomas
A Grown Up’s Guide to Kids’ Wiring: https://amzn.to/3YmsRlo
Survival Guide to Motherhood: https://amzn.to/3NKXXyd

439: Birth Order and Sibling Squabbles Oct 22, 2024

Are your kids’ personalities shaped by their birth order? In today’s episode, Karen and Emily explore how birth order influences personality. They share insights from their own families and tackle questions like, “How do I help my oldest think of others before herself?” and “How can I teach my daughter to let go of things without holding on to everything?” Plus, Emily talks about how she’s using the BOAW Moms app to keep up with studies and episodes!

Episode Recap:

2:00 Emily is loving using the BOAW Moms app to watch studies and look up podcast episodes

3:45 Karen and Emily share how their personalities were shaped by their birth order

7:13 Is it possible to avoid reinforcing birth order stereotypes as a parent?

10:25 How do I help my 5 year old let go of things? She wants to hold onto all the things!

15:24 How do I help my oldest daughter think of others before herself?

20:45 How do I help nurture my daughter’s kindness?

24:50 Send in your question on the app using the “Ask Karen” section

Scripture for Reflection:

Galatians 6:9 (NASB) “Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary.”

Questions for Discussion:

How do you think birth order has influenced your children’s personalities? Can you see any traits that match typical birth order stereotypes?
How do you encourage your child to let go of unnecessary items or habits without making them feel pressured?
What did you think of Karen’s story about taking Kelsey to the Dominican Republic and the change she saw in her heart afterwards? Is that something you have done or would consider doing with your children?
Karen mentioned several times that some issues we see in our kids are heart issues while others are merely maturity issues (things they will grow out of)- do you feel like you can tell the difference in your children?

Resources:

Check out Karen’s new study: The Counter-Intuitive Parent on Right Now Media or from the BOAW Moms store
Download the BOAW Moms app: [App Store] [Google Play]
Kevin Leman’s Birth Order book: https://amzn.to/3AdPCzI

438: A Student’s Guide to Sexual Integrity Oct 15, 2024

“There is nothing that beats conversation with our kids.” Today we’re chatting with Erin Mashaw about the new book she co-authored, A Student’s Guide to Sexual Integrity. We touch on purity culture, pornography, and the constantly shifting cultural values around us. Erin shared the importance of having small conversations early and often and offered practical tips for getting over the awkwardness! Our hope is that you will be encouraged to engage in new conversations this week in your home and feel equipped that YOU are the best source of information for your child. Psst - pop some earbuds in for this one!

Episode Recap:

3:20 What is the difference between integrity and purity?
6:54 ‘The Talk’ is no longer one marathon session, it’s simpler than that!
8:30: Is it possible to make these conversations less awkward?
11:37 Your mind is your most important sex organ
14:00 Teach your kids to live by the Integrity Code
18:30 How do we share the truth that the historical biblical sexual ethic is loving and not exclusive with kids who are seeing something different all around them?
20:30 It’s parents’ job to be the first voice speaking to our children a consistent message on sexuality
24:00 What do moms need to know about protecting our (even young) kids from being sexualized online?
30:10 It’s never too late to start this conversation!
33:00 God is writing your child’s story and His Holy Spirit will guide you as you lead your kids in this area of their lives

Scripture for Reflection:

Deuteronomy 11:18-19 (NIV): “Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.”

Questions for Discussion:

When did you begin talking with your kids about topics related to sex? If you haven’t started yet, what’s holding you back? Did this episode encourage you to initiate those conversations in your home?
How do you define sexual integrity versus purity, and why do you think this distinction is important when talking with your children? What stood out to you in Erin’s explanation?
How can you be proactive in protecting your children from exposure to inappropriate content online? What strategies have worked for you, or what new steps could you take based on the information shared in this episode?
What does it look like to trust God with your child’s journey while still being intentional about shaping their understanding of sexual integrity

Resources:

Check out Karen’s new study: The Counter-Intuitive Parent on Right Now Media or from the BOAW Moms store
Grab a copy of A Student’s Guide to Sexual Integrity
Jim Burns book, God Made Your Body, How God Makes Babies
More resources from HomeWord ministry: https://homeword.com/
Download the BOAW Moms app for FREE [App Store] [Google Play]

437: Balancing Marriage, Parenting, and Life’s Big Decisions Oct 08, 2024

When your kids are little, the challenges of day-to-day parenting often pit one spouse against another. Today Karen and Emily are answering questions from weary moms. They discuss practical ways you can connect with your spouse, strategies for handling the stress that comes with parenting young children, and remind us of the importance of prioritizing our husband’s needs during this season of life.

Episode Recap:

4:50 BIG announcement coming later this month - get the app to be the first to know

10:45 How do we find time to connect as spouses with 3 little kids at home?

15:05: Help! My 3 yr old twins are pitting us against one another!

17:14 Our marriage is struggling! We need help.

22:20 Ask your spouse: what is one way I can love you better this month?

25:20 I want to move back to where my family lives. What do you think we should do?

Scripture for Reflection:

Mark 10:9 (NIV): “Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.”

Questions for Discussion:

How do you currently prioritize connection with your spouse while raising young children? What practical strategies have worked for you, and where do you feel there’s room for improvement?
How do you and your spouse handle conflict when your children (especially young ones) try to pit you against one another? Do you feel like you have a united front, or is this something you struggle with?
What’s one way you could better support your husband’s needs during this busy season of life? Have you asked him how you can show love to him in the coming weeks?
When making major family decisions, such as moving or changing jobs, how do you and your spouse communicate and weigh each other’s opinions? What steps do you take to ensure that both of your voices are heard?

Resources:

Download the BOAW Moms app for FREE [App Store] [Google Play]
Watch the Parenting Together curriculum in the app! [App Store] [Google Play]

436: Resolve Conflicts by Tapping into Your Child's Unique Personality Oct 01, 2024

Understanding how your child is wired can be a key to resolving conflict in your home! In today's episode, Karen dives into the dynamics of family conflict and emphasizes how important it is to recognize your child's personality type. By taking the time to understand their unique traits, we can cultivate patience and empathy in our relationships. Join us as we explore practical ways to bear with one another instead of butting heads!

Episode Recap:

6:08 I’m worried about my 9 yr old son’s lack of sociability…should I be?

9:05 My daughter and I are constantly butting heads! Help!

12:15 What are the four core needs of the Red personality?

14:08 How did your husband being away for so long affect your children and the home?

18:32 My 1st grade daughter’s social awkwardness is affecting her relationships, what can I do?

Scripture for Reflection:

Ephesians 4:2 (NIV):Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.

Questions for Discussion:

How well do you know each of your children’s personalities? Share with the group the personalities of each of your family members.
Do any of the personalities in your family butt heads more so than others?
Can you see how taking personalities into account could create a more peaceful home?
Refer to the four needs of each personality type in the resource packet linked below: do any needs stand out that you could work to be more mindful of in your parenting?

Resources:

Download the BOAW Moms app for FREE [App Store] [Google Play]
Not sure your child’s color? Take our Colors Personality quiz
Print off the FREE personality resource packet from BOAW

435: Transform Your Parenting By Renewing Your Mind Sep 24, 2024

Today we’re diving into the idea of being a countercultural parent. Join us as Karen shares how important it is to parent in a way that aligns with God’s will instead of seeking the approval of others. From practical tips on renewing your mind to choosing God as your guiding “North Star,” Karen offers encouragement to moms who may feel out of step with the world – but exactly in step with God’s design.

Episode Recap:

3:51 Karen shares about her newest curriculum, The Counter Intuitive Parent

8:36 How have you seen parenting trends/choices change over the years?

11:38 Were you always countercultural as a parent or did you change as you realized you needed to parent differently from the world?

16:25 What worldly patterns do you see affecting families right now?

19:05 What can a mom do today to renew her mind?

23:00 God is our “North Star” as believers

26:30 There is a lot on the horizon for BOAW Moms this year!

Scripture for Reflection:

Romans 12:2 (NIV) – "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”

Galatians 1:10 (NIV) - “Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.”

Questions for Discussion:

What parenting “trends” have you noticed in the circles you are parenting in these days? Do you feel pressure to conform to any of them?
Karen spoke about renewing your mind and making choices for your family based on God’s will rather than the world’s expectations. How can you practically begin to “renew your mind” in your daily parenting?
In what ways do you feel countercultural as a parent? Have there been moments where you doubted your approach because it went against what society expects?
How can you make God your “North Star” in your decision-making as a parent? What are some distractions that keep you from doing this, and how can you overcome them?

Resources:

Download the Birds on a Wire Moms app now for FREE wherever you get your apps: [App Store] [Google Play]
Check out The Counter Intuitive Parent available now through Right Now Media): https://app.rightnowmedia.org/en/content/details/883497

434: Setting Your Young Adult Up for Independence Sep 17, 2024

Today Karen is answering questions from moms whose kids are in college or working and living on their own for the first time. She shares how to support them without enabling them, how to gently guide them toward wise-decision making, and how to encourage them toward maturity while simultaneously stepping back. She also reminds us that now, more than ever, is the time to get on your knees and PRAY for your kids! Moms, this season is hard, but the fruit of these years is worth the investment of time and energy.

Episode Recap:

3:41 How do I help my college-age daughter who is already struggling with time management while she’s away? She’s calling me in tears weekly!

8:00 I feel like my son is growing apart from us as a young adult living in another state. Is this normal? How can I adjust my mindset?

13:02 My daughter calls me all the time about every little thing now that she’s living on her own. How can I help her be more confident in her decision making?

17:18 I think my son could be classified as “failure to launch” at this point in time. How can I get him to think about his future seriously?!

Scripture for Reflection:

Philippians 1:9-10 (NIV) – "And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ."

Questions for Discussion:

Were there any suggestions Karen offered during this episode that surprised you? Which ones did you love?
When your young adult is constantly seeking advice, how do you balance offering support with encouraging them to develop their own confidence in decision-making?
Do you struggle with feelings of separation or distance when your child is living far from home? What are some practical things you could do (besides visiting!) to close that relational gap?
What are some practical ways we can support our young adults in their independence without overstepping or enabling them?
In what specific ways can you be praying for your young adult as they transition into greater independence? Do you think prayer influences your ability to trust God in this season?

Resources:

Jump in on the Survival Guide to Motherhood study this fall! Today is the last day to register: boaw.mom/SGTM
Download the Birds on a Wire Moms app FOR FREE wherever you get your apps!
Come hear Karen teach at an event near you: https://birdsonawiremoms.com/events

433: You Can Set Your Child Up for Reading Success! Sep 10, 2024

Literacy coach Welsley Jongko joins us in the studio today to talk about the process of learning to read and to encourage those of us who have beginning readers at home! She explains the current reading crisis in America and the simple but effective things parents can do to support their children on their way to become lifelong readers. There are so many great tips and resources shared in the conversation today, be sure you check the links in today’s show notes!

Episode Recap:

2:11 Welsley is a literacy coach supporting teachers in the K-5 school system

4:00 Karen shares the story of Abby’s dyslexia diagnosis

7:56 Tips for parents who are already overwhelmed by the new school year

9:40 How can parents help foster a love of learning in their child?

12:12 Is there a difference between a late learner and a struggling reader?

16:00 What are the red flags your child is struggling to read?

23:08 Additional early signs of dyslexia

26:00 What is the problem with “whole language” instruction?

30:37 Tips and strategies for helping your beginning reader enjoy the process

34:15 More resources from Welsley Jongko on learning to read

Scripture for Reflection: Proverbs 3:13 (NIV)
“Blessed are those who find wisdom, those who gain understanding.”

Questions for Discussion:

Did Welsley’s insights on the reading crisis in America resonate with your own experiences? Have you had or do you have a child who struggles with reading?
Were there any strategies or suggestions for helping your child that stood out to you as particularly helpful?
Fostering a love of learning is crucial for young readers. Does reading aloud happen regularly in your home? What are some favorite books in your family? Have you ever tried listening to audiobooks together? Is this an area you can grow in as a family?

Resources:

Welsley’s book, Teach Me to Read: https://amzn.to/4d1lJAe
Follow Little Literacy Nook! @littleliteracynook
More resources on Welsley’s website: https://littleliteracynook.com
Sold a Story podcast on flawed reading instruction: https://features.apmreports.org/sold-a-story/
The reading crisis among elementary students in America: https://edtrust.org/blog/the-literacy-crisis-in-the-u-s-is-deeply-concerning-and-totally-preventable/#:~:text=Last%20year%2C%20the%20National%20Assessment,a%20proficient%20level%20in%20reading.
Love Every Reading Skills Set: https://lovevery.com/pages/the-reading-skill-set
Come hear Karen teach at an event near you: https://birdsonawiremoms.com/events
Join our private BOAW Moms FB group for community and collective wisdom: https://www.facebook.com/groups/BOAWmoms

432: Choosing the ‘Best Yes’ For Your Family Sep 03, 2024

Today Karen is answering questions from moms juggling packed schedules, managing family commitments, and trying to make a little time for themselves! From balancing kids' activities with family time to learning when to say no, in this episode you’ll hear practical advice to help you protect your energy and prioritize what matters most. Pop in those earbuds or grab a basket of laundry to fold and let's figure out what your best "yes" is for this season.

Episode Recap:

- 3:57 Survival Guide to Motherhood is now available as an online course! Register today

- 6:14 My schedule is packed and I was recently asked to lead a group at church. I want to say no, but how can I?

- 8:37 I’m conflicted about travel sports - help!

- 12:31 I’m exhausted, how do I stay connected to my husband in this season of parenting?

- 15:42 How can I set boundaries now to avoid overcommitment in the future?

Scripture for Reflection:

Matthew 6:33 (NIV) "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”

Questions for Discussion:

How do you evaluate whether a commitment is a “best yes” for your family? What criteria do you use to make sure your commitments support your family’s well-being?
How can you ensure that your marriage remains a priority amidst the busyness of life? Is this easy for you or is it a struggle?
Karen talks about dividing your time into three categories: essentials, non-negotiables, and bonuses. How do you currently categorize your commitments? What activities or priorities fall into each category in your life? Are there any adjustments you feel called to make after reflecting on this concept?
What strategies can you implement to create intentional rest and unstructured family time in your weekly routine?

Resources:

Register for Survival Guide to Motherhood today: www.boaw.mom/SGTM Use coupon code THRIVE for your exclusive Wire Talk listener discount.
Come hear Karen teach at an event near you: https://birdsonawiremoms.com/events
Join our private BOAW Moms FB group for community and collective wisdom: https://www.facebook.com/groups/BOAWmoms

431: You Are Not Your Husband's Holy Spirit Aug 27, 2024

Today Karen and Emily dive into the dynamics of marriage and parenting, reminding us that we are not our husband's Holy Spirit! Karen talks about letting go of the urge to control her husband's spiritual journey, addresses differences in parenting styles, and offers practical wisdom for managing the emotional ups and downs that come with doing life together. Lean in for practical advice rooted in love and respect, remembering that it is God who ultimately guides our growth.

Episode Recap:

5:15 How do I let go of my husband’s lack of a quiet time?

7:41 Our job is to love and respect our husbands

8:00 My husband is harsh when he disciplines, what do I do?

11:29 How can I get my husband to take more initiative?

15:55 My husband’s moodiness brings me down!

Scripture for Reflection:

1 Corinthians 3: 6-7 (NIV): "I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow."

Questions for Discussion:

Can you relate to the feeling of wanting to control your husband's spiritual walk? When has this happened in your own marriage, and how have you handled it?
In what ways have you seen differences in parenting styles between you and your spouse? What strengths does your husband’s style bring to the family? What strengths does your style bring? Do you think you make a good team or is there a lack of balance?
Do you ever struggle with resentment or feeling overwhelmed in your role as a wife and mother? What steps have you taken to address these feelings, and how did your husband respond?
When your husband is in a "blue mood," how do you typically react? Have you found any strategies that help both of you during those times, and how do you maintain your own emotional balance?
Reflecting on the idea of giving space in your marriage, how have you or your husband used space to deescalate tensions? What are some practical ways you’ve implemented this in your relationship?

Resources:

Check out BOAW’s curriculum Parenting Together (from Preschool to Prom): https://store.birdsonawiremoms.com/collections/studies/products/parenting-together-digital-video
Come hear Karen teach at an event near you: https://birdsonawiremoms.com/events
Join our private BOAW Moms FB group for community and collective wisdom: https://www.facebook.com/groups/BOAWmoms

430: Empowering Moms to Pray on All Occasions Aug 20, 2024

In the final episode of our 3-part series on Ephesians 6:14-18, we're taking an in-depth look at verse 18 and Paul's call to pray in the Spirit on all occasions. Karen and Emily explore what it means to be vigilant in prayer and the different types of prayers we should keep in mind. They also dive into how we, as moms, can cultivate a consistent and effective prayer life and teach our kids to pray. This conversation is rich with wisdom and Scripture, so pull up a chair and have your Bible nearby as we close out this powerful series!

Episode Recap:

5:55 Ephesians 6:18- Paul’s admonition to the church to pray in the spirit on all occasions

8:54 What are the different types of prayers we need to keep in mind?

13:20 How can we develop a consistent and effective prayer life as moms?

14:41 How do we teach our kids to pray?

17:47 Putting on the armor of God empowers us

21:30 Karen shares various times from her life when she depended on prayer

Scripture for Reflection:

Ephesians 6:18 (NIV): “And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.”

Questions for Discussion:

Reflecting on Ephesians 6:18, how do you personally practice "praying in the Spirit on all occasions"? What are some specific ways you integrate prayer into your daily routine, and how has that impacted your spiritual life?
Karen and Emily discussed different types of prayers we should keep in mind.
Which type of prayer do you find yourself leaning on the most, and why? Are there any types of prayers you feel you could focus on more in your life?
Can you recall a time in your own life when prayer was essential in getting through a difficult situation? How did that experience strengthen your faith?
What challenges have you faced in maintaining a regular prayer practice? What strategies have you found helpful in overcoming these obstacles?
How have you approached teaching prayer to your children? What methods or practices have you found effective in helping them develop their own prayer lives?

Resources:

Check out BOAW’s 52 week prayer journal: https://store.birdsonawiremoms.com/collections/accessories/products/moments-in-prayer-52-week-prayer-journal
Come hear Karen teach at an event near you: https://birdsonawiremoms.com/events
Join our private BOAW Moms FB group for community and collective wisdom: https://www.facebook.com/groups/BOAWmoms

429: Standing Firm: How to Equip Yourself with Spiritual Armor for Daily Battles Aug 13, 2024

Today we're diving deep into Ephesians 6:14-18, exploring how to equip ourselves with spiritual armor needed for the daily battles we face. Karen and Emily discuss the practical steps to "put on" the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, and the gospel of peace, empowering you to stand firm against the challenges of life. This conversation is chock full of Scripture, so grab your Bible and follow along as we discover how to stand firm, knowing that God is with us in every fight.

Episode Recap:

4:19 Today we’re looking at Ephesians 6:14-18 together

6:54 We have to strap on the truth of Jesus Christ. We have to know what He says, which means reading our Bibles

7:58 Use Scripture to combat the lies we face in our daily lives

15:10 How do we practically put on the belt of truth?

17:39 What is the breastplate of righteousness and how do we “put it on” practically speaking?

22:43 Let’s break down what it means to “have your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace”

26:00 We can’t hold it all together, we have to open up our hands and trust that God has us and our kids

34:20 Stand firm and fight, prepared with these spiritual weapons, because God is with you

Scripture for Reflection:

Ephesians 6:14-18 (NIV): “Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.”

Questions for Discussion:

How can we practically "put on" the belt of truth in our daily lives as mothers?
Consider specific ways you can incorporate Scripture into your daily routine to combat the lies and doubts you might face.
What does it mean to wear the breastplate of righteousness as a mom?
Discuss how living righteously affects your parenting and the example it sets for your children. How can you model this for them?
In what areas of your life do you need to trust that God "has you and your kids"?
Reflect on situations where you may be trying to control too much. How can you release those burdens and trust in God's provision?
How can being rooted in the gospel of peace help you navigate the challenges of motherhood? Discuss how staying grounded in God's peace can shape your reactions to stressful situations and bring a calming influence to your family.

Resources:

Grab Karen’s 365 day devotional Moments with God for Moms: https://store.birdsonawiremoms.com/collections/accessories/products/copy-of-moments-with-god-for-moms-daily-devotional-faux-leather
Check out BOAW’s 52 week prayer journal: https://store.birdsonawiremoms.com/collections/accessories/products/moments-in-prayer-52-week-prayer-journal
Come hear Karen teach at an event near you: https://birdsonawiremoms.com/events
Join our private BOAW Moms FB group for community and collective wisdom: https://www.facebook.com/groups/BOAWmoms

428: Armor of God: Preparing for Spiritual Battles in the New School Year Aug 06, 2024

Back-to-school feels like the start of a new year for moms, so it’s a perfect time to prepare our hearts and minds. Over the next three weeks, we're diving into Ephesians to explore the armor of God, a biblical metaphor Paul uses to remind us that we are in a spiritual battle every day. This isn't about fear—it's about living a victorious life through Christ.

Join us as we encourage you to wake up, equip yourself with God’s truth, and get ready to stand strong in this new season. You’ve got this, and with God’s help, it’s going to be an amazing school year!

Episode Recap:

4:30 Karen recaps upcoming speaking events and her travel calendar

6:00 The new school year as the real "new year" for moms

9:11 Why is the armor of God crucial for spiritual battles?

12:32 We don’t think about the fact that we are in a spiritual battle everyday

16:43 How do we practically apply this in our families? Karen offers tangible examples

22:14 ‘Stand firm’ means we have to be ready. Wake up! Expect the battles to come and be prepared.

24:23 We have to retrain ourselves to see the spiritual battles around us and plug into God’s power

Scripture for Reflection:

Ephesians 6:10-13 (NIV): “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.”

Questions for Discussion:

Why do you think Paul chose the metaphor of the armor of God to describe our spiritual battles? How does this imagery resonate with your own experiences as a mom?
Karen emphasized the importance of 'standing firm' and being prepared for spiritual battles. In what areas of your life do you feel the most unprepared, and how can you start to equip yourself spiritually?
In the episode, Emily mentions that we often don’t realize we’re even in a spiritual battle. What are some practical ways you can remind yourself to stay aware of this reality?
How do you see the devil’s schemes manifesting in your daily life, particularly in your role as a mom? How can you counteract these schemes with the truths from Ephesians 6?
Karen talks about the need to retrain ourselves to see spiritual battles and plug into God’s power. What steps can you take this week to start viewing challenges from a spiritual perspective rather than just a physical one?

Resources:

Grab a copy of Karen’s all-new Survival Guide to Motherhood: https://amzn.to/4dxAL1o
Come hear Karen teach at an event near you: https://birdsonawiremoms.com/events
Connect with Birds on a Wire Moms on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/birdsonawiremoms and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/birdsonawiremoms

427: Finding Your Worth in Christ Jul 30, 2024

What does God say about you? Do you know?! It is all too easy to get caught up in who the world says you are, so today Karen and Emily remind us the truth of what God says. They talk about identity, the phrase “just a mom,” and fighting against comparison. We hope today’s conversation encourages you to celebrate your unique gifts and talents and focus on the truth that you are fearfully and wonderfully made!

Episode Recap:
3:45 Survival Guide to Motherhood releases today!

6:30 Karen’s purpose at BOAW Moms is to be your biggest cheerleader

11:50 It is critical that we base our identity and find our worth in who we are in Christ

16:40 Get off social media and stay in your lane if you struggle with this!

21:15 You are fearfully and wonderfully made, start out each day by meditating on that truth

Scripture for Reflection:

Psalm 139:14 (NIV): “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”

Questions for Discussion:

Are there specific areas where you’ve struggled to see yourself the way God sees you? How has your understanding of your identity in Christ changed after listening to this episode?
Karen and Emily talked about the phrase “just a mom.” Have you ever told anyone you are “just a mom”? Has this episode helped you reframe that mindset?
Social media can lead to feelings of inadequacy and comparison. What steps can you take to "stay in your lane" and avoid comparing yourself to others? How can focusing on your unique gifts help with this?
Karen shared that her purpose in starting BOAW Moms was to be a cheerleader for other moms. How can you encourage and support other women in your community to see their worth and celebrate their unique gifts?

Resources:

Karen’s all-new Survival Guide to Motherhood is available now! https://amzn.to/3Vr7LlD
Connect with Birds on a Wire Moms on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/birdsonawiremoms and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/birdsonawiremoms

426: There's a Difference Between Nurturing and Enabling Jul 23, 2024

Are you raising confident kids? Today Karen encourages moms to take a step back so our kids can step up. She and Emily discuss the pitfalls of doing things for our kids and the reasons we often fall into that trap. They also talk about the difference between nurturing and enabling and share the critical connection between kids who take ownership and confident kids!

Episode Recap:

6:40 Why is there a whole chapter on confidence in this book?

8:32 Where are moms missing the mark when it comes to raising confident kids?

12:56 What role do chores play in confidence?

14:04 Small, practical ways you can allow your children to grow in confidence

Scripture for Reflection:

Galatians 6:5 (NIV): "For each one should carry their own load."

Questions for Discussion:

Can you identify any specific behaviors or actions where you might be enabling your child rather than nurturing their independence? What changes could you make to shift from enabling to nurturing?
Reflect on a recent situation where you stepped back and allowed your child to handle something on their own. How did it go, and what did you learn from the experience?
How do you incorporate chores into your child's routine? How have you seen chores impact your child's sense of responsibility and confidence?
What are some small, practical steps you can take to help your child grow in confidence? How can you implement these steps in your daily routine?

Resources:

- Pre-order Karen’s all-new Survival Guide to Motherhood today! Orders ship July 30th: https://amzn.to/3Vr7LlD
- Connect with Birds on a Wire Moms on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/birdsonawiremoms and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/birdsonawiremoms

425: You Can Learn to Discipline Well, No Matter the Age of Your Child Jul 16, 2024

In this third part of our series on Karen's new book, "Survival Guide to Motherhood," Karen and Emily discuss the importance of raising kids with a strong foundation in biblical principles, even when it goes against the grain of today's world. They chat about how teaching kids to obey their parents leads to a more peaceful home in the long run. Don’t miss Karen’s prayer at the end of the episode asking for wisdom, courage, and blessings for all the families tuning in!

Episode Recap:

6:29 Discipline is hard and different for every child and in every season

7:43 Discipline has to be taught - it does not come naturally to children

11:42 Discipline has to be consistent.

13:00 The 3 stages of discipline each require a different focus from parents

17:07 The “B”s of discipline are: Be Consistent, Be United, Be Clear

18:08 In the later years, we have to give our kids the “why” behind the no

Scripture for Reflection:

Hebrews 12:11 “No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.”

James 1:5 “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”

Questions for Discussion:

Are there any negative behaviors you see in your child now that you are tempted to ignore, thinking they will grow out of it?
Karen mentioned the idea that "pain now will equal peace later" when it comes to parenting. Have you experienced this in your own life? How have you seen this in your parenting journey?
Which stage of discipline are you in right now? (Laying the Foundation, Teaching the ‘Whys’, The Coaching Years)
Do you think the pace of your life is preventing you from disciplining effectively? How so?
Of the three “B”s (Be Consistent, Be United, Be Clear), which do you struggle with most?
Have you ever prayed and asked for wisdom to know how to discipline your child? Pray together as a group today for the wisdom to discipline effectively.

Resources:

Pre-order Karen’s all-new Survival Guide to Motherhood today! Orders ship July 30th: https://amzn.to/3Vr7LlD
More Wire Talk episodes on discipline: Laying the Foundation, The Middle Years, The Coaching Years
Find ALL the episodes we’ve ever recorded on discipline HERE.
Connect with Birds on a Wire Moms on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/birdsonawiremoms and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/birdsonawiremoms

424: A Healthy Mom = Healthy Kids Jul 09, 2024

How do you make sacrifices for your kids without sacrificing yourself in the process? In today’s conversation, Karen and Emily explore this question and Karen offers wisdom on knowing when it’s time to prioritize yourself. We'll dig into taking care of your mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual health because a healthy mom equals healthy kids!

Episode Recap:

(3:31) There is a difference between sacrificing for others and sacrificing yourself in the process

(5:42) Surround yourself with the wise counsel of those who are ahead of you on the journey

(10:19) Good emotional health for a mom results in good emotional health for her children

(15:26) Take care of your spiritual health and invest in a resource to help you

Questions for Discussion:

Can you share a time when you felt you were sacrificing too much of yourself for your children? How did you recognize this, and what steps did you take to find a better balance? If you’re in the middle of this right now, can you share more about what’s going on?
Karen mentions the importance of surrounding yourself with wise counsel. Who are the people in your life that provide you with wisdom and support, and how have they helped you navigate motherhood?
Karen shares that emotional health is passed from parent to child. What was the emotional climate in your home growing up? What effect did that climate have on you and the way you respond emotionally now? How do you want to change or maintain that climate in your home now as a parent?
On a scale of 1 (not at all) to 10 (all of the time) how well do you think you are prioritizing your physical health? What changes if any do you need to make in this area?
How are you nurturing your faith right now, and what resources or practices have you found most beneficial in staying connected to God during this season of life?

Resources:

Pre-order Karen’s all-new Survival Guide to Motherhood today! Orders ship July 30th: https://amzn.to/3Vr7LlD
Grab a copy of Karen’s Six Truths of Motherhood and use code WTSix for free shipping
Pick up the Moments with God for Moms daily devotional or Karen’s weekly prayer journal for your quiet time.
Connect with Birds on a Wire Moms on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/birdsonawiremoms and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/birdsonawiremoms

423: Your Kid is a Crock-Pot, Give Them Time! Jul 02, 2024

Today we’re cracking the spine of Karen’s newest book, Survival Guide to Motherhood. Karen shares insightful excerpts from the opening chapters, exploring the ideas that kids develop like Crock-Pots, joy is a choice, and moms are the CEOs of their homes. Grab your copy of Survival Guide today. Check the show notes for the link.

Episode Recap:

3:17 Survival Guide to Motherhood is available for pre-order

9:58 Process of recording the audiobook version

13:25 Moms all want to “get it right” and we all want someone to walk alongside us

16:43 Kids are like Crock-Pots

21:19 Joy is a choice

24:20 Moms, you are the boss of your home

26:25 You’re not in control (God is!) but you can control the atmosphere in your home

Questions for Discussion:

Reflecting on Karen's analogy that kids are like crock pots, how have you seen your child's growth and maturity reflect the concept that progress takes time, much like a slow-cooked meal? Is there something going on right now with a child where you are finding it hard to be patient with their slow maturation process?
Is it easy for you to “choose joy” in your day to day situation right now? Can you share a time when choosing joy made a difference in your approach to a difficult situation with your children or spouse?
In what ways do you see yourself as the "boss" of your home, and how does this influence your daily decision-making?
Can you share an example of a time when taking charge in your household led to a positive outcome for your family?

Resources:

Pre-order Karen’s all-new Survival Guide to Motherhood today! Orders ship July 30th: https://amzn.to/3Vr7LlD
Want to bring Karen to speak in your community? Reach out: https://www.birdsonwiremoms.com/invite
Connect with Birds on a Wire Moms on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/birdsonawiremoms and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/birdsonawiremoms

422: Knowing When to Lean In and When to Let It Go Jun 25, 2024

In this episode, we're tackling one of the biggest challenges moms face: determining when to address a child's behavior and when to let things slide. Today Karen is answering your questions about managing high expectations, handling stress-induced blow-ups, guiding toddlers through tantrums, fostering honesty in kids, and navigating family dynamics with your less disciplined relatives. We hope today’s encouragement helps you find the balance between leaning in and letting go!

Episode Recap:

4:20 Are my expectations for my 5 year old too high?

8:06 Help! I have zero patience for my energetic kiddo right now!

12:28 You don’t have time “not have time” for your daily quiet time with God.

14:45 How do I handle a toddler who won’t stop crying?

18:53 I always have to fact-check my child. How do we stop the habit of lying?

21:09 My siblings’ children are wild at family functions and it sucks the joy out of our time together. What can I do?

Questions for Discussion:

How do you decide when to address your child's behavior and when to let things go?
Do you turn to prayer during challenging parenting moments, and can you share a time when it made a difference for you or your child?
Did you relate to the question about the toddler who won’t stop crying? Are any of your children especially sensitive or outwardly emotional? How do you help your child learn to express their emotions in a healthy way?
Do you have any relatives or close friends who have different parenting styles from you? Does it make those interactions challenging or have you found effective ways to handle those relationships?

Resources:

Pre-order Karen’s all-new Survival Guide to Motherhood today! Orders ship July 30th: https://amzn.to/3Vr7LlD
Want to bring Karen to speak in your community? Reach out: https://www.birdsonwiremoms.com/invite
Connect with Birds on a Wire Moms on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/birdsonawiremoms and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/birdsonawiremoms

421: The Secret to a Happy Marriage After Kids Jun 18, 2024

Want to know the secret to being happily married for 37 years? Listen and learn from Karen in today’s episode! We’re exploring how to navigate differences, keep the love alive, and build the strong, united front that benefits your kids. With personal stories, practical tips, and plenty of laughs, this episode is all about celebrating the joys and quirks of married life. Tune in and learn from the best. :)

Episode Recap:

5:21 A strong marriage brings security to children

7:53 Principle #1- Be United

10:14 How to actively listen to your spouse

17:05 Strategies to navigate and embrace differences

21:39 Principle #2- Be FOR one another

27:01 Be your spouse’s #1 cheerleader

Questions for Discussion:

What shared values are most important in your marriage, and how do you reinforce them?
How do you and your partner handle differences in parenting styles?
What are some ways you keep the romance alive amidst the chaos of family life?
Can you share a time when overcoming a challenge together strengthened your relationship?
How do you celebrate the small, everyday moments in your marriage?

Resources:

Pre-order Karen’s all-new Survival Guide to Motherhood today! Orders ship July 30th: https://amzn.to/3Vr7LlD
Want to bring Karen to speak in your community? Reach out: https://www.birdsonwiremoms.com/invite
Connect with Birds on a Wire Moms on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/birdsonawiremoms and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/birdsonawiremoms

420: How to Keep it Simple This Summer Jun 11, 2024

In this episode, Karen and Emily share practical tips for creating a fun and memorable summer for your family. From nostalgic ice cream runs and imaginative backyard play to volunteering and fostering independence in kids, they offer ideas for keeping summer simple and enjoyable. Don’t miss Karen’s nuggets on balancing work with quality family time! Share your own summer ideas with us on YouTube, Spotify, Apple, or Instagram and join the conversation!

Episode Recap:

3:20 - Karen shares her summer plans
5:51 - Karen was a laid back mom, so summer was a always fun for her
7:16 - Question 1: I'm a working mom and summer feels frantic for me, help!
11:04 - Question 2: I’m dreading hearing “I’m bored!” Any suggestions?
17:48 - Emily offers ideas: do your research and prepare ahead of time for a fun summer!

23:56 - Question 3: What are your thoughts on summer jobs for teens?

26:58 - Question 4: How do I manage working from home with my kids this summer?

30:00 - Remember, you are not the cruise director for your kids’ lives!

Questions for Discussion:

What are some of your favorite summer memories or traditions from your own childhood? Can you recreate or adapt any of them for your family today?
Do you have to balance work responsibilities with family time during the summer? How have you planned ahead or what can you implement that you heard in this episode?
How do you promote creativity and independence in your children during summer? Are you hovering too much or do you allow your kids to get bored?!
Reflect on the idea of not being the "cruise director" for your children's lives. How do you manage expectations and foster self-sufficiency in your kids?

Resources:

Pre-order Karen’s all-new Survival Guide to Motherhood today! Orders ship July 30th: https://amzn.to/3Vr7LlD
Want to bring Karen to speak in your community? Reach out: https://www.birdsonwiremoms.com/invite
Connect with Birds on a Wire Moms on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/birdsonawiremoms and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/birdsonawiremoms

419: Countdown to College: How to Make the Most of the “Last Summer” with Your Young Adult Jun 04, 2024

In this episode of "The Summer Before...", Karen and Emily discuss the summer before college and answer your questions about preparing for this big transition. They talk about fostering independence, celebrating your Senior, and teaching essential life skills. Emily shares some hilarious advice on dorm room safety, and Karen reminds moms to lower our expectations when it comes to phone calls. As always, tune in for practical tips and heartfelt encouragement as your child embarks on this exciting new chapter.

Episode Recap:
5:16 - Karen’s goal was to have her kids ready for independence by the time they left high school
7:19 - How can I celebrate my Senior well?
10:10 - Karen shares how she ended up at Auburn University
11:29 - What are some life skills I can teach my 18 year old this summer?
14:52 - Emily gives advice for how not to set your college dorm room on fire ;)

15:45 - How do I set my teen up to be supported in their faith while they are away from home

17:23 - Your prayer life is essential to your child’s faith

18:18 - What should my expectations be for how often I talk to my kids while they’re at school?

22:58 - Be excited for your child as they enter this new phase of life!

Questions for Discussion:

How are you feeling about your child leaving for college? What emotions have surfaced as you prepare for this significant transition, and how are you processing them?
How do you think the dynamics in your household will change with your child away at college? Have you thought ahead to how you will navigate that shift?
What challenges do you foresee in balancing guidance and allowing your child to make their own decisions? How do you plan to handle situations where you might need to step back and let them navigate on their own?
What are you most excited about for your child as they embark on this new journey?

Resources:

Pre-order Karen’s all-new Survival Guide to Motherhood today! Orders ship July 31st: https://amzn.to/3Vr7LlD
Want to bring Karen to speak in your community? Reach out: https://www.birdsonwiremoms.com/invite
Connect with Birds on a Wire Moms on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/birdsonawiremoms and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/birdsonawiremoms

418: The Summer Before: Preparing Your Child for Middle and High School May 28, 2024

As your kids transition to a new season in their school journey, summer presents a unique opportunity to support and celebrate them. In this episode, we discuss the developmental changes happening at this stage and the importance of letting your middle schooler discover their identity. We also tackle preparing your daughter for dealing with mean girls and how your child evolves during high school years. Plus, we explore the benefits of summer jobs, ways to connect with your son, and setting reasonable expectations for this new season. Tune in for practical tips and encouragement as you navigate this pivotal summer with your child!

Episode Recap:

3:25 - What is changing developmentally as our kids move on from elementary years?

7:14 - Let your middle schooler start to figure out who they are and find their path

13:47 - How do I prepare my daughter for dealing with mean girls?

20:43 - How are our kids changing as they move into the high school years?

25:10 - Is having a summer job important?

28:43 - How can I connect with my son this summer?

31:49 - How do I set reasonable expectations for my child in this new season?

Questions for Discussion:

After hearing about the developmental changes our kids go through as they move from elementary to middle and high school, what new insights did you gain about your child’s behavior or needs?
What strategies have you used (or do you plan to use) to help your middle schooler begin to figure out who they are and find their path?
What are your thoughts on encouraging your child to get a summer job? Do you think it’s important, and why?
How do you plan to set reasonable expectations for your child in this new season of middle or high school?
What challenges do you foresee in setting these expectations, and how do you plan to address them?

Resources:

Moments with God for Teenage Girls: https://store.birdsonawiremoms.com/collections/accessories/products/preorder-teen-devotional
Want to bring Karen to speak in your community? Reach out: https://www.birdsonwiremoms.com/invite
Connect with Birds on a Wire Moms on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/birdsonawiremoms and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/birdsonawiremoms

417: Countdown to Kindergarten: How to Make the Most of the Summer Before School Starts May 21, 2024

In this episode, Karen and Emily answer questions about helping prepare your child for their big Kindergarten transition. From building essential skills to creating lasting memories, we've got you covered with tips to make summer fun and to ease you into a new routine this fall. Don’t miss Karen’s life hack for getting those adorable first day of school pictures and her assurance that God goes before your child in every place they go and in every season.

Episode Recap:

2:45 - Emily’s feelings about her daughter going to Kindergarten next year

5:34 - Karen reminisces about Kelsey’s Kindergarten years

6:15 - How can I prepare my household for the Kindergarten transition?

9:35 - How do you manage tired and worn out kiddos after a (new to them) long day at school?

11:45 - As a working mom, I’m stressed out during the summer. How can I make summer special since Kindergarten will be a change of pace?

14:05 - Are there practical skills I should be working on with my rising Kindergarteners this summer?

16:50 - What FUN things can we do to mark this milestone in our kids’ lives?

21:00 - Don’t miss the BEST hack for getting those adorable first day of school pics?

21:45 - Any tips for communication when kids get home from school?

24:00 - God goes before them in every season! God has your kids.

Questions for Discussion:

Does the transition to Kindergarten make you feel excited, anxious, or something else?
What are you looking forward to in this season of your child’s life?
What worries can you give to the Lord about this next year?

Resources:

Want to bring Karen to speak in your community? Reach out: https://www.birdsonwiremoms.com/invite
Connect with Birds on a Wire Moms on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/birdsonawiremoms and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/birdsonawiremoms

416: 5 Must-Read Parenting Books for Every Mom May 14, 2024

Whether you’re parenting toddlers or teens - these 5 books will give you the tools you need to create a healthier family. Join us as we dive into Karen's top recommendations for parenting books that offer invaluable insights, practical strategies, and wisdom to navigate the ups and downs of raising children. From building strong connections to setting boundaries with love, this episode is packed with essential reads for every parent's bookshelf.

Episode Recap:

4:25 - These 5 books truly helped Karen in her parenting journey

5:25 - Personality Plus for Parents unpacks the four temperaments

7:30 - PPP helps you understand the child’s strengths and weaknesses, especially if they are very different from your own

13:21- A Grown Ups Guide to Kids’ Wiring - great for “translating” our kids behavior and helping us speak to them in ways that are more effective

15:40 - Boundaries book: moms are afraid to set boundaries with our kids, but boundaries bring security

18:17- The Birth Order Book explains how the order of our children and age gaps in our family can help us understand our kids’ behavior and tendencies

22:10 - The Five Love Languages of Children

28:02 - Honorable Mentions: Survival Guide to Motherhood, Parenting By The Book, Raising Worry-free Girls, Raising Emotionally Strong Boys, Wild Things, Shepherding A Child’s Heart, Parenting Your Powerful Child, The New Strong-Willed Child, Moms on Call Parenting Series

Questions for Discussion:

What is the most helpful parenting book you have read to date? Why?
Have you read any of Karen’s Top 5 books? Which one? How has it helped you parent more effectively?
Which of these books do you think would help equip you for the season of parenting you are in?

Resources:

Personality Plus for Parents: https://amzn.to/3UHqTdy
A Grown Ups Guide to Kids’ Wiring: https://amzn.to/3ysKgzi
Boundaries series of books:
https://amzn.to/3ypMYFM
https://amzn.to/3WFjXA1
Even Jesus Set Boundaries blog post: https://birdsonawiremoms.com/blog/2019/3/21/even-jesus-set-boundaries
The Birth Order Book: https://amzn.to/4bypAEl
The Five Love Languages of Children: https://amzn.to/4bCFkqe
Honorable Mentions:
Survival Guide to Motherhood: https://amzn.to/4bysA3z
Parenting By The Book: https://amzn.to/4bfuR46
Raising Worry-free Girls: https://amzn.to/4ag7fLj
Raising Emotionally Strong Boys: https://amzn.to/4dF5hH8
Wild Things: https://amzn.to/4dEN2lq
Shepherding A Child’s Heart: https://amzn.to/3UXO4l4
Parenting Your Powerful Child: https://amzn.to/44FtB7M
The New Strong-Willed Child: https://amzn.to/4bgvJWf
Moms on Call Parenting Series: https://amzn.to/44ClNnn
Want to bring Karen to speak in your community? Reach out: www.birdsonwiremoms.com/invite
Connect with Birds on a Wire Moms on Instagram: www.instagram.com/birdsonawiremoms and Facebook: www.facebook.com/birdsonawiremoms

415: Honoring Your Own Mother May 07, 2024

In today’s episode, we’re fielding questions about the situations you are facing in your relationship with your own mom. Whether it’s a conflict over parenting style, a strained relationship, or a concern about childcare, Karen has the practical answers you’re looking for so you can honor your mother while still maintaining your boundaries.

Episode Recap:

2:31 - Honoring your mom can be difficult when the relationship has not been good

3:57 - This can be a spiritual battle more than anything

4:40 - How can I help my mom out after the death of my father?

8:15 - My mom watches my kids weekly and their misbehavior is causing tension between us

13:00 - I’m afraid my mom will resent us choosing daycare, how would you address it?

16:37- My mom has a new boyfriend and I don’t want to be around his dysfunctional family. What can I do?

Questions for Discussion:

How would you characterize the relationship you have with your mother? Healthy? Distant? Conflicted? Non-existent?
If that is a healthy relationship, what part have you played in keeping it healthy?
If your relationship with your mom is difficult, strained, or unhealthy, how does that impact your mental and spiritual health?
What is one thing you can do to honor your mother this week, no matter what the current state of that relationship is?

Resources:

Grief podcast with Dr. Judy Wolfe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wt-159-processing-grief-in-motherhood-with-judy-wolfe/id1101953069?i=1000436874170
Want to bring Karen to speak in your community? Reach out: www.birdsonwiremoms.com/invite
Connect with Birds on a Wire Moms on Instagram: www.instagram.com/birdsonawiremoms and Facebook: www.facebook.com/birdsonawiremoms

414: God Does Not Give Us A Spirit of Fear Apr 30, 2024

Fear and anxiety among moms today is rampant. In the emails we receive, the churches we visit, and with the moms Karen speaks to- fear is a big deal. Today Karen teaches us a powerful verse and reminds us to fight fear with the truth of God’s Word.

Episode Recap:

5:32 - Generally speaking, moms these days are incredibly fearful

6:23 - If fear does not come from God, where is it coming from?

8:27 - I want to trust my family to watch my kids, but feel like I should be scared of letting others watch them based on what I hear in society

12:12 - Help! I worry about all the “what ifs” in life

16:23 - Every evening my anxiety spikes and fear persists

19:33 - My son struggles with fear and I find it hard to understand or be compassionate

Questions for Discussion:

Do you struggle with fear in your life? Have you ever contemplated 2 Timothy 1:7 “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.”?
Do you truly believe that God loves your child and is actively pursuing your child’s heart?
How can you fight fear with the Word of God this week? Some ideas: memorize it, write it out and post it around your home, play worship music, etc.
How are you praying for your child and your home this week?

Resources:

2 Timothy 1:7: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+tim+1%3A7&version=ESV
Sissy Goff’s The Worry-Free Parent: https://amzn.to/3QcTp5e
Want to bring Karen to speak in your community? Reach out: www.birdsonwiremoms.com/invite
Connect with Birds on a Wire Moms on Instagram: www.instagram.com/birdsonawiremoms and Facebook: www.facebook.com/birdsonawiremoms

413: Help! It’s gonna Be May… Apr 23, 2024

May is coming moms - and it’s full of school commitments, parties, end of year events and more. Today we’re talking about what you can do before the chaos begins to prepare yourself and your family for a more peaceful May.

Episode Recap:

7:36 - You can’t do everything for everybody

10:58 - Find the beauty in letting your Senior go

12:50 - Stay present and enjoy it!

16:25 - Find time for self-care

18:53 - Involve your husband in the to-do list

Questions for Discussion:

What does your calendar look like as you look ahead to May? What can you do this week to protect your time and account for the busyness ahead?
From 0-10, how are you doing with self-care right now? What little things can you incorporate into your day and week that help you feel like you?
When was the last time you spent time alone praying and reading your Bible or just connecting with God? Can you make time for that this week?

Resources:

Karen’s 365 day devotional for moms: https://store.birdsonawiremoms.com/collections/accessories/products/copy-of-moments-with-god-for-moms-daily-devotional-faux-leather
Related episode: Preparing Your Senior for College - https://birdsonawiremoms.com/podcast/episode158
Want to bring Karen to speak in your community? Reach out: www.birdsonwiremoms.com/invite
Connect with Birds on a Wire Moms on Instagram: www.instagram.com/birdsonawiremoms and Facebook: www.facebook.com/birdsonawiremoms

412: Trusting God Enough to Take a Break Apr 16, 2024

Today Courtney DeFeo, host of the Pardon the Mess podcast and a dear friend of Karen’s joins us to talk about raising her daughters. They talk about the season when Courtney felt God calling her to take a break from the professional world - which turned into a 3 year pause. Courtney shares what God did in her world during those years and the new season she is moving into now. She and Karen also share how motherhood uncovered their deep-seated selfishness and how the Lord has worked in their hearts to enable them to celebrate their husband’s successes. We know Courtney’s story will encourage you today!

Episode Recap:

2:40 - How Courtney and Karen know one another

4:25 - Courtney’s family and work history

9:55 - God called Courtney to take a complete break from work

13:53 - Just as He told her when to get out, He told her when to get back in

15:58 - Motherhood taught them how selfish they were

21:20- Being jealous of their husbands’ careers and successes

24:19 - Separating her children’s struggles from her responsibilities

30:45 - Pause and pray when you are tempted to jump in and fix the situation

32:58 - Learning not to overcommit

34:17 - Seeing how God has been faithful and brought women into her children’s lives to encourage their faith

Questions for Discussion:

Have you ever felt God calling you to a season of rest?
Is there any tension in your relationship with work right now?
Do you feel like you compete with your husband when it comes to your career or your success in life?
Do you struggle with feeling guilty or responsible for the struggles your children are going through?
What is something God has taught you through your journey of motherhood?

Resources:

Courtney’s podcast: Pardon the Mess: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pardon-the-mess-with-courtney-defeo/id1424241361
Ephesians 3:18: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians%203%3A18&version=NIV
Want Karen to speak to the moms in your community? Reach out: www.birdsonwiremoms.com/invite
Connect with Birds on a Wire Moms on Instagram: www.instagram.com/birdsonawiremoms and Facebook: www.facebook.com/birdsonawiremoms

411: "Dumb" Bible Questions Answered Apr 09, 2024

Today we’re answering Bible questions you might feel silly asking out loud! This episode is full of insights across a breadth of biblical topics. Be sure to check out the show notes for every scripture reference Karen mentions! We hope this one encourages you to pick up your Bible, pray for wisdom, and get reading this week!

Episode Recap:

1:45 - Emily’s confusion over multiple James and Johns in the New Testament

4:30 - Is everything all white in heaven? Where does that stereotype come from?

9:43 - What did the “judges” do in biblical times?

13:04 - Why do we tithe? Where does God command it?

15:50 - Help me straighten out all the ‘Marys’ in the New Testament!

19:03 - Why do so many Bible characters go by two different names?

21:30- What’s the difference between the Pharisees and the Sadducees?

23:20 - Where does the phrase, “for this child I have prayed” come from?

26:00 - Why do we obey the Ten Commandments but not the Levitical law?

28:30 - Help! Reading the Bible confuses me!

31:20 - Tools for studying the Bible

Questions for Discussion:

Did you learn anything new from this episode?
What tools do you currently use when you study the Bible?
Are there any “silly” Bible questions that came to mind as you listened to this conversation? What are they?

Resources:

Karen’s study Bible: https://amzn.to/4aGhFVP
John McArthur’s Revelation study: https://amzn.to/4aowoo8
References to the color white in heaven (in the order Karen mentions them): Revelation 3:4-5, 6:11, 7:9&13, 19:8&14, Matthew 17:2, 28:3, Revelation 4:4, 6:2, 7:14
References to color in heaven: Revelation 21:16-21
Tithing Scripture: Malachi 3:10 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Malachi%203%3A10&version=NIV
Mary who poured perfume on Jesus’ feet Matthew 26:7: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=matthew+26%3A7&version=NIV
Name change references: Genesis 17:5, 15, 32:2, Acts 13:9
Hannah’s prayer of thanksgiving: 1 Samuel 1:27 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+samuel+1%3A27&version=NIV
Luke 22:19-20, John 14:6
The Bible Recap podcast & study tools: https://www.thebiblerecap.com/
Want Karen to speak to the moms in your community? Reach out: www.birdsonwiremoms.com/invite
Connect with Birds on a Wire Moms on Instagram: www.instagram.com/birdsonawiremoms and Facebook: www.facebook.com/birdsonawiremoms

410: How Can I Be More Intentional in My Marriage? Apr 02, 2024

Danielle from Intentional Marriages joins us today to share insights from over a decade of working with married couples. She offers practical ways couples raising young kids can connect with one another on a daily and weekly basis and shares hope for couples who are struggling in their marriage.

We hope you pick up one practical tip that helps you be intentional about prioritizing your marriage relationship today.

Episode Recap:

11:45 - Connecting with Your Spouse in Seasons of Busyness

14:30 - What Does a Daily Check-In Look Like?

15:50 - Pausing to Talk Through “The Story I’m Telling Myself…”

19:10 - Tigers Vs. Turtles

23:15 - You Need a Weekly Check-In

27:30 - Everything Else Is Scheduled, Schedule Sex!

31:30 - Get Help Before Your Relationship Is In Trouble

Resources:

Check out Danielle and Russ’s ministry and resources: Intentional Marriages: https://www.intentionalmarriages.net/
Want Karen to speak to the moms in your community? Reach out to us for events in 2025: www.birdsonwiremoms.com/invite
Connect with Birds on a Wire Moms on Instagram: www.instagram.com/birdsonawiremoms and Facebook: www.facebook.com/birdsonawiremoms

Questions for Group Discussion:

If you were to rank the health of your marriage today on a scale from 1 (on life support) to 5 (thriving) where would you put it?
Are you the “turtle’ or the “tiger” in your relationship?
What’s one practical thing Danielle mentioned in this conversation that you can put into practice this week?
When’s the last time you had a weekly check-in with your spouse?

409: How Do I Discipline My Strong-Willed “Red” Child Mar 26, 2024

Our strong-willed children can drive parents up the wall with their forceful opinions! In today’s episode Karen gives advice for any mom locked in a battle with her “red” child. She reminds us of the needs our strong-willed children have, and offers encouragement for coming alongside them without giving in to their demands.

Episode Recap:

4:28 - Why Karen Loves Her Reds

5:30 - Strengths and Weaknesses of the Red Personality

7:50 - Dead Giveaways You Have a Red Child

11:00 - How Do I Handle My 6 Year Old’s Stubbornness?

19:00 - How Do I Discipline a Defiant Toddler Who Hits?

24:15 - How Do I Break Bad Habits We Started During Covid?

29:05 What Do I Do About My Picky Eater?

32:00 - Give Choices to Your Strong-Willed Child

34:33 - Reds Are Your Leaders, Get Them on the Right Path

Resources:

Take the quick quiz to learn your child’s personality color: boaw.mom/quiz
Grab Kathleen Edelman’s book: A Grown Up’s Guide to Kids’ Wiring https://amzn.to/3vnmyUd
Check out Karen’s latest curriculum on Right Now Media: Survival Guide to Motherhood: https://app.rightnowmedia.org/en/content/details/760101
Want Karen to speak to the moms in your community? Reach out: www.birdsonwiremoms.com/invite
Connect with Birds on a Wire Moms on Instagram: www.instagram.com/birdsonawiremoms and Facebook: www.facebook.com/birdsonawiremoms

408: How Do I Talk to My Kids About the Resurrection? Mar 19, 2024

Today Karen is sharing a simple way to talk with your kids about the meaning of Easter. Listen as she walks us step-by-step through the Easter story using Resurrection Eggs. This may be a great new tradition you can start with your family this year!

Episode Recap:

11:00 - Karen walks through the Resurrection Eggs

14:30 - Old Testament prophecy Jesus fulfilled (Zec. 9:9)

22:10 - Don’t try to sugarcoat the ugliness of the crucifixion for your kids

36:05 - You can have fun with Easter and still focus on the reason we celebrate

36:45 - How can we share the Good News of the resurrection with our older kids?

Resources:

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@birdsonawiremoms
Grab Resurrection Eggs for your family this Easter! https://amzn.to/48QOWM5
Pick up Karen’s Teen Devotional: https://store.birdsonawiremoms.com/collections/frontpage/products/preorder-teen-devotional
Want Karen to speak to the moms in your community? Reach out: www.birdsonwiremoms.com/invite
Connect with Birds on a Wire Moms on Instagram: www.instagram.com/birdsonawiremoms and Facebook: www.facebook.com/birdsonawiremoms

407: Choosing Between Conflicting Priorities Mar 12, 2024

Moms face conflicting priorities daily. From little things, like: do I wake up early to get a workout in or catch extra sleep because the baby was up last night to bigger questions like, do we have another baby or do I prioritize going back to work? The answers aren’t always black and white, but today Karen offers up wisdom to help guide you when you’re caught between two good choices.

Episode Recap:

08:34 - How do I shift my mindset about the heavy workload I carry as a working mom?

15:44 - How can I be a more playful mom?

20:07 - I’m finding it hard to be joyful as a newly expectant older mom…

22:37 - Help! The blue personalities in my life are draining me!

Resources:

Pick up Karen’s Teen Devotional: https://store.birdsonawiremoms.com/collections/frontpage/products/preorder-teen-devotional
Check out Karen’s grandkids on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ee2YYTZ-mfQ
Listen to our Dad Color series from last summer: 368, 369, 370, 371
Want Karen to speak to the moms in your community? Reach out: www.birdsonwiremoms.com/invite
Connect with Birds on a Wire Moms on Instagram: www.instagram.com/birdsonawiremoms and Facebook: www.facebook.com/birdsonawiremoms

406: Defiance in the Powerful Perfectionist Personality (Red/Blue) Mar 05, 2024

Today's episode rides the emotional rollercoaster ride of defiance, particularly with red/blue personality kids. Karen shares insights, encouragement, and practical tips for parents who are facing defiance head-on.

Episode Recap:

08:26 - Red and Blue Temperament Combination

10:16 - Seeking God's Wisdom

19:41 - Addressing Defiance in Children

24:56 - Gaining Respect from a Defiant Child

27:54 - Letting Fathers Take the Lead

Resources:

Don’t miss it! Register for Mom Core Online today! www.boaw.mom/momcoreonline
Pick up Karen’s Teen Devotional: https://store.birdsonawiremoms.com/collections/frontpage/products/preorder-teen-devotional
Want Karen to speak to the moms in your community? Reach out: www.birdsonwiremoms.com/invite
Connect with Birds on a Wire Moms on Instagram: www.instagram.com/birdsonawiremoms and Facebook: www.facebook.com/birdsonawiremoms

405: The Ultimate Potty Training Episode Feb 27, 2024

Today we’re answering your questions about the challenges of potty training. We cover dealing with frequent bathroom trips during outings and handling stubborn three-year-olds and Karen shares practical tips for creating routines and staying patient through the ups and downs of potty training. Tune in for helpful advice, encouragement, and reassurance that you’re not alone on this messy adventure!

Episode Recap:

2:16 - Potty Training Boys vs. Girls

3:24 - Frequent Potty Breaks Issue

5:15 - Motivating a Stubborn Child to Potty

7:16 - Dealing with Weak Pelvic Floor in Children

10:21 - Empathy and Understanding in Potty Training

11:36 - Strategies for Poop Training

Resources:

- Register for Mom Core Online today! www.boaw.mom/momcoreonline

- Want Karen to speak to the moms in your community? Reach out: www.birdsonwiremoms.com/invite

- Connect with Birds on a Wire Moms on Instagram: www.instagram.com/birdsonawiremoms and Facebook: www.facebook.com/birdsonawiremoms

404: Q&A with Karen’s son Taylor Stubbs Feb 20, 2024

Taylor joins Karen and Emily in the studio today to answer your questions about creating a healthy relationship with your son. We answer questions about what experiences bonded Taylor’s heart to Karen early on in life and how Karen being a student of Taylor’s (blue/melancholy) personality helped him to feel known growing up in a house full of girls. This conversation is full of nuggets that will both encourage your heart and help you invest in your sons.

Episode Recap:

- Mother-Son Relationship Dynamics

- How Karen Showed Love During Taylor’s Teen Years

- Strategies for Interacting with a Blue Personality

- Learning to Communicate with a Blue Child

- Dating Rules for Taylor vs. His Sisters

- The Four S's for Blues

- Structuring Family Time for Blues

- Advice for Grandparenting with Sensitivity and Staying in Your Lane

Resources:

- Register for Mom Core Online today! www.boaw.mom/momcoreonline

- Want Karen to speak to the moms in your community? Reach out: www.birdsonwiremoms.com/invite

- Connect with Birds on a Wire Moms on Instagram: www.instagram.com/birdsonawiremoms and Facebook: www.facebook.com/birdsonawiremoms

403: You Need Friends Feb 13, 2024

As moms, making time to prioritize friendship can feel difficult or downright impossible depending on your situation. In today’s episode, Karen answers questions about friendship from the new mom in town, working moms, introverted moms, and the mom who feels out of place with others in her peer group.

Episode Recap:

4:17 - The Loneliness of Motherhood
7:15 - Finding New Friends After Moving
9:15 - The Challenge of Making Friends as an Introvert
10:45 - Balancing Work & Friendship
13:43 - Dealing with Past Hurt from Mom Cliques

Resources:

Want to start a group? Learn more: https://birdsonawiremoms.com/start-a-group
Codependent No More book: https://amzn.to/4bmmrs4
Want Karen to speak to the moms in your community? Reach out: www.birdsonwiremoms.com/invite
Connect with Birds on a Wire Moms on Instagram: www.instagram.com/birdsonawiremoms and Facebook: www.facebook.com/birdsonawiremoms

402: You Need a Church Family Feb 06, 2024

If the church has hurt you - this is one conversation you don’t want to miss. Today Karen is answering questions about what to do if your teens don’t enjoy the church you attend, seeking a new church family, when church hurts, and how to respond to a church that seems to be slowly dying. We hope this conversation encourages you to persevere in your efforts to be a part of a local church and reminds you why it is worth it!

Episode Recap:
4:30 - There’s no such thing as a perfect church
11:20 - How to handle teens hurt by church
16:30 - Help! My teens dislike our church
22:00 - Our church is dying…what do we do?

Resources:

Available Now! Karen’s new Teen Girls Devotional: https://store.birdsonawiremoms.com/products/preorder-teen-devotional
Want Karen to come deliver some encouragement to the moms in your community? Reach out to Katie at www.birdsonwiremoms.com/invite
Connect with Birds on a Wire Moms on Instagram: www.instagram.com/birdsonawiremoms and Facebook: www.facebook.com/birdsonawiremoms

401: Encouraging Your Teens’ Faith Jan 30, 2024

We’re talking teens and their faith on today’s show. Join us as Karen answers your questions on everything from choosing a Bible for your teen to navigating difficult life situations and even to questioning God. Our prayer is that this episode gives you the encouragement and the resources you need to help guide your teens along their faith journey. Check out today’s show notes for links to all the recommendations from the episode and then some!

Episode Recap:

7:48 - Bible study recommendations for teen girls
8:06 - Announcing Karen’s devotional for teen girls!
9:43 - Handling apathy in your teen's faith
10:01 - Encouraging your teen to read their Bible
10:54 - Creating boundaries around your teen’s behavior

Resources:

Find great Bible studies for teens on Right Now Media: https://www.rightnowmedia.org/
Available Now! Karen’s new Teen Girls Devotional: https://store.birdsonawiremoms.com/products/preorder-teen-devotional
Great Bible for Teen Boys: https://amzn.to/48IJTOF
Katie’s choice Bible for Tween Boys: https://amzn.to/3vJVI8G
Karen’s choice Bible for Tween or Teen Girls: https://amzn.to/3SsgnHa
Guidance for your prayer life - The Power of a Praying Mom: https://amzn.to/3S91oAy
Boundaries with Teens: https://amzn.to/3OfuKfc
Want Karen to come deliver some encouragement to the moms in your community? Reach out to Katie at www.birdsonwiremoms.com/invite
Connect with Birds on a Wire Moms on Instagram: www.instagram.com/birdsonawiremoms and Facebook: www.facebook.com/birdsonawiremoms

400: Training Your Children To Do Chores Jan 23, 2024

It's a milestone episode for us—number 400—and today we are going to answer all your questions about chores! When should we start assigning them? Do we need to pay for them? Is it all just part of being in the family? How do we instill this into our family unit and get it going as a mom? Tune in as Karen shares how chores were handled in the Stubbs home as her kids were growing up and encourages us to reframe how we think about chores!

Episode Recap:

6:09 - Adjusting Chore Expectations

8:00 - Consistency & Allowance for Chores

12:20 - Tailoring Chores to Children's Ages

14:19 - Paying for Chores: Yes or No?

17:04 - Simplifying Chore Systems

Resources:

Want Karen to come deliver some tough love and major encouragement to the moms in your community? Reach out to Katie at https://www.birdsonwiremoms.com/invite
Check out Mom Core Online, course registration opens February 2024: https://www.boaw.mom/momcore2024
Pre-order Karen’s new Teen Girls Devotional: https://store.birdsonawiremoms.com/products/preorder-teen-devotional
Join our private FB group, BOAW Moms: https://www.facebook.com/groups/BOAWmoms
Connect with Birds on a Wire Moms on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/birdsonawiremoms and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/birdsonawiremoms

399: What Should My Prayer Life Look Like? Jan 16, 2024

Join us today as we dive deep into the heart of prayer, answering your questions and offering wisdom on where to start. From instilling the power of prayer in your children to practical tips about getting your mind focused when you pause to pray, we hope this conversation encourages you to make prayer an integral part of your daily routine this year!

Episode Recap:
- Overcoming Guilt in Prayer Life (8:47)
- Staying Focused During Prayer (10:16)
- Praying with Kids and Modeling Prayer (13:35)
- Structure/Format for Effective Prayer (17:34)

Resources:

Want Karen to come deliver some tough love and major encouragement to the moms in your community? Reach out to Katie at www.birdsonwiremoms.com/invite
Kick start your prayer life this year with Karen’s 52 week long prayer journal: https://store.birdsonawiremoms.com/collections/accessories/products/moments-in-prayer-52-week-prayer-journal
Grab Moments with God for Moms to guide you during your time with God: https://store.birdsonawiremoms.com/collections/accessories/products/copy-of-moments-with-god-for-moms-daily-devotional-faux-leather
Pre-order Karen’s new devotional, Moments with God for Teen Girls: https://store.birdsonawiremoms.com/products/preorder-teen-devotional
Connect with Birds on a Wire Moms on Instagram: www.instagram.com/birdsonawiremoms and Facebook: www.facebook.com/birdsonawiremoms

398: The State of Motherhood Address | Part 2 Jan 09, 2024

We’re back with part two of our “State of Motherhood” address and we hope you’ve got on your closed toe shoes, because Karen might step on your toes today! As we continue this candid conversation about the good, the bad, and the ugly aspects of being a mom, we talk about the necessity of taking ownership for your world and encourage you to root out laziness wherever it has crept into your life. Don’t miss Karen’s encouragement for us all at the end, that it is worth it. Despite the challenges and the seemingly never-ending work of motherhood - there are great rewards in this calling. We hope this episode reminds you that everything we do should be done unto the Lord, and that includes being a mom!

Episode Recap

• Stop blaming others, take ownership for your life (6:00-18:00)

• Stop being lazy (18:53)

• Proverbs 31 and the virtuous woman (29:17)

• It’s all worth it (32:07)

Resources:

Want Karen to come deliver some tough love and major encouragement to the moms in your community? Reach out to Katie at www.birdsonwiremoms.com/invite

Check out Mom Core Online, course registration opens February 2024: www.boaw.mom/momcore2024

Pre-order Survival Guide to Motherhood on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Survival-Guide-Motherhood-Parenting-Christian/dp/0736990054/ref=sr_1_5?crid=3IHHWBH00N3CV&keywords=survival+guide+to+motherhood&qid=1703862226&sprefix=survival+guide+to+mother%2Caps%2C102&sr=8-5

Already purchased Survival Guide? Send us an email (info@birdsonawiremoms.com) with a picture of your copy and we’ll put you on our list to receive a brand-new signed copy when the new release comes out!

Pre-order Karen’s new Teen Girls Devotional: https://store.birdsonawiremoms.com/products/preorder-teen-devotional

Join our private FB group, BOAW Moms: https://www.facebook.com/groups/BOAWmoms
Connect with Birds on a Wire Moms on Instagram: www.instagram.com/birdsonawiremoms and Facebook: www.facebook.com/birdsonawiremoms

397: The State of Motherhood Address | Part 1 Jan 02, 2024

Welcome back to Wire Talk, moms! It's a new year, and today we're kicking off a two-part series with a "State of Motherhood" address. We're acknowledging the good, the hard, and the unfair aspects of motherhood, and we're here to give you a loving kick in the pants to help you refocus and maintain perspective as we jump back into the “real world” this week.

Episode Recap

• What’s coming up at BOAW Moms this year (0:00-10:54)

• Moms are pursuing wisdom and excellence in parenting (10:54-13:09)

• Life isn’t fair (13:09-20:20)

• Being a mom is HARD (20:20-32:27)

• Lean in on Christ and on others (32:27- 35:57)

Resources:

Want Karen to come deliver some tough love and major encouragement to the moms in your community? Reach out to Katie at www.birdsonwiremoms.com/invite
Check out Mom Core Online, course registration opens February 2024: www.boaw.mom/momcore2024
Pre-order Survival Guide to Motherhood on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Survival-Guide-Motherhood-Parenting-Christian/dp/0736990054/ref=sr_1_5?crid=3IHHWBH00N3CV&keywords=survival+guide+to+motherhood&qid=1703862226&sprefix=survival+guide+to+mother%2Caps%2C102&sr=8-5
Already purchased Survival Guide? Send us an email (info@birdsonawiremoms.com) with a picture of your copy and we’ll put you on our list to receive a brand-new signed copy when the new release comes out!
Pre-order Karen’s new Teen Girls Devotional: https://store.birdsonawiremoms.com/products/preorder-teen-devotional
Join our private FB group, BOAW Moms: https://www.facebook.com/groups/BOAWmoms
Connect with Birds on a Wire Moms on Instagram: www.instagram.com/birdsonawiremoms and Facebook: www.facebook.com/birdsonawiremoms

396: Preparing Our Hearts for Christmas | Pt. 3 The Lamb of God Dec 19, 2023

Today we’re wrapping up our three-part series, Preparing Our Hearts for Christmas, by looking at parallels between the circumstances of Jesus’ birth and the ancient Jewish Passover tradition. Listen as Karen unpacks the significance that Jesus is the Lamb of God, and His life is the very best gift we can all receive this Christmas.

Mentioned on today’s show:

- Give to Birds on a Wire Moms to help us carry on our mission in 2024

- Watch today's episode on YouTube

- Messianic Prophecies print out

- Scripture referenced: Exodus 12:3-27, John the Baptist declaring, “Behold, the Lamb of God!” (John 1:29)

395: Preparing Our Hearts for Christmas | Pt. 2 The Trustworthiness of God Dec 12, 2023

We’re back with the second episode in a three-part series leading up to Christmas. In the middle of this FULL season as moms, our hope is that these episodes allow you to take a moment for yourself and pause and reflect on the reason behind this season.

Today we’re focusing on the role Mary played in the story of Jesus’ arrival. Karen points out that Mary's life was completely disrupted when she was chosen to give birth to the Messiah, but she chose to trust God despite the messiness of her situation. Join us as we meditate on the faithfulness of God, who walks with us through the challenges and the uncertainty of our own messy lives.

Mentioned on today’s show:

- birdsonawiremoms.com

- Give today to help us grow next year

- Watch today's episode on YouTube

- Messianic Prophecies print out

- Luke 1:26-56

394: Preparing Our Hearts for Christmas | Pt. 1 The Faithfulness of God Dec 05, 2023

Join us for the first installment of a special three-part series leading up to Christmas. We all know how crazy December can be with shopping, family gatherings, cooking, and so much more. It's easy for Christmas to become background noise. But in these next three weeks, let's take a moment to pause and reflect on the faithfulness of God.

Today, we'll dive into the topic of God's faithfulness by exploring Old Testament prophecies that found their fulfillment in the birth of Jesus. Karen shares parallels between a God who kept His promises in ancient times and the God who keeps his promises to us today. No matter what your personal circumstances look like this year, we hope you’ll find peace as you reflect on God’s faithfulness today, which anchors us even in the midst of chaos.

Mentioned on today’s show:

Watch today's episode on YouTube!

Chapter 3 of Science Speaks (regarding the probability of one man fulfilling all the OT prophecies about Christ)

393: Parenting with an Absent or Uninvolved Spouse Nov 28, 2023

We know that for many moms, parenting solo is a daily reality. For whatever reason and for however long you are walking through this season, it is HARD. The questions in today’s conversation come from moms whose situations may sound like your own. We pray this episode encourages you today and points you to your heavenly Father, who always stands ready to meet your every need.

Mentioned on today’s show:

- Watch today's episode on YouTube

- Take the BOAW Moms Colors quiz for insights into your particular temperament

392: Raising the Level of R-E-S-P-E-C-T in Your Home Nov 21, 2023

Whether you have toddlers or teens in the house, disrespect can rear its ugly head at any stage of parenting. Today Karen helps us define disrespect, offers encouragement for the weary disciplinarian, and offers up a script for dealing with sassy behavior.

Mentioned today: BOAW Moms Colors personality quiz

391: Staying Engaged When you Want to Throw in the Towel Nov 14, 2023

Have your ‘say’ match your ‘do’ mom! That’s the theme of this episode as Karen answers questions from moms who are fed up, exhausted, or on the struggle bus in some form or fashion when it comes to parenting. We talk about going to the Lord in prayer first, finding your child’s “currency”, and looking for small wins during seasons you are stretched thin. No matter how old your child is, this episode is going to encourage your heart!

Mentioned on today’s show: Watch today's episode on YouTube!

390: Motivating Your Laidback Child Nov 07, 2023

Those laidback personalities are a dream to parent...except when they’re not. :) Today Karen and her laidback daughter, Emily, answer your questions about how to help these kids get going in the morning, how we can encourage them to make friends in new situations, what to do about a teenager with little to no ambition, and how to love and encourage a child suffering with low self-esteem. As always, we hope you carry a nugget of practical advice away from today’s show!

- Watch today's episode on YouTube!

- Take the BOAW Moms Colors temperament quiz HERE

- Learn more about all of the temperaments HERE

389: Establishing Boundaries with Your In-Laws Oct 31, 2023

Today’s conversation deals with an always tricky subject: the in laws! With the holidays approaching, this discussion is extra timely. You’ll glean wisdom on how to set boundaries, how to keep boundaries, and how to release the guilt that comes from not being able to please everyone.

Mentioned on this episode: Boundaries by Cloud and Townsend

388: Raising Boys Right: Balancing Discipline and Love Oct 24, 2023

Join us as we dive into the wild, wonderful world of parenting boys in today’s show. Karen shares her wisdom on re-integrating older sons who return from college and disrupt your routine, navigating the world of a perfectionist 7-year-old who's feeling blue (in more ways than one), and handling an argumentative teenager who could debate for a living. Plus, we answer the age-old question: when is it okay to ignore a temper tantrum in order to keep your sanity intact?

Mentioned on this episode:

- A Grown Up’s Guide to Kids’ Wiring

- Raising Emotionally Strong Boys book and workbook

- Wire Talk interview with David Thomas

387: Juggling Parenting and Marriage in Busy Seasons Oct 17, 2023

Greg Stubbs joins Karen in the studio today to talk about marriage during the busy season of raising kids. We cover how to handle disagreements, rekindling a connection with your spouse, and addressing financial tension. Listen in for practical ways to revive your marriage when it feels like you're living as roommates, and be encouraged that your marriage can thrive in the beautiful chaos of family life!

Mentioned on this episode:

- Invite Karen to speak to the moms in your community! Learn more.

- Parenting Together curriculum

386: Reclaiming Your Kids From Screen Overload with Arlene Pellicane Oct 10, 2023

There’s no getting away from technology use these days, but parents need to recognize screens for the double-edged sword that they are. In this conversation with author of Screen Kids, Arlene Pellicane, we discuss the threat technology poses to our kids’ development, strategies for developing tech boundaries in our homes, and action steps parents can take to reclaim their family time from screens.

Mentioned in this episode:

- Screen Kids by Arlene Pellicane and Grandparenting Screen Kids by Gary Chapman

- Parents Rising conference San Diego, March 2, 2024

- The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer

- Hamlet’s Blackberry by William Powers

385: Maintaining Consistency in Disciplining Your Toddler Oct 03, 2023

Whether you’re at home or in public, consistency is KEY when it comes to disciplining your toddler! Today Karen answers questions about setting expectations, addressing undesirable behaviors, and enforcing consequences with your little one. This conversation will leave you motivated and encouraged to maintain a firm but loving approach the next time your toddler pushes a boundary!

384: The Worry-Free Parent: Insights on Anxiety from Sissy Goff Sep 26, 2023

In this eye-opening episode, we sit down with Sissy Goff, author of "The Worry-Free Parent," to discuss anxiety's impact on parents and children. We explore how anxiety can be contagious, affecting brain chemistry and parenting strategies. Sissy explains the difference between fear, worry, and chronic anxiety and shares practical strategies to tackle our own anxiety as moms. Tune in to learn how to break the anxiety cycle in your family.

Mentioned on this episode:

- Last week's conversation - Understanding and Supporting Your Anxious Middle Schooler

- The Worry-Free Parent by Sissy Goff and The Worry-Free Parent workbook

383: Understanding and Supporting Your Anxious Middle Schooler Sep 19, 2023

Today Karen and Emily welcome school counselor, Sarah Coats, to discuss anxiety in middle schoolers. Sarah opens a window into what she sees in her office and in the halls of middle school right now. We'll learn how to discern everyday worries from anxiety, and Sarah offers practical tips for moms who wants to support an anxious student without enabling anxious behavior.

382: Balancing the Needs of Different Personalities Sep 12, 2023

Today we are talking about how to address the needs of very different kids growing up under one roof. We cover personalities, educating your kids about their differences, and something most moms struggle with - bickering!

Mentioned on today's episode:

- WT 283 - Understand the Personality Colors

- Colors Quiz

- Personality Strengths and Weaknesses Chart

- More Personality Resources from BOAW Moms

381: Tween Girls Sep 05, 2023

Today we are fielding questions from the moms of Tween Girls. This is a tricky stage for sure, but also a sweet one. In this episode we’re covering modesty, social media, mean girls and more.

Mentioned on this episode:

- Register for Mom Core Online today

- Watch this episode on YouTube

- Colossians 3:14-17

- Arlene’s book Screen Kids

- WT116: Technology and Your Kids

- Stock up on Karen’s Lunchbox Notes for the school year! (Available in Kids, Teen Boy, and Teen Girl options)

380: 6 Keys to Thriving in Motherhood Aug 29, 2023

Today we are talking about 6 key areas that are fundamental to thriving in motherhood. Just like in college, when you had to get your “core” classes out of the way before you could move on to more advanced subjects, these fundamentals make up the “core” information you need to have a solid grasp on as a mom.

From over a decade of talking to moms and refining my wisdom on these subjects, Birds on a Wire Moms created the Mom Core curriculum. This curriculum has been available as a group study for years, but now it’s an online course that any mom, anywhere, can go through at her own pace!

Mentioned on this episode:

- Register for Mom Core Online today

- Take our temperament colors quiz - boaw.mom/quiz

- Watch this episode on YouTube

- Stock up on Karen’s Lunchbox Notes for the school year! (Available in Kids, Teen Boy, and Teen Girl options)

379: Establishing Routines and Rhythms for a New Year Aug 22, 2023

The start of school each year is like January 1st for families. New activities, new schedules, and oftentimes, new stresses! Today Karen is answering your questions about the transition from summer to school, how to stay involved in your child’s class, fostering independence in your older kids, and the mindset moms need to embrace when schedules are crazy and you are juggling allllllll the things!

Mentioned on this episode: Check out Mom Core Online - registration opens 8/25/23

378: Working Moms Aug 15, 2023

Today we’re answering questions from the working moms in the BOAW Moms community. We’re going to address the transition from work to home, the ever-present mom guilt, negotiating to re-distribute responsibilities on the home front, and learning to say no. Working moms, we see you, and we hope this episode helps bring peace to your home this week.

Mentioned on this episode:

- Check out Mom Core Online - registration opens on August 25

- BARNA study about mothers and the church

- Want to bring Karen to speak at your church? Fill out this form!

377: Back to School Basics (What Teachers REALLY Want This Year) Aug 08, 2023

Today the tables have turned and Karen is the one asking the questions of Emily. With her background as an elementary school teacher, Emily is sharing what teachers REALLY want this year! She’s offering tips for starting the school year well, sharing how to prepare your child for a new school, class or teacher, and of course, giving us the inside scoop on what gift teachers really look forward to getting. Tune in and let’s get ready for back-to-school together!

Mentioned on this episode:

- Autism interview with Dr. Kristen Hodges

- Check out the new studio on our YouTube channel! Subscribe, share and leave us a comment telling us what you think about the show. :)

- Stock up on a few packs of Karen’s Lunchbox Notes for the new school year! (Available in Kids, Teen Boy, and Teen Girl options)

376: Understanding Your Autistic Child with Dr. Kristen Hodges Aug 01, 2023

Dr. Hodges joins us today to share wisdom that comes not only from her clinical background in psychology, but also from 3 years of raising her own autistic son. She encourages moms not to fear a diagnosis, and shares how to pursue free early intervention measures and support from your community. You’ll love the wisdom she shares about deescalating situations with your autistic child and the advice she gives on how to discipline in a manner that works with their brain’s wiring instead of fighting against it. Share this episode with a friend who needs to hear it today!

Mentioned on this episode:

- Dr. Hodges’ website: TheSensoryCloset.com

- “Do not be afraid, God has heard the boy crying…” Genesis 21:17

- The Explosive Child

- Uniquely Human A Different Way of Seeing Autism

375: How Do I Lead My Kids When I'm So Overwhelmed? [RE-AIR] Jul 25, 2023

From chaos in your newsfeed to chaos in your living room...there's plenty to be overwhelmed by in a mom's world. Today we're talking about how to have hope in the midst of a depressing season, how to stay sane despite bickering kids, how to manage the overwhelm of 3 kids under 3, and how to keep your home from falling apart on top of it all.

Loads of grace and encouragement in this conversation, moms! It's a good one to share with a friend who may be feeling overwhelmed right now.

Check out our whole series on Psalm 23: 359, 360, 361, 362

374: Prioritizing Your Marriage (Over Your Kids!) [RE-AIR] Jul 18, 2023

It’s natural that our kids try to “trump” their dad and become the priority in a mom’s world, but your husband came first! And like Karen always says, you want him to be there after the kids leave home. Join the conversation today as we tackle your questions about keeping your spouse #1.

Mentioned on today’s show:

- A Grown Up’s Guide to Kids Wiring

- Worth the Fight with Karen and Abby

- Parenting Together from Preschool through Prom

373: Dealing With Out of Control Anger [RE-AIR] Jul 11, 2023

Whether it’s you or your child struggling with angry outbursts, we’ve all been there. On today’s show, Karen and Sunny tackle questions from moms about aggressive behavior and physical tantrums, and Karen reminds us where self control ultimately comes from.

Links from today’s show:

- 365 Devotional - Moments with God for Moms

- Curriculum lessons on Discipline: Mom Core, Six Truths, Parenting Together

- FREE BOAW resources to learn more about personality

- Karen’s recommended reads on personality

- Become a BOAW Patreon supporter today!

Wire Talk Has Joined The Christian Parenting podcast network Jul 11, 2023

We are thrilled to share this big news with you! Christian Parenting is a trusted source of practical and spiritual parenting advice in the crowded podcast landscape.

Visit www.ChristianParenting.org to learn about each of our partner podcasts.

372: Worth the Fight with Karen and Abby [RE-AIR] Jul 04, 2023

Listen in as Karen and her youngest daughter, Abby, open up about the highs and lows their relationship has gone through over the years. From sweet preschool memories through going to counseling when Abby was in high school, this authentic conversation will encourage you to fight for your relationship with your child, no matter where it's at today. As Karen says, it's never too late to start building a bridge toward a better relationship with your child.

371: An Interview with Two "Playful" Yellow Dads Jun 27, 2023

We are wrapping up our month of dad interviews with two of our favorite YELLOWS today. With characteristic energy and enthusiasm, Al and Stu bring some “woo hoo” to the studio as they share how they view life through the lens of a YELLOW.

Mentioned on today’s episode:

Check out the rest of the episodes in this series with dads: 368, 369, 370

A great listen if you and your spouse are opposite personalities: WT 199

Not sure your color? Don't forget to take our quiz at BOAW.MOM/QUIZ

Want to hear last summer’s temperament interview series with moms? Listen to episodes 330, 331, 332, and 333.

370: An Interview with Two "Powerful" Red Dads Jun 20, 2023

Wayne and Matt join us today to talk about fatherhood, career, and family from the perspective of a “red” personality. Reds are natural leaders, action-oriented, and fiercely loyal. If you have a red dad in your life, this episode will help you gain empathy and understanding.

Mentioned on today’s episode:

Not sure your color? Don't forget to take our quiz at BOAW.MOM/QUIZ

Be sure to catch up on WT 368: GREEN DADS and WT 369: BLUE DADS

Want to hear last summer’s temperament interview series with moms? Listen to episodes 330, 331, 332, and 333.

Parenting a Red kiddo? Read Karen’s top tips HERE.

369: An Interview with Two "Perfect" Blue Dads Jun 13, 2023

We’re back with two "perfect" dads on Wire Talk today! Greg and Matt are in the studio to share their perspective on life and parenting through the lens of a BLUE temperament. Blues are thoughtful, precise, perfection-seeking, and extra reflective, so we're confident you’ll take away some great insights into the world of BLUES when you tune in.

Mentioned on today’s episode:

Not sure your color? Don't forget to take our quiz at BOAW.MOM/QUIZ

Be sure to catch up on WT 368: GREEN DADS

Want to hear last summer’s temperament interview series with moms? Listen to episodes 330, 331, 332, and 333.

368: An Interview with Two "Peaceful" Green Dads Jun 06, 2023

Welcome to DAD month on Wire Talk! In celebration of all the great dads in our lives, we are diving into the temperament colors just like last summer, but this time, from the male perspective! You are going to love hearing from 8 different dads over the course of the next few weeks.

Today, Matt and Brian join us to share how they process parenting as a GREEN. What a gift to learn and understand more about how our green husbands and fathers relate to their families and the world around them. If you're a green, we think you'll recognize a bit of your own experience in this conversation, and if you're not green, we think it will give you surprising insights into the way greens approach parenting.

Not sure your color? Don't forget to take our quiz at BOAW.MOM/QUIZ

Want to hear last summer’s temperament interview series with moms? Listen to episodes 330, 331, 332, and 333.

367: Growing Pains - Navigating the Parent-Child Relationship As An Adult May 30, 2023

Adjusting to the dynamic of a parent-child relationship as an adult can be painful. Today Emily and Karen talk about the season of life that they are in right now and Karen answers your questions about extended family visits, aging parents, and even passive aggressive mother-in-laws. As with every episode, our goal is to give you tangible wisdom you can use this week to bring more peace to your home.

Mentioned on this episode:

Want Karen to come teach the moms in your community? It’s easier than you think! Fill out this form.

Love Wire Talk? Leave us a review on Apple podcasts. Not sure how? Head here and scroll to the bottom of the page for a quick how-to. And thanks!

366: Homefront Heroes - Wisdom for Military Moms May 23, 2023

In this episode of Wire Talk, we're addressing the unique challenges that military families face. Join us as we discuss the impact of deployments on children, how to maintain a strong relationship with your spouse despite long periods of separation, and practical tips for making the most of the time you have together. Plus, we've got tips for supporting military moms from a civilian perspective. Whether you're a military spouse or not, this episode has wisdom for you this week!

Mentioned on this episode:

Want Karen to come teach the moms in your community? It’s easier than you think! Fill out this form.

Love Wire Talk? Leave us a review on Apple podcasts. Not sure how? Head here and scroll to the bottom of the page for a quick how-to. And thanks!

365: How to Break the Habit of Yelling (and other discipline tips) May 16, 2023

Are you tired of feeling like a broken record when it comes to disciplining your kids? Do you find yourself yelling way more often than you care to admit? On today's episode of Wire Talk, we're sharing practical tips to help you stay consistent and break the cycle of yelling.

Mentioned on this episode:

Related blog post: The 4 A’s Yellow Kids Crave

Scripture: Hebrews 12:11

Want Karen to come teach the moms in your community? It’s easier than you think! Fill out this form.

Love Wire Talk? Leave us a review on Apple podcasts. Not sure how? Head here and scroll to the bottom of the page for a quick how-to. And thanks!

364: Marriage Maintenance May 09, 2023

On today's episode of Wire Talk, we're diving into all things marriage. From learning to speak your spouse's love language to prioritizing time together, we're answering your most pressing questions. Listen in for practical encouragement to help strengthen your marriage this week.

Mentioned on this episode:

Want Karen to come teach the moms in your community? It’s easier than you think! Fill out this form.

We have a whole website full of resources for you! Check out our blog for more wisdom on your marriage.

Love Wire Talk? Leave us a review on Apple podcasts. Not sure how? Head here and scroll to the bottom of the page for a quick how-to. And thanks!

363: What To Do When Your Mom Heart Aches For Them May 02, 2023

Join Karen and Emily today as they tackle questions from moms who are hurting for their kids. From navigating the dating world to dealing with school pressures, we've got you covered with practical advice to help you parent with confidence. As always, you’ll come away with something tangible you can implement in your home this week.

Mentioned on this episode:

Read the blog post: 4 Ground Rules for Loving Your Blues

Want Karen to come teach the moms in your community? It’s easier than you think! Fill out this form.

Love Wire Talk? Leave us a review on Apple podcasts. Not sure how? Head here and scroll to the bottom of the page for a quick how-to. And thanks!

362: Psalm 23 - I Will Dwell in the House of the Lord Forever Apr 25, 2023

Join us for Karen’s teaching on the final stanza of Psalm 23: 'You prepare a feast before me in the presence of my enemies; you honor me by anointing my head with oil; my cup overflows with blessings. Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the Lord forever.' With her trademark warmth and wisdom, Karen reminds us that God has set a table for us, and the enemy has not been invited to it! She challenges us to ask ourselves if we have invited the enemy to sit down with us?

Mentioned on this episode:

Invite Karen to teach in your community this fall!

New Living Translation version of Psalm 23

Listen to Part 1, Part 2 and Part 3 of this series

361: Psalm 23 - Even Though I Walk Through the Valley Apr 18, 2023

On this special live episode of Wire Talk, recorded at our Survive retreat in Asheville, NC, Karen delves into Psalm 23:4. This session speaks directly to the fears and anxieties that can overwhelm a mom. Karen weaves biblical wisdom in with stories from her own motherhood journey as she reminds us that God is bigger than our fears. This episode will give you strength and equip you to take your fear and worry to God, who is with you and will give you what you need for today.

Mentioned on this episode:

Go back and listen to Part 1 and Part 2 of this series

Want to put on an event with Karen and the moms in your community? Reach out to us today!

360: Psalm 23 - He Leads Me Beside Still Waters Apr 11, 2023

Join us as we continue our four-part series on Psalm 23 today with a focus on verses 2 and 3: 'He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul.' Through her insightful commentary and personal stories, Karen shares what it looks like practically to trust and follow our Shepherd’s voice. Don’t miss reflecting on Karen’s poignant question at the end, “What am I not trusting my Shepherd with today?”

Mentioned on this episode:

Go back and listen to Part 1 of this series

Karen’s 365 day devotional for moms

Prayer Journal

Want Karen to come encourage the moms in your community with this kind of teaching? Get in touch with us!

359: Psalm 23 - The Lord is My Shepherd Apr 04, 2023

This month on Wire Talk, we’re sharing a special four-part series Karen shared during our Survive retreat on Psalm 23, one of the most beloved and well-known passages of Scripture. In part one of the series, Karen unpacks the first verse of Psalm 23, exploring what it means to have the Lord as our Shepherd. Join Karen for this insightful session as she dives deep into the rich and timeless truths of this beautiful psalm.

Mentioned on this episode:

Want to host an event with Karen in your city? It's easier than you think. Reach out to us today.

358: Help! What Do I Do About My "Wild" Child? Mar 28, 2023

Do you have a child who is full of energy and constantly testing your limits? Then pop in those earbuds! Today Karen is tackling listener questions about raising a 'wild' child. She offers advice on effective discipline, seeing their strengths, and managing their over-the-top energy. Whether you have boys or girls, toddlers or elementary-age kids, this episode is a must-listen!"

Mentioned on this episode:

Get the book! Survival Guide to Motherhood in our shop and on Amazon

Want Karen to come teach the moms in your community? It’s easier than you think! Fill out this form.

Love Wire Talk? Leave us a review on Apple podcasts. Not sure how? Head here and scroll to the bottom of the page for a quick how-to. And thanks!

357: Know Your Self-Worth Mar 21, 2023

Today on Wire Talk, we're wrapping up our series on Karen's brand-new book, Survival Guide to Motherhood, by exploring the topic of self-worth. As moms, it's easy to feel like we're not enough, like we're always failing in some way. But the truth is, our self-worth comes from the Lord, not from our performance as moms or in any other aspect of our lives.

Join us as Karen and Emily share encouraging insights and practical tips on how to cultivate a healthy sense of self-worth, no matter what season of motherhood you're in.

Mentioned on this episode:

Get the book! Survival Guide to Motherhood in our shop and on Amazon

Want Karen to come teach the moms in your community? It’s easier than you think! Fill out this form.

Need to be reminded of your strengths? Take the Colors Quiz and be reminded!!

356: Know the Difference Between 'Your Best' and 'You're Perfect' Mar 14, 2023

Today Karen shares 3 destructive patterns in the life of a perfectionist. She and Emily chat about the burden a parent carries when they pursue perfection, and Karen offers tangible, practical things that we can each do this week to switch our focus from perfection to doing our best.

Mentioned on this episode:

Get Karen’s book: Survival Guide to Motherhood

Wire Talk is on YouTube. Subscribe today to help us reach more moms!

Don’t know your color? Take the quiz

WT episode: Looking At Life Through the Lens of a BLUE Mom

Gift a New Mom’s Box for an expecting mom in your world!

355: Know How To Set Your Own Pace Mar 07, 2023

To say moms are busy these days is an understatement. Most of us keep a pace that just isn’t sustainable. It’s non-stop from the minute your alarm goes off until your head hits the pillow at night. So today Karen and Emily are talking about how to set the pace for your family. Karen shares two specific problems she sees happening in families because of busyness and as always, we’ll wrap up with tangible, PRACTICAL things you can do this week to set a better pace for your family.

Mentioned on this episode:

Get Survival Guide to Motherhood HERE.

Join us on Patreon for just $5

Wire Talk is now on YouTube. Subscribe and watch full episodes starting in March.

Bring Karen to speak at your church, it's easier than you think!

354: Know How To Build Confidence in Your Child Feb 28, 2023

When our kids are young, we have to do everything for them. But as they grow up, some moms get stuck continuing to do for their kids what they can and ought to do for themselves. Today Karen encourages us all to take a step back so our kids can step up, and suggests appropriate tasks for our kids to “own,” whether they are 6 or 16. Don’t miss the connection between kids who take ownership and confident kids!

Mentioned on this episode:

Grab Survival Guide to Motherhood

Interested in having Karen come to your community? Reach out.

Join our Patreon community for just $5

Bonus Episode: Real Life, Real Moms with Kelsey Cordell Feb 23, 2023

Surprise! We're bringing you an extra episode this week!

Did you know BOAW has a monthly podcast available exclusively on Patreon? Well, we do! Real Life, Real Mom subscribers get an extra dose of Karen each month. Listen in today as Karen's oldest daughter, Kelsey, opens up about her family, her faith, and her walk with God. (Psst - you might want to grab a tissue before listening!)

Become a member of our Patreon community today and get a brand new Real Life, Real Moms conversation in your podcast feed next week.

353: Know How To Be a Student of Your Child Feb 21, 2023

Your child was uniquely formed by God before he or she took their first breath. When we approach a child with their uniqueness in mind, we can parent more effectively. Join Karen and Emily as they discuss temperaments and love languages and show us how we can use these lenses to study our child and parent them in wisdom.

Mentioned on this episode:

Survival Guide to Motherhood by Karen Stubbs

Personality Plus for Parents by Florence Littauer

Birth Order book by Kevin Lehmen

The 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman

Colors Quiz

Additional Personality Resources

352: Know How To Discipline Feb 14, 2023

Discipline might just be the most critical survival skill a mom can have! Whether you have toddlers or teens in the home, this episode gives practical steps you can take to focus on discipline this week. Listen for Karen's 3 stages of discipline and learn what each stage requires from parents. This is a great episode for dads to tune in to as well!

Get the book! Survival Guide to Motherhood

Deep dive into discipline with more episodes:

WT 154: Laying the Foundation

WT 155: The Middle Years

WT 156: Adolescence & Beyond

Find blog posts, more Wire Talk episodes and Karen's upcoming speaking events at birdsonawiremoms.com

351: Know How To Stay Connected To Your Spouse Feb 07, 2023

Our family began with our marriage, and hopefully our marriage will be there long after the kids move out! Today we’re digging into the next chapter of Karen’s new book, Survival Guide to Motherhood - How to Stay Connected To Your Spouse. Listen in for Karen’s marital wisdom on respect, expectations, sex, and the idea of “choosing love.”

Mentioned on this episode:

Past episodes on sex + motherhood: WT 131 with Dr. Mike Sytsma, WT 165 with Juli Slattery

Get the book! Survival Guide to Motherhood

Invite Karen to speak to the moms in your community!

How the heck do I leave a WT review? (scroll all the way to the bottom of the page)

350: Know How To Keep Your Sanity Jan 31, 2023

We sacrifice all the time as a mom, and if we’re not careful, we can lose ourselves in the process. This week we’re discussing the next chapter of Survival Guide to Motherhood- Know How To Keep Your Sanity.

Karen reminds us of the importance of paying attention to our health and gives practical tips for keeping healthy in 4 different aspects of life, which will in turn, keep us from losing our minds as we raise our child!

Mentioned on this episode:

Chapter 1 of SGTM: Know How To Get Through the Day

Chapter 2 of SGTM: Know How To Take Charge of Your Home

Get the book! Survival Guide to Motherhood

Karen’s Self Talk curriculum

Karen’s daily devotional and prayer journal for moms

How the heck do I leave a WT review? (scroll all the way to the bottom of the page)

349: Know How To Take Charge of Your Home Jan 24, 2023

We’re in the second week of diving into Karen’s new book: Survival Guide to Motherhood. Today we’re unpacking Karen’s accumulated wisdom on taking charge in your home. If you are struggling with a home that seems to have been taken over by a surly teenage attitude or by a tyrannical toddler, this episode is for you! Don't miss Karen's practical tips for taking back charge so you feel at ease and at peace in your own home.

Mentioned on this episode:

Chapter 1 of Survival Guide to Motherhood: Know How To Get Through the Day

Get the book! Survival Guide to Motherhood

Invite Karen to speak to your community or church

Meal Planning blog post

348: Know How To Get Through The Day Jan 17, 2023

Dive in to Karen's brand-new book, Survival Guide to Motherhood, with us today! We are digging deep into the first chapter, Know How to Get Through the Day. This one is for new moms, for whom each day can feel like a lifetime, and for seasoned moms, who face unanticipated challenges almost every season. You're going to love Karen's perspective on choosing joy daily!

Mentioned on this episode:

Survival Guide to Motherhood

347: Raising Emotionally Strong Boys with David Thomas Jan 10, 2023

Today friend of BOAW and family therapist, David Thomas, joins us in the studio to talk about our boys and their emotional health. He shares practical wisdom for how parents can equip boys with the tools they need to understand and manage their emotions. Don’t miss David sharing who we can look to as the ultimate blueprint for masculinity!

Mentioned on this episode:

Wire Talk #140 with David Thomas - The Emotional World of Kids

Grab a copy of David's new book - Raising Emotionally Strong Boys

Accompanying workbook - Tools Your Son Can Build on For Life

346: Creating the Community You Crave Jan 02, 2023

Motherhood is a journey, and it’s often a lonely one. Today we’re talking about taking one step to create the community that you are craving - starting a moms group. We are answering your questions about what that could look like and giving you encouragement to go for it!

Mentioned on today’s episode:

Join our private Facebook group for all moms

Join our private Facebook group for group leaders

Which BOAW study is right for your group of moms?

More episodes on starting a group: WT 143, WT 193

Still have questions or doubts? Email us at info@birdsonawiremoms.com for a virtual pep talk!

345: Walking Through the Christmas Story: Luke 2:1-21 Dec 20, 2022

We are wrapping up our reading of the Christmas Story today in chapter 2 of Luke. I think you’ll enjoy re-visiting this famous birth story through fresh eyes as we unpack Luke’s words verse by verse.

Questions for Reflection:

What is God doing in my life that I need to be treasuring in this season?
Do you need to ask God to help you keep faith during a season when you can’t see Him at work in your life?

Mentioned on this episode:

Go back and listen to this series from the beginning: WT 342, WT 343, WT 344

Order Karen’s new book, Survival Guide to Motherhood, today!

344: Walking Through the Christmas Story: Luke 1:39-56 Dec 13, 2022

Today in Luke, we read about Mary sharing her good news with her cousin, Elizabeth. I love that Luke recorded this intimate look at two women’s friendship and the way they rejoiced with one another! As you listen and read this passage on your own this week - reflect and ask yourself, “Who do I run to when I want to celebrate?” and, “When life gives me a surprise, is my first instinct to praise God?”

Mentioned on this episode:

Go back and listen to this series from the beginning: WT 342, WT 343

Order Karen’s new book, Survival Guide to Motherhood, today!

343: Walking Through the Christmas Story: Luke 1:26-38 Dec 06, 2022

We’re continuing to unpack Luke’s account of the Christmas story today in chapter 1 of Luke. As Karen breaks down the angel Gabriel’s visit to Mary and her response to him she draws out beautiful and practical truths we can learn from this section of Scripture.

Mentioned on today’s episode:

Wire Talk series on James

Luke 1:26-38 (NLT version)

Life Application Study Bible

2 Samuel 7 - God’s promise to David that his kingdom will never end

342: Walking Through the Christmas Story: Luke 1:1-25 Nov 29, 2022

It’s easy as a mom to spend all of your time leading up to Christmas morning checking off a giant to-do list and completely neglect to set aside any time to focus your heart on what the point of all this fuss is - JESUS’s arrival! That’s why, over the next 4 weeks Karen is going to walk us through the Christmas story as recorded by Luke, and give you a slice of time that is just for your spirit. Today we are getting started in Luke 1 with the story of Zechariah and his wife, Elizabeth.

Mentioned on this episode:

Wire Talk James study - Week 1

Luke 1:1-25 NLT version

Life Application Study Bible

Pre-order Survival Guide to Motherhood!

341: Handling Extended Family (Especially Around the Holidays!) Nov 22, 2022

The holidays are a special time of year but they can be extremely tricky for families. Whether you're traveling or staying home, struggling with your mother-in-law or your own mom, there’s lots of family time involved and that often leads to tension. Today Karen gives moms tips for having tactful conversations with grandparents, preparing our kids for situations that are outside the everyday, and being especially proactive as we parent at this time of year.

Mentioned on the episode:

Pre-order Survival Guide to Motherhood today!

Find resources for educating grandparents or other family members about your child's personality color HERE.

340: Tackling Sensitive Topics with Your Teenager Nov 15, 2022

What topics aren’t sensitive when you’re talking to a teenager! Today Karen is tackling tricky questions, from how to talk about health issues and personality differences to sneaky behavior and dealing with aging parents. As always, Karen doles out her trademark practical wisdom with some gems for the teenage years!

Mentioned on today’s episode:

Karen’s new book is available for pre-order!

Take Birds on a Wire’s personality colors quiz HERE

Find more BOAW personality resources HERE.

Kathleen Edelman’s A Grown Up’s Guide to Kids’ Wiring

339: Technology and Your Kids Nov 08, 2022

Technology is increasingly a part of every aspect of today's world and there is so much to navigate! From gaming to social media to smartphones and everything in between, today Karen is answering questions about how to set boundaries and how to think about the technology we allow into our homes and into our kids' lives.

Mentioned on today’s episode:

GABB Wireless - safe phones for kids

Wire Talk episode 116 with expert Tom Shefchunas

Circle internet filtering

Right Now Media - video library for kids

Good Pictures, Bad Pictures (book about pornography for ages 6-11)

Good Pictures, Bad Pictures JR. (ages 3-6)

338: Brave Enough to Be Broken with Toni Collier Nov 01, 2022

Toni Collier, founder of the women’s ministry, Broken Crayons Still Color, joins Karen today to talk about the message of her brand new book - Brave Enough to be Broken. We know you’ll enjoy hearing Toni’s personal story and resonate with the message that God uses all of our brokenness for His glory.

Be sure to grab a copy of Toni’s brand new book and share this episode with a woman in your life who needs some encouragement today!

Mentioned on today’s episode:

Toni’s ministry

Get the book: Brave Enough to be Broken

Connect with Toni on social media

337: The Nap Time Struggle is Real Oct 25, 2022

If you have toddlers in the house, you know nap time is a BIG deal! Today Karen is fielding questions from moms desperate for a little afternoon peace. Listen in for tips on how to create a “quiet time” for your kiddo and how to navigate the tricky in-between season when they still need sleep, but just won’t surrender!

336: Letting Your Husband Lead in His Own Way Oct 18, 2022

Disagreement is inevitable in any relationship and marriage is no exception. When you’re parenting together, and your husband has his own way of doing things, disagreements cause even greater tension. Today we’re answering your questions about conflict with your husband, everything from planning date nights and handling criticism to riding motorcycles with the kids!

Mentioned on today’s episode:

Wild At Heart

WT 197: Creative Date Nights

Survival Guide to Motherhood (ages 0-5)

335: How Do I Handle My Toddler's Temper Tantrums? Oct 11, 2022

There's a reason they're called the 'Terrible Twos' friends! Whether it's daycare drop-off, not wanting to share, or just not getting their way, it can take us by surprise when our little angels find their voice and use it in a big way. If there's a toddler in your home, today's questions will probably sound familiar, so listen for a pep talk from Karen to stay the course, not give in, and keep up the good work, mom!

334: Juggling Kids' Sports & Activities Oct 04, 2022

When you have elementary and middle school aged kids, the pressure and the busy schedule that come with pursuing athletics or the arts can really stress a mom out! Whether it’s pushback from your kids, or a strain on your schedule and your finances, today Karen gives advice on how to juggle it all and keep the most important things central in your world during this season of life.

Check out today's shownotes and find all things BOAW at: birdsonawiremoms.com

333: Looking at Life Through the Lens of a GREEN MOM Sep 27, 2022

Megan and Leigh join us in the studio today to share how they see the world through the lens of a GREEN MOM. They'll talk about what makes motherhood easy for greens and how it challenges their temperaments; if you're a green, we think you'll hear a bit of your own experience in this conversation and if you're not green, we think it will give you valuable insights into the green moms in your world.

Not sure your color? Don't forget to take our quiz at BOAW.MOM/QUIZ

Mentioned on the show:

Personality Plus for Parents

I Said This, You Heard That by Kathleen Edelman

332: Looking at Life Through the Lens of a BLUE MOM Sep 20, 2022

Today Ashley and Anisa join us in the studio to share how they see the world through the lens of a BLUE MOM. They'll talk about how blues thrive in mom world and what doesn't come easily to them as blues.

If you're a blue, we think you'll hear a bit of your own experience in this conversation and if you're not blue, we think it will give you valuable insights into the blue moms in your world.

Not sure your color? Don't forget to take our quiz at BOAW.MOM/QUIZ

331: Looking at Life Through the Lens of a YELLOW MOM Sep 13, 2022

Mandee and Erin join us in the studio today to share how they see the world through the lens of a YELLOW MOM. You know Karen is yellow, so this is one FUN conversation!

We'll hear what these yellows love about mom life, but also how it refines them. If you're a yellow, we think you'll hear a bit of your own experience in this conversation and if you're not yellow, we think it will give you valuable insights into the yellow moms in your world.

Not sure your color? Don't forget to take our quiz at BOAW.MOM/QUIZ

330: Looking at Life Through the Lens of a RED MOM Sep 06, 2022

Today Katie and Kelly join us in the studio to share how they see life and parenting through the lens of being a "red". They'll talk about working life, home life, and everything in between. If you're a red, we think you'll hear a bit of your own experience in this conversation and if you're not red, we think it will give you valuable insights into the red moms in your world. Not sure your color? Don't forget to take our colors quiz at BOAW.MOM/QUIZ

Mentioned on today's episode:

Personality Plus for Parents

I Said This, You Heard That

329: The What, the How, and the Why of the Personality Colors Aug 30, 2022

This episode kicks off 5 weeks of a new Personality Colors series! We're going to share what the colors are, where the concept comes from, how to find out your color, and why it’s a helpful tool for families. Then, week by week we're bringing you interviews with moms of each color to help you understand how this temperament plays out in motherhood. We hope you come away encouraged and equipped to use the colors in your family!

Mentioned on the show:

The BOAW Colors Quiz

Personality Plus for Parents

I Said This, You Heard That by Kathleen Edelman

A Grown Up's Guide to Kids' Wiring

328: When You and Your Spouse Disagree on Parenting Style Aug 23, 2022

We all know focusing on a healthy marriage should be a priority while you raise kids, but sometimes your kids are the source of conflict in your marriage! Today Karen and Sunny are answering your questions about how to navigate the inevitable disagreements that go hand in hand with parenting together.

Links from today's show:

Parenting Together curriculum

Our newest study: Survival Guide to Motherhoood (ages 0-5)

327: Equipping Our Kids to Handle BIG Emotions Aug 16, 2022

Have you ever been taken aback by the BIG feelings coming out of your child's small body? Today we're talking about angry outbursts, emotional meltdowns, sibling jealousy, and a crippling fear of failure. Listen and learn from Karen's wisdom so you can equip your kids to handle big emotions.

Mentioned on today’s episode:

A Grown Up’s Guide to Kids’ Wiring

The Anger Iceberg blog post

Snag Karen’s devotional and start the school year off right: Moments with God for Moms

326: How Do I Get Some Help Around The House? Aug 09, 2022

Moms often feel like we work all day—either at an office or at home—and then we start a second shift in the evening: dinner, dishes, bathtime, etc. Sometimes it can feel like we do it all alone! Today, we're answering questions about spouses who don't carry half the weight, kids who are perpetual mess-makers, and how to motivate your family to pitch in and help a mom out!

Mentioned on today's episode:

Elizabeth Pehrson's ministry (mom of 8 who gives lots of chores!!): The Exchange

Moms on Call sleep training program

YouVersion plan: 10 Days to a Better Back to School

Snag Karen’s devotional and start the school year off right: Moments with God for Moms

325: Resetting Routines for a New School Year Aug 02, 2022

August is basically another New Year for moms, right? New schools, new teachers, new schedules, everything starts over and we get a chance for a fresh start. Listen in today for Karen's tips on hitting the reset button and starting off on the right foot this school year.

Mentioned on today's episode:

YouVersion reading plan - 10 Days to a Better Back to School

Karen's daily devotional - Moments with God for Moms

324: What Do I Do About Mom Guilt? [RE-AIR] Jul 26, 2022

The feelings of guilt are REAL in a mom’s world. Today Karen talks about how she's experienced mom guilt in the past and how she manages it in the present. She also offers advice on asking for help, dropping kids off at child care, and what to do when guilt creeps in. Tune in and be encouraged today!

Mentioned on today’s episode:

Moms of Teens! Register for the SURVIVE retreat today!

Get on Karen’s monthly email list

Share Your Thoughts about BOAW with us!

323: Teen Mental Health & Suicide Risk Factors with Debbie Causey [RE-AIR] Jul 19, 2022

Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among students today. As a society, we are clearly in crisis. As mothers, we are fighting on the front lines.

Today, mental health professional Debbie Causey joins us to talk about her own journey as the mother of a child with mental health conditions. Debbie also shares wisdom on the warning signs we can be alert for and the steps we can take to fight for our children's lives.

Even if you have toddlers and this conversation feels light years away, listen for a friend, a family member, or a student you know and love.

Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

Moms of teens, register for the SURVIVE retreat today! It's a weekend away with Karen focused specifically on the challenges and the joys of parenting teens.

Karen’s book The Art of Motherhood

NAMI.ORG

National Suicide Prevention Hotline

Crisis Text Line

NAMI Classes

322: Understanding Sensory Based Behavior with Occupational Therapist Christy Bennett [RE-AIR] Jul 12, 2022

Mother and occupational therapist Christy Bennett joins Sunny and Karen today to dive into sensory based behavior. We discuss what sensory behaviors are, and how to provide the sensory stimulus (or lack thereof) that your child is craving.

Christy also answers your questions on how to talk to teachers about your child's specific needs and how parents can advocate for their child in the school system and in situations with other adults (coaches, church leaders, etc.)

Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

Moms of teens! Register for the SURVIVE retreat today.

Lucy the Lapdog

How to Leave a Wire Talk review

Share Your Thoughts about BOAW with us!

321: Sex and Motherhood with Dr. Mike Sytsma [RE-AIR] Jul 05, 2022

Dr. Mike Sytsma joins us to answer your questions about sex and motherhood. Dr. Mike is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia, a Certified Sex Therapist, and a Certified Sexual Addictions Specialist. He is also an ordained minister who is passionate about marriage and helping couples grow in their marriage! We are so glad he is here to provide expert level advice and answers to your questions.

Learn more about the Survive Retreat for Moms of Teens

Take a second to tell us what you love about BOAW!

Intimate Marriage - Dr. Mike's online couples group

IntimateMarriage.Org - Dr. Mike's organization

Winshape Marriage retreats

Parenting Together study with Karen and Greg Stubbs

320: Tackling Fear in Motherhood Jun 28, 2022

Fear in motherhood is a very real thing. It starts when they're young: are they hungry, are they hurting? And never stops, even when they are adults! Many of us are worried we’ll mess something up and mess up our kids in the process. Today Karen reminds us what is true and where to keep our focus when fear threatens to take us down.

Get the New Mom's Baby Box: boaw.mom/babybox

Join our private FB community of moms seeking godly wisdom: facebook.com/groups/BOAWmoms

319: Pick Your Battles! Jun 21, 2022

We've all heard the advice to "pick your battles" as a mom. But which battles are the right ones to pick? We asked you to send in the battles you're frustrated by in your home and Karen is going to weigh in with whether or not it's worth the fight. Play along as you listen, can you guess what Karen's answer will be??

Take a second to tell us what you love about BOAW!

Grab our New Mom's Baby Box

Save the Date - Survive: A Retreat for Moms of Teens registration opens July 10th!

318: Newborn Mom Isolation Jun 14, 2022

There are all kinds of books and podcasts that aim to prepare you for childbirth or breastfeeding, but one thing that’s hard to prepare for is the isolation you’ll experience in those early days as a newborn mom. From how to "get out there" with a newborn to overcoming FOMO because you're breastfeeding all the time, on today's episode, Karen shares wisdom for the newest moms in our community.

Mentioned on today's episode:

Start a BOAW Group and go through Mom Core together

New Mom’s Baby Box

Share Your Thoughts about BOAW with us!

317: How to Survive Summer With Kids At Home Jun 07, 2022

Whether you love or loathe summer, no one can deny that longer days, soaring temperatures, and no school routine means a change of pace around the house. Today we're tackling questions about how to keep your kids fed, how to manage work from home life when the kids are around, and how to inject FUN into summer as a red mom.

Mentioned on today’s episode:

New Mom’s Baby Box

Share Your Thoughts about BOAW with us!

316: Transitioning to An Empty Nest May 31, 2022

We spend decades trying to figure out how to parent them well, and then all of a sudden, they are grown ups and we are staring at an empty nest. Today we're talking about how to handle the loneliness that sometimes accompanies a quiet house, how to prepare yourself for this stage of life, and how to move into your new role as mom to an adult child!

Find all the show notes at: birdsonawiremoms.com/podcast/episode316

315: Transitioning Your High Schooler into Adulthood May 24, 2022

Just when you think you’re getting a handle on motherhood, your child moves into a new season of life and you’ve got to relearn everything! Today we're talking about high schoolers on the verge of adulthood. Karen shares her thoughts on how to let go without giving up, how to guide without pushing and how to handle college students when they come back home.

314: Transitioning Your Tween into Adolescence May 17, 2022

Ahhhhh adolescence. Everyone’s favorite time of life. Today’s episode is about that transition from almost teen to full blown teenager. From pushing boundaries to pulling away emotionally, Karen offers wisdom for how to help your child when they still have one foot in both worlds.

Find the shownotes at: birdsonawiremoms.com/podcast/episode314

313: Transitioning Your Toddler to More Independence May 10, 2022

Today’s episode is about that season when your toddler is growing more independent. From using the bathroom, to getting dressed, this is the "I do it myself!" phase of life. You’d think that means life gets easier for a mom, but each new season comes with its own difficulties. Listen in as Karen offers advice for keeping little escape artists safe, moving toddlers to a "big kid" bed and letting go of control so your little one can learn.

312: How Do I Respectfully Deal With My Difficult Mother? May 03, 2022

If you had a difficult relationship with your mom as a teenager, you may be shocked to find that the relationship gets even more complicated when you become a mom.

On today’s episode, we are answering questions about boundaries, passive-aggressive behavior, expectations and we even have a question that a teen emailed us… a first for Wire Talk!

311: Walking Through the Book of James: James 5 Apr 26, 2022

We are wrapping up our time in the book of James today by reading and talking through chapter 5.

I pray that this month has made you more confident and comfortable in sitting down with your own Bible to study the Word.

James 5:16 NLT "...The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results."

310: Walking Through the Book of James: James 3-4 Apr 19, 2022

We are continuing our journey through the book of James this week. Today Karen is reading and teaching through chapters 3 and 4- focusing on the power of the tongue and seeking God's wisdom.

309: Walking Through the Book of James: James 2 Apr 12, 2022

We're back in the book of James this week!

Join us as Karen reads and teaches through the second chapter of this highly practical book and shares truths that apply to our world today.

308: Walking Through the Book of James: James 1 Apr 05, 2022

As Easter approaches, many of us feel like we should be getting into the Word and reading our Bibles, but if we're honest, a lot of times we don't know how to study the Bible! This month, Karen is going to walk us through the book of James, verse by verse, and share the nuggets of wisdom she takes away from this very practical book. Join us today as we walk through chapter 1 together.

307: When Mom is the One Who Needs an Attitude Adjustment Mar 29, 2022

At times we all need someone to tell us how to think about things differently, and that’s something Karen does really well. On today's show, we’ve gathered questions from moms who are burnt out, disheartened, or just plain TIRED! With loads of encouragement and a little tough love, Karen help us all adjust their attitudes in this conversation.

306: Faith, Family, and Loss with Bryant and Kristin Young Mar 22, 2022

All month long, we've been sharing conversations about the 'battles we don’t always see.'

We’ve talked about raising a special needs child, anxiety, struggling with a chaotic marriage, and today we are going to hear from NFL hall of famer, Bryant Young, and his incredible wife Kristin, as they share their testimony of walking with the Lord through cancer, grief, and loss.

From the prayer they prayed when they received the news of their son's diagnosis, to the way they walked this road with 5 other children at home, hearing their story will grow your faith.

Their testimony is one that epitomizes Romans 5:3-4, "...we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope."

WT 305: Finding Peace in Chaos with Jenny Boyett Mar 15, 2022

Today you’re going to hear from dear friend and long time BOAW mom, Jenny Boyett, as she joins Karen to share what it has been like to walk through a marriage that did not turn out the way she dreamed. Unless you have a friend walking through this season of life, or you are going through a situation like this yourself, you may never otherwise know what it’s like to be faced with this scenario. All month long, we are sharing these stories so we can grow in empathy and compassion alongside our fellow BOAW moms.

WT 304: Anxiety in Moms with Dr. Chinwé Williams Mar 08, 2022

We've talked about the anxiety epidemic our kids are facing these days, but there are a ton of moms battling chronic anxiety as well. Today, Dr. Chinwé Williams joins Karen to give us practical ways to combat anxiety and shares how to know when we need extra help.

WT 303: Raising a Special Needs Teenager with Cady Dugger Mar 01, 2022

Cady Dugger joins us in the studio to talk about raising her daughter, Christine, who was born with a rare chromosomal disorder. All month long we want to pull back the curtain on the battles moms in our community are facing, battles that many of us know little to nothing about. Our hope is that today’s conversation will inspire empathy and grow your compassion for the moms in your world who are facing unseen battles of their own.

WT 302: Hormonal Health with Dr. Sharon Marcanthony Feb 22, 2022

Dr. Sharon Marcanthony joins Karen and Sunny today to talk about the changing hormones women experience throughout our lives. We’re asking Sharon your questions about menopause, sexual health, postpartum depression, and managing PMS. Sharon reminds us of the importance of having a comfortable relationship with our health care providers as well as how critical community is in helping us navigate the changing seasons of our lives (i.e. don’t menopause alone!)

WT 301: Prioritizing Self Care Feb 15, 2022

A lot of moms put their needs on the sideline when their children are young- but when those children get older, a mom can’t even recognize what her needs are anymore. Self care is the practice of taking action to preserve or improve one's own health, and it’s something we need to make time for as moms.

WT 300: Prioritizing Your Marriage (Over Your Kids!) Feb 08, 2022

It’s natural that our kids try to “trump” their dad and become the priority in a mom’s world, but your husband came first! And like Karen always says, you want him to be there after the kids leave home! Join the conversation today as we tackle your questions about keeping your spouse #1.

Find links to all the resources Karen shared in this episode at: birdsonawiremoms.com/podcast/episode300

WT 299: Getting Your Priorities Straight: Friendship Feb 01, 2022

All month long we are talking about getting our priorities straight. Many of us try to do this going into the new year, but come February, we’ve already given up on many of the changes we said we wanted to make. So, think of this whole month like a priorities pep talk!

We’re going to cover marriage, self-care, and even hormonal health with a guest later this month, but today we are kicking things off talking about friendship.

WT 298: Limiting Negative Influences in Your Teen's Life Jan 25, 2022

Parenting a teen in today’s world is not for the faint of heart! Join us today as we answer your questions about raising teenagers and dealing with tough topics like pornography, low self-esteem, smartphones, and social media. Moms of littles, please listen! Looking down the road a few years can help you make choices today that will make your tomorrow easier.

Find show notes at: birdsonawiremoms.com/podcast/episode298

WT 297: How Can I Help Foster My Teen's Faith? Jan 18, 2022

One of our primary roles in our child's life is to point them toward God, but their relationship with God is just that, it's their relationship. Your child is not an extension of you, and for better or worse, you are not in control! In this conversation we talk about the importance of being a prayer warrior for your child and how to approach them in a winning way.

WT 296: Disciplining Your Teenager Jan 11, 2022

Consistency is Karen’s key word for discipline and on today’s episode we are talking about what that looks like in the life of a teenager. From how to pick your battles and knowing which topics aren’t worth the fight, today’s episode gives practical tips and encouragement to stay the course and be consistent during the teenage years.

WT 295: Dealing with Teenage Drama Jan 04, 2022

We’re baaaaack! And we’re kicking off the New Year with a month of episodes focused on teenagers. Whether you’re the mom of multiple teens or you’re still in toddler world, you’ll benefit from tuning into today’s practical wisdom for dealing with drama.

Grab a copy of Karen's 365 day devotional for moms HERE.

WT 294: Real Life, Real Moms sneak peek with Ann Mason Dec 14, 2021

Today we’re giving you a peek into our Patreon podcast - Real Life, Real Moms!

Ann Mason and I have been friends for a while, and I've been so impressed by the God-honoring way she parents. She has three children, one of whom is special needs and non-verbal. We talk a little about that and the isolation and grieving that often comes alongside having a special needs child. We also chat a little about boundaries and freedoms as kids get older.

Become a Patron today and hear the rest of Ann's episode!

WT 293: Preparing to Blend with author Ron Deal Dec 07, 2021

Blended family expert Ron Deal joins Wire Talk today to answer questions from moms in our BOAW community and offer his unique perspective from decades of ministry with stepfamilies. Ron tackles everything from how to prepare your child's heart to accept a new relationship to disciplining stepchildren. This episode is packed with great advice, and no matter what kind of family you have, listening will leave you with a nugget of wisdom you can put into practice today.

Mentioned on today's episode:

Become a Birds donor and enable us to continue making episodes like this one!

Find all of Ron’s resources at SmartStepFamilies.com

Ron’s new book: Preparing to Blend

Join our Patreon community this month!

WT 292: BOAW Advice That Worked For Me! Nov 30, 2021

We love how this show has enabled the Birds ministry to grow and impact families across the world. Today, Karen and Sunny share emails from listeners with BOAW advice that is making a difference in their lives today. What BOAW advice has worked for YOU lately?

Find show notes (and that family values pic) HERE.

WT 291: Handling Disappointment at the Holidays Nov 23, 2021

When expectations collide with reality, especially around the holidays, disappointment can be the inevitable result. Today Karen shares how the holidays will be different for her this year with four married children and gives us practical ways to keep our heart in the right place no matter what the season looks like this year.

Become a Patreon supporter today and get immediate access to two years of Real Life, Real Moms episodes!

WT 290: How To Give Dating Advice Your Teens Will Actually Listen To Nov 16, 2021

Helping our teens navigate the world of dating can be tricky. In this episode, Karen offers fantastic, practical advice for keeping the lines of communication open and speaking truth in love into your teen’s life.

Pick up a copy of Karen's Prayer Journal in the BOAW shop today!

WT 289: Liar, Liar! Nov 09, 2021

Lying wreaks havoc on family relationships, whether your child is a toddler or a tween. Today Karen shares her thoughts on disciplining a habitual liar and reminds us of the importance of dealing with lying early and consistently, so our children's hearts do not get hardened to this sin.

You might also enjoy this episode: How Do I Handle My Sweet Little Liar?

WT 288: Good For Her, Not For Me Nov 02, 2021

Moms make all kinds of magic happen for our families. And these days, it’s easy to look around and see the awesome ways other moms love on their families and feel like you fall short by comparison. So today, we are celebrating some of the fun traditions BOAW moms have started in their families and at the same time, releasing you from any pressure to do the same things! You do you, because you are enough for your own family!

WT 287: Finding Consequences that WORK Oct 26, 2021

Disciplining children is both a science and an art. What works at one age doesn’t work at a different age and just when you think you’ve got a handle on things, they throw something new at you and you’re back to square one. Today we are talking about disciplining lying, how to handle a child who runs from confrontation, and bickering siblings. As Karen reminds us in this episode, children learn through repetition (and so do we!) so join us today and learn a few nuggets to help you out next time you’re stuck with a discipline issue.

Psst...don't forget to grab a copy of Karen's Prayer Journal while they're in stock!

WT 286: How Do I Lead My Kids Well When I'm So Overwhelmed? Oct 19, 2021

From chaos in your newsfeed to chaos in your living room...there's plenty to be overwhelmed by in a mom's world. Today we're talking about how to have hope in the midst of a depressing season, how to stay sane despite bickering kids, how to manage the overwhelm of 3 kids under 3, and how to keep your home from falling apart on top of it all.

Loads of grace and encouragement in this conversation, moms! It's a good one to share with a friend who may be feeling overwhelmed right now.

Don't forget to grab a copy of Karen's Prayer Journal while they're in stock!

WT 285: How Do I Handle Divisive Discussions with Friends and Family? Oct 12, 2021

Whether it’s an issue surrounding family choices, politics, or religion, it’s not easy to know when to speak up and when to let something go. Today Karen offers wisdom for moms facing difficult conversations, and reminds us that as Christ-followers we can find a way to maintain personal boundaries and also be peacemakers in this world.

Register TODAY for SURVIVE: A Retreat for Moms of Teens

WT 284: Worth the Fight with Karen and Abby Oct 05, 2021

Listen in as Karen and her youngest daughter, Abby, open up about the highs and lows their relationship has gone through over the years. From sweet preschool memories to going to counseling when Abby was in high school, this authentic conversation will encourage you to fight for your relationship with your child, no matter where it's at today. As Karen says, it's never too late to start building a bridge toward a better relationship with your child.

Register for SURVIVE: A Retreat for Moms of Teens

WT 283: Understanding Your Child's Temperament (Their "Color") Sep 28, 2021

We get more questions about how to parent according to your child's personality than anything else! In today's show, Karen and Sunny answer your questions about kids with each of the temperament colors. As always, Karen offers practical tips that will help you better understand your child TODAY!

WT 282: I Am At My Wit's End With My 4 Year Old! Sep 21, 2021

Any moms with a “4nager” listening out there? Have we got a show for you! Today, Karen offers advice for moms wondering what on earth to do about disrespectful back talk, defiant behavior, and non-stop talking from their sweet little four year olds. We also tackle a poop question and Karen reminds us that it’s sometimes smart to call in the big guns (aka the pediatrician!) Tune in and share with a friend who may be at their wit’s end with their little angel. :)

Shownotes at: birdsonawiremoms.com/podcast/episode282

WT 281: Addressing Issues At School Sep 14, 2021

If you have a school-age child, odds are good you’ve come up against one or more of the situations we’re talking about today. Whether it’s homework, teachers, relationships with classmates, or the behavior of your own child, knowing how to handle these issues can be tricky. Tune in today to hear Karen and Sunny’s advice for helping get school off to a great start this year!

Have a middle or high schooler in the house? Don't miss our SURVIVE retreat just for moms of teens. Join Karen (in person!!) in North Carolina in November to be equipped specifically for this season of life. boaw.mom/survive

WT 280: Marriage is Good, Hard Work Sep 07, 2021

Between Karen and Sunny, we've got 54 years of marital wisdom coming your way in this episode! In this episode, they tackle questions about helping your husband prepare to be a dad, dealing with extended family issues as a couple, how to handle disagreements about the number of children in your family, and we even talk about the "s" word (yep, submission).

Tune in and share with a friend who might need encouragement during a hard season in their marriage!

WT 279: Teaching Our Kids to Wait (Whether They Are Toddlers or Teens!) Aug 31, 2021

Learn to wait patiently is a life skill we all need to work on, but man, is it hard to teach to our kids! Today Karen and Sunny offer tips for helping your toddler wait at the doctor's office and practice patience when you're having an adult conversation as well as tips for teaching your teen to wait for a phone, or to begin dating.

As Karen says, it's always going to be easier to give in, but consistency will pay off in the long run as you work diligently to teach these skills!

WT 278: Addressing Conflict with Siblings and Friends Aug 24, 2021

Conflict is inevitable! As Sunny says, this is one of those episodes that applies to every family. Today, Karen tackles your questions about sibling conflict, a neighborhood cold war, toddlers who bite, and an only child who struggles to cope when she doesn't get her way.

Be sure to check our show notes for links to everything we talked about on the show! birdsonawiremoms.com/podcast/episode278

WT 277: Finding Your Back to School Rhythm Aug 17, 2021

Today we're answering your questions about all things back to school! How to set yourself up for success on crazy mornings, when to ask for help, and questions you can ask to find out how their day really went. We also commiserate with you about packing lunches and Karen and Sunny share their love for a good, old-fashioned school lunch.

Soar is THIS WEEKEND! Grab your ticket HERE and snag a group pass for $50 off using code BOAWGROUP.

WT 276: A Mother's Guide to Raising Herself with special guest Sarah Bragg Aug 10, 2021

Longtime podcaster and author Sarah Bragg joins us in The Nest to share a few lessons she’s learned about herself as she’s worked to raise her two daughters. We discuss how good and hard can run parallel to one another, why sometimes we have to say no to good things, and how to shut down the “shoulds” in our life and run our own race.

Sarah’s new book, A Mother’s Guide to Raising Herself is out soon, be sure to pre-order your copy today!

And check out episode 41 of Sarah's podcast featuring Karen.

WT 275: Go to Bed, Kids! Aug 03, 2021

Whether it’s going to sleep, staying asleep, or dealing with fears at bedtime, nighttime can become a battleground when young kids are in the home. Today Karen offers tips and practical advice for taking back your evenings and helping your children get the rest their little growing bodies desperately need!

Find links to everything mentioned on today's show at birdsonawiremoms.com/podcast/episode275

WT 274: Talking With Your Kids About Sex Jul 27, 2021

Whether your child is 7 or 17, talking with them about sex and sexuality is often a little bit awkward. Today Karen offer no-nonsense advice on how to approach these conversations without going too deep or avoiding the topic altogether. We cover periods, puberty, TV, and TMI today's show, so pop in your earbuds and join us for a good one! ;)

Find links to all our recommended resources in today's show notes.

WT 273: Are You Addicted to Your Phone, Mom? Jul 20, 2021

Our kids aren't the only ones who struggle with screen time, are they? Today Karen and Sunny commiserate about how easy it is to let our phones control how we spend our time and offer thoughts for cutting back and setting boundaries. We hope this show reminds you that you are not the only mom struggling here, and also encourages you to make some changes to your habits this week.

Don't miss out on this year's Soar conference! Register today and use coupon code BOAW21 for $10 off your ticket.

WT 272: Dealing With Your Anger Issues Jul 13, 2021

Whether you are dealing with your own anger or angry outbursts from a child or spouse, in this episode Karen and Sunny offer encouragement and practical strategies you can implement in your home today. From anger that explodes when your kids won't behave to anger that simmers under the surface from feeling unappreciated, today's conversation covers it all with biblical wisdom and practical nuggets to help you find hope moving forward. This is a great one to share with a friend or discuss in your women's group this week.

Psst! Grab a ticket to this year's Soar conference if you haven't already. Use coupon code BOAW21 for $10 off your ticket today!

WT 271: Fostering a Great Relationship with your Teenage Son Jul 06, 2021

A mom’s relationship with her son is by nature going to be different from her relationship with her daughter. Our boys usually pull away toward independence sooner than our girls and that’s okay! Today Karen shares her thoughts on maintaining your connection with older boys while still being the adult. We cover how to find common ground with your newly independent teen, what to do about disrespectful behavior, navigating a rebellious college student coming back home, and how to instill character in your boys all along the way. If you’re a girl mom, be sure to go back and listen to episode 265 where Karen shares all the wisdom on teenage daughters!

Don't miss out on this fall's SURVIVE retreat (just for moms of teens and pre-teens!) Register today.

WT 270: Managing Your Family's Schedule [RE-AIR] Jun 29, 2021

These days moms work more hours than ever and are usually the primary keepers of the family schedule. Grocery shopping, doctor's appointments, preparing dinner, driving carpool, buying birthday gifts, folding laundry and oh yeah, that little thing called work, too. We're often looking at our calendars and scratching our heads, wondering how we can control them instead of being controlled by them.

To round out our June 2021 of re-airs, we're bringing back this popular show where Karen and Sunny answer questions about routine, schedules and managing the busyness that accompanies family life. We hope you're encouraged by a tip to help calm the chaos and as always, reminded that you are not alone!

WT 269: How Do I Teach My Kids To Be Grateful? [RE-AIR] Jun 22, 2021

How many times have you coached your child to say, "thank you" during their younger years? Teaching a two year old to respond politely is one task, but teaching a 14 year old to be grateful for opportunities and possessions is entirely another! Today we're re-airing this popular episode answering your questions about instilling gratitude in a child's heart, whether they are toddlers or teens.

Show notes are at birdsonawiremoms.com/podcast/episode269

WT 268: Discontentment in Marriage [RE-AIR] Jun 15, 2021

We all walk down the aisle with hearts full of hope, but a few years and a kid or two down the road, we often discover marriage is more work than we thought it would be. Right after discipline, marriage is the topic we get the most questions about for Wire Talk. If you have a friend whose marriage could use a shot of encouragement, share this episode!

WT 267: Finding Your Purpose in Motherhood with Candace Cameron Bure [RE-AIR] Jun 08, 2021

We've got a fun one for you today moms! Today we're re-airing one of our favorite interviews of all time. Candace Cameron Bure, actress, wife, mom, and as she often points out, first and foremost, a follower of Jesus joins us in the studio to talk faith, career, and motherhood. We love Candace's words of encouragement for young mothers and think that wherever you are in your journey of motherhood, you'll benefit from the reminder in this conversation that our primary purpose in all that we do is to glorify God.

Love this conversation? Get more of Karen talking with moms on our Patreon podcast, Real Life Real Moms...become a Patreon member today!

WT 266: How Do We Survive the Chaos of the Toddler Years? [RE-AIR] Jun 01, 2021

During the month of June, Wire Talk is re-airing 5 of our most popular episodes from years past. We’re kicking off the month with a great one, all about toddlers! Moms are constantly asking, how can we survive the chaos and maybe even enjoy a little bit of these fleeting years? Today Sunny and Karen are addressing your questions and hopefully giving you hope that you CAN do this!

Love Wire Talk? Be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

WT 265: Fostering a Great Relationship with Your Teenage Daughter May 25, 2021

As your little girl turns the corner toward adulthood, your relationship dynamic will definitely start to change. Today Karen shares her thoughts on connecting with older daughters while still holding the line on boundaries and discipline. Don’t miss wisdom bombs, like, “listen before you lecture” and “you do not need to be your child’s best friend”. :) We hope this episode equips those of you navigating Tinder and tattoos while encouraging our toddler moms that you really can enjoy the teenage years. And stay tuned for an upcoming episode all about fostering a great relationship with your teenage son!

Save the Date for Survive: A Retreat for Moms of Teens

Are you a Wire Talk superfan? Leave us a review and help more moms find Wire Talk this week! Not sure how? Head HERE and scroll down for a step-by-step how to.

WT 264: Taking Your Family Values Outside the Home May 18, 2021

We all want kids with great character, but how do you help your kids take the lessons you are teaching them at home out into the real world? Today Karen is sharing the family values she and Greg tried to instill in their kids (and why they never had a family mission statement!) while answering questions about character issues at school and on the ball field.

Mentioned on today’s episode:

Wire Talk episode 125: How Do I Handle My Sweet Little Liar

Join our BOAW Moms FB group today!

WT 263: How Do I Teach My Child to Be a Good Friend? May 11, 2021

Whether it’s a friend’s bad behavior rubbing off on your child, or your child having trouble being a good friend, today Karen and Sunny are tackling your questions about friendship. As always, we hope this conversation encourages you right where you are, and gives you a practical tool (or two!) that you can put into practice with your kids today.

Mentioned on today’s episode:

WT 133: What Do I Do About Mean Girls?

Join our Patreon community, Real Life, Real Moms, today!

WT 262: How's Your Anxiety Level, Mom? with special guest Sissy Goff May 04, 2021

"We feel out of control and so the easiest place and most natural place to control when we feel fearful, even fearful for our kids, is to step in and control them."

Author and counselor Sissy Goff joins us today to talk about the rise in anxiety and depression among moms (and our kids!) in the past year. There is so much wisdom packed into this conversation, moms. Please listen and SHARE!

Need to hear more about anxiety in your kids? Listen to episode 191

Pick up a copy of Brave: A Teen Girl's Guide to Beating Worry and Anxiety today!

WT 261: Spiritual Disciplines for Mom Life: Practicing Sabbath Apr 27, 2021

Sabbath first appears in the story of creation and again in the 10 commandments, but what does Sabbath actually look like in a mom's world? Today pastor Shireen Eldridge joins Karen and Sunny to share how practicing Sabbath helps recalibrate our hearts to love God and love the people around us better. We also dive into the practical; what does Sabbath REALLY look like in a house with young kids? Join us for this encouraging conversation!

WT 260: Spiritual Disciplines for Moms: Community with Other Believers Apr 20, 2021

Gathering together this past year has been a complicated component of spiritual life for many of us. On today’s episode Karen and Sunny answer questions from moms weary of virtual church, about what to do when your kids hate going to church, and offer suggestions for gathering together with other moms during this unique season.

Resources from today’s episode:

Curious about starting a BOAW group? Head here.

Read about each of the BOAW mom studies HERE.

Parent Cue - more faith resources for kids

WT 259: Spiritual Disciplines for Moms: Pray Continually Apr 13, 2021

We're continuing this month's series on Spiritual Disciplines with a conversation about prayer today. Karen and Sunny address the tenderest questions from moms about how to pray when the words won't come, why Christians say the words, "In Jesus' name, Amen" at the end of prayers and what the purpose of prayer is. If your prayer life is feeling less than inspired lately, we hope this conversation is an encouragement to begin where you are.

P.S. That prayer journal Karen mentions? It's not available yet, but will be later this year. Be sure you're subscribed to our email list to know when it is released!

WT 258: Spiritual Disciplines for Moms: Studying God's Word Apr 06, 2021

All month long we are diving into spiritual disciplines of the Christian faith. We’ll be talking about studying God’s Word, prayer, intentional community with other believers and Sabbath.

Today we are kicking things off by answering your questions about studying the Word. Practically speaking, what does that look like with little kids (and little quiet) in your house? What resources do Karen and Sunny recommend and how can we lead our children well in this discipline? We hope this episode encourages you to start today, whenever you are, knowing that God sees you and has grace and understanding for the season of life that you are in.

Links from today’s episode:

Keep God’s encouragement close by with our Moments with God or Tips on Motherhood card sets.

Listen to our Spotify worship playlist on the go

Adventures in Odyssey

@kidsbiblestories

God’s Big Story podcast from The Village Church

Wild & Wacky and Totally True Bible Stories

A study Karen is currently doing: The Grave Robber by Mark Batterson

Sunny recommends: No Other Gods by Kelly Minter

The Bible Project (cartoon animations explaining major themes, events, stories in the Bible)

Become a Patron today!

Parenting Together study from Greg and Karen Stubbs

The Ark Encounter

The Action Bible (for ages 8+)

One Night with the King movie

WT 257: Fighting For Control With Your Strong-Willed (RED) Child Mar 30, 2021

Those strong-willed kiddos - phew! We know they'll be leaders one day, but what do we do TODAY when they won't listen or are constantly pushing back against us?

How do we establish our authority without crushing their spirits? How do we teach them to harness their innate confidence without being aggressive or coming across as a bully? We hope this conversation gives you a few tools to parent your headstrong children with confidence.

Don't know your kid's color? Take our quiz!

WT 256: Navigating a Family Move Mar 23, 2021

Both Karen and Sunny have moved A LOT in their lifetimes! In this episode, we’re answering questions about preparing your heart to move, staying in touch with friends and family who live far away, and helping your child navigate the difficulties that come with moving frequently.

Shownotes: birdsonawiremoms.com/podcast/episode256

Related Wire Talk episode:

Getting on the Same Page With Your Partner

WT 255: Organizing Your Life, One Day at a Time Mar 16, 2021

Today we are talking all things home management on Wire Talk. From splitting space in your home with a work-from-home spouse to organizing toys and rooms, we even talk about how to keep the kids from getting into your stuff! Karen is feeling fiesty today, so get ready for a little tough love.

Become a Patron today and gain instant access to our other podcast, Real Life Real Moms.

WT 254: What Do I Do When They Want to Eat...Again? Mar 09, 2021

How is it possible that we are always making food and yet our kids never seem to be full? Keeping our families fed is not for the faint of heart! Today Sunny and Karen are answering questions about feeding your people day in and day out. Tune in for practical tips about cooking with babies and toddlers underfoot as well as the one thing Greg did that made dinner prep at the Stubbs home so much easier.

Get the show notes: birdsonawiremoms.com/podcast/episode254

WT 253: The Only Child Family Mar 02, 2021

Recent census data has shown one-child families are the fastest growing family unit in the United States. But often times families with one child feel isolated by the culture of family and siblings around them. On today's show we are diving into questions from moms with one child. A big shout out goes to our mom of the month, Casey Cattell, who suggested this topic and helped us gather questions from moms of one! If you're not a mom of one, we'd love for you to listen to learn, and share with a friend.

WT 252: When Potty Training Isn't Working Feb 23, 2021

Any toddler moms out there at their wit’s end with potty training?! In our first-ever episode on this topic, Karen and Sunny are sharing encouragement and wisdom for all those moms spending a LOT of time in the bathroom these days. The bottom line? Your sanity is just as (and maybe even more) important as wearing big kid undies.

Want an extra dose of Karen in your podcast feed each month? Become a Patreon member today!

WT 251: Loving Your Rebellious Child Well Feb 16, 2021

Let's be honest moms, all of our children can be rebellious at times. And when your child is walking through a season of rebellion, sometimes it's really hard to "feel the love." On today's episode we're answering your questions on everything from toddlers who obey daddy but not mommy to lying to teenagers having sex. Yup, today we're running the full gamut. Pop in those earbuds and join us for this conversation - we hope you'll leave encouraged knowing you're not alone, momma!

WT 250: Loving Your Spouse Well Feb 09, 2021

‘Happily ever after’ requires a LOT of work when you’re raising kids, and we could all use some encouragement in this arena from time to time. So today, Karen and Sunny are leaning in to your questions about keeping your marriage in a healthy place. Whether it’s that the day-to-day logistics of life have snuffed out your romantic spark, or that there’s tension in your home around who should lead, Karen has a word of encouragement for you amidst it all.

Want more podcasts about marriage? Check out these episodes:

WT 148: Keeping The Spark Alive

WT 129: How Do I Re-Connect With My Spouse After Kids?

WT 146: Discontentment in Marriage

BONUS EPISODE: Real Life / Real Moms with Claire Stanfill Feb 05, 2021

SURPRISE! We wanted you to overhear a conversation between me and my good friend Claire Stanfill, which we recorded together last spring as episode 5 of our other podcast Real Life / Real Moms, which is available exclusively on Patreon.

Patreon is a way for you to support podcasts you love so we can make bonus content for our best supporters. Become a Family Level Patron $10 per month (or $114 / year if you pay annually). Your support sustains our non-profit ministry and has kept Wire Talk ad-free for all 249 episodes now. This $10 / month level also gets you companion journaling pages for self-reflection, and (my favorite!) quarterly Zoom Q&A sessions with a very small group.

We couldn’t do this without your support and we are grateful for each one of you! // Sign up at PATREON.COM/BOAW

WT 249: Mother & Missionary: An Interview with Betty Loudermilk Feb 02, 2021

In the wake of World War II, a young college graduate decided to answer God's call on her heart to share the Gospel in Japan. Today, 90 year old Betty Loudermilk joins Sunny and Karen in the studio to share stories from her 50+ years of ministry in Japan.

Over the years, Betty placed more than 250 children with their forever families and adopted 15 children as a single woman herself! Don't miss Betty sharing the word God spoke to her heart when she felt overwhelmed by His calling (skip to 20:00 if you are in a hurry). This is one powerful story of provision and encouragement mamas! Enjoy.

WT 248: Why Can't My Kids Play Nicely? Jan 26, 2021

From team sports to bedroom boundaries, your questions in this episode concern the problems we face when our kids refuse to play nicely. Get ready for some practical tips as always and a little bit of tough love from Karen: remember that your children aren't Instant Pots and some of this stuff is going to take time!

Love Wire Talk? Leave us an iTunes review and help spread the love!

Want more episodes like this one?

WT 120: When Multiple Personalities Collide

WT 151: Sibling Rivalry

WT 247: Quality Time with Teenagers Jan 19, 2021

Parenting teenagers means late nights, empty pantry shelves and more than a few tricky situations. Today Karen and Sunny answer your questions about getting quality time with your teen…plus, Karen shares her secrets to having the “cool” hang out house.

Mentioned on the show:

BOAW Colors Personality Test

WT 246: Building Character in our Daughters Jan 12, 2021

From absorbing bad behavior from TV and social media to making good friends - on today's episode Karen is answering your questions about dealing with character issues in your daughters and showing us simple ways to point our girls to Christ in every season.

Don't have a daughter? Listen to these episodes all about boys:

WT 181: Building Character in Your Son with Taylor Stubbs

WT 109: Raising Older Boys

WT 108: Raising Little Boys

WT 245: A New Year's Pep Talk from Karen Jan 05, 2021

It's the first full week of 2021 and we are more than ready. Today Karen and Sunny are chatting about how they do (and don't do) goal setting, if they have any resolutions to kick off the new year right, and what's in store this year for Birds on a Wire. Whether you've already got your word of the year emblazoned across your annual planner, or you're tip toeing quietly into 2021 just hoping to catch a break, join us as we ring in the New Year at Wire Talk!

WT 244: Behind the Mic on Wire Talk Dec 29, 2020

Wire Talk's producer, Katie @Leipprandt, joins Karen and Sunny in the studio for this episode to talk about all things Wire Talk. We discuss how the BOAW team decides on episode topics, which questions we answer, and what's coming up in 2021 for the show. Join us as we say, "Peace out!" to 2020 and welcome a fresh New Year in together.

Got questions for Karen and Sunny? Send them in to info@birdsonawiremoms.com and use the subject line "Wire Talk questions" - we'd love to answer your question on the show!

WT 243: He Is Worthy of Our Praise Dec 22, 2020

Karen is reading from her Moments with God devotional again today, reminding us to set our minds and our hearts rightly on God. As we celebrate Christmas with our family and hopefully get some much needed rest this week, let's take a moment out of each day to declare His praises and give Him honor.

Moments with God for Moms is available from Amazon HERE.

WT 242: Does Worrying Add A Single Hour To Your Life? Dec 15, 2020

We know you're running hard toward Christmas this week and today's episode is intended to give you a minute of peace. Listen as Karen reads from her devotional and reminds us to place our weary souls into God's very capable hands. We love you mommas!

Find Karen's devotional HERE.

WT 241: Navigating Christmas as a Christian, Part 2 Dec 08, 2020

We’re talking all things Santa Claus on today’s episode! From how to handle the conversation when your kids ask if Santa is real, to making a decision to not start the Santa tradition at all, Karen shares her thoughts on walking that line this Christmas. However your family chooses to celebrate, Karen reminds us to stand firm and be confident in our choices - something we can never hear enough!

WT 240: Navigating Christmas as a Christian, Part 1 Dec 01, 2020

As believers, how do we navigate the hustle and bustle of the holiday season while keeping our eyes focused on the reason we celebrate Christmas in the first place? In part one of this series, Karen answers your questions about how to celebrate in a season when your church doors may be closed, how to prevent overwhelm as a single mom and of course, how to navigate gift giving.

WT 239: Boundaries with Friends & Family Nov 24, 2020

Navigating the differences between our needs and desires and those of our family and friends is tricky. On today's episode Karen answers questions about vacationing with family, teen dating, excessive gift giving (hello grandparents!) and being married to an extrovert when you're 100% an introvert! You're sure to find a practical nugget in this conversation that will provide wisdom for your world.

WT 238: Can You Help Me Handle Our Clashing Personality Colors? Nov 17, 2020

Is there a recurring conflict in your home because your personality color is clashing with your child's? Tune in today to hear Karen's thoughts on the exhausting yellow kids, defiant red kids, and lethargic green kids who have their moms wondering how to cope.

Mentioned on today's episode:

Colors Personality Quiz
smile.amazon.com
Mom Core- Being a Student of your Child
Personality Plus for Parents by Florence Littauer
Boundaries by Henry Cloud and John Townsend
2020 Soar Together bonus session with Dr Henry Cloud
BOAW Moms Facebook group

WT 237: Why Is Dinner Time The Worst? Nov 10, 2020

From toddlers flinging food off high chair trays to siblings bickering during the blessing, dinner time is rife with opportunities for stress isn't it? Listen in as Karen tackles questions from moms tired of the chaos on today's episode and helps us survive meal time with her tips!

Continue the conversation with us over in our private BOAW Moms Facebook group, where moms ask and answer questions with grace and humility all week long.

WT 236: Managing the Needs of Multiple Children Nov 03, 2020

No matter the number of kids under your roof, managing the needs of your children isn’t easy! On today’s show we are answering questions from moms who are struggling with the revolving door of need that comes with having multiple children in the house.

WT 235: Building Your Own Family Traditions Oct 27, 2020

This year the holidays might look a little different than years’ past. Managing all of the expectations (yours, your family’s, your in-laws…) can be overwhelming as a mom, so today Karen shares her thoughts on making traditions that work for you and your tribe, while letting go of all the things that truly don’t matter.

WT 234: Talking To Your Kids About Race with Alexandra Bates Oct 20, 2020

We are excited to release this much-anticipated conversation about race with friend of BOAW, Alexandra Bates. Last spring, when Alex discovered resources for talking to her daughters about race were lacking, she reached out to Karen and initiated a conversation. Their ensuing relationship has been enlightening for Karen, who wanted to share Alex's point of view and experience with the wider BOAW community. Alex shares her thoughts on racism and how we as moms can teach our children to love those from different races and backgrounds through the behavior we model.

WT 233: Mental Health and Motherhood with Wendi Nunnery Oct 13, 2020

Today’s conversation with author Wendi Nunnery drips with wisdom and grace as she shares her journey with mental health, the church, and motherhood. From growing up in a legalistic church culture to being diagnosed with OCD after becoming a mother, Wendi shares how her brokenness has driven her to Jesus and how she finds rest in His holiness. This is a good one mamas, be sure to share it with a friend who needs to be encouraged today. You can pre-order Wendi’s new book, Good Enough: Letting Go of Perfect for the Sake of Holy over on Amazon or enter our giveaway for a free copy over on Instagram.

WT 232: The Story of Soar Oct 06, 2020

Have you heard about the Soar Conference for years but never been able to attend? Listen in as Karen shares the story of God putting a vision for Soar in her heart almost a decade ago and how this conference has evolved since it began in 2015. We hope you're encouraged to set aside the time and financial resources to make attending a priority this year, because for the first time ever - location and time are not limiting factors! You can Soar Together from wherever you are, whenever you want to this fall.

Find out more at: boaw.mom/soar

WT 231: Loving Your (Actual) Neighbor Sep 29, 2020

God did not create us to live this life alone, He created us for community! And if nothing else, 2020 has taught us just how important community really is. On today's episode Karen and Sunny share your ideas and chat about the simple ways we can love on our actual neighbors even during these pandemic times.

Don't forget about gathering a group to Soar Together this year! Gather 9 moms in addition to yourself and you can snag our group pricing. Check it out at boaw.mom/soar

WT 230: Moms and Military Life Sep 22, 2020

Today Karen is answering questions from moms about military life. Whether it's a mom facing deployment, a child struggling with the frequent moves that are the norm in the military, or a mom fearful about her child's interest in joining the military, there's something you can relate to in this conversation. If you’re not a military family, listen and learn about the issues our military families face. And if you have mom friends in the military - share this episode with them so they can be encouraged!

Moms - don't wait another day to sign up for Soar Together! Tuesday, Sept. 22 is the last day for early bird pricing!

WT 229: Taking Care of Yourself During Crazy Seasons Sep 15, 2020

2020 has been a crazy season in and of itself! How well are you taking care of yourself, momma? From big things like feeling lonely and isolated to little things like how to manage chaos in the car - today Karen answers questions from moms who need a little TLC. Listen and be encouraged!

Don't forget to snag an Early Bird ticket for Soar Together before the price goes up! Watch together with friends on October 17 or watch ANY TIME after that date for six weeks. Learn more HERE.

WT 228: Time Management for Mom Life Sep 08, 2020

From how to sneak in time with God when your kids are home all the time to managing a move and a new baby with a spouse who has a demanding job, today’s questions are from moms struggling to manage their own needs alongside the needs of their household and their kids. Exhale deeply as you hear Karen and Sunny encourage these mamas to give themselves grace in these seasons and lower the imaginary bar you have set for yourself.

Register NOW for Soar Together on October 17th!

WT 227: The Messy Middle School Years Sep 01, 2020

These are the ‘no-man’s land’ years mommas, when our kids are caught in between childhood and adolescence. They are all insecure and they are all searching for their identity. Listen in today for some big picture thoughts about middle school in general as well as the practical answers you can always expect from Karen.

Want more Karen in your earbuds? Become a Patron today and get access to our monthly show, Real Life Real Moms plus intimate Q&A sessions with Karen!

WT 226: Allowance, Budgets, and Teaching Our Kids Financial Responsibility Aug 25, 2020

Giving our kids a firm footing when it comes to financial habits is one the most helpful things we can teach as parents. Listen in to today’s show as Karen shares about her struggle with being on a budget early in her marriage and the lessons she and Greg have taught their kids over the years. Hear how they handled talking about finances in their family, what they taught their kids about money, and how they still budget to this day!

Visit our show notes for links to everything we talked about in today's episode.

Want more Karen in your life? Become a Patron today and get an extra monthly episode and access to intimate Q&A sessions!

WT 225: Letting Go of Unrealistic Expectations Aug 18, 2020

Have you ever walked into a situation with certain expectations and been disappointed when they weren't met? Today Karen shares how expectations can set our relationships up for failure. She defines the difference between desires and expectations and offers several tools for helping change expectations (for our children's faith, our marriage, our kids behavior) into desires so we can experience peace in our daily lives.

Visit our website for links to everything Karen mentioned on today's episode.

WT 224: What Do New Homeschoolers Need to Know? with Katie Leipprandt Aug 11, 2020

Today we’re answering questions from those of you who’ve decided to homeschool your kids for the first time this year. From how to choose a curriculum to managing the needs of toddlers and school-age kids at the same time, Wire Talk’s producer, Katie Leipprandt, shares her insights and experience from homeschooling her four children for the past 6 years. Whatever your school situation looks like this year, we hope this episode reminds you that in spite of imperfect circumstances, God will equip you with everything you need.

Head HERE for links to everything mentioned in today's episode!

WT 223: How Do I Prepare My Child For Puberty? Aug 04, 2020

Preparing our kids for puberty and sex does not have to intimidate us, mommas! If the thought of having “the talk” gives you all kinds of anxiety, tune into today’s episode to hear some straight talk from Karen. In this episode we cover talking about sex, modesty, and the physical changes our kids will be going through. As usual, Karen reminds us moms that we may not be perfect, but we are the perfect parent for our child!

WT 222: How Do I Discipline My Toddler's Defiance? Jul 28, 2020

Disciplining a toddler is no joke. As moms, we want our discipline to work the first time and every time, but as Karen reminds us, toddlers take time. If you need some encouragement to stay the course with your toddler, tune in today and take heart!

WT 221: How Do I Handle the Anxiety Surrounding Back to School This Year? Jul 21, 2020

Plans for school this year are changing daily in school districts around our nation. One thing we know for sure this year? We have no idea what to expect! That’s why we brought Dr. Chinwé Williams into the studio today, to ask for her thoughts both as a therapist and as a mom, about how we can handle our own anxiety surrounding going back to school and how we can help our children navigate these strange days.

WT 220: Help! A Summer Without Normal Activities Has Us At Each Other's Throats Jul 14, 2020

By this point in the year, it seems like everyone has had more than enough ‘quantity time’ with our families…but summer is still going strong! Today on Wire Talk Sunny and Karen answer questions from moms whose families are getting a little edgy from all of the time spent together. From how to give some structure to your summer days to how to teach your children boundaries, Karen shares wisdom on keeping your sanity as a family during this unusual summer.

Love Wire Talk? Double tap the Subscribe button so you never miss an episode!

WT 219: Inviting Play Into Your Everyday featuring Days with Grey Jul 07, 2020

Beth Rosenbleeth of Days with Grey joins Karen and Sunny today to talk about keeping your toddlers engaged in play during these long summer days. If you've ever found yourself wishing for nap time by 9am, this is the episode for you! Hear Beth share her philosophy and practical tips for beginning your morning with intention, so you can fill your child's creative bucket and lead them toward independent play for the rest of the day.

WT 218: [RE-AIR] Little Miss Sunshine: Parenting Your Yellow Child Jun 30, 2020

Today wraps up a month of diving into the vault to re-air some of our most popular episodes. In this episode, Karen and Sunny are answering all of of your questions about "yellow" kids. Yellows are bubbly, affectionate, fun loving...and they can be exhausting! If you've ever wished your child would just stop talking, this is an episode you don't want to skip.

Wondering what color your child is? Try taking our temperament quiz with them in mind: birdsonawiremoms.com/quiz.

WT 217: [RE-AIR] Help! My Blue Kid is Making Me Melancholy Jun 23, 2020

All month long, we're re-airing some of the most downloaded episodes from the Wire Talk vault:

Today Karen and Sunny address questions from listeners all about the blue, or melancholy, temperament. Organized, thoughtful, loyal, precise - our blues have so many strengths! From how to balance their need for quiet with your family's activities to addressing their mood swings without catering to them, this is one episode packed with practical advice for all you moms of little Eeyores!

WT 216: [RE-AIR] Gaining Understanding of Our Green Children Jun 16, 2020

All month long we're re-airing some of the most downloaded episodes from the Wire Talk vault:

Peaceful, easy-going, conflict avoiders...however you describe them, to a parent who doesn't understand their motivations, "green" kids can be a mystery. Today Karen and Sunny discuss teaching our greens to take responsibility for themselves and how we can help them handle the pressures that come along with high school. If there's a green in your life, we think you'll learn something new when you tune in.

WT 215: [RE-AIR] Parenting Your Red Strong-Willed Child Jun 09, 2020

All month long we're re-airing some of the most downloaded episodes from the Wire Talk vault!

On Wire Talk today Karen and Sunny take questions about your little future president; how do we effectively discipline them? How do we establish our authority without crushing their spirits? How do we teach them to harness their innate confidence without being aggressive or coming across as a bully? We hope this conversation gives you practical tools today to parent your headstrong child with confidence.

WT 214: [RE-AIR] Navigating the Emotional World of Kids with special guest David Thomas Jun 02, 2020

All month long we're re-airing some of the most downloaded episodes from the Wire Talk vault. In today's interview Sunny is joined by one of our most popular guests, child psychologist David Thomas. During their conversation David addresses your questions about the emotional needs of our kids.

Sunny and David cover when to lean in and when to back off, how to discern what is hormones and what is normal behavior and David gives loads of practical tips to help you navigate the outbursts. Whether you're dealing with anger, sadness, anxiety or frustration in your kids, we think you'll hear something today that equips you to respond with grace.

Love this episode? Double tap subscribe so you never miss an episode of Wire Talk!

WT 213: How Do I Stop the Whining?! May 26, 2020

Today’s topic is one all moms can relate to - whiny kids! Whether your child is 4 or 14, listen as Karen answers your questions about how to handle whininess in the moment and how to nip it in the bud for good.

Can't get enough of Karen? Become a Patron today and gain access to our monthly podcast, Real Life Real Moms!

WT 212: Quarantine Talk with Kelsey, Emily and Abby May 19, 2020

The Stubbs girls got together for this special episode to discuss the way quarantine has changed daily life. From job losses and pregnancy to missing out on the end of her senior year of college and travel opportunities, the girls share the challenges they are still walking through and what God is teaching them in this season.

Love Wire Talk? Double tap that subscribe button so you never miss an episode!

WT 211: Being United in Marriage with Greg and Karen Stubbs May 12, 2020

In this episode, we’re sharing exclusive audio from a live event featuring both Karen and her husband, Greg. Listen in as they teach on the topic of staying united as a couple and share a few tools you can use today to communicate better in your marriage.

Love this episode? Share it with your spouse! Our full curriculum for married parents, Parenting Together, is available for digital download on our site.

WT 210: Parenting and the Enneagram with Beth McCord May 05, 2020

Beth McCord (@YourEnneagramCoach) joins Karen and Sunny today to dive into the popular personality typing system, the Enneagram. We loved hearing Beth’s perspective on what makes the Enneagram such an effective tool for understanding ourselves and learning how we can use that knowledge to empower our parenting. Be sure to check out the show notes for links to the many resources Beth shares!

WT 209: How Do I Battle Mom Exhaustion? Apr 28, 2020

From getting up in the middle of the night with babies to staying up until the wee hours because your teen wants to talk late at night, this mom-gig is literally 24/7. On today’s episode we cover sleep regression, Saturday morning tussles over who has to get up with the kids, and dealing with parenting solo when your spouse travels. Sunny and Karen answer your questions and offer tips so you can be there for your kids, no matter what time of day it is. And don’t miss Karen sharing a prayer prayed over her many years ago that still brings peace whenever Greg is away to this day.

If you want more Karen in your earbuds, sign up today to become a Patreon supporter! Receive a new episode of our Real Life, Real Moms podcast each month as well as gain access to intimate Q&As with Karen and other fun surprises!

WT 208: ADHD and Your Family with Dr. Staci Bolton, Part Two Apr 21, 2020

We’re back this week with a continuation of this fantastic conversation about ADHD with Dr. Staci Bolton. Today Dr. Bolton answers your questions about treatment alternatives to medication, how to help your teen develop stronger executive functioning skills, and how to discipline when ADHD is a factor. Don’t miss Dr. Bolton talking about how girls with ADHD Inattentive often fall through the cracks.

Loving Wire Talk? Double tap that subscribe button so you never miss an episode!

WT 207: ADHD and Your Family with Dr. Staci Bolton: Part One Apr 14, 2020

Today Karen and Sunny ask clinical psychologist Dr. Staci Bolton your questions all about raising a child with ADHD. Dr. Bolton brings years of wisdom and expertise to this conversation, including her take on the difference between ADHD and a typically developing active child in the early years, the misdiagnosis of ADHD, and practical strategies for families dealing with the difficult dynamics ADHD can introduce into sibling and parent relationships. This conversation was so rich, we've split it into 2 episodes so you have time to digest all of the information Dr. Bolton shares.

Loving Wire Talk? Leave us a review and be sure you're subscribed so you don't miss Part 2 of this conversation!

WT 206: Life in the Time of COVID-19 Apr 07, 2020

Karen and Sunny gathered virtually this week to talk about how COVID-19 has changed life for us all this month. They talk about the highs and lows, from having more meals together as a family, to feeling overwhelmed by the kids' questions all day long. Stay tuned til the end to hear Karen's encouraging word for us from the book of Job.

We would love to be praying for you specifically during this time, you can share any prayer requests with us on our Facebook page, our staff prays over each one of those!

WT 205: The Bottom Line With Adult Children Mar 31, 2020

Today's episode should give us all hope. Moms, this is what we are all aiming for - the stage when we finally get to be our child's friend! As your child begins to stand on their own two feet, help maintain a great relationship with them by tucking away the tips Karen shares during this rich discussion.

If you have enjoyed this series on Wire Talk, make sure you are subscribed and share it with a friend!

And if you want more Karen in your life, become a member of our Patreon community for exclusive episodes each month and intimate Q&A sessions with Karen!

WT 204: The Bottom Line During High School Mar 24, 2020

Wherever you are on your journey of motherhood, don't miss hearing Karen's perspective on the high school years! The more you learn early on, the better off you'll be when you do get to those high school years.

This season is all about gradually letting go of control so your child can leave your nest prepared for the wider world. Hear Karen's tips about helping your child earn trust, about the importance of letting them fail, and don't miss the one thing Karen says moms absolutely must not do during high school.

Love Wire Talk? Subscribe so you never miss an episode. Find links to all the resources mentioned on today's show in our show notes.

WT 203: The Bottom Line During the Middle School Years Mar 17, 2020

Today on Wire Talk Karen and Sunny are talking middle schoolers. These middle school years are when your child is trying desperately to figure out who they are. If you only take one thing away from this conversation, that’s the thing I hope you remember! Middle school is a time of transition and it’s a time when as moms, we need to lean in and pay attention to who they ARE, not who we want them to be.

WT 202: The Bottom Line During Elementary School Mar 10, 2020

These are crucial teaching years. Like we talked about last week, hopefully by elementary school you’ve laid the foundation with your child that you are the authority they need to obey. Now is the time to your child teach the 'why' behind the 'what'. Use Scripture and use real life stories to teach your child the principles of how life works. This is the age when you need to help them begin to take responsibility for themselves.

Love Karen and want more each month? Become a Patron today and automatically get an episode of Real Life. Real Moms. each month!

WT 201: The Bottom Line From Age 0-5 Mar 03, 2020

So many times in parenting we get caught up in the weeds with our kids and we can’t see the forest for the trees. This series is a way to help moms pause for just a moment, and look at the big picture. During our month long Bottom Line series, Karen and Sunny are tackling 5 different stages of life for our kid and sharing wisdom for what we moms need to keep our focus on during those years. Today we’re talking all about the early years, where you need to keep your focus ages 0-5.

Love Wire Talk? Share this episode with a friend!

And if you can't get enough of Karen, become a Patron today to receive our brand-new podcast, Real Life. Real Moms.

WT 200: Real Life. Real Moms. with Sunny Williams Feb 25, 2020

Today we're celebrating 200 episodes of Wire Talk by flipping the script on our typical show! Listen in as Karen interviews Sunny - Real Life. Real Moms. style - about her journey of motherhood; what has been challenging, what she is loving, and how God has grown her faith in this season of her life.

Become a Patron today and automatically get a Real Life. Real Moms. episode each month!

WT 199: When Personality Colors Collide Feb 18, 2020

Opposites may attract, but when it comes to parenting your kids, how do you parent effectively as a team when your partner’s personality is the exact opposite of yours? On today’s show Karen answers questions from moms about their husband’s red, blue, green, or yellow personality clashing with their own.

Find out what 'color' you are with our free quiz.

The next episode of our Patreon podcast Real Life. Real Moms. releases this week. Don't miss it! Become a Patron today.

WT 198: Dealing With Out of Control Anger Feb 11, 2020

Whether it’s you or your child struggling with angry outbursts, we’ve all been there. On today’s show, Karen and Sunny tackle questions from moms about aggressive behavior and physical tantrums, and Karen reminds us where self control ultimately comes from.

Listen to our new show, Real Life. Real Moms. now available exclusively in Patreon!

WT 197: Making Deposits In Your Marriage With Creative Date Nights Feb 04, 2020

If you think of your marriage like a bank account, when was the last time you made a deposit? During the years your kids are at home it’s easy to get in the habit of constantly making withdrawals and forgetting to “put money in the bank”. On today’s episode, Karen and Sunny are sharing date night ideas that are sure to improve your balance. We’ve got stay-at-home date ideas, creative childcare solutions, and outside-the-box date night activities. Pick something new to try this month and let us know how it goes!

Become a Patreon supporter today and get access to our brand-new podcast, Real Life. Real Moms. today!

WT 196: Setting Boundaries and Sticking to Them Jan 28, 2020

Setting boundaries can be uncomfortable, whether you are trying to take control of your schedule, your toddler, or any other area of life. Listen in as Karen and Sunny answer questions from moms in our Facebook group about healthy, biblical boundaries and saying “no” without guilt!

Head to birdsonawiremoms.com/podcast/episode196 for links to all of the resources mentioned on today's show.

And thank you to our newest Patrons: Mollie, Jessica V., Rachel, Allison, Ashley, Mariah, Lynn, Paula, Jessica B., Alice, Catherine, Sonia, Natalie, Amber, Jessica R., Halli, Mary Ellen, Caylin, Dana, Melissa, Robin, Brittany, Meghan, Valerie, Alicia, Julie, Nicolette, Rodnie, Abby, Bethany, Renee, Maggie, Laura, Cooper, Audrey, Candice, and Rachel P.

Become a Wire Talk Patron today!

Sneak Peek: Real Life Real Moms with Kelsey & Emily Jan 23, 2020

Our first episode of Real Life Real Moms is coming soon and features Karen's daughters Kelsey and Emily. Listen in for a sneak peek of their conversation and to hear Karen explain what our new show is all about.

Become a Patron today to get the whole episode as soon as it's released.

And a big thank you to Patrons Katie, Fernanda, Alison, Cara, Kareen and Brittany for your early support!

WT 195: How To Talk To Your Kids About Pornography with special guest Kristen Jenson Jan 21, 2020

Until our society makes the internet safe for kids, parents must be proactive in teaching what pornography is, why it’s dangerous and exactly how to reject it. Today Karen and Sunny talk with Kristen Jenson, author of Good Pictures, Bad Pictures about porn-proofing our kids. We discuss age-appropriate definitions of pornography, how to talk about it with our kids, and how to help our kids form a plan for what to do when they see it.

Warning: this topic is not for young ears, moms. Pop in those earbuds before you start listening!

Find links to everything mentioned on today's show HERE.

Become a Patreon supporter of BOAW HERE.

WT 194: How Do I Handle This Conflict With My Mother or Mother-In-Law? Jan 14, 2020

Whether you wish you had a closer relationship with your in-laws, are dealing with a broken relationship with a parent, or your relationship is a little too close (and not in a good way) with the grandparents, we think you’ll relate to one of the questions Karen tackles on today’s show. Don’t miss Karen walking us through how we can forgive someone who does not deserve our forgiveness or her surprising (to Sunny) take on one momma’s situation. You’ll especially want to her perspective as a grandmother herself to the very last question!

Check out today's show notes for all the links from this episode.

If you love Wire Talk, share this episode with a friend or double tap that subscribe button. And it really does make a difference for us when you leave a review in iTunes!

WT 193: Saying Yes to Community with Maria Shanlian Jan 07, 2020

On today’s episode, Maria Shanlian from the Birds on a Wire group in Wayne County, OH joins Karen and Sunny to share what happened in her community when she and a friend said yes to God’s prompting to pour into the moms in their community. Maria shares the hesitations they had, how God confirmed this calling, and how they went from 35 moms to more than 125 moms in just two years.

We think what’s going on in Wayne County is inspiring and we are praying hearts are stirred by this conversation!

For more on starting a BOAW group in your community, visit birdsonawiremoms.com/groups

WT 192: Finding Rest in Busy Seasons Dec 17, 2019

Prioritizing rest is hard to do throughout the year, and for moms, it can be especially difficult during the holiday season. We're going all of the places and doing all of the things, all of the time! On today’s show Karen answers questions from moms about making room in their schedules, their hearts, and in their cars, for rest this season. Whether you’re a single mom, a new mom, or just a mom of non-stop talkers, listen in and be encouraged to find rest even in the busiest of seasons.

To help fund Birds on a Wire for 2020, head to boaw.mom/give today. And thank you for joining us in our mission to equip and encourage mothers around the world.

WT 191: Raising Worry-Free Girls with Sissy Goff Dec 10, 2019

Author and counselor Sissy Goff joins Karen and Sunny in the studio today to talk about the rise of anxiety in our daughters. Sissy shares how anxiety presents in girls, the power there is in naming anxious thoughts, and offers strategies we can put in place to help our daughters cope with their “worry monster” in healthy ways. Plus, she gives a little tough love to moms by suggesting a few ways we may be contributing to our daughters’ struggles without knowing it. While this conversation is specific to girls, boy moms, there is a ton of wisdom in this episode for you as well!

Share this show link with a friend who may need to hear Sissy's wisdom today!

if you're a regular around Birds, would you give today to help us reach more moms in 2020? Birds on a Wire is a 501(c)3, so any donation is tax-deductible!

WT 190: When Bedtime Becomes A Problem Dec 03, 2019

Why does bedtime have to come at the end of the day when we’re already exhausted? All of us know what it’s like to look forward to getting our little ones down, only to be called back to their rooms again and again or woken up in the middle of the night by a scared little one. If you’re in the middle of a rough sleep season, listen in and be encouraged, you are not alone! We hope Karen’s wisdom equips you to handle the bedtime routine with confidence this evening!

Enjoying Wire Talk? Push that subscribe button in your podcast app so you never miss an episode!

And if you're a Wire Talk regular, we'd love to have your support as we work toward funding the Birds on a Wire ministry for 2020. Click here to give today.

WT 189: We Need An Attitude Adjustment Over Here! Nov 26, 2019

Whether it’s a clash over chores, homework, or just a difference of personality, our kids’ attitudes can bring us down in a heartbeat. Listen for Karen’s wisdom on how to handle attitude explosions, how to celebrate and not fight your kids’ wiring, and how to set healthy boundaries so their emotions don’t suck you in!

Check out today's show notes for links to all the books and resources Karen mentions in this episode.

Will you partner with Birds on a Wire to help us grow in 2020? Click here today!

WT 188: Getting on the Same Page With Your Partner Nov 19, 2019

Learning to do life alongside a spouse is a constantly evolving process. Similar to being a student of your child, we have to work to understand and connect with our partners, even after decades of marriage! In this episode, Karen tackles your questions about communication, what to do when you’re at an impasse with your husband, and of course, sex! Enjoy mommas!

Check out today's show notes for all the links from this episode.

Will you partner with Birds on a Wire to help us grow in 2020? Click here today!

WT 187: What If What I'm Doing Isn't Working? Nov 12, 2019

Whether it’s outbursts of your own anger, temper tantrums from your 5 year old, or the overwhelm that comes from working full time as a new mom…we all know what it’s like to feel defeated from day to day in motherhood. On today’s show Karen answers questions about what to do when it seems like nothing you’ve done has worked. Listen in, be encouraged, and as always, remember that you are a GREAT mom!

Check out today's show notes for all the links from this episode.

If you love Wire Talk, share this episode with a friend or double tap that subscribe button! And it really does make a difference for us when you leave a review in iTunes. :)

WT 186: Walking By Faith Nov 05, 2019

From losing a parent and co-parenting with a wayward ex, to dealing with disappointment and silence from God - today we are talking about the role faith plays in our lives when things are not easy. Don’t miss Karen sharing stories she’s never told before about experiencing God’s voice throughout her life, including the story of God telling her to start this ministry. We hope today’s show leaves you encouraged to seek God and run after his will regardless of the circumstances of your life.

Check out today's show notes for all the links from this episode, including two powerful news articles from 1996 detailing Greg's mid air collision.

If you love Wire Talk, share this episode with a friend or double tap that subscribe button! And it really does make a difference when you leave a review in iTunes, so share some love with us today. :)

WT 185: Communicating with Elementary Aged Kids Oct 29, 2019

Whether you're trying to understand what is actually happening during their school day, or struggling with an issue at home, today Karen answers your questions and shares wisdom on how to communicate so our school-age kids hear and understand us. Don't miss a short list of alternative questions to ask besides, "how was your day?" and Karen's approach to dealing with sibling jealousy. As always, we hope this conversation encourages you and gives you a practical nugget to carry into your mom world today.

If you love Wire Talk, double tap that subscribe button. And it really does make a difference when you leave a review in iTunes, so share some love with Wire Talk today!

WT 184: Speaking Your Child's Love Language: Part Three Oct 22, 2019

We're back today with the last installment in our Love Languages mini-series. Acts of service and physical touch are the final languages we're covering as we answer your questions and Karen gives loads of practical tips. If you're just tuning in, be sure to catch up with episodes 182 and 183 in this series!

Check out today's show notes for links to everything we talked about and if you love Wire Talk, subscribe and leave us a review in iTunes!

WT 183: Speaking Your Child's Love Language: Part Two Oct 15, 2019

We're back with part two of our conversation on the five love languages today. In this episode, we're taking a look at Quality Time and Gifts. Karen defines what it means to speak these languages to your kids and answers your questions like, "how much quality time is enough?" and "how do I deal with sibling jealousy when I give gifts to one child?"

Check out our show notes for links to everything we talked about on today's episode. And if you love Wire Talk, subscribe and leave us a review in iTunes!

WT 182: Speaking Your Child's Love Language: Part One Oct 08, 2019

We're kicking off a brand-new series today with Part One of a three-part conversation all about the five love languages. You'll get a birds-eye view (no pun intended) of what the five languages are, and then we'll deep dive into Words of Affirmation. As always, Karen gives loads of practical phrases you can start using this week, and even shares how the love languages still help her love her adult children well today.

Mentioned on the show:

Leave us some Words of Affirmation with an iTunes review!

Karen’s Lunch Box Notes

The Five Love Languages of Children by Gary Chapman

Video lesson: Being A Student of your Child from Mom Core

Subscribe to Karen's Tips on Motherhood email newsletter for more wisdom in your inbox each week.

Like what you heard? Help other moms find Wire Talk by double tapping that subscribe button. :)

WT 181: Building Character in Your Son with Taylor Stubbs Oct 01, 2019

Karen’s son Taylor joins her in the studio today for a conversation about his years growing up in the Stubbs household. He reflects on some of the ways Karen and Greg instilled character in him across the years and the one family habit that stands out in his mind as character-building. He also shares a recent story of personal failure, and how the lessons he was taught as a boy gave him resilience to get back up again as a man.

Mentioned on the show:

Colors Personality Quiz

Subscribe to Karen's Tips on Motherhood email newsletter for more wisdom in your inbox each week.

Like what you heard? Help other moms find Wire Talk by double tapping that subscribe button and leaving us a review in iTunes!

WT 180: Creating a Family Culture That Sticks Sep 24, 2019

On today's show we're talking about the habits that bring our families together. From big, intentional practices like creating a family mission statement to fun traditions like weekly queso-fests at the local Mexican restaurant, Karen shares her thoughts on how to create a family culture that ensures your children know they belong. Whatever your family looks like, we think you'll find something in this episode that you can take and make your own.

Subscribe to the Tips on Motherhood email newsletter for Karen's wisdom delivered directly to your inbox each week.

Like what you heard? Leave us a review in iTunes and let us know you love Wire Talk! Reviews help us fulfill our mission by pointing other moms to the encouragement and biblical equipping of Birds on a Wire.

WT 179: What I Wish Someone Had Told Me About Motherhood Sep 17, 2019

On today’s episode, Karen reflects back over 29 years of parenting and shares the big lessons she learned from all of those small moments. Plus, she shares the greatest lesson she believes she taught her kids and gives a great little tip for any moms of perfection-minded blue kids. We hope this episode inspires you to take a deep breath, to keep the long view in mind, and reminds you that raising children really does take a village.

Links from today's show:

Corey's Auto Service - Karen’s mechanic, aka the best mechanic in North Georgia!

Get the BOAW app

Subscribe to Karen's Tips on Motherhood email newsletter for more wisdom in your inbox each week.

Like what you heard? Help other moms find Wire Talk by double tapping that subscribe button and leaving us a review in iTunes!

WT 178: Finding Your Child's Currency Sep 10, 2019

Discipline is a constant in our world as moms and it's made harder by the fact that what works for your family constantly changes depending on the child you're disciplining and their age. On today's show we're discussing the idea of discipline as "currency", what that means and how to find out what your child's is. Plus, hear Karen delve into the idea of "pain now = peace later" and the Scripture that keeps her motivated to be consistent. If you're struggling with disciplining one or more children in your family, listen in and be encouraged!

Links from the show today:

Discipline series: Episodes 154, 155, 156

Mom Core curriculum - Discipline lesson

Start a BOAW group!

Books on raising boys: Boy Mom, Bringing Up Boys

Hebrews 4:11

Subscribe to Karen's Tips on Motherhood email newsletter for more wisdom in your inbox each week.

Like what you heard? Help other moms find Wire Talk by double tapping that subscribe button and leaving us a review in iTunes!

WT 177: Your Most Popular Questions from the Summer Answered Sep 03, 2019

We got a ton of questions from you guys over the summer and on today’s show we’ve picked out 5 questions that seem to come up over and over again. From sibling rivalry and sleepovers to meal time and bed time shenanigans, Karen and Sunny tackle it all.

Mentioned on the Show Today:

Episode 151: Sibling Rivalry

Subscribe to Karen's Tips on Motherhood email newsletter for more wisdom in your inbox each week.

Like what you heard? Help other moms find Wire Talk by double tapping that subscribe button and leaving us a review in iTunes!

WT 176: Keep It Simple, Momma! Aug 27, 2019

From managing extracurricular activities and keeping our homes in order, to shepherding our children's faith and paying attention to our marriage in the midst of it all; on today's show we're talking about 4 aspects of family life that are easy to overcomplicate. If you're feeling overwhelmed by pressure to do it all and do it all well, this episode is one you don't want to miss.

Mentioned on the show today:

Episode 175: Launching Your College Freshman Well

Karen's Studies: Says Who? Part 2 and Parenting Together

Subscribe to Karen's Tips on Motherhood email newsletter for more wisdom in your inbox each week.

Like what you heard? Help other moms find Wire Talk by double tapping that subscribe button and leaving us a review in iTunes!

WT 175: Launching Your College Freshman Well Aug 20, 2019

Karen and Sunny are back together today talking about the experience of sending our children off to college for the first time. They cover so much territory in this episode! From the best advice Karen gave her kids before they left for school to how to handle boyfriends/girlfriends coming back home with them. Karen also advises how to help siblings left behind adjust to the empty place at the dinner table. Whether you are facing this transition right now or if it's on the horizon, listen and be encouraged as Karen shares why she loved this season of mothering so much.

Mentioned on the show today:

Get tickets to Mom's Night Out with Karen at Christ's Church in Jacksonville HERE.

Wire Talk episode on Grief with Judy Wolfe

Praying for Your Adult Children

Grace Walk by Steve McVey

Subscribe to Karen's Tips on Motherhood email newsletter for more wisdom in your inbox each week.

Like what you heard? Help other moms find Wire Talk by double tapping that subscribe button and leaving us a review in iTunes!

WT 174: Your Child's First Device with Arlene Pellicane Aug 13, 2019

Arlene Pellicane joins us again today to talk about a relatively recent parenting milestone: giving our kids their first phone. From pitfalls we want to avoid, to steps we can proactively take to ensure our child's health and safety, we are talking about it all. This is a conversation that is relevant whether you have a 5 year old or 15 year old, so grab a cup of coffee or pop in those earbuds and join us. As always, we hope you are encouraged and equipped!

Let us know what you want to hear more of on the show by emailing us at info@birdsonawiremoms.com.

Subscribe to Karen's Tips on Motherhood email newsletter for more wisdom in your inbox each week.

Find links to all the resources discussed on this episode in our show notes.

Like what you heard? Double tap that subscribe button and leave us a review in iTunes.

WT 173: Technology + Motherhood with Arlene Pellicane Aug 06, 2019

Karen and guest host Katie Leipprandt are chatting with Arlene Pellicane today about how technology has impacted our parenting world. We talk about the ways we use technology as moms, the benefits and pitfalls of having a world of technology at arm's length and some boundaries we can consider putting in place to stay connected in our most important relationships - our families.

Let us know what you want to hear more of on the show by emailing us at info@birdsonawiremoms.com.

Subscribe to Karen's Tips on Motherhood email newsletter for more wisdom in your inbox each week.

Find links to all the resources discussed on this episode in our show notes.

Like what you heard? Double tap that subscribe button and leave us a review in iTunes.

WT 172: Real Talk with Karen's Kids Jul 30, 2019

On today's episode all of Karen's children join her in the studio to answer questions you guys have asked about the Stubbs family. Hear their thoughts on growing up in a big family, what traditions they want to carry into their own families one day, and for sure don't miss them answering the question, "How did Karen mess up as a mom?"

Let us know what you want to hear more of on the show by emailing us at info@birdsonawiremoms.com.

Subscribe to Karen's Tips on Motherhood email newsletter for more wisdom in your inbox each week.

Find links to all the resources discussed on this episode in our show notes.

Like what you heard? Double tap that subscribe button and leave us a review in iTunes.

WT 171: Mom Friendships Jul 23, 2019

On today’s episode we’re getting real about how isolating and lonely life as a mom can be. Listen in to hear Karen answer questions from moms who have recently moved, single moms, and a newly stay-at-home mom. As always, we hope this conversation encourages you! Let us know what you want to hear more of on the show by emailing us at info@birdsonawiremoms.com.

Subscribe to Karen's Tips on Motherhood email newsletter for more wisdom in your inbox each week.

Find links to all the resources discussed on this episode in our show notes.

Like what you heard? Double tap that subscribe button and leave us a review in iTunes.

WT 170: Surviving (and Thriving!) As A Single Mom Jul 16, 2019

Two single moms, Misty Paige and Michelle Lane, join Karen and Sunny on today’s episode to answer your questions, share their hearts, and discuss their experiences as single parents. Listen to hear how they grew as they journeyed from being single moms to young children, to watching those well-adjusted children leave their nests. We hope this encourages your heart whether you are parenting on your own, or have single moms in your circle of friends.

Find links to resources discussed on this episode in our show notes.

Subscribe to Karen's weekly Tips on Motherhood email newsletter

Like what you heard? Double tap that subscribe button and leave us a review in iTunes.

WT 169: Blended Families and Helping Kids Handle Divorce Jul 09, 2019

Karen shares wisdom for talking about divorce, separation, and navigating a blended family on today’s episode of Wire Talk. Even if you are not in a blended family or going through a divorce, listen to better understand the moms around you. (And don’t miss Karen sharing the prayer she prays that helps her love even the most unloveable people in her life!)

Whether you’re married for the first time, re-married or divorced, we hope this episode gives you a few tools for navigating a tough season of life.

-Find links to all of the many resources discussed on this episode in our show notes.

-Subscribe to Karen's weekly Tips on Motherhood email newsletter

-Like what you heard? Double tap that subscribe button and leave us a review in iTunes.

WT 168: Being a Working Mom Jul 02, 2019

Any working moms out there? We thought so. On today's show Karen answers your questions about managing work plus motherhood and the conflicting emotions that often accompany that combination. She reminds us all to quit chasing perfect and tells us exactly what we should do with all our mom guilt.

-Find links to resources mentioned on the show at the Birds on a Wire Moms website.

-Subscribe to Karen's weekly Tips on Motherhood email newsletter

-Like what you heard? Double tap that subscribe button and leave us a review in iTunes.

WT 167: How Do We Fight Fair in Our Families? Jun 25, 2019

Karen dives into her mentoring bag of tricks on today's episode to share three key principles for fighting fairly in our families. Learn to practice assertiveness and what it means to actively listen to one another. Plus, find out what Karen's "wish list" activity for conflict resolution is all about.

Like what you heard? Double tap that subscribe button and leave us a review iTunes.

For more encouragement on your journey of motherhood, subscribe and receive Karen's weekly Tips on Motherhood every Tuesday in your inbox!

WT 166: Clinging to the Upside of Life's Downs with Whoa, Susannah! Jun 18, 2019

Author Susannah B. Lewis of Whoa, Susannah! joins Karen and Sunny today for a conversation you don't want to miss. Susannah opens up about the very real way she clings to God and His Word while facing the curve balls life inevitably throws. If you're already a fan, you're going to love Susannah even more after this chat (if that's possible). And if she's a new voice for you, you're going to understand why more than a million folks find her honest and encouraging humor so refreshing! Stay tuned through the end of the show for details on a fun giveaway!

Want more?

-Find links to the resources discussed on this episode on the Birds on a Wire Moms website.

-Subscribe to Karen's weekly Tips on Motherhood email newsletter

-Don't forget to double tap that subscribe button and leave us a comment on Facebook or Instagram to enter this week's giveaway!

WT 165: Authentic Intimacy with Dr. Juli Slattery Jun 11, 2019

Dr. Juli Slattery joins Karen and Sunny today to answer your questions about sexual intimacy within marriage. Juli gives her thoughts on what to do when you’re the one with the higher sex drive, how to keep your sex life alive when you’re exhausted at the end of every day, and how we can integrate our spirituality with our sexuality. (Psst, pop in your earbuds for this one!)

Want more?

-Find links to all the resources Juli mentions at the Birds on a Wire Moms website.

-Subscribe to Karen's weekly Tips on Motherhood email newsletter

-Like what you heard? Double tap that subscribe button and leave us a review in iTunes.

WT 164: Playing To Your Strengths As A Yellow Mom Jun 04, 2019

Yellow moms, this episode is for YOU! Karen is also a yellow, so this conversation is especially fun to listen to as she tells stories about growing up as a yellow and how she brought her yellow strengths to play in her mothering. Not a yellow mom? Listen in to better understand and love on your friends!

In today's conversation, Karen and Sunny address your questions about the monotony of mothering, how to balance your desire for FUN with your kiddo's need for structure, and how to keep the long-term in mind when your nature is to live for the moment.

Want more?

-Find links to the resources discussed on this episode on the Birds on a Wire Moms website.

-Subscribe to Karen's weekly Tips on Motherhood email newsletter

-Like what you heard? Double tap that subscribe button and leave us a review in iTunes.

WT 163: Disordered Eating & Body Image with Therapist Angela Schaffner May 28, 2019

We all want to be the healthiest version of ourselves possible, but what happens when we fall into destructive patterns with exercise or eating? And what can we do when we see a loved one struggling with the same thing?

Today, therapist Angela Schaffner joins Karen and Sunny in the studio to answer your questions about struggling with eating disorders, uncovering the reasons behind our damaging behaviors, and setting an example for our children.

Want more?

-Find links to the resources discussed on this episode on the Birds on a Wire Moms website.

-Subscribe to Karen's weekly Tips on Motherhood email newsletter

-Like what you heard? Double tap that subscribe button and leave us a review in iTunes.

WT 162: Positive Body Image & Staying Healthy Amidst the Demands of Motherhood May 21, 2019

There's no way around it, motherhood changes a woman's body. Whether it's stretch marks from giving birth, or a stretched schedule that allows little time for exercise, there's a new normal once kids are a part of your daily routine.

Today Sunny and Karen answer your questions about making time to work out, giving yourself grace, and ultimately, making peace with the beautiful and capable body God has given you.

Like what you heard? Double tap the subscribe button and leave us a review iTunes.

For more encouragement on your journey of motherhood, subscribe and receive Karen's weekly Tips on Motherhood every Tuesday in your inbox!

WT 161: Friends Are Friends Forever...Or Are They? May 14, 2019

Is it okay that my 7 year old prefers to spend time with our family over other kids? How can I teach my son to be a good friend at school? How do I handle “tricky” friends - ones who look good on paper but who are secretly doing all the things I don’t want my teenage son involved in?

On today’s show we’re tackling questions about your kids and their peer relationships. Tune in to hear this far-ranging discussion and stay tuned until the end for the verse Karen wants us to meditate on as we relinquish control over this arena of our children’s lives.

Like what you heard? Double tap that subscribe button and leave us a review iTunes.

For more encouragement on your journey of motherhood, subscribe and receive Karen's weekly Tips on Motherhood every Tuesday in your inbox!

WT 160: Help For The Perfection-Seeking Blue Mom May 07, 2019

Blue mommas, today is all about YOU. You love order, routine, and nothing makes you smile quite like fresh vacuum lines on a rug. So often times the chaos of mom life drives you nuts! Today Karen and Sunny are tackling your questions on how to carve out time to restore your peace, how to let go of the mile-long to-do list in your mind and just enjoy your kids, and how to communicate your needs to your spouse or kids.

Like what you heard? Double tap the subscribe button and leave us a review iTunes.

For more encouragement on your journey of motherhood, subscribe and receive Karen's weekly Tips on Motherhood every Tuesday in your inbox!

WT 159: Processing Grief in Motherhood with Judy Wolfe Apr 30, 2019

Grief doesn't make exceptions or take a time out because you're a mom. Whether you're dealing with the loss of a parent or pregnancy, an unexpected diagnosis or the death of a dream, grief touches us all at some point along our journey of motherhood. On today's episode Karen speaks with reverend Judy Wolfe on how we can navigate the complex emotion of grief and how we can help our children process grief when it intersects with their lives as well.

If you've ever wondered how you're supposed to keep driving carpool and checking homework while walking through the valley of grief, we hope you'll tune in today and be encouraged. You are not alone, momma.

Like what you heard? Double tap that subscribe button and leave us a review iTunes.

For more encouragement on your journey of motherhood, subscribe and receive Karen's weekly Tips on Motherhood every Tuesday in your inbox!

WT 158: Preparing Your Senior for College Apr 23, 2019

On today’s episode Karen and Sunny answer questions from moms with high school seniors getting ready for graduation! We cover enjoying this last summer at home with your child, how often is too often to “check in”, what to expect on move-in day and even how to handle visits home now that your child is living independently at school.

Enjoying Wire Talk? Subscribe and leave us a review in iTunes! For more encouragement on your journey of motherhood, visit www.birdsaonawiremoms.com

WT 157: Letting Go of Your Need For Control As A Red Mom Apr 16, 2019

Red moms, this is the episode you've been waiting for! Today Karen tackles your questions and talks about both the positives and the negatives that come along with being a red mom. We discuss anger, identity, and what happens when a red mom and a red child face off.

Like what you heard? Subscribe and leave a review iTunes. For more encouragement on your journey of motherhood, subscribe and receive Karen's weekly Tips on Motherhood every Tuesday in your inbox!

WT 156: Discipline 3.0 - Adolescence & Beyond Apr 09, 2019

Today we're wrapping up our three part series by answering your questions on what discipline looks like as our kids move into adolescence. Karen explains the key principle that as moms, these are the years when we need to let consequences play out in our kids' lives. We answer questions about a lying daughter, how to address arrogant attitudes, and the role men can play in our sons' life during high school. Plus, find out why a pair of AirPods might just be the thing you need to make it through these years without losing your mind.

Loving Wire Talk? Leave us a review and subscribe in iTunes! For more encouragement on your journey of motherhood, sign up to receive Karen's weekly Tips on Motherhood email.

WT 155: Discipline 2.0 - The Middle Years Apr 02, 2019

How do you discipline in the middle years when time outs aren't an effective option any more and your kids are rapidly closing in on adolescence? Tune in to hear Karen's philosophy on the purpose of discipline in these years and hear your questions answered about the discipline situations you are facing with your 6 to 12 year olds.

Loving Wire Talk? Leave us a review and subscribe in iTunes! For more encouragement on your journey of motherhood, sign up to receive Karen's weekly Tips on Motherhood email.

WT 154: Discipline 1.0 - Laying the Foundation Mar 26, 2019

What do you do when time outs just aren't cutting it anymore? Join Karen and Sunny today for the first discussion in a three part mini-series all about discipline. We talk about the why behind the how, explain what Karen means when she talks about a child's "currency," and even take a deep dive into the topic of spanking. We hope this episode is a little refresher course on the purpose of discipline and helps you understand the importance of laying a solid foundation during the early years.

Like what you heard? Subscribe and leave us a review in iTunes! For more resources on motherhood and parenting, visit www.birdsonawiremoms.com

WT 153: Establishing & Communicating Boundaries Mar 19, 2019

We all know establishing boundaries is important, but we don't always understand how to communicate those boundaries to those around us. On today's show, Karen helps us understand how to communicate our family boundaries to our children, how to deal with toxic relationships in extended families, and how to stand your ground without feeling guilty. Plus Sunny shares a great tip for taking the pressure off of your child as far as keeping your rules when they head to a friend's home.

Mommas, we hope this episode brings you great freedom as you parent this week!

For more resources on motherhood and parenting, visit www.birdsonawiremoms.com

WT 152: Thriving As A Calm & Peaceful Green Mom Mar 12, 2019

We're talking personalities again today, but this time we're discussing YOUR personality, and specifically answering questions from our tender and peace-loving GREEN mamas. Listen to hear the advice Karen has for a green mom worn out by her red and yellow kids, how green moms can thrive in a rainbow of competing family members, and stay tuned to hear Karen share a text she receives in the middle of recording with exciting news about her son! :)

Enjoy Wire Talk with Karen Stubbs? Share our show with a friend and help us encourage more moms!

For more information on Birds on a Wire and to find all our episodes in an easily searchable format, visit us online at www.birdsonawiremoms.com/podcast

WT 151: Sibling Rivalry Mar 05, 2019

Do your bickering kids drive you nuts some days? You're in good company, momma! On today's episode Karen and Sunny answer your questions all about sibling relationships, rivalry, and the inevitable run-ins that happen when you have more than one child in your family.

Like what you heard? Subscribe today so you never miss an episode and if you're a fan of Wire Talk - leave us a review in iTunes so other moms can find the show!

For more encouragement on your journey of motherhood, visit us at www.birdsonawiremoms.com

WT 150: To Grow or Not To Grow? Feb 26, 2019

How do you know when your family is complete? On today's episode of Wire Talk Karen and Sunny answer questions about family planning, infertility, and what it looks like to seek God in prayer when it comes to His plans for your future family.

Love Wire Talk? Leave a review so that more moms can find us and be encouraged!

Find more encouragement on your journey of motherhood by visiting www.birdsonawiremoms.com

WT 149: Teens & Dating with Karen and Greg Stubbs Feb 19, 2019

Today Greg Stubbs joins Karen in the studio to talk about how they navigated dating relationships during their children's teenage years. They discuss the boundaries they set for their kids during the dating years, how they handled boyfriends and girlfriends they didn't like, and how they kept the lines of communication open during these important years.

Like what you heard? Share Wire Talk with a friend or leave us a 5 star review in iTunes. Having great reviews helps other moms find Wire Talk so that as many moms as possible can be encouraged by our episodes!

WT 148: Keeping The Spark Alive Feb 12, 2019

After being married for a while, it's easy to get stuck in a rut. Especially in the busy years between having kids and becoming empty nesters, it’s easy for our weeks to become a blur of dividing kid duties. This week on Wire Talk, Sunny and Karen talk about getting creative for date night, how to find great babysitters and why we should even bother!

Encouraged by this conversation? Share Wire Talk with a friend and leave us a five-star review in iTunes.

For more encouragement on your journey of motherhood, visit www.birdsonawiremoms.com

WT 147: The Truth About Postpartum Depression with Dr. Michele Harding Feb 05, 2019

Dr. Michelle Harding joins Sunny and Karen in the studio today to share her professional wisdom and personal experience with postpartum depression. We answer your questions about how to recognize PPD, what to do if you're going through PPD, and how we can be good friends to moms around us walking through a season of postpartum depression. As always, we hope you are encouraged by this conversation!

Like what you heard? Share Wire Talk with your friends and be sure you're subscribed so you always get episodes as soon as they release.

For more encouragement on your journey of motherhood, visit www.birdsonawiremoms.com/email to get Karen's practical tips in your inbox each Tuesday.

WT 146: Handling Discontment in Marriage Jan 23, 2019

We all walk down the aisle with hearts full of hope, but a few years and a kid or two down the road, we often discover marriage is more work than we thought it would be.

On today's episode Karen and Sunny answer questions from moms struggling in their marriages in different ways; wondering how to stay content, how to get on the same page with their spouse, and even what to do when they aren't sure their marriage will survive. We hope this conversation encourages you to choose joy and fight for your marriage, especially when it feels like the hardest thing to do.

Like what you heard? Subscribe in iTunes so you never miss an episode. For more encouragement on your journey of motherhood, sign up for Karen's weekly email, Notes from the Nest!

WT 145: Little Miss Sunshine - Parenting Your Yellow Child Jan 17, 2019

Yellow kids are bubbly, affectionate, fun loving...and they can be exhausting! Today we're wrapping up our series on the four personality temperaments by answering questions all about "yellow" kids. If you've ever wished your child would just stop talking, this is an episode you don't want to skip.

For more advice from Karen on the other personality types, listen to episodes 121, 132 and 136.

Read all of our blog posts specific to the personality colors HERE.

Like what you heard? Subscribe in iTunes so you never miss an episode! And if you'd like more encouragement on your journey of motherhood, sign up for our weekly email at www.boaw.mom/email.

WT 144: Managing Your Family's Schedule Jan 10, 2019

These days moms work more hours than ever and are usually the primary keepers of the family schedule. Grocery shopping, doctor's appointments, preparing dinner, driving carpool, buying birthday gifts, folding laundry and oh yeah, for many of us there's a little thing called work, too. We're often looking at our calendars and scratching our heads, wondering how we can control them instead of being controlled by them.

On today's show, Karen and Sunny answer questions about routine, schedules and managing the busyness that accompanies family life. We hope you're encouraged by a tip to help calm the chaos and as always, reminded that you are not alone!

Like what you heard? Subscribe today and leave a written review for us in iTunes!

For more encouragement on your journey of motherhood, sign up for our weekly Tips on Motherhood email at www.boaw.mom/email

WT 143: How to Lead Other Moms Well Jan 01, 2019

Did you know moms all over the U.S. and even across the world gather together weekly or monthly in small groups to learn from Birds on a Wire studies together? On today's Wire Talk we're answering questions from moms who host BOAW groups. Everything from, "how do I get a new group going?" and "how can I get moms to open up?" to "what do I do when I need a break from leading but don't want the group to end?" Tune in to hear the advice Karen has for our BOAW host moms - maybe you'll be inspired to host a BOAW group yourself!

Like what you heard? Learn more about Birds on a Wire small groups here: www.birdsonawiremoms.com/groups.

For more encouragement on your journey of motherhood, subscribe to receive Karen's weekly Tips on Motherhood email

WT 142: Delighting in the Holidays Dec 12, 2018

It’s our last episode of 2018 and this year we are doing something we have never done before. Wire Talk is taking some time off! We wanted to take the advice we are always giving moms, and take a break from our usual routine so we can spend the time in between Christmas and New Year's Day resting and enjoying our families. Enjoy this episode all about the holidays and we'll see you back here in 2019!

Did you enjoy this episode? Leave us a review and let us know! For more encouragement and advice for your journey of motherhood, visit www.birdsonawiremoms.com/weeklyemail and subscribe to receive Karen's Tips on Motherhood email each Tuesday.

WT 141: Parenting When Your Spouse is Often Away Dec 03, 2018

Being on the same page with your spouse is never simple, and when one spouse is frequently away from home, things get even more complicated. On Wire Talk today, Karen and Sunny answer questions about how to squash resentment, smooth out the re-entry process, and even get dinner on the table when you're flying solo.

Like what you heard? Subscribe and leave us a review in iTunes!

For more encouragement on your journey of motherhood, head over to www.birdsonawiremoms.com/weeklyemail to get Karen's Tips on Motherhood delivered directly to your inbox each Tuesday.

WT 140: The Emotional World of Kids with special guest David Thomas Dec 03, 2018

Maybe your teenage daughter suddenly bursts into tears at the drop of a hat or maybe your 9 year old son is constantly slamming the door over math homework. The variety of emotions our kids express in one afternoon can leave us confused and exhausted.

David Thomas, one of our most popular break-out speakers at this year's Soar conference, joins Sunny today to address the questions so many of us have when it comes to our kids' emotional needs. We cover when to lean in and when to back off, how to discern what is hormones and what is normal behavior and David gives loads of practical tips to help you navigate the outbursts. Whether you're dealing with anger, sadness, anxiety or frustration, we think you'll hear something in this episode that equips you to respond with grace.

Like what you heard? Subscribe and leave us a review in iTunes!

Need more encouragement? Sign up at www.birdsonawiremoms.com/weeklyemail for tips from Karen delivered right to your inbox each week!

WT 139: Surviving the Chaos of the Toddler Years Nov 26, 2018

Meal times, temper tantrums, their constant desire for your undivided attention ... it seems we can't do enough episodes on how to survive the toddler years! Many of you are asking, how can we survive the chaos and maybe even enjoy a little bit of these fleeting years? Today Sunny and Karen are addressing your questions and hopefully giving you hope that you CAN do this!

If you enjoyed what you heard, head to www.birdsonawiremoms.com for more encouragement on your daily journey of motherhood. And don't forget to subscribe and leave us a review on iTunes!

WT 138: Can You Help Me Navigate The Grandparents? Nov 13, 2018

Just in time for the holidays! On today's episode we're answering your questions on how to handle those awkward, messy, and sometimes frustrating situations that occasionally (okay, maybe often) pop up with the grandparents. Karen and Sunny address boundaries, holiday travel and child care questions. So tune in on that long drive to see your family and we hope you feel ready to engage your family in a healthy way this year.

Like what you heard? Subscribe so you never miss an episode and leave a review so other moms can find Wire Talk!

Visit www.birdsonawiremoms.com for more encouragement on your journey of motherhood.

WT 137: Teen Mental Health & Suicide Risk Factors with special guest Debbie Causey Nov 12, 2018

Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among students today. As a society we are clearly in crisis, and as mothers, we are fighting on the front line in this battle. Today one of Karen's best friends, Debbie Causey, joins us to talk about her own journey as the mother of a child with mental health conditions. As a mental health professional, Debbie also shares her wisdom on warning signs we can be looking for and the steps we can take to fight for our children's lives.

Even if you have toddlers and this conversation feels light years away, listen for a friend, a family member, or a student you know and love.

For more equipping on your journey of motherhood, visit www.birdsonawiremoms.com and subscribe to Wire Talk so you never miss an episode!

WT 136: Help! My "Blue" Kid Is Making Me Melancholy Nov 05, 2018

Organized, thoughtful, loyal, precise. Our "blue" kids will grow up to be incredible leaders one day. The only problem is ... today may not be that day. Listen in as Karen and Sunny address questions from listeners all about the blue, or melancholy, temperament. From how to balance their need for quiet with your family's activities to addressing their mood swings without catering to them, this is one episode packed with practical advice for all you moms of little Eeyores!

Read all of our blog posts specific to the personality colors HERE.

If you enjoyed this show, why not subscribe so that you never miss an episode?! You can also visit www.birdsonawiremoms.com and sign up for our weekly Tips on Motherhood email for more practical advice delivered to your inbox each Tuesday.

WT 135: How Do I Teach My Kids Gratitude? Oct 29, 2018

How many times have you coached your child to say, "thank you" during the younger years? While teaching a two year old to respond politely is one task, teaching a 14 year old to be grateful for opportunities and possessions is entirely another. On today's episode Sunny and Karen answer your questions about instilling gratitude in our children's hearts. Make sure you have your close-toed shoes on mommas, Karen may step on a few toes in this one!

Did you enjoy this episode? Subscribe and leave a review so other moms can find Wire Talk! Visit www.birdsonawiremoms.com for more encouragement on your journey of motherhood.

WT 134: Understanding Sensory Based Behavior with Occupational Therapist Christy Bennett Oct 22, 2018

Mother and occupational therapist Christy Bennett joins Sunny and Karen in this episode to dive into sensory based behavior. We discuss what sensory behaviors are and how to provide the sensory stimulus (or lack thereof) that your child is craving. Christy also answers your questions on how to talk to teachers about your child's specific needs and how parents can advocate for their child in the school system and in situations with other adults (coaches, church leaders, etc.)

Like what you heard? Visit www.birdsonawiremoms.com for more encouragement on your journey of motherhood and subscribe to our weekly email for Karen's Tips on Motherhood delivered directly to your inbox each Tuesday!

WT 133: What Do I Do About Mean Girls? Oct 09, 2018

We may love to quote Lindsay Lohan in Mean Girls, but no one thinks it's funny when you encounter a real-life mean girl. On Wire Talk today Sunny and Karen answer your questions all about girl drama. From playdate peer pressure to the high school hierarchy, how do you equip your daughter to handle mean girls and the yuck that inevitably comes along with some female relationships? Whether your daughter is 3, 13 or 30, tune in to hear Karen's thoughts, and be encouraged that you can mother with confidence through these difficult times.

If you loved this episode, leave a review and be sure you're subscribed so you never miss a week of Wire Talk!

For more encouragement on your journey of motherhood, visit www.birdsonawiremoms.com/weeklyemail for Karen's Tips delivered straight to your inbox each week. :)

WT 132: Gaining Understanding of Our 'Greens' Oct 06, 2018

Peaceful, easy-going, conflict-avoiders ... however you describe them, to a parent who doesn't understand their motivations, 'green' kids can be a mystery. Today Karen and Sunny discuss teaching our greens to take responsibility for themselves when they are younger and how we can help them handle the pressures that come along with high school when they get older. Whether or not you have a green child, we think you'll learn something new when you tune in.

For Karen's blog posts about each of the personality colors, head HERE.

Like what you heard? Visit Birds on Wire online for more encouragement on your journey of motherhood.

WT 131: Intimacy After Babies with special guest Dr. Mike Sytsma Oct 01, 2018

Today we have a much anticipated episode for you! With us in the Nest studio is Dr. Mike Sytsma. Dr. Mike has been a break-out speaker the past several years at our annual Soar Conference. He is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia, a Certified Sex Therapist, and a Certified Sexual Addictions Specialist. He's also an ordained minister who is passionate about marriage and helping couples grow in their marriage.

We are so glad he is hear to provide expert level advice and answers to your questions moms about Intimacy After Babies. Dr. Mike thank you for joining us!

Visit www.birdsonawiremoms.com for more encouragement on your journey of motherhood and don't forget to subscribe and leave a review in iTunes! Your review helps us reach more moms! ;)

WT 130: How Do I Create a Peaceful Home? [RE-AIR] Sep 21, 2018

We often talk about bringing peace to the world, but what about bringing peace to your home? On the last of our month-long series of re-broadcast episodes today, Karen doles out advice on everything from creating a family routine and what do when the kids come to you with the dreaded, "I'm bored!" to how to handle differences between you and your spouse when it come to chores and household maintenance. As always, we hope you take away a nugget of practical advice that helps you maintain the peace in your home this week.

If you enjoyed this episode, head over to www.birdsonawiremoms.com/weeklyemail to have encouragement delivered straight to your inbox each week!

WT 129: How Do I Re-Connect with My Spouse After Kids? [RE-AIR] Sep 17, 2018

When children enter the picture, your life changes forever. Your sleep habits change, your diet is changed, your schedule is changed and the amount of laundry you do definitely changes. As your child grows, some of these areas in your life get back to normal, except for your laundry ... that continues to build!

The addition of children changes your marriage too. So how do you balance life with children and your spouse? It's hard to do, and let’s be honest, sometimes our spouses are put on the back burner because we don’t have the energy to put in the “extra” time with them. Tune in to today's episode to hear Karen answer questions from moms about how to re-connect with their spouse now that kids are in the picture!

Like what you heard? Visit www.birdsonawiremoms.com for more encouragement on your daily journey of motherhood and subscribe to our weekly email for Karen's tips on motherhood delivered directly to your inbox each Tuesday!

WT 128: How Do I Create A Balanced Life? [RE-AIR] Sep 07, 2018

How do you keep a balance between kids, marriage, work, spirituality, and time for yourself? On today's re-broadcast of a Wire Talk favorite, Karen tackles a broad variety of questions moms constantly ask. Is balance possible? And what does a balanced life even look like? Tune in to hear Karen's straightforward advice as always!

Like what you heard? Visit www.birdsonawiremoms.com/weeklyemail for encouragement delivered directly to your inbox every Tuesday morning.

WT 127: How Do I Overcome Mommy Guilt? [RE-AIR] Sep 03, 2018

Moms, the feelings of guilt are REAL. We feel guilty being late to get our kids at daycare and guilty for not staying late at the office. Guilty for taking them to Chick-fil-A for dinner and guilty that we DIDN'T take them to Chick-fil-A for dinner! That's why we love what Karen has to say about guilt and how we can shake free of what can feel like a constant burden to us as mothers. We hope this episode gives you a practical way to overcome your mommy guilt and leaves you encouraged!

For more encouragement on your daily journey of motherhood, visit us at www.birdsonawiremoms.com and subscribe so you never miss an episode of Wire Talk!

WT 126: Can You Please Help Me Get Some Sleep? Aug 27, 2018

If anything is a universal experience among mothers, it's sleep deprivation. Whether you're nursing through the night, have a toddler who climbs into your bed too early in the morning or you're staying up late to take advantage of a finally quiet home ... moms know what it's like to miss out on sleep.

Listen in for Karen and Sunny's practical advice on how to get the sleep both you and your kids need!

Like what you heard? Visit www.birdsonawiremoms.com for more encouragement for your daily journey of motherhood.

WT 125: How Do I Handle My Sweet Little Liar? Aug 20, 2018

Lying is one thing we never teach our kids how to do and yet somehow they figure it out all on their own. On today's episode Karen shares her thoughts on how to discipline when you're not sure which child is lying, what the difference is between tattling and confessing and how to encourage honesty between teenagers.

Like what you heard? Visit www.birdsonawiremoms.com for more encouragement in your daily walk of motherhood.

WT 124: Managing the Homefront Aug 13, 2018

Whether you're a working mom or a stay at home mom, studies show that women tend to bear the brunt of the work in and around the home. On today's episode Karen and Sunny answer questions from moms about household chores, fighting with our kids over mealtime and how to ask for help from our partners. We love that Karen tells one mom to let it go, one mom to ask for help and one mom to get a maid! Stay tuned 'til the end to hear Karen's #1 hack for keeping your house tidy.

Like what you heard? Visit www.birdsonawiremoms.com for more encouragement on your journey of motherhood.

WT 123: Back to School Aug 06, 2018

Whether your kids have already headed back to school or the yellow bus will be rolling around the corner in the next few weeks - today's episode is for all moms with school-age kiddos. From getting out the door in the morning to checking homework at night, Karen doles out practical wisdom to help you and your kids thrive this school year. Don't miss Karen's advice for those of you suffering from volunteeritis (the inability to say no when asked to volunteer at school) and stay tuned to hear about the perfect back-to-school product you can snag at this year's Soar Conference.

For more encouragement on your journey of motherhood, visit www.birdsonawiremoms.com and subscribe to Karen's weekly Tips on Motherhood email.

WT 122: Finding Your Purpose with Candace Cameron Bure Jul 25, 2018

We've got a fun one for you today moms! Candace Cameron Bure, actress, mom and as she often points out, first and foremost a follower of Jesus, joins us to talk about faith and family. We love Candace's words of encouragement for young mothers and think that wherever you are in your journey of motherhood, you'll benefit from the reminder in this conversation that our primary purpose in all that we do is to glorify God.

If you like what you've heard, subscribe in iTunes! And don't forget to leave a review and let other moms know why you love Wire Talk.

For more encouragement on your journey of motherhood, visit www.birdsonawiremoms.com

WT 121: How Do I Parent My "Red" Strong-Willed Child? Jul 21, 2018

Those strong-willed kiddos - phew! We know they'll be leaders one day, but what do we do TODAY when they won't listen or are constantly pushing back against us?

In this discussion, Karen and Sunny take questions about these strong personalities; how do we effectively discipline them? How do we establish our authority without crushing their spirits? How do we teach them to harness their innate confidence without being aggressive or coming across as a bully?

We hope this conversation gives you a few tools to parent your headstrong children with confidence.

For Karen's blog posts about each of the personality colors, head HERE.

Like what you heard? Visit www.birdsonawiremoms.com for more encouragement for your journey of motherhood. And don't forget to leave us a review and subscribe to the podcast! Reviews help other moms find us!

WT 120: When Multiple Personalities Collide Jul 15, 2018

On today's show we talk about what happens when all of your darling children’s personalities collide. We talk about the fighting and bickering that is so common among siblings as well as how we moms can give to each of our children so they feel known and loved. Karen and Sunny chat about what it feels like to be the mom caught in the middle and offer their insights into how we can maintain a peaceful home in the midst of what often feels like chaos.

If you like what you heard, subscribe in iTunes and leave a review to help other moms find Wire Talk!

For more encouragement on your journey of motherhood, visit www.birdsonawiremoms.com and sign up for Karen's weekly Tips on Motherhood emails.

WT 119: How Do I Communicate Well With My Mom (Or My Mother-In-Law!) About My Kids? Jul 09, 2018

Becoming a mom changes everything - but some of those changes catch us completely off guard. On today's episode Karen answers your questions about how to communicate with your own mother (or mother in law!) now that your kids are a part of your relationship. Karen also answers a question from a mom about how to talk to her adult son - this is one episode you don't want to miss!

Like what you heard? Visit www.birdsonawiremoms.com for more encouragement on your journey of motherhood. And don't forget to subscribe in iTunes and leave us a review if you are loving Wire Talk!

WT 118: I Want It All & I Want It Now Jul 02, 2018

Today's episode is all about finding contentment mommas. Karen answers questions about comparison, entitlement and allowances in this episode about learning to be content in our lives. Tune in to hear Karen's wisdom about how we can pass on to our children the peace that comes from running your own race at your own pace.

If you like what you heard, subscribe in iTunes so you never miss an episode! And sign up for weekly encouragement in your inbox by visiting www.birdsonawiremoms.com.

WT 117: Why Is Mom Life So Lonely? Jun 25, 2018

We’re getting real about how lonely and isolating motherhood can be on Wire Talk today. Karen talks about her time as a young mom living away from family and friends when Greg was in the Navy, offers advice to a single mom wondering how she can relate to all of her married friends and gives a brand new mom tips on making and being a good friend.

If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe and leave a review in iTunes and be sure to check out www.birdsonawiremoms.com for more encouragement from Karen every week!

WT 116: Technology & Your Kids with special guest Tom Shefchunas Jun 11, 2018

Today’s episode is really important moms and because we wanted to get it right, we called in an expert. Today Tom Shefchunas joins us in the Nest to talk about technology and our kids. We were incredibly grateful he could share his expertise with us and we look forward to hearing more from him as a break-out speaker at this year’s Soar conference!

Visit www.birdsonawiremoms.com for more encouragement on your journey of motherhood. And, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!

WT 115: Honoring Dad with special guest Greg Stubbs Jun 08, 2018

In honor of Father’s Day next weekend (hint hint ladies) today on Wire Talk we're answering your questions all about dad! Since we're not dads ourselves, we thought it made sense to bring in a real-life dad to offer up his thoughts, so Greg Stubbs joins Karen and Sunny in the studio today with his thoughts on everything from good Father's Day gifts and traveling for work to how we can communicate effectively with our husbands. Listen in for Greg's wisdom on fatherhood and so much more.

If you enjoyed Wire Talk, visit www.birdsonawiremoms.com for more encouragement on your journey of motherhood.

And snag tickets to the upcoming Soar conference at www.birdsonsawiremoms.com/soar2018

WT 114: How To Survive Summer Jun 04, 2018

On today's episode of Wire Talk we are answering questions about how as moms we can make it through the dog days of summer. From how to make vacation actually feel like vacation when there's so much work involved, to helping our kids learn to entertain themselves ... listen in for Karen's practical answers and encouragement on making this a great summer for your kids and you too momma!

If you enjoy Wire Talk, subscribe in iTunes and leave us a review! And don't forget to visit www.birdsonawiremoms.com for more advice and encouragement from Karen Stubbs.

WT 113: I Want To Do It All, But I'm Just SO Tired May 28, 2018

On today's episode of Wire Talk, Sunny and Karen answer questions from moms who are feeling overwhelmed by all they have to manage day to day. From working to intimacy, bedtime talks with kids to keeping the house clean, listen in to hear Karen's thoughts on what needs to be a priority and what can be let go in the midst of busy seasons.

Like what you heard?

Visit www.birdsonawiremoms.com for more encouragement on your journey of motherhood. And, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!

WT 112: Anxiety in Motherhood with Special Guest Dr. Emily Shupert May 21, 2018

Today we are here with Dr. Emily Shupert of Simplify Life Counseling to talk about anxiety and how it affects us as mothers. Dr. Shupert is a licensed professional counselor in the Atlanta area - in her practice she integrates psychology with theology and in particular loves helping clients work through anxiety and depression.

We hope this episode brings you hope and help if anxiety as a mother has been a struggle for you!

WT 111: Raising Older Girls May 14, 2018

Today we're wrapping up a 4 part mini-series focused on raising boys and girls. In this last episode of the series we are taking questions from moms about their pre-teen and teenage daughters - we even have a question coming from a grandmother on the show today which we love! Tune in if you're wondering how on earth to have "the talk" with your girls, if social media concerns you or if gossip has taken a hold of your daughter's heart.

Like what you heard? Subscribe today and leave us a review in iTunes!

Visit www.birdsonawiremoms.com for more encouragement in your mom world!

WT 110: Raising Little Girls May 07, 2018

Today we're talking all about little girls. This is the 3rd episode in a mini-series focused on raising boys and girls. For the last two weeks we tackled tough questions from boy mamas and today we are switching gears to talk about raising little girls. Tune in if sassiness, body image or competition between sisters is something you've ever dealt with!

Like what you heard? Subscribe today and leave us a review in iTunes!

Visit www.birdsonawiremoms.com for more encouragement in your mom world!

WT 109: Raising Older Boys Apr 30, 2018

Being a boy mom is not for the faint of heart! On today's episode Karen and Sunny answer questions from moms that will make you laugh and might even make you cry. We tackle body odor, pornography and Karen suggests how single moms can fill the gap when Dad isn't around as a role model for their boys.

Like what you heard? Visit www.birdsonawiremoms.com for more encouragement and make sure you subscribe and leave a review in iTunes!

WT 108: Raising Little Boys Apr 19, 2018

We are excited to bring you the first episode in our mini-series all about Raising Boys & Girls today. In this episode we are fielding questions from boy moms - specifically moms with little boys. Body odor and hormones here we come! What a privilege and what a challenge to be a boy mom huh?

If you love Wire Talk, visit www.birdsonawiremoms.com for more encouragement for your journey of motherhood and subscribe in iTunes so you never miss an episode!

WT 107: Handling Conflict With Our Husbands Apr 16, 2018

Today's episode is all about spouses and how we handle conflict with them. No biggie right? We’ve got questions on everything from intimacy and discipline to finances. Don't miss the teaser Karen sneaks in about the new curriculum she and Greg are developing!

If you love Wire Talk, visit www.birdsonawiremoms.com for more encouragement for your journey of motherhood and subscribe in iTunes so you never miss an episode!

WT 106: Raising a Child with Special Needs (with guest Kimber Burgess) Apr 08, 2018

Today we are speaking with Kimber Burgess, a friend of the show and incredible mom raising a child with special needs. We know many of you also have a child with special needs and we hope this conversation encourages you. This episode is packed with incredible wisdom for us all, including ways you can encourage the families of children with special needs in your community. If a mom of a child with special needs comes to mind, share this episode with her so she can be encouraged today!

WT 105: Is There A Right Way To Be A Working Mom? Mar 29, 2018

There's no 'right' way to be a working mom and of course it's not 'wrong' to be a working mom either! On today's episode Karen and Sunny take questions from moms about work, work-life balance and all the emotions that come along with navigating this part of life once kids enter the picture.

If today's episode encouraged you, visit www.birdsonawiremoms.com for more encouragement on your journey of motherhood. And, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!

WT 104: How Do I Get Through To My Tween Mar 26, 2018

The middle school years are a time of change and awkwardness that most of us would never willingly return to, but they are also the time when you really start to see the adult your child is going to be emerging. The tween years don’t have to merely be endured, I promise you can enjoy them mom!

WT 103: How Do You Parent the Kid God Gave You? Mar 17, 2018

Wire Talk is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 102: How Do I Figure Out What Good Discipline Looks Like? Mar 06, 2018

Wire Talk is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 101: Where Did All These Mom Emotions Come From? Mar 05, 2018

Wire Talk is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 100: A Candid Conversation with Karen's Kids Feb 26, 2018

Wire Talk is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 99: Keeping the Future in Mind Feb 16, 2018

Wire Talk is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 98: How Do I Get on The Same Page As My Husband? Feb 06, 2018

Wire Talk is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 97: Navigating the Terrible Twos Feb 05, 2018

The toddler days are hard and long days. I loved my children and now I look at pictures and think to myself, or my goodness they were so cute! But, teaching, disciplining and training a toddler is no joke.

Join us for this episode as we take questions from moms all about the toddler years.

Like what you heard? Visit www.birdsonawiremoms.com/weeklyemail for Karen's Tips on Motherhood delivered straight to your inbox each week!

WT 96: How Do I Help My Child Find A Faith of Their Own? Jan 26, 2018

Wire Talk is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 95: Discipling Your Child's Heart Jan 22, 2018

Today's episode focuses on how to talk to your child about what is going on inside of their heart and how to address some of the behaviors that don’t necessarily deserve a time out.

Join us as Karen and Sunny answer your questions and offer their insights into how to disciple your child's heart.

Like what you heard? Visit www.birdsonawiremoms.com/weeklyemail to get Karen's Tips on Motherhood delivered directly to your inbox each week!

WT 94: How Do I Manage My Home Without Going Crazy? Jan 15, 2018

Wire Talk is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 93: How Can I Be More Intentional in 2018? Jan 06, 2018

Wire Talk is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 92: How Do I Start a Birds on a Wire Group? Jan 01, 2018

Wire Talk is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 91: Happy Holidays from Birds on a Wire Pt. 2 Dec 18, 2017

Wire Talk is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 90: Happy Holidays from Birds on a Wire: A Special Note for Moms Dec 18, 2017

Wire Talk is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 89: How Do I Show My Husband He Matters Too? Dec 09, 2017

Wire Talk is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 88: How Do I Set Up My Children for Independence? Nov 30, 2017

Wire Talk is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 87: Should I Pretend Like I Have It All Together? Nov 27, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 86: Practicing Gratitude and Preparing Your Heart for the Holidays Nov 20, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 85: How Do I Start Dating My Husband Again? Nov 13, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 84: Are My Kids Supposed to Turn Out Like Me? Nov 06, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 083: My Kids Are Acting Out: What Should I Do? Oct 31, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 082: I Didn't Know I Had To Prepare For That: Anticipating The Unexpected Oct 20, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 081: What If I’m Not Ready For My Child to Grow Up? Oct 17, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

Wire Talk Unplugged: What's Happening at Birds On A Wire Oct 10, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 079: How Do I Manage a Growing Family? Oct 02, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 078: How To I Manage Life's Schedule? Sep 26, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 077: How Do I Cultivate My Child's Character? Sep 19, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 076: How Do I Help My Child Deal With Peer Pressure? Sep 12, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 075: When Do I Let Them Fail And When Do I Step In? Sep 05, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 074: Greg and Karen Stubbs on Parenting, Marriage and Other Lessons From 31 Years Together Aug 29, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 073: What Can I Do to Help My Kid's Faith? Aug 22, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 72: How Can I Get My Teen's Respect? Aug 15, 2017

We love our sweet teens (even in their not-always-so-sweet moments), but it doesn't mean that parenting them isn't tough. They're growing and changing and facing enormous amounts of pressure, and sometimes... the moms are the ones who can feel the wrath of it all. The good news is: every teen goes through this. You'll both make it to the other side of this season.

Like what you heard? Subscribe and leave us a 5 star review on iTunes! (Great reviews help other moms find us!)

For more encouragement on your journey of motherhood, subscribe to Karen's weekly Tips on Motherhood newsletter

WT 071: How Do I Handle My Aging Parents? Aug 08, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 070: How Do I Prepare to Be a New Mom? Aug 01, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 069: How Do I Calm Back-to-School Nerves? Jul 25, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 68: What If I Don't Feel Like a Good Mom? Jul 18, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 067: How Do I Get My Child to Stop Crying? Jul 11, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 66: How Do I Start to Focus on Me Again? Jul 03, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 065: How Do I Deal With Social Media Comparisons? Jun 27, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 064: How Do I Find My Passion Again? Jun 20, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 63: How Do I Get Through Losing a Pregnancy or Child? Jun 13, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 062: How Do I Survive and Thrive in the Summer? Jun 06, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 061: Sandra Stanley's 5 Things You Need to Know About Fostering May 29, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 060: What Are The Different Personality Colors? May 23, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 059: How Do I Apologize to My Kids? May 16, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 058: Why Is Everything a Fight? May 09, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 057: School's Out for Summer: How Do I Care for My Kids? May 02, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 056: How Do I Make Each Child Feel Like a Priority? Apr 24, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 055: Will the Attachment Phase Ever Stop? Apr 18, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 054: How Do I Manage the Busyness of Spring? Apr 11, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 053: How Do I Create and Maintain Family Values? Apr 03, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 052: How Do I Parent My Growing Teenager? Mar 28, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 051: I'm a New Parent: What Do I Need to Know? Mar 21, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 050: 5 Things You Asked About Karen Mar 09, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 049: How Do I Build Friends as an Adult? Mar 06, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 048: What Do I Do About Mommy Guilt? Feb 28, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 046: How Do I Raise Self-Disciplined Kids? Feb 13, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 47: How Should You Parent Your Grown Children? Feb 13, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 045: How Can I Inspire My Family to Help Me More? Feb 06, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 044: How Do I Create a Peaceful Home? Jan 30, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 043: Dealing with Divorce Jan 24, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 042: How Do I Manage Being a Working Mom? Jan 16, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 41: How Can I Manage Being a Stay at Home Mom? Jan 10, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 40: How Do I Start 2017 Off Right? Jan 03, 2017

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 039: How Do I Make Next Year Different? Dec 27, 2016

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 38: Holiday Special: Encouragement for Moms Dec 21, 2016

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 037: How Do I Teach My Kids the Importance of Christmas? Dec 13, 2016

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 036: How Do I Reconnect With My Husband? Dec 06, 2016

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 036: How Do I Reconnect With My Husband? Dec 05, 2016

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 035: Can You Help Me Understand My Toddler? Nov 29, 2016

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 034: How Do I Make the Holidays Run Smoothly? Nov 22, 2016

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 033: How Do I Stay Motivated? Nov 15, 2016

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 032: What If I Don't Like My Child's Friends? Nov 08, 2016

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 030: How Do I Teach My Kids About Money? Oct 27, 2016

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 030: The Top 10 Questions Moms Ask Karen Oct 25, 2016

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 029: How Do I Talk to My Kids About Sex? Oct 18, 2016

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 028: How Do I Create a Balanced Life? Oct 11, 2016

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 027: Should I Be My Child's Parent or Friend? Oct 07, 2016

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT Anniversary Special: The Story of Birds on a Wire Oct 04, 2016

This month Birds on a Wire is celebrating our 5th birthday! Listen in as Karen and Sunny talk about how Birds on a Wire started and what their hopes are for the future of this ministry.

Like what you heard? Head over to www.birdsonawiremoms.com for more encouragement on your daily journey of motherhood. And don't forget to subscribe in iTunes or your favorite podcast app and give us a 5 star review!

WT 026: How Do I Overcome Fear? Sep 27, 2016

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 025: How Do I Parent a Kid in College? Sep 20, 2016

If you were one of the many parents—like Karen—who dropped their child off at college last month, the sad emotions might be fading and you might be left wondering: wait, how do I parent a kid in college?

WT 024: How Do I Handle Kids and Bullying? Sep 13, 2016

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 023: How Do I Set Limits on Technology Sep 06, 2016

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 022: How Can I Stop Comparing Myself to Other Moms? Aug 30, 2016

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 021: How Do I Get Ready for a Busy Year? Aug 19, 2016

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey. © 2016 Birds on a Wire

Wire Talk 020: How Do I Stop Resenting My Husband? Aug 10, 2016

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

Wire Talk 019: How Do I Prevent Sibling Rivalry? Aug 09, 2016

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

Wire Talk 018: How Do I Prepare for Back-to-School? Aug 02, 2016

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 017: What Should I Know About the Elementary School Years? Jul 26, 2016

It's almost back-to-school time for your elementary schoolers! The elementary years can be tricky—all of a sudden your babies seem to turn into little adults! So how do you handle busy schedules, sleepovers with friends, allowance, and the new responsibility of homework? Karen covers all of that and more on today's episode of Wire Talk!

Wire Talk 016: How Do I Handle My In-Laws? Jul 19, 2016

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

Wire Talk 015: How Do I Parent Different Personality Types? Jul 12, 2016

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

Wire Talk 014: What Are Your Tips for Summer Vacation? Jul 05, 2016

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

Wire Talk 013: How Do I Parent All My Kids Equally? Jun 28, 2016

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

Wire Talk 012: How Do I Raise My Son? Jun 20, 2016

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 011: How Do I Raise My Daughter Jun 13, 2016

Wire Talk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 010: Single Parenting: How Do I Do This On My Own? Jun 06, 2016

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 009: How Do I Help My Kids Handle Our Divorce? May 30, 2016

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 008: What Do I Need to Know About Raising My Teenager? May 23, 2016

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

Wire Talk 007: How Do I Keep My Marriage a Priority? May 16, 2016

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

Wire Talk 006: Am I Making the Right Decisions For My Newborn? May 09, 2016

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 5: Is 'Me Time' Really That Important? May 02, 2016

Being a mom is a very servant-oriented job and it’s very easy to get lost in the shuffle. On today's episode, Karen and Sunny talk about the importance of prioritizing self-care and answer your questions about how to make sure your needs don't get buried while caring for your family.

Like what you heard? Make sure you subscribe to Wire Talk and leave us a 5 star review!

Wire Talk 004: What's the Best Way to Discipline My Kids? Apr 27, 2016

Wire Talk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT 003: Will We Ever Survive the Toddler Years? Apr 25, 2016

WireTalk with Karen Stubbs is a podcast designed to encourage and equip moms by answering your questions about motherhood, hopefully helping you maintain your faithfulness to God while experiencing a peaceful life on your journey.

WT Bonus: Meet Sunny Apr 20, 2016

Meet Wire Talk's host, Sunny Williams! Sunny shares her story of how she met Karen and got connected with the Birds on a Wire Ministry. Find out why she thinks the saying "It takes a village" is true and why she's so excited to be part of Wire Talk with Karen Stubbs!

WireTalk 002: How Do I Help My Child Grow Their Faith? Apr 18, 2016

On this episode of Wire Talk, Karen and Sunny talk about a topic of eternal matters: How Do I Help Grow My Child's Faith?

This is something all Christian moms hope and pray for their children, but sometimes we don't know how to begin going about it. Karen and Sunny bring warmth, wisdom as they answer your questions about this topic.

WT Bonus Episode: Meet Karen Stubbs Apr 13, 2016

Meet Wire Talk's own Karen Stubbs! Learn about why she started the Birds on a Wire Ministry, how many kids she has, and how excited she is to talk with you each week during Wire Talk.

WT 001: How Do I Overcome Mommy Guilt? Apr 11, 2016

On this episode of Wire Talk, Karen and Sunny talk about one of the most common issues that moms face: Mommy guilt.

Karen talks about how she's experienced mommy guilt in the past, and how she manages it in the present. Karen also offers her opinions on if moms should feel guilty asking for help, dropping kids off at child care, or telling your kids to stop talking for a few moments when you're in the car.

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