Wire Talk with Karen Stubbs

Latest Episodes:

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

Show notes

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

Show notes

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

Show notes

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

Show notes

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

Show notes

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

Show notes

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

Show notes

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

Show notes

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

Show notes

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

Show notes

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

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