Pardon the Mess with Scarlet Hiltibidal - Christian Motherhood, Biblical Parenting, Raising Christian Kids

Christian Parenting
Christian Parenting
  • 4.8 (848)
  • Parenting
  • Updated Weekly

As parents, we know raising kids is the opposite of neat and tidy. Pardon the Mess is a podcast for Christian moms who love Jesus, love their kids, and still feel behind on most days. Each week, host Scarlet takes one real parenting mess (morning meltdowns, discipline guilt, raising kind kids in a world that doesn't feel kind) and untangles it with honesty and grace, one small, faithful step at a time. No five-step systems. No longer to-do lists. Just clarity about what matters most and permission to let the rest go. Pardon the Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org

  1. 2d ago

    I Don’t Want to Do Motherhood Alone

    Motherhood is beautiful, but it can also feel isolating. In this episode, Scarlet Hiltibidal shares why moms need gospel-centered community and how God often works through the people He places around us. Through personal stories of seasons when she pulled away from others in pain and waited until she felt “bright and shiny” again before showing up, Scarlet explores the freedom that comes from being known, loved, and supported in the middle of the mess. Drawing from Psalm 107 and the call to “tell of the Lord’s goodness,” Scarlet encourages moms to share their stories of God’s faithfulness, not because our stories are perfect, but because they point to a perfect Savior. She offers practical encouragement for finding community through the local church, small groups, and intentional relationships that remind us we were never meant to do motherhood alone. Special thanks to Lacey Garner, who came and shared a so-encouraging story of God being actively involved in her life at a family vacation in an Air B&B! In This Episode: Why gospel community is essential in motherhoodHow isolation keeps moms from experiencing God’s provision through othersSharing our stories of God’s faithfulness, even when life is messyPractical steps for finding and nurturing gospel-centered friendshipsThe role of the local church and small groups in supporting momsLiving out the gospel in everyday conversationsKey Scripture Psalm 107:1-9Proverbs 3:5-6 Connect with Scarlet If this episode encouraged you, would you take a minute to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another mom who's trying to faithfully point her kids to Jesus? You can connect with Scarlet on Instagram and find more resources, Bible studies, and encouragement at scarlethiltibidal.com. Resources: Elisabeth Elliot  Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation Sign up for Morning Minute Connect with Pardon The Mess: Christian Parenting Pardon The Mess Scarlet’s Instagram Scarlet’s Facebook Prefer video? This episode is on YouTube! Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

  2. Aug 13

    I Worry That My Anxiety is Affecting My Kids

    What if my anxiety is affecting my kids? It’s a question many moms quietly ask themselves. In this episode, Scarlet Hiltibidal shares a personal story from her own motherhood journey and the fear that she might pass her anxiety on to her children. Scarlet talks about a moment when she realized that her biggest struggle wasn’t just anxiety itself, it was what she believed about God. When we don’t trust that God is good, our fears can take over. But when we understand the character of our loving Father, we can begin to release the impossible burden of trying to control every outcome for our kids. Through Scripture, honest reflection, and personal experience, Scarlet encourages moms that the goal isn’t to become a fearless mom, it’s to become a mom who knows where to take her fears, because our children don’t need perfect, anxiety-free moms. They need moms who point them to the perfect love and faithfulness of Jesus, even when they feel weak. In This Episode: The story behind Scarlet’s fear that getting closer to God might lead to something terrible happening to her childrenHow anxiety can distort our view of God’s characterWhy the root of anxiety is often a struggle to trust God’s goodnessThe guilt moms feel when they worry their anxiety is affecting their kidsHow honesty about our struggles can actually help our children see faith lived outWhy we don’t have to become fearless moms, we can become moms who trust God with our fearsKey Scriptures:Matthew 6:25–26 — Jesus reminds us that our heavenly Father cares for His children. Matthew 7:11 — If earthly parents know how to give good gifts, how much more can we trust our good Father? Resources: Afraid of All the Things The Maker of the Mountain The Adventure Bible I Love You, Little Light Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation Sign up for Morning Minute Connect with Pardon The Mess: Christian Parenting Pardon The Mess Scarlet’s Instagram Scarlet’s Facebook Prefer video? This episode is on YouTube! Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

  3. Aug 6

    I Don’t Know How to Help My Kids Love Church

    If you've ever wrestled a toddler through the church doors, bribed your kids with donuts to make it through the service, or wondered if anything they're hearing is actually sticking—you are not alone. In this episode, Scarlet sits down with her pastor-husband, Brandon Hiltibidal, for an honest conversation about one of the biggest questions Christian parents ask: How can we help our kids love the church? The answer isn't found in creating the perfect kids' ministry or making church endlessly entertaining. More often, it begins with the way we, as parents, view and love Christ's bride. Listen in to hear practical, gospel-centered ways to cultivate a love for the local church in your family while helping your kids understand that church is much more than a weekly event. In This Episode: Why your attitude toward church shapes your children's view more than you realize.The difference between raising church attenders and raising kids who love God's people.Why church should feel like family, not just another Sunday activity.How to help your children build meaningful relationships within the church.How to talk with your kids when they notice hypocrisy, conflict, or failures in church leaders.Why the gospel gives us hope even when people in the church disappoint us.Personal stories of how the church cared for the Hiltibidal family during seasons of adoption, hardship, and celebration. Scripture Focus Acts 2Hebrews 10:24–25 If this episode encouraged you, would you take a minute to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another mom who's trying to faithfully point her kids to Jesus? You can connect with Scarlet on Instagram and find more resources, Bible studies, and encouragement at scarlethiltibidal.com. Resources: The Maker of the Mountain The Adventure Bible Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation Sign up for Morning Minute Connect with Pardon The Mess: Christian Parenting Pardon The Mess Scarlet’s Instagram Scarlet’s Facebook Prefer video? This episode is on YouTube! Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

  4. Jul 30

    I Feel Like I’m Losing Myself in Motherhood

    Have you ever looked in the mirror and wondered, Who even am I anymore? Motherhood is beautiful, sacred, and deeply meaningful, but it can also feel all-consuming. Somewhere between diaper changes, school pickups, endless laundry, and caring for everyone else, it's easy to lose sight of who you are. In this episode, Scarlet Hiltibidal shares honestly about what it feels like to lose yourself in motherhood and why the answer isn't finding your "old self" again, but anchoring your identity in Jesus. Through personal stories, biblical encouragement, and practical rhythms, you'll be reminded that your worth isn't found in your productivity, your parenting, or your season of life. It's found in Jesus.. If you've been feeling unseen, overwhelmed, or like you've disappeared beneath the title of "Mom," this conversation is for you. Special thanks to Katie Hinson, who shared her own experience with this for this week's Messy Mom Moment! If this episode encouraged you, be sure to subscribe, leave a positive review, and share it with a friend who may need hope today. In this episode:Why so many moms feel like they've lost themselvesThe difference between your role as a mom and your identity in ChristThe importance of friendship and Christian communityKey ScriptureColossians 3:1-4Ephesians 2:10 Resources: You are Not Forgotten by Christine Hoover The Adventure Bible Bridging Resilience Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation Sign up for Morning Minute First15 Connect with Pardon The Mess: Get to know Scarlet here Christian Parenting Pardon The Mess Scarlet’s Instagram Scarlet’s Facebook Join the Pardon the Mess community by subscribing and leaving a review! Prefer video? This episode is on YouTube! Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

  5. Jul 23

    Homeschool, Public, or Private...How Do I Choose?

    How do you know you're making the right decision for your kids? Whether you're homeschooling, choosing private school, considering public school, or simply wondering if you're getting this whole parenting thing right, the pressure can feel overwhelming. In this episode, Scarlet Hiltibidal reminds us that while parenting comes with countless decisions, our greatest calling isn't to engineer the perfect childhood—it's to faithfully point our children to Jesus. Through biblical encouragement and practical wisdom, Scarlet shares how Scripture shapes our approach to discipleship at home, why prayer and wise counsel matter, and how resting in God's sovereignty frees us from the burden of believing everything depends on us. In this episode, you'll hear:What the Bible says about discipling our children in everyday life.Why God's Word should be woven into the rhythms of your home.How to seek wisdom through prayer, Scripture, and godly counsel when making educational decisions.The freedom that comes from remembering you are called to point your children to Jesus—not save them.How trusting God's sovereignty brings peace in every parenting season.Key ScripturesProverbs 3:5–6Deuteronomy 6Key TakeawaysGod's Word is meant to shape the everyday rhythms of family life.Parenting is about faithful discipleship, not perfect outcomes.Every family and every season is unique—seek God's wisdom rather than someone else's formula.Prayer and biblical wisdom should guide every major parenting decision.God is already at work in your child's life, and you can trust Him with what you cannot control. Special thanks to Ever, Scarlet’s 15-year-old, who shared her own experience with this for this week's Messy Mom Moment! If this episode encouraged you, be sure to subscribe, leave a positive review, and share it with a friend who may need hope today. Prefer video? This episode is on YouTube! Resources: The Adventure Bible Cozy Earth (use code PARDONTHEMESS for up to 20% off! And if you get a Post-Purchase Survey, make sure to let them know you heard about Cozy Earth right here!) Bridging Resilience Get your copy of Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation today! Get to know Scarlet here Sign up for Morning Minute Seeds Kids Worship  Connect with Pardon The Mess: Christian Parenting Pardon The Mess Scarlet’s Instagram Scarlet’s Facebook Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

  6. Jul 16

    Summer is Long…What Do I Do With My Kids?

    Summer always seems to come with big expectations. We imagine memory-making adventures, endless family fun, and kids who magically never complain. But somewhere between snack requests, screen-time negotiations, and trying to keep everyone occupied, many of us end up wondering if we're doing enough. In this episode, Scarlet Hiltibidal shares why the best summer isn't necessarily the busiest one. Instead, she explores how the gospel frees us from the pressure to create a "perfect" summer and invites us to faithfully enjoy the ordinary moments God has already given us. You'll also hear from special guest Anna Van Dyke, who shares simple, practical rhythms that have helped her family cultivate faith, connection, and joy throughout the summer. Whether you're staying home, traveling, or just trying to survive another hot afternoon with your kids, this episode will encourage you to embrace intentionality over perfection and remember that God is already at work in the everyday moments. In This EpisodeWhy summer can leave moms feeling overwhelmedHow the gospel frees us from the pressure to create a "perfect" childhoodSimple spiritual rhythms your family can build into everyday lifePractical ideas for creating meaningful summer memories without overschedulingFinding joy in the ordinary instead of chasing extraordinary moments Scripture FocusColossians 3:17Luke 10:38-42 Special thanks to Anna Van Dyke who shared her own experience with this for this week's Messy Mom Moment! If this episode encouraged you, be sure to subscribe, leave a positive review, and share it with a friend who may need hope today. Prefer video? This episode is on YouTube! Resources: The Adventure Bible Cozy Earth (use code PARDONTHEMESS for up to 20% off! And if you get a Post-Purchase Survey, make sure to let them know you heard about Cozy Earth right here!) Get your copy of Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation today! Get to know Scarlet here Sign up for Morning Minute Connect with Pardon The Mess: Christian Parenting Pardon The Mess Scarlet’s Instagram Scarlet’s Facebook Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

  7. Jul 9

    I Don't Know How to Help My Child Through Friendship Drama

    Few things are harder than watching your child come home hurt by a friend. Whether they're feeling left out, navigating conflict, experiencing rejection, or struggling through friendship drama, many moms find themselves wondering: Should I step in? Should I stay out of it? How do I help without making it worse? In this episode of Pardon the Mess, Scarlet Hiltibidal shares personal stories, practical encouragement, and biblical wisdom for helping children navigate relational conflict in a way that reflects the heart of Jesus. Through the lens of Matthew 18, she'll explore how we can teach our kids to pursue reconciliation, extend forgiveness, and find their identity in Christ rather than in the approval of others. If you've ever felt helpless watching your child struggle socially, this conversation will encourage you to trust God with their relationships while helping them develop the skills and character they'll need for a lifetime of healthy friendships. In This Episode:Why friendship drama affects moms so deeplyThe difference between protecting your child and preparing themWhat Jesus teaches about conflict and reconciliation in Matthew 18How to help your child navigate hurt, rejection, and misunderstandingsTeaching kids to pursue peace instead of gossipHelping children separate their identity from their friendshipsPractical ways to walk alongside your child without taking overHow the gospel transforms the way we handle relational conflictScripture Referenced:Matthew 18:15Ephesians 4:31–32 Special thanks to Vanessa Dolberry who shared her own experience with this for this week's Messy Mom Moment! If this episode encouraged you, be sure to subscribe, leave a positive review, and share it with a friend who may need hope today. P.S. Scarlet also joined Steph on The Christian Parenting Podcast earlier this week for a great conversation on embracing the Gospel for real-life parenting messes! Listen here or watch here Resources: The Adventure Bible Get your copy of Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation today! Get to know Scarlet here Sign up for Morning Minute Prefer video? This episode is on YouTube! Connect with Pardon The Mess: Christian Parenting Pardon The Mess Scarlet’s Instagram Scarlet’s Facebook Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

  8. Jul 2

    I Don’t Know How to Trust God’s Goodness After a Miscarriage

    In this deeply personal episode, Scarlet Hiltibidal shares her own experiences with miscarriage and the difficult questions that often accompany loss. Through stories of grief, fear, and surrender, she reflects on the difference between questioning God's goodness and learning to trust His goodness even when circumstances don't make sense. Whether you're walking through pregnancy loss yourself or supporting a mom friend who is, this conversation offers biblical encouragement, honest hope, and practical ways to care for those who are grieving. Together, we'll explore what it looks like to cling to God in heartbreak and find comfort in His unchanging character when life feels uncertain. In this episode: Scarlet's personal experiences with miscarriageWrestling with faith in seasons of lossTrusting God's goodness when life doesn't feel goodBiblical encouragement for grieving momsPractical ways to support someone experiencing pregnancy lossFinding hope and healing in Christ amid unanswered questions If you've ever wondered how to hold both grief and faith at the same time, this episode is for you! Today's Scripture Focus: Psalm 34:18, Romans 8:32, Lamentations 3:22-23, John 11:35 Special thanks to Scarlet’s little tiny infant baby sister (who is 32!) Aubrey Fuhrman, who shared her own experience with this for this week's Messy Mom Moment! If this episode encouraged you, be sure to subscribe, leave a positive review, and share it with a friend who may need hope today. Resources: The Adventure Bible Get to know Scarlet here Sign up for Morning Minute Prefer video? This episode is on YouTube! Connect with Pardon The Mess: Christian Parenting Pardon The Mess Scarlet’s Instagram Scarlet’s Facebook Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

See All (681)

Trailers

Hosts & Guests

4.8
out of 5
848 Ratings

About

As parents, we know raising kids is the opposite of neat and tidy. Pardon the Mess is a podcast for Christian moms who love Jesus, love their kids, and still feel behind on most days. Each week, host Scarlet takes one real parenting mess (morning meltdowns, discipline guilt, raising kind kids in a world that doesn't feel kind) and untangles it with honesty and grace, one small, faithful step at a time. No five-step systems. No longer to-do lists. Just clarity about what matters most and permission to let the rest go. Pardon the Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org

Information

More From Christian Parenting

You Might Also Like