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

As believing parents, we know how important it is to raise our kids with love and intentionality. We want to give our kids a full picture of God’s love for them every day! But some days, it’s really hard! We are stretched thin, tired, and often feel unequipped. The Christian Parenting Podcast gives parents the space and resources to set aside perfection and grow into the perfectly imperfect parents God made them to be. Join host Steph Thurling and her guests as they discuss practical tips and spiritual guidance for your parenting journey.

  1. Unwrapping the truth about Christmas with Lee Strobel

    DEC 16

    Unwrapping the truth about Christmas with Lee Strobel

    Let’s talk about Christmas. Not just the cozy traditions or the sparkling lights, but the actual story of what happened in Bethlehem over 2,000 years ago. This week on the podcast, I had the absolute honor of sitting down with Lee Strobel and together we explore the deeper truths of the nativity story, why the details matter, and how we can share that with our kids in a way that builds their faith. Here are a few highlights from our conversation: Why understanding the virgin birth is crucial to understanding who Jesus really isThe difference between the cultural version of Christmas and what Scripture actually saysHow to talk to kids about the parts of the story that might confuse them (like the wise men and the timeline!)And yes, we even touch on Santa and how to navigate that as Christian parents Lee Strobel is a former legal editor for the Chicago Tribune and a New York Times bestselling author of more than forty books, including The Case for Christ and The Case for Faith. After investigating the claims of Christianity as an atheist, he became a follower of Jesus and now speaks and writes to help others explore faith with confidence. His newest book, The Case for Christmas, explores the historical and biblical evidence behind the nativity story. Whether you’ve heard the Christmas story a hundred times or are learning it with your kids for the first time, this conversation will give you a fresh perspective and a renewed sense of awe. (00:00) From Atheism to Faith: Lee Strobel's Journey (03:00) The Cultural Significance of Christmas (05:47) Revisiting the Nativity Story: Myths vs. Reality (09:04) Understanding the Virgin Birth (12:12) The Role of the Magi in the Christmas Story (14:56) The Importance of Context in Biblical Narratives (18:05) The Legacy of Saint Nicholas and Santa Claus (20:47) Celebrating Christmas with Children (24:01) The True Meaning of Christmas Connect with Lee LeeStrobel.com Lee Strobel X  Case For Christmas  Resources Mentioned Lee’s books Case For Christmas  Christian Parenting resources The Christian Parenting Podcast: Faith, apologetics, and the supernatural with Lee Strobel Support Christian Parenting Prefer video? This episode is on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out Everyday Dose and use my code CPPODCAST for a great deal: https://everydaydose.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    34 min
  2. When Christmas doesn’t go as planned with Sheila Walsh

    DEC 9

    When Christmas doesn’t go as planned with Sheila Walsh

    The lights are twinkling, the carols are playing, and everything should feel magical... but sometimes, it just doesn’t. Whether your kids are navigating big feelings of disappointment or you're trying to balance joy and weariness in your own heart, this conversation is for you. This week I’m joined by author and speaker Sheila Walsh, and we’re talking about what really matters this Christmas: God’s love, Emmanuel with us, and how to guide our children through holiday letdowns with grace, presence, and prayer. Here are just a few things we talked about:  How to help kids walk through disappointment (even when they don’t get the part they wanted in the play) Why our prayers for our children matter more than any gift we could ever wrap Simple ways to re-center your home on Jesus in a culture that’s always asking for moreHow unmet expectations can be invitations to discover God's love more deeply Sheila’s brand-new picture book, The Little Drummer Girl, tells a beautiful story about a child who doesn’t get what she wants… and instead finds the joy of giving to Jesus. It’s such a special book to read together this season. You can find the link in the show notes! Sheila Walsh is a best-selling author, Bible teacher, speaker, and co-host of TBN’s Praise. She has written over 50 books for women and children, including It’s Okay Not to Be Okay, Holding On When You Want to Let Go, and The Storm Inside. Her new book, The Little Drummer Girl, is a heartwarming Christmas story for kids about faith, giving, and the love of Jesus. So whether you’re on your third cup of cocoa or hiding wrapping paper in the closet, I hope this episode wraps around you like a warm blanket and reminds you: Jesus is with us. That’s what matters most. (00:00) Embracing the Christmas Spirit (02:52) Sheila Walsh: A Journey of Faith and Family (05:59) The Heart of Christmas: Lessons from Isabella (08:59) Navigating Disappointments: Teaching Kids Resilience (12:06) The Power of Prayer in Parenting (15:05) Finding Joy in Community and Service (18:13) Understanding God's Love and Forgiveness (20:47) The Impact of Prayer Across Generations (24:08) Celebrating God's Plan in Our Lives (26:54) The Gift of Christmas: Sharing God's Love Connect with Sheila Website Facebook  Instagram Better Together show Resources Mentioned The Little Drummer Girl book Christian Parenting resources Christian Parenting Christmas Gift Guide Prefer video? This episode is on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out Everyday Dose and use my code CPPODCAST for a great deal: https://everydaydose.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    29 min
  3. Parenting was never meant to be done alone with Elisa Morgan

    DEC 2

    Parenting was never meant to be done alone with Elisa Morgan

    Let’s be honest, parenting can feel incredibly isolating at times. Whether you're in a full house or navigating solo moments between the chaos, it’s easy to feel like no one really sees what you're carrying. But here’s the good news: you were never meant to do this alone. This week’s conversation is a beautiful reminder of that truth. I had the joy of sitting down with Elisa Morgan. And let me tell you, her wisdom is like a warm hug and a pep talk wrapped in one. We talked all about community: the kind that meets us in our mess, challenges us with grace, and reminds us we’re not the only ones still figuring this out. Here’s what you’ll take away from our time together: Why showing up as you are is the key to finding meaningful friendshipsHow biblical community helps us grow spiritually and emotionallyWhat to do when you feel disconnected or unseenWays to nurture authentic relationships in every season of motherhood Elisa is a speaker, author, and podcaster with Our Daily Bread Ministries, and formerly served as president of MOPS International (now MomCo). She has a deep passion for encouraging women through honest stories of faith and motherhood. Elisa’s personal experience of brokenness and grace infuses her work with incredible hope and healing. I hope this episode helps you feel just a little more seen—and reminds you that you are never parenting alone. (00:00) Introduction to Community and Personal Stories (03:05) The Importance of Community in Parenting (06:06) Navigating Changing Friendships (09:12) The Role of Scripture in Community (11:52) Encouragement for Women to Reach Out (14:57) Building Relationships with Non-Christians (18:00) Final Thoughts on Parenting and Community Connect with Elisa Instagram God Hears Her podcast Blog Website Resources Mentioned God Hears Her podcast MomCo Christian Parenting resources Christian Parenting Christmas Gift Guide Fizzlebop Super Science Board Books Prefer video? This episode is on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out Everyday Dose and use my code CPPODCAST for a great deal: https://everydaydose.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    31 min
  4. Finding faith in unanswered prayers with Kara Stout

    NOV 25

    Finding faith in unanswered prayers with Kara Stout

    Hey friend, We all know the ache of unanswered prayer, the kind that keeps us up at 2 a.m., whispering desperate prayers into the dark.  This week on the podcast, I sat down with Kara Stout, who knows that ache all too well. From infertility and adoption to financial stress and deep grief, Kara’s story is one of wrestling with disappointment, surrendering expectations, and still choosing to trust a good and faithful God. This conversation is for anyone who’s walked through the valley and wondered if God was still near. Kara gently reminds us: He is. Even when it hurts. Here are a few things we talk about: What it looks like to pray through grief instead of performing for GodHow to hold space for fear, faith, and surrender at the same timeThe simple but powerful gift of morning and evening prayer rhythmsWhy honesty with God invites deeper healing Kara Stout is a writer, speaker, wife, and mom who has walked through more than her share of heartache, but she’s also found the beauty of God’s nearness in it all. Her new devotional, An Untroubled Heart, is a 30-day prayer guide to help you start and end your days grounded in God’s presence. She is passionate about helping women grow deeper roots of faith even in hard seasons. Let this episode remind you that unanswered prayer doesn’t mean unseen pain—and healing often begins in the honesty of the wait. With love, Steph Connect with Kara KaraStout.com Instagram Facebook Resources Mentioned An Untroubled Heart book Christian Parenting resources Christian Parenting Christmas Gift Guide Prefer video? This episode is on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out Everyday Dose and use my code CPPODCAST for a great deal: https://everydaydose.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    29 min
  5. Holding on to hope while you wait with Alice Matagora

    NOV 18

    Holding on to hope while you wait with Alice Matagora

    This week’s conversation is tender, powerful, and one that so many carry quietly: the journey of waiting for a child. I’m joined by Alice Matagora and she shares her story of infertility with such grace and vulnerability, offering encouragement for anyone walking through a season of waiting or supporting someone who is. Whether you’ve walked this road yourself, are in the middle of it, or love someone who is, this episode is an invitation to sit with hope and trust that God is near, even in the waiting. Here are a few truths Alice helped shine a light on: - God's timing is never wasted, even when it feels like everything is on pause - It’s okay to feel unseen—God still sees and is working in your story - Waiting seasons can deepen our faith and strengthen our identity in Christ - How to support others walking through infertility with compassion and sensitivity Alice is a licensed marriage and family therapist, a wife, mom, and a missionary with the Navigators. She serves as the leader development initiative program director and is passionate about raising up disciple-makers in everyday life. Alice’s personal journey through infertility has shaped her deep belief in God’s faithfulness, even in unseen seasons. Wherever you are today, waiting, celebrating, or supporting someone on their journey, know that you’re not alone. God sees you. 00:00 The Joys and Challenges of Parenting 02:54 The Journey of Infertility 05:53 Faith and Waiting 09:01 The Impact of Infertility on Relationships 12:01 Navigating Joy and Grief 14:52 Supporting Friends Through Infertility 17:59 The Miracle of Life 21:12 Celebrating the Gift of Children Connect with Alice AliceMatagora.com Instagram Facebook TikTok Resources Mentioned You Are My Miracle book Christian Parenting resources Christian Parenting Christmas Gift Guide Prefer video? This episode is on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out Everyday Dose and use my code CPPODCAST for a great deal: https://everydaydose.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    28 min
  6. Living in the tension of overwhelmed and grateful as a parent with Jillian Benfield

    NOV 11

    Living in the tension of overwhelmed and grateful as a parent with Jillian Benfield

    Have you ever felt pulled between being deeply grateful and totally overwhelmed? You’re not alone, and today’s conversation will meet you right in that tension. I’m joined by author and TV journalist Jillian Benfield, who shares her powerful story of navigating unexpected challenges and discovering a deeper, more honest relationship with God along the way. We talk about avoiding toxic positivity, embracing life’s hard and holy moments, and learning to live in the “and.” Here are a few of my favorite takeaways: How the Psalms teach us to see life through the lens of order, disorder, and reorderWhat it means to raise emotionally aware kids using simple practices like “highs and lows”Why honesty with God is more powerful than forced positivityHow to start practicing daily rhythms of gratitude and lament Meet Jillian Benfield: Jillian is a former TV journalist turned author and disability advocate. Her book, Overwhelmed & Grateful, invites readers to reframe unexpected seasons and find deeper purpose in the midst of pain. She writes and speaks with vulnerability, wisdom, and a deep heart for helping others see God’s goodness even when life doesn’t go as planned. With Love, Steph (03:02) Navigating Parenting Challenges (06:08) The Power of Vulnerability (08:56) Understanding Overwhelm and Gratitude (11:55) Practicing Honest Gratitude (14:55) Order, Disorder, and Reorder (18:02) Finding God in the Everyday (21:03) Creating a Daily Rhythm of Gratitude (24:03) Connecting with Jillian Benfield Connect with Jillian Website Facebook Instagram Resources Mentioned Overwhelmed & Grateful book Biggest Story Holy Bible for Kids What to Say and How to Say it to Your Teens Christian Parenting resources Prefer video? This episode is on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out Everyday Dose and use my code CPPODCAST for a great deal: https://everydaydose.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    26 min
  7. How to start your mornings with God (even if you’re not a morning person) with Tara Beth Leach

    NOV 4

    How to start your mornings with God (even if you’re not a morning person) with Tara Beth Leach

    If your mornings feel more like survival mode than sacred space, this week’s episode is for you. I’m joined by Tara Beth Leach, she's pastor, author, and mom, and we’re talking all about how to make mornings with God doable and deeply meaningful, even in the busiest seasons of parenting. Tara Beth shares how a personal valley led her to create a simple rhythm that invites God into the start of her day… and now she’s helping the rest of us do the same. Whether you’re up before the sun or waking to chaos and cartoons, there’s something here for you. Here’s a little of what we cover: A simple “G.R.E.A.T.” framework for mornings with God: Gratitude, Reflection, Exalt, Ask, and TrustWhy five intentional minutes can shift the tone of your whole dayHow to create spiritual connection as a family (yes, even with toddlers!)Ideas for inviting your spouse or teens into the rhythm with you Meet Tara Beth Leach: Tara Beth is a pastor, preacher, and author with a deep passion for helping people walk closely with Jesus in their real, everyday lives. Her newest book, The GREAT Morning Revolution, invites readers into a grace-filled rhythm of connection with God, no perfect routine or Instagram-worthy quiet time required. Because the way you begin the day can shape your family’s whole rhythm. (01:58) Transitioning to Morning Time with God (06:02) Becoming a Morning Person: A Personal Journey (14:59) Practical Morning Prayer for Parents with Littles (20:09) Creating a Morning Routine: The GREAT Framework (21:00) Transforming Morning Routines with God (32:55) The Impact of Morning Practices on Family Dynamics Connect with Tara Website Instagram Facebook The GREAT Morning Revolution Resources Mentioned The GREAT Morning Revolution Operation Christmas Child Bishop's Block & Young Whit and the Shell Game  Christian Parenting Christmas Gift Guide Biggest Story Holy Bible for Kids Prefer video? This episode is on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Our Sponsors: * Check out Everyday Dose and use my code CPPODCAST for a great deal: https://everydaydose.com Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    31 min
5
out of 5
85 Ratings

About

As believing parents, we know how important it is to raise our kids with love and intentionality. We want to give our kids a full picture of God’s love for them every day! But some days, it’s really hard! We are stretched thin, tired, and often feel unequipped. The Christian Parenting Podcast gives parents the space and resources to set aside perfection and grow into the perfectly imperfect parents God made them to be. Join host Steph Thurling and her guests as they discuss practical tips and spiritual guidance for your parenting journey.

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