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

Christian Parenting
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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. Teaching kids to handle money with wisdom with Stephen Day

    1D AGO

    Teaching kids to handle money with wisdom with Stephen Day

    Hey friends, Let’s be honest, talking about money with our kids can feel a little awkward. Whether it’s figuring out allowance, answering “Why can’t we just buy that?” at Target, or teaching the value of hard work without turning into the fun police, we’ve all been there. That’s why I’m so excited for you to hear today’s episode with Stephen Day. He’s a dad of four, a professor, and the author of Teach a Kid to Save. Stephen brings a gentle, practical approach to money conversations that is full of wisdom and grace. He shares a framework he calls a “mini economy,” and honestly, it’s brilliant. This episode is packed with insight that will make you feel a lot more confident in raising money-wise kids without overcomplicating it. Here’s what we talk about: A simple family economy system that teaches saving, spending, and giving in real timeWhy allowances can work, but only if they're tied to your values, not just choresHow to model contentment and generosity in a consumer-driven worldCreative ways to connect money with character-building, not just behavior control Stephen is a former middle school teacher, a current university professor, and a dad of four who is passionate about helping families teach financial literacy with confidence. His book, Teach a Kid to Save, is a practical guide full of tips, strategies, and encouragement for families wanting to build good money habits from the ground up. He believes kids learn best through experience, and that parents don’t have to be financial experts to make a lasting impact. This conversation will help you ditch the overwhelm and step into intentional parenting around money, with wisdom and peace. With Love, Steph Connect with Stephen Website Substack Instagram Resources Mentioned  Teach a Kid to Save Mini economy downloads Sign up for Morning Minute Christian Parenting Raising Daughters 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 Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    29 min
  2. How to help kids calm their thoughts with Pastor Max Lucado

    JAN 27

    How to help kids calm their thoughts with Pastor Max Lucado

    Hey friends, I am so glad you’re here today because this episode is such a gift. I had the absolute honor of welcoming back Pastor Max Lucado to the podcast, and his gentle wisdom and encouragement are exactly what we need as we navigate parenting in an anxious world. Max has spent decades speaking into our hearts with truth and grace. And now, he’s turned his attention to helping our kids better understand and manage fear and worry through his new devotional Calm Thoughts for Kids. It’s full of faith-based tools and age-appropriate encouragement, and today, we’re talking about how we, as parents, can come alongside our kids in their emotional and spiritual growth. Here are a few things you’ll hear in our conversation: How anxiety shows up differently in children, and how to recognize itWhy open, ongoing conversations are essential for helping our kids grow in faithHow to anchor your child’s identity in God’s truth instead of fearEncouragement for you as the parent: why your presence matters more than perfection Max Lucado is a pastor, speaker, and best-selling author whose books have sold over 145 million copies worldwide. Known for his approachable teaching style and heart for helping people experience God’s grace, Max has written countless books for adults, and now, for children too. His newest devotional Calm Thoughts for Kids is designed to help kids trust God in anxious moments and develop lifelong habits of hope and faith. This episode is a beautiful reminder that we can model calm, point our children to Jesus, and be safe places for them to land, no matter what they’re walking through. With Love, Steph Connect with Max @maxlucado https://maxlucado.com/ Resources Mentioned Calm Thoughts For Kids  Sign up for Morning Minute Christian Parenting Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    29 min
  3. No more boring Bible study with Faith Womack

    JAN 20

    No more boring Bible study with Faith Womack

    Hey friends, Let’s be honest, studying the Bible as a busy parent can feel overwhelming. We want to be in the Word, but sometimes we just don’t know where to start. Today’s episode is a lifeline if you’ve ever stared at your Bible and thought, “I want to read this… I just don’t know how.” I’m so excited for you to hear from Faith Womack (aka Bible Nerd), who is on a mission to help people fall in love with scripture in a way that’s approachable, meaningful, and, dare we say…fun. This conversation is the reminder we all need that Bible study isn’t about performance; it’s about presence. And it is possible to make time for God’s Word in our full and fast-moving lives. Here are a few things Faith shared that really stuck with me: Bible study doesn’t have to be intense or intimidating, it’s an invitation, not a test.The Gospels make an incredible starting point when you need a reset or a place to re-engage with Jesus.We model a love of scripture to our kids not with perfection, but by simply showing up with curiosity and consistency.Worship can happen while we study, it’s not just something we do after we understand everything. Whether you’re brand new to Bible study or just need some fresh encouragement, this episode is going to feel like a deep breath of grace and motivation. Faith is the founder of Bible Nerd Ministries, where she equips Christians to understand and enjoy scripture. Her new book, No More Boring Bible Study, is a practical and inspiring guide for anyone who wants to connect with God’s Word in a real and transformative way. Faith’s mission is to help people study the Bible with joy, confidence, and depth, no seminary degree required. She lives with her husband and kids and is passionate about making the Bible accessible to everyone. Let’s start where we are, open our Bibles, and remember that God delights in meeting us there. With love, Steph (00:00) Introduction to Bible Study Passion (03:04) The Journey of Understanding Scripture (06:02) Overcoming Intimidation in Bible Study (08:52) The Importance of a God-Centric Approach (12:07) Practical Steps to Engage with the Bible (14:55) Adapting Bible Study Habits as a Parent (17:57) Encouraging Kids in Their Faith Journey (21:03) Navigating Bible Study Resources (23:58) Conclusion and Resources Connect with Faith Bible Nerd Ministries YouTube Instagram How to Faith a Life podcast Resources Mentioned No More Boring Bible Study book Sign up for Morning Minute Christian Parenting Dwell Bible in a Year  Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    31 min
  4. When faith hits you fresh with Cynthia Yanof

    JAN 13

    When faith hits you fresh with Cynthia Yanof

    Hey friends, You know those conversations that feel like sunshine and strong coffee at the same time? That’s what today’s episode is. I’m sitting down with the one and only Cynthia Yanof, OG host of the Pardon the Mess podcast and someone who knows how to bring laughter, truth, and grace into every room she walks into. We’re talking about her brand new book, How’d I Miss That? and it’s all about those holy “aha” moments, when something you've heard a million times in Scripture suddenly lands differently and stirs your heart in a new way. If you've been craving encouragement that’s both lighthearted and deeply rooted, this episode is for you. Here’s what we unpack: Why love is the Christian brand and how we often forget thatHow mustard seed moments can shape your legacy as a parentWhat it means to live your faith in ordinary, everyday waysHow to create a personal “Mount Rushmore” to guide your parenting and faith It’s hopeful. It’s hilarious. And it will make you want to lean in just a little closer to Jesus today. Cynthia is a speaker, author, and podcast host passionate about encouraging parents to pursue Jesus in the middle of the mess. She’s the original host of Pardon the Mess and now serves as a frequent voice in the Christian Parenting community. Her latest book, How’d I Miss That?, is all about rediscovering the simple but powerful truths of our faith that we often overlook. Cynthia lives in Texas with her husband and kids and brings wisdom wrapped in wit wherever she goes. Let’s keep choosing the small things, because they’re often the big things in disguise. With love, Steph (00:00) Welcome Back and Introduction (03:11) Navigating Parenting and Faith (05:45) How'd I Miss That? Moments in Faith (09:00) The Importance of Love in Our Lives (12:11) Parenting Perspectives: Lessons Learned (14:51) The Mustard Seed Mistake (18:03) Building a Personal Mount Rushmore (21:01) The Impact of Small Acts of Love (24:00) Conclusion and Resources Connect with Cynthia  Website https://www.instagram.com/cynthiayanof/ MESSmerized podcast Sidetracked podcast Feeding the Mouth that Bites You podcast Resources Mentioned How’d I Miss That? book Sign up for Morning Minute Christian Parenting Dwell Bible in a Year  Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    34 min
  5. Navigating mental health with faith and community with Erin Kerry

    JAN 6

    Navigating mental health with faith and community with Erin Kerry

    Hey friends, You know those conversations you know are important, but they still feel a little intimidating to start? That’s exactly what we’re diving into today. In this episode, I’m joined by Erin Kerry who’s bravely sharing her story and helping us hold space for the hard things, especially when it comes to mental health in our homes. As parents, we’re often navigating silent battles, whether it’s our own struggles or the ones our kids are facing. And while it might feel easier to push through or avoid the topic altogether, what if we could learn to meet it with grace, faith, and even some practical tools? Here are a few takeaways from today’s conversation: The importance of naming emotions and removing the shame from mental health conversationsHow nutrition and nervous system regulation play a vital role in healing and well-beingWhy spiritual and emotional health can walk hand-in-handEncouragement for when you’re in the thick of it faith, community, and rest are not optional luxuries, they’re lifelinesI’m praying this episode feels like a warm cup of tea and a deep exhale. You’re not alone, friend. Erin is a writer, speaker, and serves as an Integrative Health Coach at Living Well Counseling and Wellness Center in Tyler, Texas. Diagnosed with PTSD, depression, and bipolar disorder as a young adult, Erin has spent years learning how to live with resilience, faith, and grace. Here’s to sparking healing and honest conversations in your family and beyond. With Love, Steph (06:01) The Role of Faith in Healing (11:55) Living Beyond Labels in Mental Health (17:51) Navigating Anxiety and Its Protective Nature (20:46) Nervous System Regulation and Co-Regulation (22:54) Understanding Anxiety and Its Physical Roots (25:51) Navigating Conversations on Mental Health (30:01) The Intersection of Nutrition and Mental Health (34:51) Practical Tools for Holistic Mental Health Connect with Erin Website Sparking Wholeness podcast Instagram Resources Mentioned Live Beyond Your Label book Dwell Bible in a Year  Sign up for Morning Minute Christian Parenting Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    28 min
  6. How to navigate culture with a Biblical worldview with Connor Jones and Micah Tomasella

    12/30/2025

    How to navigate culture with a Biblical worldview with Connor Jones and Micah Tomasella

    Hey friends, If you’ve ever looked at the world and thought, “This is too much, I don’t even know where to start,” you are not alone. Culture is moving at warp speed, and as Christian parents, it can feel impossible to keep up, let alone know how to guide our kids through it all with clarity, calm, and conviction. In today’s episode, I’m joined by my Denison Ministries teammates and friends, Connor Jones and Micah Tomasella. These two are not only culture watchers and podcast hosts, but they’re also dads in the thick of raising littles, so they get it. Together, we talk about how to engage culture without being consumed by it, and how to stay grounded when the headlines won’t stop coming. Here’s what we cover: How to decide what’s actually worth paying attention to (and what you can ignore)How to enjoy entertainment and trends without letting them become idolsWhy biblical grounding matters more than having all the right answersHow to have conversations with your kids that don’t feel like lectures This one is practical, honest, and encouraging, especially if you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, out of your depth, or tempted to just check out entirely. Connor Jones is the Director of Performance Marketing and Micah Tomasella is the Director of Advancement at Denison Ministries. Together, they host The Culture Brief podcast, where they break down what’s happening in the world and how to think about it through a biblical lens. Both are young dads navigating the same parenting pressures and culture shifts that many of us face daily. Their goal? Help Christians stay rooted in truth while walking wisely in a noisy world. Let’s keep showing up with curiosity, courage, and grace. You don’t have to know everything, just stay rooted. With love, Steph (00:00) Introduction to the Hosts and Their Backgrounds (04:54) Navigating Culture as Parents (11:15) Engaging with Cultural Moments (14:49) Discussing Cultural Events with Kids (19:08) Fostering Healthy Conversations about Culture (19:48) Navigating Theological Questions with Children (22:14) The Importance of Open Dialogue in Parenting (26:06) Equipping Ourselves for Cultural Conversations (28:24) Encouragement for Overwhelmed Parents (32:42) Trusting God's Plan in Parenting Resources Mentioned Dwell Bible in a Year  Give to Christian Parenting Sign up for Morning Minute Christian Parenting Culture Brief Podcast Denison Forum Denison Ministries Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    36 min
  7. A Christmas reflection for parents

    12/23/2025

    A Christmas reflection for parents

    Hey Friends! I’ve never done a solo episode before, but Christmas felt like the right time to try. In the middle of a season that can feel loud, full, emotional, and a little overwhelming, this episode is an invitation to take just ten minutes to pause and breathe and remember the gift that never fades. Whether your home feels busy and chaotic or quiet and tender this year, remember Emmanuel, God with us. Through Scripture, simple family traditions, and honest encouragement, this episode is for weary parents who want to love their kids well and keep Jesus at the center without feeling pressure to get everything just right. With love, Steph Thurling P.S. Please consider making a year-end gift to Christian Parenting to help us create more encouraging, faith-filled podcast episodes for families in every season. Prefer video? Find more episodes on YouTube! The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    10 min
  8. Unwrapping the truth about Christmas with Lee Strobel

    12/16/2025

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

    34 min
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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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