Pardon the Mess with Courtney DeFeo - Christian Motherhood, Biblical Parenting, Raising Christian Kids

Christian Parenting
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Pardon the Mess with Courtney DeFeo - Christian Motherhood, Biblical Parenting, Raising Christian Kids

As parents, we know raising kids is the opposite of neat and tidy. Each day brings wins, losses and valuable lessons. Pardon the Mess is a place where we discuss parenting and faith in a biblical, approachable and relatable way. We may cry and laugh while we learn and grow together in our beautiful mess. 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. BONUS: Follow: Deny Themselves

    1 DAY AGO

    BONUS: Follow: Deny Themselves

    “Then Jesus said to his disciples, ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it’” (Matthew 16:24–25) Denying ourselves might involve taking an inventory of those things we hold more important than God. This might mean choosing between two good things, doing something we don’t really want to do, or giving something up. Mostly, denying ourselves means leaving behind a sinful life and walking with Jesus every day. This doesn’t always sound appealing, especially to a kid. But Jesus promises us that when we surrender our lives over to him, he will give us life and life to the full (John 10:10). This is the slow process of sanctification—or being made holy. We can’t do it ourselves, we need Jesus. So while our kids may naturally think of themselves first (let’s be real, we often do too), the truth is, there is something bigger than our kids that is worth following, and that is Jesus. So this week, let’s pray that as our kids grow, they learn to deny themselves and their earthly desires and choose to follow Jesus. Jesus, you are the king of our hearts and lives. I pray that ______________ chooses to be your disciple and that they always know that the world is not about them and there is freedom in that, release them from the pressure of that. May they evaluate their focus and, with your help and strength, be sanctified to you as they deny themselves, turn from sin, and follow you. Amen. Get your printed copy of A Life of Faith: Prayer Journal 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

    13 min
  2. Devices, Dopamine and how to help our families with Niro Feliciano

    5 DAYS AGO

    Devices, Dopamine and how to help our families with Niro Feliciano

    I took a break from social media in December, and I could not believe the difference in my mood and clarity. This episode is not here to guilt us as parents - but to equip us! My guest, Niro Feliciano, is a psychotherapist, mom of four kids and regular contributor on The Today Show. She speaks in a language we can understand. She shares about brain science and how the dopamine high/low pattern is really impacting the moods and wellbeing of our children (and us).  I saw Niro’s reel on the “dopamine deficit” weeks ago and reached out to her immediately to continue that conversation on this podcast. Her reel is one that you can share with your teens. If you are seeing signs of depression and anxiety in your teens - do not miss this episode. My favorite part is when she gives grace at the end. Don’t go straight to condemnation of your parenting. If you feel you have failed your kids with technology. It’s not too late to make changes and help them through the reality of living in a digital world. Who is ready to try a quick 24-hour or weekend reset and report back? Enjoy! Courtney 00:00 Weather and Family Updates 06:01 Navigating Parenting Teens 12:02 Understanding Dopamine Deficit 18:01 Recognizing Symptoms of Dopamine Deficit 23:42 Understanding Temperament and Personality Types 30:24 Embracing Parental Imperfection and Growth Connect with Pardon The Mess: Christian Parenting Pardon The Mess  Courtney DeFeo Get your 2024-2025 prayer journal, A Life of Faith Resources from today’s show: Connect with Niro This Book Won’t Make You Happy - Niro’s book on contentment  All Is Calmish - Niro’s newest book (pre-order available) Niro’s instagram reel on Dopamine - show your kids!! Niro’s January segment on The Today Show - Grace! The Anxious Generation Dopamine Nation  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

    36 min
  3. BONUS: Follow: The Good Shepherd

    JAN 13

    BONUS: Follow: The Good Shepherd

    “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me—just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down my life for the sheep” (John 10:14–15) Throughout scripture, Jesus is referred to not just as a good shepherd, but as the good shepherd. On top of all the things mentioned above, Jesus would and will lay down his life for his sheep. Not only that, but the good shepherd cares so deeply for every single sheep that he will leave the 99 to chase down one. In Luke 15, a shepherd leaves his entire flock to find one lost sheep, and when he does, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders and calls all his neighbors together to have a party for his lost sheep who is now found (verses 5–6). Jesus laid down his life for your kids. Jesus loves your kids so much that if they stray, he will not forget about them. They may seem lost to you, but they are not lost to Jesus. When they decide to return, he will rejoice over them and there will be a party in heaven!  Let’s pray our kids will surrender their lives to Jesus, follow the good shepherd always, and trust his care over their lives. Lord, you are the good shepherd. I pray that ______________ puts their trust in you and decides to follow you. May they always know that they can run to you when they are afraid, overwhelmed, or don’t know what to do. And may they always know that if they stray, you will be waiting for their joyful return! Amen. Get your printed copy of A Life of Faith: Prayer Journal 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

    9 min
  4. Navigating health and hormones with Dr. Edie Wadsworth

    JAN 9

    Navigating health and hormones with Dr. Edie Wadsworth

    This summer, I ran into a Pardon the Mess listener and asked her how I could support her parenting journey on this podcast. She said, “All of my friends talk about health and hormones every day. It’s a real struggle.” I did not disagree. Maybe it’s middle age or the fact that we have TONS of information overwhelming us on social media - but the topic of women’s health is often overwhelming. For many years, I have run on empty and taking care of myself last. Anyone else relate to this approach?  Today’s conversation with Dr. Edie Wadsworth won’t solve everything - but will hopefully encourage you as you navigate your health journey. I believe the health of us as parents greatly impacts how we show up with our kids. It’s inevitable to feel exhausted as parents - but imagine if you didn’t. I have never really understood insulin resistance until this conversation.  My favorite part is at the end when she reminds ME and all of us - that our value isn’t tied to our weight. I also love how she encouraged us all to not give up and keep taking small steps. In our chat we discuss: Dr. Edie’s journey as a physician battling her own health strugglesHow can we understand our hormones as we ageWhat can we do to make some progress when we feel stuckHolistic and affordable ideas when we don't want another prescription  Enjoy! Courtney The information provided in this podcast episode is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare professional regarding your health concerns, medical conditions, or treatment options. (02:55) Family Dynamics and Life in Tennessee (05:51) Health Journey and Transition from Medicine (08:59) Understanding Perimenopause and Hormonal Changes (12:01) The Importance of Holistic Health Practices (14:57) Nutrition and Hormonal Balance (17:55) Building Muscle and Managing Insulin Resistance (21:05) Creating Health vs. Managing Sickness (24:10) Understanding Menopause and Perimenopause (26:04) The Power of Self-Advocacy in Health (29:54) Navigating Hormonal Health and Finding the Right Doctor (31:42) The Role of Supplements and Hormone Replacement Therapy (33:53) Addressing Joint Health and Insulin Resistance (36:50) Overcoming Overwhelm and Building Healthy Habits (41:31) Resources for Health and Wellness (45:48) Embracing Worth Beyond Weight Connect with Pardon The Mess: Christian Parenting Pardon The Mess  Courtney DeFeo Get your 2024-2025 prayer journal, A Life of Faith Resources from today’s show: Connect with Edie Edie’s Podcast Life Mentoring School Conversation with Ruth Soukup about weight loss The Body Keeps Score Young Living  Why We Get Sick The Obesity Code 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

    50 min
  5. BONUS: Love: Trusting Jesus

    JAN 6

    BONUS: Love: Trusting Jesus

    “Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. Take delight in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart” (Psalm 37:3–4) We have probably all been hurt by trusting someone or something too much. As believing parents, we know that there is something better for our kids when they put their trust in Jesus. Trusting Jesus means surrendering every part of our stories to him and knowing that his plans are good. Even if he feels far away at times, he cares for us and will provide for our needs because the world may under-deliver, but Jesus never breaks a promise. This means when our kids trust Jesus: They don’t need to be afraid when they are put in an unknown situation or life feels uncertain because Jesus always wins. They can feel confident that Jesus will protect them when they are facing something difficult because God answers his children when they call on him.They are God’s child, no matter how others treat them.They can have hope even in hopeless situations because Jesus has already overcome the world!Their lives will be blessed. This week, let’s pray that our kids fully love God by trusting in Jesus and begin to experience his great promises. God, I pray that ___________ learns to trust in you and your promises. When they are tempted to believe the promises of the world, may their heart be reminded that you will never forsake them. May they consistently see the sweet fruit that comes from trusting in you with their lives and with their stories. Amen. Get your printed copy of A Life of Faith: Prayer Journal 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

    11 min
  6. How to avoid parent burnout with Drew McClure

    JAN 2

    How to avoid parent burnout with Drew McClure

    Happy New Year!!! I cannot believe it’s 2025. I've been thinking about this year for a long time because it’s the year my first child graduates from high school. Well, that went fast! Today’s episode is a special one for me, but also insanely practical for all of us. We have my brother, Drew McClure, on the show today to talk about “parent burnout.” Is it just the life of a mother to feel utterly exhausted all the days of our lives? Is there a way to have more energy? Better energy? Focused energy? Meaningful energy?  He talks us through how to make some traction this year so we don’t burnout early in the year. His thoughts are wise and sustainable and tested. As the Founder of People Profit, his job is to coach companies to eliminate burnout and increase capacity. He has a deep passion for humans and how we work. So, let’s get his take on the performance of a parent!   Drew encourages us to start with one thing. Just one thing. You may want a journal or pad of paper as you listen to this one. It’s FULL of helpful tips to write down. My favorite moment is in the beginning when he tells his story from going to a wild middle schooler to walking with great friends that love Jesus. It’s a powerful example of how God can step in and speak to the heart of our kids. And that even the BEST parents (mine) cannot control outside influences and your children’s decision. But God. He can work it all for good. Enjoy! Courtney Connect with Pardon The Mess: Christian Parenting Pardon The Mess  Courtney DeFeo Get your 2024-2025 prayer journal, A Life of Faith 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

    54 min
  7. BONUS: Love: Make God a Priority

    12/30/2024

    BONUS: Love: Make God a Priority

    “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (Matthew 6:33) As we inch towards a new year, many of us are considering our goals and priorities. Some of us are coming up with our word of the year. That seemed to be the trend that started a few years back—pick one word to focus on for the entire year. I’ve heard people choose words like love, intentional, joy, courage, prayerful. But what if our word was simply, God? What would our year look like if we chose to focus on God before everything else? This week, let’s pray that our kids will love God with their whole hearts and make seeking him their first priority every day this coming year and every year.  Father God, I pray that ______________ would choose you this year. Give _________ an undivided heart and teach them your ways. I pray they would wake up every day and decide that honoring you and deepening their relationship with you would be their first priority. When it is tempting to choose something else over you, remind them that you are the same yesterday, today, and forever and that you want their whole heart. Amen. Get your printed copy of A Life of Faith: Prayer Journal 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

    12 min
  8. Heartfelt encouragement for every mom with Courtney DeFeo

    12/26/2024

    Heartfelt encouragement for every mom with Courtney DeFeo

    Merry Christmas friends!!!! I wanted to end the year with some heartfelt encouragement to each of you. Try to get away from all the noise and distractions when you listen to this one. Sit with your eyes closed or go on a walk - and pray God would encourage your anxious and weary heart. It’s so easy to get to the end of a year and only think about the few things you didn’t do right or mistakes that were made. I want to remind you of the MANY things you are doing well for your children. God sees them.  I share a few letters from YOU - words you wrote to your younger self. And then I read my own letter and it was so powerful for me to do that. Try to get some time to write your own letter to the younger version of you. What did you need to hear as a young mom? And then let’s receive that same tenderness and grace and love for the mom that we are right now.  I am so thankful for our community. Let’s keep showing up for these kids and loving God in the new year ahead. You are so very loved and you are such a great mom. Merry Christmas, Courtney Chapters 00:00 Reflecting on Motherhood: A Year-End Pause 06:04 Wisdom from Friends: Insights on Parenting 11:46 Embracing Imperfection in Parenting 18:10 Looking Forward: A Message of Hope Connect with Pardon The Mess: Christian Parenting Pardon The Mess  Courtney DeFeo Get your 2024-2025 prayer journal, A Life of Faith Christian Parenting Christmas Gift Guide 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

    20 min
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As parents, we know raising kids is the opposite of neat and tidy. Each day brings wins, losses and valuable lessons. Pardon the Mess is a place where we discuss parenting and faith in a biblical, approachable and relatable way. We may cry and laugh while we learn and grow together in our beautiful mess. 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

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