The InFormed Parent with Suzanne Phillips

THINQ Media
  • 4.9 (34)
  • CHRISTIANITY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Parenting is no joke! Suzanne Phillips has spent years coaching intentional, legacy-minded parents—helping them overcome our increasingly confusing culture and connect the dots between faith, family, freedom and their child's future. Because informed parents make informed decisions. And let's face it, ages 0-25 are called formative years for a reason. Your children are being shaped! What goes in WILL come out. So, tune in to The InFormed Parent, from the THINQ Media Podcast Network, to get the guidance you need to parent with purpose, disciple with direction and leave an intentional legacy.

  1. 12H AGO

    S6 E13: Family: God's Divine Design

    Episode Summary As we wrap up this season, Suzanne Phillips brings it all home with a powerful, reflective episode centered on one foundational truth: Family is not accidental — it is designed. Throughout this season, you've heard conversations around culture, education, identity, technology, and parenting challenges. But this episode asks a deeper question: What will you actually do with what you've learned? Because information alone doesn't change a family. Inspiration alone doesn't transform a life. Application does. This episode tackles three major barriers parents face: "I don't have time" "I don't have what it takes" "I'm not sure there's a clear design for family" …and replaces them with truth, clarity, and confidence. With practical insight, biblical grounding, and a deeply moving closing reflection, Suzanne reminds parents: You already have the greatest influence in your child's life. The question is whether you will use it intentionally. Episode Highlights ✔️ Why information and inspiration are not enough without application ✔️ The shift from knowledge to transformation through revelation ✔️ The three biggest barriers parents face (time, confidence, and belief) ✔️ Why the home is the primary place of discipleship ✔️ The difference between managing a home and leading people ✔️ Everyday moments as the true curriculum for your children ✔️ The concept of intentional parenting vs. drifting parenting ✔️ God's divine design for family: purpose, calling, and assignment ✔️ The role of parents as primary disciple-makers ✔️ The importance of aligning rhythms, values, and daily life ✔️ A practical framework: Look Up (God's vision) Look In (heart & values) Look Out (calling & awareness) ✔️ The reality that legacy is being built — whether intentional or not Featured Reflection: Time & Influence Parents spend 90,000–100,000 hours with their children from birth to age 18. That is: 6x more than school 40x more than church You don't need more time. You need more intentionality with the time you already have. Core Truth for the Family Family has a divine design. Purpose: Be fruitful and multiply Calling: Grow deeper in relationship with God Assignment: Make disciples — starting with your children Identity Truth for the Family You are not just raising children — you are raising future adults, leaders, and parents. And whether you realize it or not: You are shaping them every single day. Closing Encouragement You don't need to: replace the church outperform the school or become a perfect parent You simply need to: Activate the influence God has already given you. Your home is the most powerful discipleship environment on earth. The question is not: "Am I doing enough?" The question is: "Am I leading with intention?" A Parents' Call-to-Action 📲 Stay Connected with Beacon Parent Instagram → @suzannephillips_ Instagram → @beacon_parent Website → www.beaconparent.com ✨ Join Parent Club Ongoing discipleship, clarity, and support as you lead your family with purpose: 👉 www.beaconparent.com/parentclub Final Thoughts The light doesn't come from doing more. It comes from becoming who God has called you to be. Let's become Beacons — and raise a generation that shines.

    36 min

  2. APR 2

    S6 E12: Raising Free Thinkers: Education, Freedom, and the Next Generation

    Episode Summary What if education wasn't just about academics — but about preparing children to think clearly, live responsibly, and understand the world around them? In this thought-provoking episode, Suzanne sits down with Connor Boyack, bestselling author of the Tuttle Twins series and founder of Libertas Network, to explore how education, freedom, and worldview intersect in raising the next generation. Connor has reached millions of families through books, media, and policy work designed to help children understand the principles of a free society. But at the heart of his work is a deeper question: Who is shaping how our children think? From homeschooling to public policy, from economics to personal responsibility, this conversation challenges parents to engage intentionally — not just academically, but philosophically — in their children's formation. This episode is not about politics for the sake of debate—it's about equipping parents to raise thoughtful, capable, and grounded young people in an increasingly complex world. Episode Highlights ✔️ The heart behind the Tuttle Twins series and who it's for ✔️ Why teaching children about freedom and responsibility matters ✔️ Connor's decision to homeschool and his perspective on modern education ✔️ How parents should think about politics and its influence on education ✔️ The intersection of education, culture, and worldview formation ✔️ Connor's work in policy and why it matters for families ✔️ Key concerns and threats facing family freedom today ✔️ The future of education and the role of school choice ✔️ Encouragement for parents raising children in today's cultural landscape   Featured Resource: Tuttle Twins A bestselling book series and educational platform helping families teach kids about responsibility, entrepreneurship, and the principles of a free society. 👉 Website → https://tuttletwins.com/ 👉 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/tuttletwins 👉 YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@TheTuttleTwins Links 👉 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/TuttleTwins 👉 X → https://x.com/tuttletwins 👉 TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@tuttle_twins 👉 Pinterest → https://www.pinterest.com/TuttleTwin Call-to-Action For Parents 📲 Connect with Connor Boyack & Tuttle Twins Instagram → @tuttletwins Website → tuttletwins.com 📲 Stay Connected with Beacon Parent Instagram → @suzannephillips_ Instagram → @beacon_parent Website → www.beaconparent.com ✨ GET ONGOING PARENTING SUPPORT Ongoing coaching, encouragement, and biblical clarity as you navigate education, culture, and parenting: 👉 www.beaconparent.com/parentclub Identity Truth for the Family Children are not just being educated — they are being formed. When parents take an active role in shaping how their children think, not just what they learn, they prepare them for a life of purpose, responsibility, and wisdom. In Closing Parents — your influence matters more than any system. If this episode gave you clarity or challenged how you think about education and culture, share it with another parent who is asking similar questions. 🎧 Listen Now →

    50 min

  3. MAR 26

    S6 E11: Blended Families: Building Strong Foundations in Complex Homes

    Episode Summary Marriage is the foundation of family — and parenting flows from that foundation. But what happens when that foundation is built within a blended or stepfamily? In this insightful and practical episode, Suzanne is joined by Ron Deal, one of the nation's leading experts on blended families. With decades of experience as a licensed marriage and family therapist, author, and director of FamilyLife Blended, Ron brings clarity to one of the most complex family dynamics parents face today. Blended families are not rare — they are increasingly common — yet many parents enter them without the tools, discipleship, or understanding needed to navigate the unique challenges they bring. From dating and remarriage to discipline, school decisions, and family culture, this conversation explores the realities that many families don't anticipate — but must learn to navigate. Ron also speaks into marriage itself, sharing warning signs couples should not ignore, common struggles that lead to breakdown, and how intentionality and awareness can build stronger relationships. This episode is both a wake-up call and a roadmap — helping parents move from confusion to clarity in building healthy, God-centered families. Episode Highlights ✔️ Why blended families require intentional discipleship ✔️ Divorce rates among Christians vs. non-believers ✔️ The difference between stepfamilies and blended families ✔️ Why marriage in a blended family is a "package deal" ✔️ Key considerations when dating, remarrying, and involving children ✔️ How school, discipline, and parenting decisions are more complex in blended homes ✔️ Common stumbling blocks families face when they aren't prepared ✔️ Warning signs in marriage that can lead toward divorce ✔️ Insights from The Mindful Marriage ✔️ The role of the Church in supporting blended families ✔️ Practical resources and tools for families navigating this journey Featured Resources 📚 The Smart Stepfamily 📚 The Mindful Marriage Practical, research-based, and biblically grounded resources to help couples and families thrive. 👉 Learn more → https://rondeal.org 👉 FamilyLife Blended → https://familylife.com/blended Links 👉 Website → https://familylife.com/blended 👉 Ron Deal → https://rondeal.org 👉 Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/familylifeblended 👉 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/familylifeblended Call-to-Action 📲 Connect with Ron Deal & FamilyLife Blended Instagram → @familylifeblended Website → familylife.com/blended 📲 Stay Connected with Beacon Parent Instagram → @suzannephillips_ Instagram → @beacon_parent Website → www.beaconparent.com ✨ JOIN PARENT CLUB TODAY FOR MORE If you're navigating parenting, marriage, or family complexity and want ongoing support and biblical clarity: 👉 www.beaconparent.com/parentclub Identity Truth for the Family Strong families are not built by accident — they are built with intention. In blended families especially, clarity, patience, and wisdom are essential to creating unity and stability for both marriage and children. HEY PARENTS! Parents — if your family is navigating remarriage, blending, or complexity, you are not alone. Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement, clarity, or practical tools for building a strong family foundation.

    47 min

  4. MAR 19

    S6 E10: The Well Lit Home

    Episode Summary Parenting today can feel overwhelming. The conversations are heavier. The culture is louder. The pressure is constant. In this personal and powerful solo episode, Suzanne pauses from interviewing guests to speak directly to parents — not about what to do, but about who we are becoming. Because our doing flows from our being… And our being flows from what we believe. Drawing from over 25 years of experience coaching, teaching, and raising her own family, Suzanne shares a defining vision: the call to build a Well Lit Home. In a world that feels increasingly dark, the brightest light our children should experience is inside our homes. Through a vivid story from Easter morning and a deeply practical framework, Suzanne introduces the 7 Facets of a Beacon Parent — the qualities that anchor parents in truth and empower them to lead with clarity, courage, and peace. This episode is an invitation to step out of pressure, step into purpose, and become the steady light your family needs. Episode Highlights ✔️ Why parenting today feels heavier and more complex than ever ✔️ The shift from focusing on what to do → to who we are becoming ✔️ The vision of a Well Lit Home in a dark world ✔️ A powerful real-life story that shaped the Beacon Parent message ✔️ Why parents are not responsible for outcomes — but to their children ✔️ The role of trust in releasing control and fear ✔️ The importance of anchoring parenting in biblical truth ✔️ Why formation matters more than information The 7 Facets of a Beacon Parent These are the qualities that create a home that shines: 1. Supremacy of Christ Christ is central — above every circumstance Releases pressure and the illusion of control Anchors parents in truth during uncertainty 2. Expressed Honor Honor God, others, and family Teach children to value and respect authority and people Strengthens the fabric of family and society 3. Intentional Legacy What you do today shapes tomorrow Parenting is always forming a legacy Your daily choices matter 4. Transformative Wisdom Wisdom changes how we live, not just what we know Seeks truth and applies it Invites intentional, thoughtful decision-making 5. Humble Courage Following God requires action Standing firm often requires courage Leads with patience, curiosity, and conviction 6. Secure Identity Rooted first as a child of God Embraces uniqueness in family and calling Provides stability in a shifting culture 7. Personal Responsibility Parents are the primary shaping influence Formation is happening — intentionally or unintentionally It is an honor to lead and steward a family Key Takeaway A well-lit home doesn't happen by accident. It is built by parents who stay connected to the Source of light — and choose, day by day, to become a steady beacon for their children. Call-to-Actions (CTAs) 📲 Stay Connected with Beacon Parent Instagram → @suzannephillips_ Instagram → @beacon_parent Website → www.beaconparent.com ✨ Join Parent Club Ongoing encouragement, biblical clarity, and practical guidance for parents navigating today's world. 👉 www.beaconparent.com/parentclub     Identity Truth for the Family The world may grow darker — but light shines brighter in the darkness. When parents stay anchored in Christ, their homes become places of warmth, clarity, and truth. SHARE THE LIGHT  Parents — take a breath. The to-do list will still be there. But who you are becoming matters more than anything you accomplish. If this episode encouraged you, share it with another parent who needs hope and perspective today.

    35 min

  5. MAR 12

    S6 E9: School Choice and What It Really Means

    Episode Summary School choice is one of the most talked-about education topics in the country right now — but many parents are still unclear about what it actually means. In this episode, Suzanne is joined by Corey DeAngelis, widely known as the "school choice evangelist," to unpack the realities behind the policies, politics, and possibilities surrounding educational freedom. Corey is a leading advocate for parental rights in education and the national bestselling author of The Parent Revolution. With a Ph.D. in education policy and years of research and advocacy, he brings clarity to a conversation that is often filled with confusing rhetoric. But this conversation goes deeper than politics. At its core, school choice is about recognizing that children learn differently. Not every student thrives in the same environment, and the traditional system often fails to consider the diverse ways children grow and learn. Suzanne and Corey discuss why families are increasingly leaving traditional school systems, how school choice policies impact homeschooling families, which states are leading the movement, and what parents can do if they want to take action. This episode will challenge assumptions and encourage parents to think carefully about the future of education. Episode Highlights ✔️ Corey DeAngelis' personal journey into school choice advocacy ✔️ Why many now refer to public schools as "government schools" ✔️ The real reasons families are leaving traditional school systems ✔️ How school choice policies work and who they impact ✔️ Why these policies can benefit homeschool families ✔️ The number of states currently offering school choice options ✔️ Which states offer the most generous programs — and which resist change ✔️ The biggest barriers to passing school choice legislation ✔️ The practical benefits of educational freedom for families ✔️ Concerns homeschool families sometimes raise about these policies ✔️ How parents can take action and advocate for their children ✔️ What the future of school choice could look like in 2026 Featured Resource 📚 The Parent Revolution by Corey DeAngelis A national bestselling book explaining how parents can reclaim control of their children's education. 👉 Learn more → https://amzn.to/47mZXqM   A Call-to-Action 📲 Connect with Corey DeAngelis Follow Corey for ongoing insights and updates on school choice policy and education reform. 👉 X (Twitter): https://x.com/DeAngelisCorey?t=uogaiJZlZh2DMPlmWltEjg&s=09 📲 Stay Connected with Beacon Parent Instagram → @suzannephillips_ Instagram → @beacon_parent Website → www.beaconparent.com ✨ Join Parent Club If you want ongoing encouragement, biblical clarity, and community as you navigate parenting and education decisions: 👉 Join here: www.beaconparent.com/parentclub Identity Truth for the Family Every child is uniquely created and designed to learn differently. When parents have the freedom to pursue the environment that best fits their child's gifts and needs, education becomes formation — not just information.   In Closing Parents — conversations like this matter because the future of education directly impacts the future of our children. If this episode helped you think more clearly about school choice, share it with another parent navigating education decisions. 🎧 Share Now →

    51 min

  6. MAR 5

    S6 E8: Innovative Next Steps After High School Graduation

    Episode Summary For decades, the path after high school seemed obvious: graduate, go to college, get a degree. But today, families are asking better questions. In this refreshing and inspiring episode, Suzanne sits down with Jonathan Brush to explore a bold alternative to traditional college pathways. Jonathan brings nearly 25 years of experience helping young adults ask the right questions, take action, and build lives of meaning and purpose. Unbound is not anti-college — it's pro-intentionality. It challenges the assumption that information equals formation and instead focuses on habits, mentorship, real-world experience, and a biblical worldview as the foundation for adult life. As more parents reconsider what success looks like after graduation, this episode offers clarity, confidence, and a compelling alternative. Because education is not one-size-fits-all — and formation matters as much as information. Episode Highlights ✔️ Jonathan's background and journey into alternative higher education ✔️ What Unbound is — and how it works ✔️ Why questioning the traditional college model is healthy ✔️ How Unbound combines academics, mentorship, and real-world experience ✔️ Retention rates and student outcomes ✔️ What students consistently say about the experience ✔️ The most important takeaway students leave with ✔️ The overall vision: formation, not just credentialing ✔️ Class size and community culture ✔️ What parents and communities are noticing about Unbound graduates ✔️ Why this model works so effectively ✔️ Encouragement for hesitant parents considering a nontraditional path Featured Resource: Unbound A nontraditional, biblically grounded approach to post-high school education focused on formation, mentorship, and real-world learning. 👉 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/be.unbound/ 👉 Website → https://beunbound.us Call-to-Actions (CTAs) 📲 Connect with Unbound Instagram: @be.unbound Website: beunbound.us 📲 Stay Connected with Beacon Parent Instagram → @suzannephillips_ Instagram → @beacon_parent Website → www.beaconparent.com ✨ Join Parent Club Ongoing support, biblical clarity, and practical guidance for parents navigating education and cultural conversations. 👉 Join here: www.beaconparent.com/parentclub Identity Truth for the Family Success is not defined by a diploma alone. When parents prioritize formation, mentorship, character, and calling, young adults are prepared not just for careers — but for life. In Closing Parents — before you default to the expected path, ask better questions. If this episode gave you fresh vision for your student's next step, share it with another family navigating post-graduation decisions.

    40 min

  7. FEB 26

    S6 E7: Sexual Identity: Truth, Love and Hope

    Episode Summary Sexual identity conversations are no longer rare or distant — they are happening in classrooms, friend groups, churches, youth ministries, and homes. In this deeply thoughtful and compassionate episode, Suzanne is joined by Elizabeth Woning, Co-Executive Director of the CHANGED Movement — a community of individuals who once identified as LGBTQ+ and now testify to experiencing transformation through their faith in Jesus Christ. Elizabeth shares her powerful personal story — from openly identifying as lesbian, advocating for LGBTQ affirmation in seminary and church spaces, to a life-altering encounter with Jesus that reshaped her theology, identity, and direction. Today, she works with pastors, parents, and church leaders to navigate one of the most emotionally charged and culturally dominant issues of our time. This episode does not aim to inflame — it aims to equip. With 26% of Gen Z identifying as LGBTQ+, many families feel blindsided and unprepared. Suzanne and Elizabeth discuss how believers can hold firm to biblical convictions while extending grace, patience, and love — especially when the conversation becomes personal. This is an episode about truth without cruelty. Love without compromise. And hope for families walking through difficult identity conversations. Episode Highlights ✔️ Elizabeth's personal story and transformation ✔️ The founding and mission of the CHANGED Movement ✔️ Why sexual identity conversations are accelerating among Gen Z ✔️ The spiritual and emotional layers beneath identity struggles ✔️ How schools and cultural messaging shape identity formation ✔️ The most pressing needs facing families navigating LGBTQ issues ✔️ Trends parents must be aware of in today's cultural climate ✔️ Supporting pastors, parents, and churches with compassion and clarity ✔️ Practical guidance for parents whose child identifies as LGBTQ+ ✔️ Stories of transformation and reconciliation ✔️ The importance of holding truth and love together 🎧 Listen Now   Featured Resource: CHANGED Movement A community of friends who once identified as LGBTQ+ and now celebrate the freedom and comfort found in Jesus Christ. 👉 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/changedmvmt 👉 Elizabeth → https://www.instagram.com/elizabethwoning 👉 Website → https://changedmovement.com 👉 Elizabeth's Website → https://elizabethwoning.com Call-to-Actions (CTAs) 📲 Connect with Elizabeth Woning @elizabethwoning elizabethwoning.com 📲 Learn More About CHANGED Movement @changedmvmt changedmovement.com 📲 Stay Connected with Beacon Parent Instagram → @suzannephillips_ Instagram → @beacon_parent Website → www.beaconparent.com ✨ Join Parent Club If you want ongoing support, biblical clarity, and a community of parents navigating cultural conversations together: 👉 Join here: www.beaconparent.com/parentclub Identity Truth for the Family Truth and love are not enemies. Compassion and conviction are not opposites. Parents who remain anchored in Christ can create homes where hard conversations are met with both grace and clarity. In Closing Parents — this is not a topic to avoid. It is a topic to approach thoughtfully. If this episode brought perspective, courage, or language to a conversation you've been afraid to have, share it with a trusted friend, small group, or fellow parent. 🎧 Listen Now

    52 min

  8. FEB 19

    S6 E6: Can Pro-Kingdom and Pro-America Co-Exist?: Where Grace and Gratitude Collide

    Episode Summary Can we raise children who are deeply rooted in the Kingdom of God and grateful for the country they live in? In this important and thought-provoking episode, Suzanne sits down with Jill Simonian, Director of Outreach and co-creator of PragerU Kids. With over 20 years of experience in media, parenting commentary, and education advocacy, Jill brings clarity and courage to conversations surrounding merit-based education, patriotism, parenting trends, and digital culture. Together, Suzanne and Jill unpack a bold question: Can America survive with unpatriotic youth? This conversation explores the tension parents often feel — wanting to raise children who serve God first while also teaching gratitude, civic responsibility, and love for the freedoms we've been given. From divisive policies in schools to the erosion of merit standards, from grit and self-reliance to digital overconsumption, this episode challenges parents to think clearly and lead intentionally. Because what happens under our roof shapes what happens in our nation. ⸻ Episode Highlights ✔️ The mission and "why" behind PragerU and PragerU Kids ✔️ Over 1,200 free pro-America resources for families and schools ✔️ What "merit-based education" really means — and why it matters ✔️ Why children cannot afford to "make zeros" academically or character-wise ✔️ How divisive school policies (DEI mandates, restorative discipline, gender ideology) impact students ✔️ Teaching capability, self-reliance, resilience, and grit at home ✔️ Digital consumption — where parents must draw lines ✔️ Can America survive with unpatriotic youth? ✔️ How PragerU Kids resources are being used in education (including Oklahoma) ✔️ What's next for PragerU Kids 🎧 Listen Now ⸻ Featured Resource: PragerU Kids Over 1,200 pro-America videos, books, lesson plans, worksheets, and character-building resources — available FREE for families and schools. Resources teach: Values & character U.S. & world history Civics Financial literacy Cultural literacy 👉 Website: PragerUkids.com ⸻ Call-to-Action 📲 Connect with Jill Simonian Instagram: instagram.com/jillsimonian X: x.com/jillsimonian   📲 Explore PragerU Kids Instagram: instagram.com/pragerukids Website: PragerUkids.com   📲 Stay Connected with Beacon Parent Instagram: @suzannephillips_ Instagram: @beacon_parent Website: www.beaconparent.com   ✨ Join Parent Club Biblical clarity, cultural discernment, and practical leadership support for parents navigating today's world. 👉 Join here → https://community.beaconparent.com/offers/mLSFLoXT/checkout 🏫 Considering Alternative Education or Homeschool Pod? Explore The Pod Packet — a step-by-step guide for creating simple, intentional learning communities for your family. 👉 https://www.thepodpacket.com ⸻ Identity Truth for the Family Gratitude for our nation does not compete with allegiance to God's Kingdom. Children can be formed with humility before God and appreciation for the freedoms that allow them to live it out. Parents who teach truth, history, gratitude, and responsibility raise leaders — not spectators ⸻ In Closing  Parents — the future of our nation is shaped in living rooms long before it's shaped in legislatures. If this episode encouraged you to think more intentionally about how you're forming your children, share it with another family, educator, or small group.

    51 min
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About

Parenting is no joke! Suzanne Phillips has spent years coaching intentional, legacy-minded parents—helping them overcome our increasingly confusing culture and connect the dots between faith, family, freedom and their child's future. Because informed parents make informed decisions. And let's face it, ages 0-25 are called formative years for a reason. Your children are being shaped! What goes in WILL come out. So, tune in to The InFormed Parent, from the THINQ Media Podcast Network, to get the guidance you need to parent with purpose, disciple with direction and leave an intentional legacy.

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