Wire Talk with Karen Stubbs

Karen Stubbs
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Wire Talk with Karen Stubbs

Wire Talk was created to encourage and equip moms throughout the challenging and life-changing journey of motherhood. Each week on Wire Talk Karen Stubbs offers godly, practical advice on the topics every mother has questions about: mom guilt, our children’s faith, potty-training, divorce, our teenagers dating, and more!

  1. 2D AGO

    474: How To Avoid Overcommitting Your Family (RE AIR)

    Today Karen and Emily are talking about one of the biggest challenges moms face—knowing when (and how) to say no. With stories from their own families and practical advice for every season, this conversation will help you evaluate what’s best for your family right now. Whether you're navigating sports schedules, volunteer asks, or the push to "do it all," this conversation will give you permission to prioritize wisely and protect your peace, so you can say yes to what matters most. Episode Recap: 8:02 How can I say no to one more thing? I feel guilty!  11:00 Travel soccer used to be fun but now it’s expensive and overwhelming…what do we do? 15:05 I’m struggling to prioritize time with my husband, any tips?  17:30 You need to determine for your own family what are your non-negotiables 18:26 What steps can I take to prevent over commitment?  20:22 - Your best yes looks different from other families  Scripture for Reflection: Philippians 1:10 (NLT)“For I want you to understand what really matters, so that you may live pure and blameless lives until the day of Christ’s return.” Questions for Discussion: How do you evaluate whether a commitment is a “best yes” for your family? What criteria do you use to make sure your commitments support your family’s well-being?How can you ensure that your marriage remains a priority amidst the busyness of life? Is this easy for you or is it a struggle? Karen talks about dividing your time into three categories: essentials, non-negotiables, and bonuses. How do you currently categorize your commitments? What activities or priorities fall into each category in your life? Are there any adjustments you feel called to make after reflecting on this idea?What strategies can you implement to create intentional rest and unstructured family time in your weekly routine?Resources: Looking for a summer study? Check out Survival Guide to Motherhood: https://boaw.teachable.com/p/survival-guide-to-motherhoodSign up for Soar at Sea: https://www.soaratsea.com

    23 min

  2. JUL 1

    473: The Discipline Episode Every Mom Needs (RE AIR)

    Discipline is one of the hardest parts of parenting—and one of the most frequently asked-about topics from Wire Talk listeners. In this popular re-air, Karen breaks down discipline into three practical stages and shares wisdom from her book Survival Guide to Motherhood. Whether you're parenting toddlers, school-aged kids, or teens, grab your headphones and get ready to reframe your mindset with the powerful biblical principle: pain now equals peace later. Episode Recap: 8:14 Discipline starts with your mindset  9:36 Pain now equals peace later 12:24 Discipline has to be consistent. 13:34 The three stages of discipline each require a different focus from moms 16:17 The “B”s of discipline with young kids are: Be Consistent, Be United, Be Clear 17:05 In the middle years it’s time to teach the “why” behind the no 18:11 You have to slow down and make time to teach your child 20:20 During the “coaching” stage, parents have to let consequences play out Scripture for Reflection: Hebrews 12:11 (NIV)“No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.” Questions for Discussion: Are there any negative behaviors you see in your child now that you are tempted to ignore, thinking they will grow out of it? Karen mentioned the idea that "pain now will equal peace later" when it comes to parenting. Have you experienced this in your own life? How have you seen this in your parenting journey? Which stage of discipline are you in right now? (Laying the Foundation, Teaching the ‘Whys’, The Coaching Years)Do you think the pace of your life is preventing you from disciplining effectively? How so? Of the three “B”s (Be Consistent, Be United, Be Clear), which do you struggle with most? Have you ever prayed and asked for wisdom to know how to discipline your child? Pray together as a group today for the wisdom to discipline effectively.  Resources: Get your copy of Karen’s book Survival Guide to Motherhood: https://amzn.to/3I8jxNxSign up for Soar at Sea: https://www.soaratsea.comMore Wire Talk episodes on discipline: Laying the Foundation, The Middle Years, The Coaching YearsFind ALL the episodes we’ve ever recorded on discipline HERE.

    25 min

  3. JUN 24

    472: Choose Conversation Over Control

    We can’t shield our kids from everything—but we can prepare them. In today’s episode, Karen answers your questions about navigating tricky situations that stem from outside influences. From toddlers to teens, the answer isn’t control—it’s conversation. Listen and learn why awkward talks now might be the most powerful gift you can give your kids! Episode Recap: 3:39 - My preschooler is coming home using potty words, how do I address it?  5:41 - My neighbors’ kids are obnoxious and I don’t want my kids around them… 9:46 - My teenager’s friend (the son of a friend of mine) uses foul language in his texting, should I address it with her?  13:34 - How do I balance our family values and God’s command to think about praiseworthy things with my daughter’s taste in popular music that isn’t God-honoring? 20:05 - These conversations are awkward and hard but if we don’t teach our children, who will? Scripture for Reflection: Deuteronomy 6:6–7 (NIV)“These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.” Questions for Discussion: When have you had to address a peer-related influence or issue with your child? How did it go?Are there any boundaries you need to reinforce in your home—around language, media, or friendships?How can you create a safe environment for your child to be honest with you about what they’re seeing and hearing?What makes it hard for you to have uncomfortable conversations with your kids—and what truth from Scripture gives you courage?Resources: Register today for Peace for the Anxious Mom: https://boaw.teachable.com/p/peace-for-the-anxious-momSign up for Soar at Sea: https://www.soaratsea.com

    23 min

  4. JUN 17

    471: Spirit-Filled Parenting Starts with Us

    From disappointment in marriage to disrespectful teens, today’s episode tackles some hard moments moms are facing. Karen answers questions about how to parent through anger, restore broken relationships, and course-correct when obedience and respect have gone off track. With stories from her own life and wisdom rooted in Scripture, Karen reminds us thar God is in the business of redemption—and it’s never too late! Episode Recap: 4:36 - My life is not at all going as I had planned - is there a Bible Study for that?  10:44 - We missed the boat on disciplining our boys well in their younger years, how do we course correct now? Is it too late?  15:45 - You answer to the Lord and you don’t need to apologize to anyone. 16:46 - My husband is an extremely permissive parent - what can I do? 19:40 - My 14 year old son hates me (I think in many ways, it’s deserved) what can I do?  Scripture for Reflection: Galatians 5:22-33 (NIV)"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control." Questions for Discussion: What area of your life or parenting feels like it's “not going as planned” right now?Have you been tempted to sit in self-pity or blame? What truth do you need to remind yourself of today?Is there a place in your parenting where you need to course-correct—like obedience, respect, or consistency?How can you invite God into the process of healing a relationship that feels broken or strained?Resources: Six Truths of Motherhood study guide: https://store.birdsonawiremoms.com/collections/mom-studies/products/six-truths-study-guide Look for BOAW Moms studies for FREE in the BOAW Moms app: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/birds-on-a-wire-moms/id1419899927Register for Soar at Sea today: https://www.soaratsea.com

    26 min

  5. JUN 10

    470: Why Your Child’s Wiring Matters

    What if understanding your child’s temperament could transform the way you parent? Today Karen and Emily sit down with author and temperament expert Kathleen Edelman to talk about wiring, communication, and the power of speaking life into our kids. Kathleen shares tips for how to spot your child’s core temperament, explains why it’s so important to know your own, and reminds us that God intentionally chose each of us to be the mother of our unique child.  Episode Recap: 4:05 - Kathleen Edelman joins us in the studio today to talk temperaments 6:15 - God chose YOU, with your unique temperament, to be the mother of your unique children. It was not an accident.  8:00 - Where did this idea of the 4 temperaments come from? 10:50 - You can watch the body language of your child and pay attention to their words to discern their temperament 14:00 - Temperaments are innate, personality evolves 18:44 - You have to understand how God uniquely wired you to be able to speak your child’s language well  22:00 - What are common mistakes parents make with each temperament and how can they adjust their approach? 31:53 - How can parents manage being the opposite temperament from their spouse?  36:40 - Kathleen and Karen share stories of how this knowledge can transform relationships 44:27 - Children are pure in their wiring before the world starts reprimanding them Scripture for Reflection: Ephesians 4:29 (ESV)“Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.” Questions for Discussion: Do you know your temperament color? If so, how has that shaped your parenting style?Has learning about your child’s temperament changed the way you respond to their emotions or behavior?Are there any common communication mistakes you’re making with your child’s specific wiring?How can you speak more intentionally to build your child up according to their God-given design?Resources: Enter our giveaway: https://www.instagram.com/birdsonawiremomsRegister for Soar at Sea today: https://www.soaratsea.comKathleen’s website: https://isaidyouheard.com/Follow Kathleen on IG: @kathleenedelmanBOAW Moms Temperament Colors Quiz: boaw.mom/quizThe temperament book that started it all for Karen: Personality PlusKaren’s book with a chapter on temperaments: Survival Guide to MotherhoodI Said, You Heard resources on FB: https://www.facebook.com/isaidyouheardDownload the BOAW app to send us your questions! https://apps.apple.com/us/app/birds-on-a-wire-moms/id1419899927

    50 min

  6. JUN 3

    469: Peace for the Anxious Mom

    Do you ever feel overwhelmed by anxiety, resentment, or fear in motherhood? You’re not alone. Today Karen and Emily open up about navigating hard seasons—from managing a home alone while your husband is away, to struggling with trust in God when fear creeps in. They dive into real questions from moms who are tired, discouraged, and looking for peace. Grab your coffee, because this one’s packed with encouragement, truth, and a little tough love. ;) Episode Recap:7:05 - The world is loud and stressful, but we can have peace because God is with us 9:18 - I feel overwhelmingly resentful toward my husband because the weight of family life is all on me - how can I get through this season? 10:30 - Some seasons are just HARD and you have to persevere 12:20 - Self pity is of the devil. Ask God to meet your needs. 17:16 - My husband is SO moody - help! 18:50 - What are the various temperament colors? 25:00 - It is easy to forget the strengths of our spouse and only focus on their negatives. 31:00 - My 17 yr old struggles with anxiety and has a friend who exacerbates it. What can I do? 38:11 - How do I entrust my children to God? I love God but I have realized I don’t trust Him. 43:33 - Check out our Peace for the Anxious Mom curriculum today!  Scripture for Reflection: Matthew 6:26 (NIV)"Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?” Questions for Discussion: When you’re in a hard season, what do you tend to focus on—what’s lacking or what’s good? How can you shift that focus?What fears are hardest for you to surrender to God? What helps you move toward trust?Have you seen prayer work miracles in your family? Share if you feel comfortable.Resources: Peace for the Anxious Mom curriculum: boaw.mom/peaceLast call for DISCOUNTED Soar at Sea registration: https://www.soaratsea.comEmily’s Air Essentials: https://spanx.com/collections/matching-setsWire Talk 431: You’re Not Your Husband's Holy Spirit: https://wiretalk.transistor.fm/episodes/431-you-are-not-your-husbands-holy-spiritBOAW Moms Temperament Colors Quiz: https://birdsonawiremoms.com/personality-quizDownload the BOAW app to send us your questions! https://apps.apple.com/us/app/birds-on-a-wire-moms/id1419899927

    46 min

  7. MAY 27

    468: Raising Brave Kids

    From dentist visits to bedtime clinginess, today’s conversation is all about helping kids face fear with confidence. Karen answers your questions about navigating anxiety, new experiences, and tough transitions. With practical ideas and plenty of encouragement, this episode will equip you to walk with your child through fear and toward courage. Episode Recap:2:05 - Emily is more than halfway through her pregnancy6:50 - How can I help my 3.5 year old face the dentist without a meltdown?10:12 - My outgoing, bubbly 5 year old becomes totally silent at school - what do I do? 12:00 - After an active shooter drill, my daughter is terrified to go to school16:00 - My child is overly attached to me, how can I help her gain independence?  Scripture for Reflection: Isaiah 41:10 (NIV)So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.” Questions for Discussion: What does fear look like in your child’s behavior—and how do you usually respond?What are some situations where you’ve helped your child face their fear with confidence?How can you point your child to God when they’re anxious or afraid?Are there any bedtime or transition routines that could use a reset in your home?Resources: Register for Soar at Sea today: https://www.soaratsea.comGet Sissy Goff’s book, Braver, Stronger, Smarter:  https://amzn.to/3SQWHvNPick up Raising Worry-Free Girls this week: https://amzn.to/4dBRXnFDownload the BOAW app to send us your questions!

    23 min

  8. MAY 20

    467: Disrespect, Devices and Meltdowns

    From tantrums to name-calling to after-school meltdowns, this episode is packed with practical help for moms dealing with big emotions—and even bigger attitudes. Karen and Emily talk about red temperaments, ADHD outbursts, and how to handle disrespectful behavior without losing your cool. Listen in for advice on teaching kids to pause before reacting, role-playing tough situations, plus learn why setting boundaries with screens and school is worth the fight. Episode Recap:2:10 - Meltdowns can happen at 6 or 165:14 - Lean into the Lord and He will help you6:31- What do I do about a 10 year old who dominates her friends all the time?8:56 - Role playing is a powerful teaching tool 9:39 - My daughter resorts to name calling when she’s angry - any advice? 18:00 - Anger is a secondary emotion  18:30 - What does being intentional this summer look like? 24:00 - I’m struggling with the amount of screen time that is embedded in school/homework, it clearly changes my kid’s behavior. What can I do? Scripture for Reflection:Proverbs 15:1 (NIV) — “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Questions for Discussion:1. How do you typically respond when your child is disrespectful or melts down?2. What do you think is really behind your child’s anger in those moments?3. What boundaries do you need to reinforce in your home around disrespect, screen time, or emotional outbursts?4. How could role-playing or using tools like the feelings wheel help your child grow in emotional maturity? Resources: Don’t miss the boat! Register for Soar at Sea today: https://www.soaratsea.comListen to our interview with David Thomas about kids and BIG emotions: https://wiretalk.transistor.fm/episodes/wt-140-the-emotional-world-of-kids-with-special-guest-david-thomas https://apps.apple.com/us/app/birds-on-a-wire-moms/id1419899927 Listen to ADHD specific Wire Talk episodes: https://wiretalk.transistor.fm/episodes/wt-207-adhd-and-your-family-with-dr-staci-bolton-part-one https://wiretalk.transistor.fm/episodes/wt-208-adhd-and-your-family-with-dr-staci-bolton-part-two Download the BOAW app to send us your questions!

    30 min
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4.9
out of 5
920 Ratings

About

Wire Talk was created to encourage and equip moms throughout the challenging and life-changing journey of motherhood. Each week on Wire Talk Karen Stubbs offers godly, practical advice on the topics every mother has questions about: mom guilt, our children’s faith, potty-training, divorce, our teenagers dating, and more!

Information

  • Creator
    Karen Stubbs
  • Years Active
    2016 - 2025
  • Episodes
    482
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Wire Talk with Karen Stubbs

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