The Christian Parenting Podcast - Motherhood, Teaching kids about Jesus, Intentional parenting, Raising Christian kids
Steph Thurling
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...
Navigating grief with kids and supporting others with Annie F. Downs
This week’s conversation is a deeply meaningful one. I’m sitting down with Annie Downs to talk about grief, faith, and supporting others during hard times. Annie and her sister wrote a children’s book, Where Did TJ Go?, after her sister lost her son, TJ. This book is an incredible resource for families navigating loss with young kids, and our conversation is full of wisdom and encouragement. Here’s what you’ll hear in today’s episode:Where Did TJ Go? is a beautiful resource to help families talk about grief with young children. Grief isn’t meant to be carried alone—having people who show up and walk with you makes all the difference. We talk about the tough questions surrounding loss and how faith sustains us through them. Knowing how to be present and offer comfort to those grieving is one of the greatest gifts we can give. Annie F. Downs is a bestselling author, speaker, and podcast host known for her humor, authenticity, and deep faith. She has written numerous books that inspire and encourage readers in their walk with Christ. Where Did TJ Go?, co-written with her sister, is a heartfelt resource for families navigating grief with children. I hope this conversation leaves you feeling encouraged in your faith and equipped to support those around you. If you know someone who could benefit from this episode, please share it with them.(02:59) The Journey of Loss: Annie's Story(05:54) Creating Hope Through Literature(09:07) Navigating Grief: Personal Experiences and Insights(12:01) The Importance of Talking to Kids About Death(15:11) Finding Hope in Heaven(18:12) The Role of Community in Grief(20:46) Encouragement for Parents and Grieving IndividualsConnect with AnnieWebsiteThat Sounds Fun PodcastInstagramResources MentionedWhere Did TJ Go?The Unbreakable Boy movieChristian Parenting storeThe Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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34:58
Overcoming people pleasing with Jinger Vuolo
This week’s episode is extra special because we are celebrating two years of the Christian Parenting Podcast! I can’t believe it! And to make it even more special, my very first guest, Jinger Vuolo, is back with us today. She’s here to talk about the struggles so many of us face in trying to meet others’ expectations. Here are four key takeaways from this episode:Trying to please everyone can actually be more about ourselves than truly serving others. Showing up as your true self, rather than what others expect, is a way to glorify God. Jinger shares how she is beginning to guide her own children away from people-pleasing tendencies. We discuss real ways to break free from people-pleasing and the importance of finding a strong mentor. Jinger Vuolo is an author, speaker, and former reality TV personality known for her book Becoming Free Indeed and her latest release, People Pleaser. She is passionate about helping others find freedom in Christ and live with confidence in who God made them to be. Thank you all for two incredible years of this podcast! I’m so grateful for you, and I hope this conversation encourages you to seek confidence in Christ rather than in the approval of others. (00:00) Life Updates and New Beginnings(01:58) Understanding People Pleasing(06:06) The Impact of People Pleasing on Relationships(10:10) Parenting and Teaching Kids about People Pleasing(17:01) Practical Steps to Overcome People Pleasing(22:09) Final Thoughts on Parenting and CommunityConnect with JingerInstagramhttps://www.jingerandjeremy.com/Resources MentionedBecoming Free IndeedPeople PleaserChristian Parenting storeThe Unbreakable Boy movieA Simply Healthy LifeThe Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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25:37
Raising Kids with Character in an Entitled World with Monica Swanson
This week’s episode is one that every parent can relate to. I’m joined by Monica Swanson to talk about a struggle many of us face—raising kids who aren’t entitled in a world that often is. Here are a few takeaways from today’s conversation:As parents, we need to be intentional about combating entitlement in our homes. Teaching kids responsibility and real-life opportunities to work hard builds character. Helping our kids develop a heart of gratitude is one of the best ways to fight entitlement. Parenting is a learning process, and it's okay to wrestle with these challenges while seeking wisdom and growth. Monica Swanson is an author, speaker, and host of The Monica Swanson Podcast (formerly The Boy Mom Podcast). As a mom of four boys, she shares practical wisdom on raising kids with strong character, work ethic, and faith in today’s world. This conversation is just two friends trying to figure it out together, and we’re so glad you’re stepping into it with us. I hope you leave feeling encouraged and equipped to guide your kids toward gratitude, responsibility, and strong character. Enjoy!(00:00) Understanding Entitlement in Today's Culture(02:49) The Role of Technology and Parenting(06:12) Celebrating Achievements: A Double-Edged Sword(08:56) Instilling Gratitude as an Antidote(12:00) Teaching Work Ethic and Responsibility(16:56) Building Character and Responsibility in Kids(18:01) Fighting Entitlement and Cultivating Gratitude(19:45) Modeling Gratitude as Parents(22:05) Intentional Parenting in a Selfie Culture(24:58) The Importance of Service and Perspective(29:35) It's Never Too Late to Start(32:58) Surrounding Kids with Positive InfluencesConnect with MonicaMonicaSwanson.comThe Monica Swanson PodcastInstagramResources MentionedCharacter training courseRaising Prayerful Kids bookRaising Grateful Kids in an Entitled WorldThe Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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36:33
Healing, boundaries, and raising emotionally healthy kids with Melanie Shankle
This week, I’m joined by Melanie Shankle to talk about her book, Here Be Dragons. Our conversation dives deep into important topics like generational trauma, relationships, and the impact of mean girls on young girls. Melanie’s focus on healing and boundaries is so powerful, reminding us that the path to raising emotionally healthy kids starts with becoming emotionally healthy ourselves.Here are four key takeaways from this episode:Raising emotionally healthy children starts with doing the work to heal yourself. It’s never too late to begin. Boundaries are essential for protecting your emotional health and that of your family. Melanie encourages parents to pause and evaluate areas in their lives that need healing or adjustment for their own and their children’s benefit. We discuss the influence of relationships and mean-girl culture on young girls, and how parents can guide them toward healthy connections. Melanie Shankle is a bestselling author, speaker, and host of The Big Boo Cast podcast. Her latest book, Here Be Dragons, explores the complexities of relationships and the importance of emotional health. Melanie’s heartfelt writing and practical advice have made her a trusted voice for parents seeking to raise emotionally resilient children.This episode is filled with both challenges and encouragement, offering actionable steps to prioritize emotional health in your family. I hope you find it as impactful as I did!(02:57) The Evolution of Parenting: Embracing Change(06:03) Healing from Generational Trauma(08:57) Navigating Relationships: The Impact of Motherhood(11:51) Breaking Generational Cycles in Parenting(15:10) The Mean Girl Epidemic: Caroline's Experience(17:59) Understanding the Roots of Mean Behavior(21:00) The Importance of True Friendship(24:00) Finding Grace in Relationships(27:00) Final Thoughts: Embracing God's Plan for Our KidsConnect with MelanieThe Big Mama BlogThe Big Boo Cast podcastInstagramHere be Dragons bookThe Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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32:17
Faith, family, and special needs advocacy with Alicia and Kirsta Graf
This week’s episode is extra special as I’m joined by two of my favorite people, Alicia and Kirsta Graf. They are a mother-daughter duo who inspire me deeply. Alicia shares her parenting journey with Kirsta, who has down syndrome, and the lessons she’s learned through adoption, loss, and raising three daughters. Kirsta is truly incredible—funny, joyful, and a shining light. Their story is heartfelt, inspiring, and filled with wisdom.Here are four key takeaways from this episode:Alicia emphasizes treating your family as a team and studying each child to meet their unique needs. Relationships with those a season or two ahead in life can make a big difference in your parenting journey. Kirsta’s journey—graduating from Bethel University, working at the school, and contributing to Jack’s Basket—shows the incredible potential of every child. Parenting is full of surprises and challenges, requiring reliance on God and grace for yourself. This conversation is a beautiful reminder of the power of teamwork, grace, and celebrating the unique gifts of each family member. I hope you feel as encouraged as I did!(06:01) Parenting Insights and Surprises(11:45) God's Guidance in Parenting(17:55) Kirsta's College Experience at Bethel University(23:56) The Impact of College Programs for Special Needs(30:40) Public Speaking and Personal Growth(37:04) Reflections on Parenting(42:45) Advice for ParentsResources MentionedBethel University BUILD programRuby’s RainbowJack’s BasketJack’s Basket InstagramKirsta’s college drop-off videoThe New Language of Toys bookA Word in the Hand bookBaby Sign Language Made Easy bookMercy Watson book setChristian Parenting Family Meeting GuideThe Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
About 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.
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