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...
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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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
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The power of family meetings with Steph and Trevor Thurling
This week’s episode is extra special as I’m joined by my husband, Trevor, to share how family meetings have transformed our parenting and family life. From improving communication to empowering our kids, family meetings have become a key tool in creating a supportive and faith-centered home.Here’s what you’ll hear in today’s episode:Regular family discussions help parents and kids stay connected and on the same page.  Involving children in activities like meal planning and decision-making gives them a sense of ownership and responsibility.  Keeping family meetings short, focused, and consistent builds trust and strengthens family bonds.  Remember, God sees you as capable and worthy of the parenting role you’ve been given. This episode is full of practical tips and encouragement for prioritizing family time. I hope it inspires you to try family meetings in your home!Check out our latest resource, our digital Family Meeting Guide. I took what works for us in our family meetings and made this guide just for you! Every week you will be emailed a template to hold your own family meeting. I know you will love it!(04:59) The Importance of Family Meetings(11:03) Implementing Family Meetings: A Game Changer(18:11) Navigating Challenges in Family Meetings(23:56) Empowering Kids Through Family Meetings(29:57) Final Thoughts and Encouragement for ParentsResources MentionedWhat’s In Mommy’s Tummy?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
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Are you overparenting? with Courtney DeFeo
This week’s episode is packed with insights and practical advice for navigating the complexities of parenting during the middle school years. I’m joined by Courtney DeFeo, and together we dive into balancing love, independence, and the continuous learning process of parenting.Here are four key takeaways from this episode:Parenting evolves as children grow, and middle school years often require creative ways to re-engage with your kids.  Allowing children to experience failure helps them develop responsibility and confidence.  Overparenting can hinder independence—parents should guide their children through problems, not shield them from them.  Self-care for parents is crucial to maintaining balance and avoiding guilt in the parenting journey.  Courtney DeFeo is the host of the Pardon the Mess podcast here on the Christian Parenting Podcast Network where she encourages parents every week to be the imperfectly perfect parent God created them to be. She is also an author, speaker, and advocate for empowering parents to create lasting family connections. With her relatable approach and passion for practical parenting, Courtney inspires families to navigate challenges with grace and joy. We had a ton of fun recording this episode and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!(01:57) Navigating Parenting Stages(06:10) Engaging with Middle Schoolers(10:07) The Balance of Hovering and Letting Go(13:57) Preparing for Independence(18:02) Overparenting: Understanding the Roots(21:06) Navigating the Challenges of Letting Go in Parenting(24:35) The Importance of Self-Care and Mom Guilt(26:54) Recognizing Red Flags in Parenting Dynamics(28:54) Practical Strategies to Avoid Over-Parenting(31:37) Embracing Independence and Building Confidence in Kids(34:49) The Balance of Love and Guidance in ParentingConnect with CourtneyPardon the Mess podcastPardon the Mess InstagramCourtney’s Instagram Courtney’s websiteResources MentionedWhat’s In Mommy’s Tummy?Family Meeting GuideIn This House We Will GiggleSissy Goff episode on AppleSissy Goff episode on SpotifyThe 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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Faith, family, and decision-making with Emily Jensen and Laura Wifler from Risen Motherhood
This week’s episode is a heartfelt and inspiring conversation with Emily Jensen and Laura Wifler. Together, we discuss the journey of their ministry, the complexities of parenting, and the importance of making faith-based decisions for their families.Here are four takeaways from this episode:Emily and Laura share why they decided to close Risen Motherhood, highlighting the importance of prioritizing family and trusting God.  They provide practical tips for making wise, God-honoring decisions through prayer, spiritual disciplines, and the gospel story.  Involving children in decision-making helps teach them to seek God’s guidance and make choices that honor him.  Faith offers hope and perspective, encouraging parents to lean on God and approach family life with humility and grace.  Emily and Laura are sister-in-laws and co-founders of Risen Motherhood, a nonprofit ministry that has reached countless parents with the message of the gospel in daily life. Their shared passion for encouraging moms through biblical truths shines through in their work and their lives. Their latest book is called Gospel Mom. This episode is filled with wisdom, encouragement, and practical advice for parents who want to align their decisions with their faith. I hope it blesses you as much as it did me!(03:02) The Birth of Risen Motherhood(06:09) Navigating the Decision to Close Risen Motherhood(09:58) The Challenge of Saying No to Good Things(14:01) Biblical Decision Making for Moms(19:47) Guiding Kids Through Decision-Making(23:25) Navigating Differences in Decision-Making(30:27) The Importance of Humility in Parenting(36:04) Finding Identity and Hope in ChristConnect with Emily and LauraRisen MotherhoodLaura’s InstagramEmily’s InstagramResources MentionedRisen MotherhoodRisen Motherhood PodcastGospel Mom Give to Christian ParentingThe 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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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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