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...
Preparing for the College Years with Dr. Greg Jones
Hey there! This week’s conversation is one that got me thinking ahead—way ahead. While my oldest is still in middle school, college feels like it’s going to be here before I know it. That’s why I’m so grateful to have *Dr. Greg Jones*, president of Belmont University, on the podcast today to talk about helping our kids prepare for life beyond high school with purpose, faith, and community at the center. Here are four key takeaways from this episode:—Choosing a school isn’t about prestige—it’s about finding a place where your child can grow, thrive, and live out their calling. —Relationships formed during the college years play a vital role in shaping a student’s identity and faith. —Not getting into a dream school isn’t the end—it can be a redirection toward God’s best. —Each child’s path is unique, and our job is to guide them with patience, grace, and a big-picture mindset. Dr. Greg Jones is the president of Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee. With a background in theology, leadership, and education, Dr. Jones is passionate about helping students discover their God-given purpose and equipping families to think beyond rankings and toward flourishing futures. This episode is full of wisdom for parents at every stage. Whether college is around the corner or years away, I hope it encourages you to guide your kids with faith and intentionality.With love,Steph Thurling(02:56) The Role of Community in College Selection(06:04) Finding Purpose and Character Formation(08:45) Navigating College Decisions and Parental Guidance(11:58) The Importance of Relationships in College(14:46) Helping Kids Discover Their Purpose(18:08) Trends in College Students Today(20:51) Dealing with Rejection and Redirection(23:56) The Long View of Parenting(27:11) Final Thoughts on Faith, Hope, and LoveResources MentionedSubscribe to Christian ParentingEaster BundleAdventure BibleThe 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
--------
37:59
Time management that works for moms with Kendra Adachi
Time management can feel overwhelming—especially for moms! That’s why I’m so excited to have Kendra Adachi, also known as The Lazy Genius, on the podcast today. We’re talking about her latest book, The Plan, and how we can approach time management with grace, flexibility, and a mindset that actually works for moms. Here are four key takeaways from this episode: Many systems don’t account for the unpredictability of parenting, so we need a different approach. Embracing flexibility and realistic goals helps reduce stress and make time management sustainable. Making tiny, intentional changes can create lasting rhythms that serve both you and your family. Time management isn’t just about productivity—it’s about managing life in a way that allows you to be fully present with your family. This episode is packed with practical wisdom and encouragement, and I hope it helps you find rhythms that bring peace and presence to your days. Enjoy!Connect with KendraThe Lazy Genius CollectiveThe Lazy Genius PodcastInstagramResources MentionedThe PLAN bookThe Lazy Genius Way bookThe Lazy Genius Kitchen bookChristian Parenting websiteChristian Parenting Easter Bundle(02:46) The Concept of Compassionate Time Management(05:58) The Discrepancy in Time Management Literature(08:53) The Need for a New Paradigm in Time Management(12:04) Introducing the PLAN Framework(14:58) The Importance of Adjustment in Time Management(17:56) Mindsets for Adjusting Expectations as a Parent(20:39) Adjusting Expectations in Parenting(23:36) The Power of Starting Small(24:37) Understanding Big Black Trash Bag Energy(26:34) Navigating Seasons of Parenting(30:59) Embracing Change and Flexibility(32:21) Practical Tips for Parents(34:16) Finding Goodness in the Everyday(37:50) The Freedom of Diverse Parenting PathsThe 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
--------
36:28
Building resilience and faith through summer camp with Danny Loeffelholz
Today’s episode is such a fun one! I’m talking with Danny Loeffelholz all about summer camp and how it helps build resilience, independence, and faith in our kids. We dive into the challenges of letting our kids take risks and the incredible growth that can come from stepping out of their comfort zones. Here are four key takeaways from this episode:Allowing kids to experience age-appropriate challenges helps them develop resilience and confidence. Camp experiences can deepen kids’ faith and foster personal growth in ways we don’t always expect. Sending kids away can be tough, but it’s an opportunity for them to learn independence and rely on God. Even if a child has a so-so experience at camp, they can still grow from it and want to return! Danny Loeffelholz is a camp director, mentor, and advocate for the transformative power of summer camp. With years of experience in Christian camping, he has witnessed firsthand how camp experiences shape kids' faith, character, and resilience. If you’ve ever wondered if summer camp is worth it for your kids or struggled with the idea of letting them go, this episode is for you! I hope it encourages you to embrace the opportunities that help our kids grow in confidence and faith.(05:56) Navigating Parenting Fears and Risks(08:50) The Importance of Controlled Risks for Kids(12:01) The Role of Summer Camp in Child Development(14:56) Influence of Camp Counselors on Kids' Faith(17:56) Finding Community and Faith in Adolescence(19:08) The Impact of Christian Camping on Faith Development(23:23) Navigating Parental Concerns About Camp(25:48) The Importance of Community and Adventure(29:00) Growth Through Challenges at Camp(32:10) The Ultimate Goal: Meeting Christ(35:02) Resources for Finding the Right CampConnect with DannySky Ranch CampsInstagramResources Mentionedcpgive.orgChristian Camp and Conference AssociationThe 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
--------
38:15
Raising kids to build strong friendships with Grace Valentine
Friendship plays such a huge role in both our lives and the lives of our kids, and today’s episode is all about fostering healthy, meaningful relationships. I’m joined by Grace Valentine, for a super fun and insightful conversation on navigating friendships with faith and intention. Here’s what you’ll hear in today's conversation:Community doesn’t happen by accident—it’s something we cultivate with intention. Learning to handle friendship struggles in a healthy, Christ-centered way is a crucial skill for both parents and kids. Grace shares wisdom on building confidence and setting boundaries in friendships. As parents, we have the opportunity to show our kids how to connect, communicate, and care for others. Grace Valentine is a bestselling author, speaker, and advocate for young women seeking faith-filled encouragement. Her latest book, The Better Friend, dives into what it means to create lasting, meaningful friendships that reflect God’s love and grace. This conversation is such a breath of fresh air! If you’ve ever wondered how to support your kids in building strong friendships—or how to set healthy boundaries in your own relationships—you won’t want to miss this episode. (02:59) The Importance of Friendships(06:00) Building Intentional Friendships(09:11) Understanding Different Types of Friendships(11:53) Navigating Conflict in Friendships(14:55) Insecurity and Confidence in Relationships(17:59) Modeling Friendship for Our Kids(20:51) Final Thoughts and EncouragementConnect with Gracehttps://gracevalentine.org/Water into Wine PodcastResources MentionedThe Better Friend bookThe Unbreakable Boy movieChristian 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
--------
30:23
Celebrating differences & intentional family time with Trillia Newbell
This week, I’m joined by Trillia Newbell for a meaningful conversation on the importance of community, celebrating differences, and how intentional family time can shape our kids' understanding of love, faith, and culture. Here’s what you’ll hear in today’s episode:Intentional time spent around the table fosters communication, connection, and love within families. Food, stories, and shared experiences are great ways to introduce kids to different cultures and traditions. Parents can have meaningful, scripture-based conversations with their kids about diversity and celebrating differences. God’s Word is central to helping kids understand and appreciate the beauty in how He made each of us. Trillia Newbell is a speaker, writer, and author of multiple books, including Celebrating Around the Table. She is passionate about faith, family, and fostering meaningful conversations about race, culture, and community through a biblical lens. This conversation is both refreshing and practical, giving parents tangible ways to celebrate diversity, build strong family connections, and create a home centered on faith and love. I hope you enjoy it!(02:57) The Importance of Celebrating Around the Table(06:03) Understanding and Celebrating Differences(08:54 )Incorporating Culture and Food into Family Life(12:08) Practical Tips for Discussing Race and Culture with Kids(15:55) The Role of Scripture in Conversations about Diversity(18:52) Creating Resources for Families to Learn Together(22:04) The Cookbook as a Tool for Connection(24:47) Lamenting and Bonding Through Shared Stories(27:46) Final Thoughts on Parenting and God's LoveConnect with Trillia:https://www.trillianewbell.com/InstagramResources mentioned:The Unbreakable Boy movieCelebrating Around the TableGod’s Very Good IdeaChristianParenting.orgThe 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.
Listen to The Christian Parenting Podcast - Motherhood, Teaching kids about Jesus, Intentional parenting, Raising Christian kids, How Other Dads Dad with Hamish Blake and many other podcasts from around the world with the radio.net app
Australia