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.</p>
I am thrilled to share today's episode with you! I had the pleasure of sitting down with Cleere Cherry Reaves, our conversation was rich with insights and heartfelt moments, and I know you’ll love it.
In this episode, we discuss:
Cleere Cherry Reaves is the owner and creator of Cleerely Stated, a successful online boutique whose inspirational products can be found in retail stores all over the United States. She also hosts the growing Let's Be Cleere podcast. Known for her relatable writing style, Cleere's mission is to help others see themselves and the world around them through the eyes of Jesus. Cleere and her husband, Will, live in Greenville, North Carolina, and welcomed their first child, Sledge, into the world in the summer of 2021.
This conversation felt like catching up with an old friend; you’ll feel the same way. Enjoy!
(02:59) Parenting Journey and Special Needs
(05:59) The Complexity of Parenting
(09:05) Navigating Parenting Challenges
(11:56) The Importance of Surrender
(14:56) Decluttering Thought Lives
(18:06) Squirreling Out: Managing Overwhelm
(20:53) Intentional Declarations and Family Dynamics
(23:54) Practical Applications of Declarations
(26:58) Creating Family Rituals
(30:01) The Role of Grace in Parenting
(32:54) Final Thoughts and Encouragement
Connect with Cleere
https://www.cleerelystated.com/
@cleerelystated
Resources Mentioned
Revive: Declarations of God’s Truth to Renew Your Spirit
Christian Parenting Christmas Gift Guide
The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org
I am absolutely thrilled about today's episode! We have the honor of welcoming Sally Clarkson to the show—a voice that has profoundly influenced Christian parenting for many years. Her wisdom and approach have significantly impacted so many of us, and I have long admired her message on parenting.
We discussed her newest book, Well Lived: Shaping a Legacy of Gratitude and Grace. Sally shares invaluable insights on:
Sally Clarkson co-founded Whole Heart Ministries with her husband, Clay, where she serves as the women’s ministry director. She is the author of numerous popular books, including Own Your Life and Desperate (co-authored with Sarah Mae). As a mother of four, Sally has inspired thousands of mothers through her Mom Heart Conferences and small groups since 1998.
This conversation is filled with gentle wisdom and practical advice. I hope you find it as enriching as I did.
(02:59) The Legacy of Parenting and Writing
(05:55) Embracing the Role of 'Queenie' in Family
(09:05) Challenges in Parenting and Reliance on God
(11:57) Daily Parenting Practices and Building Legacy
(14:59)The Importance of Unconditional Love
(17:59) The Joy of Grandparenting and Passing on Legacy
Connect with Sally
Resources Mentioned
Well Lived book
The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org
We’ve reached the final week of our series on identity, and I’m thrilled to be joined by Jill Atogwe. She brings a wealth of wisdom on faith, fashion, motherhood, and more.
Here’s what you’ll learn in today’s episode:
Jill Atogwe is a writer, speaker, and entrepreneur behind Gold and Graphite, where she shares her thoughts on faith, family, and style. She also authors The Gold Standard, a weekly newsletter focused on intentional living, and her children’s book Left Out encourages young readers to embrace uniqueness and inclusivity. Jill’s thoughtful approach to life and parenting makes her a trusted voice for families navigating faith and identity.
This conversation is packed with encouragement and practical wisdom, especially as we seek to raise children grounded in Christ in an ever-changing world. I can’t wait for you to listen!
(02:49) The Evolution of Influencing and Writing
(05:59) Navigating Social Media and Parenting
(09:01) Embracing Uniqueness in Children
(11:48) Faith and Identity in Christ
(15:00) Modeling Faith and Trust for Kids
(21:54) Practical Ways to Celebrate Uniqueness
(30:03) Final Thoughts and Resources
Connect with Jill:
Instagram: @jillatogwe
Resources Mentioned
Christian Parenting Christmas Gift Guide
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org
We’re continuing our series on identity this week, with a focus on finding self-worth and confidence through Christ. Be sure to check out our Identity Simplified Guide on our website! This incredible resource compiles over 90 tools to help affirm your child's identity in Christ.
Ashley Henriott is a confidence coach and speaker whose mission is to empower others to discover their worth in Christ. Her inspiring story and practical approach to building self-worth and confidence make her a sought-after mentor and coach for parents and children alike.
Here’s what you’ll learn in today’s episode:
Ashley Henriott is a confidence coach and speaker whose mission is to empower others to discover their worth in Christ. Her inspiring story and practical approach to building self-worth and confidence make her a sought-after mentor and coach for parents and children alike.
Join us for this inspiring conversation, and leave with practical tools to help both you and your kids embrace the confidence and identity found in Christ.
(03:02) Ashley’s Journey to Confidence Coaching
(06:01) The Role of Faith in Building Confidence
(08:57) Understanding Identity in Christ
(11:53) Confidence Killers: Comparison, Inaction, and Fear
(18:09) Empowering Our Children: Building Their Confidence
(25:01) Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Parents
Connect with Ashley
https://www.ashleyhenriott.com/
@ashley.henriott
Resources Mentioned
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org
Welcome back to Week Two of our series on identity! This week, we’re diving into a super important yet challenging topic: sexual and gender identity. I’ll be honest, having this conversation initially felt intimidating. But after hearing Rachel Gilson speak and reading her book, I knew she was the right person to guide us through this discussion.
Here’s what you’ll learn in today’s episode:
Rachel Gilson is a speaker, writer, and author of Parenting Without Panic in a LGBTQ-Affirming World and Born Again This Way. She shares her journey of coming to faith and navigating her sexuality, offering a unique and powerful perspective on identity in Christ. Rachel’s wisdom and vulnerability make her an invaluable voice for parents grappling with how to address topics of sexual and gender identity with their children.
This episode is filled with hope and encouragement, even as we tackle tough topics. I hope you feel as uplifted and equipped as I did after talking with Rachel!
(02:59) Understanding Identity in Relation to God
(05:48) The Pitfalls of Salvation by Romance
(09:02) Teaching Children the True Source of Life and Intimacy
(12:03) The 'Yes, No, Yes' Framework for Difficult Conversations
(19:21) Parenting from Love and Grace
(24:50) Supporting Children with Same-Sex Attraction
(27:17) Continual Communication and Love
(30:57) Living the Gospel
Connect with Rachel
Resources mentioned
Parenting Without Panic in a LGBTQ-Affirming World
Christian Parenting Christmas Gift Guide
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org
Today, I’m thrilled to be joined by Jay Holland, another Christian Parenting Podcast Network host. His wisdom, kindness, and the way he is led by the Holy Spirit are evident in everything he does.
Here’s what you’ll learn in today’s episode:
Jay Holland hosts Let’s Parent on Purpose and Guided by Faith and serves as a family and student pastor. As a husband and father, he brings wisdom, compassion, and Spirit-led guidance to his conversations. Jay’s heart for helping parents and kids find their identity in Christ is truly inspiring, and he has contributed discussion guides for Identity Simplified, a new Christian Parenting digital resource for helping families talk about identity.
Check out the Identity Simplified guide and enjoy this insightful conversation with Jay. I know you’ll leave feeling equipped and encouraged for your parenting journey.
(02:50) Parenting as a Marathon: Endurance and Pacing
(11:05) Understanding Identity in Christ: A Foundation for Parenting
(18:50) Affirming Children's Identity: Made in the Image of God
(25:49) Modeling Repentance and Grace: A Parent's Example
(33:04) Finding Security in Identity: Looking to Jesus
(35:10) Biblical Conversations on Identity: Guiding Children and Teens
Connect with Jay:
Let’s Parent on Purpose website
Let’s Parent on Purpose Podcast
Social media: @letsparentonpurpose @guidedbyfaith_podcast
Resources mentioned:
The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org
Today’s episode is a special treat as I introduce you to someone near and dear—my podcast producer and fellow podcast host, Jeanette Tapley! Jeanette hosts the Moms at Work podcast, part of the Christian Parenting Network, and she brings so much joy and wisdom to every conversation.
Here’s what you’ll learn in today’s episode:
Jeanette Tapley hosts the Moms at Work podcast, where she connects with moms balancing work, life, and family. As a podcast producer and speaker, she brings her warm, relatable style to every conversation, making everyone feel like chatting with a friend. Jeanette’s heart for encouraging moms in their daily lives shines through in her practical advice and joyful approach to parenting.
Join us for this fun and insightful episode where you’ll feel like sitting down for coffee with a trusted friend and mentor.
(03:25) Balancing Work and Parenting
(11:28) Setting Rules and Boundaries
(17:14) Navigating the Digital World
(18:23) Challenges of Parenting Teens
(19:08) Establishing Rules and Priorities
(22:25) Transitioning from Parenting to Mentoring
(23:22) The Joy of Seeing the Lord Move in Their Lives
(27:06) Trusting God and Having Faith in Difficult Times
(30:16) Fostering Strong Relationships with Your Teenager's Friends
(35:20) Choosing Your Battles Wisely in Parenting
Connect with Jeanette:
Instagram: @jeanettefreakingtapley
Tiktok: @jeanettetapley
The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org
We are thrilled to welcome Ruth Chou Simons back to the podcast today! I am so excited to talk with her about her beautiful new children's book, Home Is Right Where You Are. Our conversation is rich with Ruth’s wisdom and practical advice for parenting in every season of family life.
Since this conversation was recorded, one of Ruth’s sons, Judah, was in a serious mountain biking accident. God is good and he is home after extensive surgery, but please join me in praying for Judah’s continued recovery.
Here is what Ruth and I discuss in today’s episode:
Ruth Chou Simons is a bestselling author, artist, and speaker, known for her works GraceLaced, Beholding and Becoming, and When Strivings Cease. She founded GraceLaced, an online shop that combines her artwork and devotionals, offering spiritual encouragement to others. As a mother of six boys, Ruth often speaks about grace, faith, and family, providing practical wisdom for parents who seek to raise their children with a deep love for Christ.
Join us for this heartfelt and practical conversation filled with Ruth’s wisdom on parenting, discipleship, and creating a home where God's love is always present.
Connect with Ruth:
Instagram:
@ruthchousimons
@gracelaced
Website:
https://ruthchousimons.com/
Resources Mentioned:
Chapters
(03:00) Navigating Parenting Seasons
(06:11) The Importance of Home and God’s Presence
(09:01) Discipling Children in Faith
(11:54) Tips for Raising Boys to Love Jesus
(14:54) The Challenge of Presence in Parenting
(17:47) Launching Kids into Adulthood
(21:12) Sibling Relationships and Family Bonds
(24:11) Lessons Learned from Parenting
The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org
Every once in a while, I love to have a guest who shares a powerful story of God’s faithfulness, and today is just that. I’m joined by Kenisha Nichelle, who opens up about her journey of grief, loss, and God’s continual provision. Kenisha shares her personal story of losing both her parents at a young age, navigating life and parenting without them, and how God has faithfully guided her through the pain. There are some tough topics in this episode, so please be mindful of little ears!
Here’s what you’ll learn in today’s episode:
Kenisha Nichelle is a dynamic professional in the sports industry, and her life story is a testimony to God’s faithfulness through loss and grief. After losing both of her parents, she has leaned on her faith to navigate parenting, career, and personal growth. Her passion for life and her unwavering trust in God make her an inspiring figure for anyone who has experienced loss.
Kenisha’s journey is filled with hard moments, but her story is beautiful and full of hope. I’m sure you’ll feel encouraged in your own faith and empowered in your story after hearing from her today. There are some tough topics in this episode, so please be mindful of little ears!
02:36 Faith and Family
05:04 Parenting Without Parents
07:41 Finding Community and Support
11:36 The Role of Faith in Kenisha's Life
16:21 Trusting in God's Plan
20:48 Career in the Sports Industry
27:28 Balancing Sports, School, and Life
30:11 Advice for Parents
32:09 Final Thoughts and Conclusion
Connect with Kenisha:
Resources Mentioned:
The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org
If you've been around the podcast for a while, you know I love practical tips that help us parent in a way that honors God and makes life a little easier. Today’s episode is FULL of that! I’m sitting down with Dr. Kelly Cagle who is now a fast friend of the podcast! We’re diving into how to help our kids become lifelong learners—not just in school but in all areas of life.
Here’s what you’ll learn in today’s episode:
Dr. Kelly Cagle is a podcaster, researcher, and parent coach with a PhD in education. Her passion is to equip parents with the tools they need to raise lifelong learners and well-rounded children. With her extensive background and practical insights, she helps parents understand their role as educators in their children’s lives.
This episode is packed with actionable advice to help you guide your kids in learning and growing in every area of life. I hope you find it as encouraging and helpful as I did!
Time Stamps
03:00 Understanding and Nurturing Each Child's Unique Strengths and Weaknesses
08:45 Teaching Life Skills through Everyday Activities
17:59 Being Choosy and Prioritizing What Matters
27:59 Resources for Supporting Lifelong Learning
Connect with Dr. Kelly Cagle
https://www.instagram.com/drkellycagle/
Resources mentioned
Parenting IQ podcast on Spotify
The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org
Amanda is a wife. A mother. A blogger. A Christian.
A charming, beautiful, bubbly, young woman who lives life to the fullest.
But Amanda is dying, with a secret she doesn’t want anyone to know.
She starts a blog detailing her cancer journey, and becomes an inspiration, touching and
captivating her local community as well as followers all over the world.
Until one day investigative producer Nancy gets an anonymous tip telling her to look at Amanda’s
blog, setting Nancy on an unimaginable road to uncover Amanda’s secret.
Award winning journalist Charlie Webster explores this unbelievable and bizarre, but
all-too-real tale, of a woman from San Jose, California whose secret ripped a family apart and
left a community in shock.
Scamanda is the true story of a woman whose own words held the key to her secret.
New episodes every Monday.
Follow Scamanda on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen.
Amanda’s blog posts are read by actor Kendall Horn.