Growing Home Together Podcast
Join us in prayer for a strong marriage and wisdom in parenting. We share uplifting advice and practical tools to help you grow closer to God and each other in every season of life.
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Episode 54: How to Find the Best Books for Your Kids and Make the Most of Reading Together–with Kristin Wynalda
05/03/2022
Episode 54: How to Find the Best Books for Your Kids and Make the Most of Reading Together–with Kristin Wynalda
To read the show notes for this episode, please click .
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Episode 53: Honest Truths to Help You Respond to the Call to Foster with Jamie Finn
04/12/2022
Episode 53: Honest Truths to Help You Respond to the Call to Foster with Jamie Finn
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Episode 52: How to Build Up Your Marriage to Survive the Worst Times in Your Life--with Gene and Carol Kent
03/15/2022
Episode 52: How to Build Up Your Marriage to Survive the Worst Times in Your Life--with Gene and Carol Kent
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Episode 51: Bill Hendricks and Bev Godby: Giftedness in Our Kids
03/01/2022
Episode 51: Bill Hendricks and Bev Godby: Giftedness in Our Kids
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Episode 50: How an Introvert and Extrovert Can Build a Happy and Understanding Marriage with Holley Gerth and Jason Rovenstine
02/15/2022
Episode 50: How an Introvert and Extrovert Can Build a Happy and Understanding Marriage with Holley Gerth and Jason Rovenstine
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Episode 49: How to Stay in Control When You Feel Angry at Your Kids with Amber Lia
02/01/2022
Episode 49: How to Stay in Control When You Feel Angry at Your Kids with Amber Lia
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Episode 47: Help Your Kids Grow Up with Joy and Confidence
01/11/2022
Episode 47: Help Your Kids Grow Up with Joy and Confidence
Thank you for listening to the Growing Home Together Podcast. Please click for show notes and other info on this episode.
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Episode 46: Practical Ways to Put the Joy Back into Your Marriage Today--with Marcus Warner and Chris Coursey
12/28/2021
Episode 46: Practical Ways to Put the Joy Back into Your Marriage Today--with Marcus Warner and Chris Coursey
Need a sign to know if your marriage is thriving or struggling today? The clues are standing at your own front door: How do you feel when your spouse walks in at the end of the day? Are you greeting with a kiss or a cold shoulder? Do you feel eager to connect and share the events of the day? Is your spouse the reason you’re excited to come home? If your stress goes up and your happiness goes down when your spouse comes through the door, chances are you’re suffering from a “joy gap” in your marriage. Today’s guests, Marcus Warner and Chris Coursey, are here with a super-encouraging message to help us grow close and refresh the joy in our relationships. They help us to understand How two pastors utilize both brain science and scripture to minister to couples Why joy is the key element to a strong marriage Why it’s possible to “train your brain” to grow your joy together Practical ways to connect in simple, powerful ways with your spouse How fear drives couples further apart How to protect your “joy zones” from stress and conflict How to meet God as the true Source of joy Dr. Marcus Warner is a conference speaker and author who has spent over thirty years helping people and organizations navigate some of life's toughest challenges. As the president of , he has helped develop dozens of resources that deal with recovery, leadership, and family life. Rev. Chris M. Coursey is the president of , a non-profit ministry focusing on training leaders and communities in the nineteen skills that make relationships work. Chris is an ordained minister, pastoral counselor, published author, curriculum designer and international speaker. Chris is the husband of Jen and the father of two young boys, Matthew and Andrew. Marcus and Chris created The 4 Habits of Joy-Filled Marriage: How 15 Minutes a Day Will Help You Stay in Love to help you grow a joyful, thriving relationship. This podcast is produced and edited by Angie Elkins Media, Inc.
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Episode 45: How to Grow in God When Your Soul is Tired and Life is Hard--with Bill & Kristi Gaultiere
12/07/2021
Episode 45: How to Grow in God When Your Soul is Tired and Life is Hard--with Bill & Kristi Gaultiere
You put your trust in Christ a long time ago. Since then, you’ve spent countless hours in prayer and reading the Bible. You’ve attended church and been faithful to give and serve however you can. You could tell story after story of how God met your needs and helped you along the way. Yet today, God feels distant and out of reach. It seems like your prayers hit the ceiling. Doubt, guilt, and discouragement are making a wreck of your faith. You wonder how to break down the wall and draw close to God again. Today’s guests, Bill and Kristi Gaultiere, are here to give you hope on your journey of faith. Bill and Kristi have served both in ministry and as counselors for 30 years. They have authored a powerful book titled Journey of the Soul: A Practical Guide to Emotional and Spiritual Health to meet you in whatever stage of faith you’re living right now. Bill and Kristi help us to understand The pain of feeling distant from God The “Christ stages” we experience in our Christian life Why we hit the wall and become stuck in our journey of faith The part suffering plays in our spiritual confusion How to open our soul to the Spirit in new ways How growing in God can help us cope with difficult emotions Spiritual practices that help us to connect with God when he seems far away The powerful impact of “soul talk” conversations with your spouse and kids Bill and Kristi Gaultiere are the founders of , helping believers move toward intimacy with Jesus, emotional health, and loving relationships. As a psychologist and Spiritual Formation Pastor, Bill has trained over 1,000 lay counselors and taught courses in Christian psychology and spirituality at the graduate school level. Bill and Kristi, a psychotherapist, train pastors and other men and women in ministry in their Soul Shepherding Institute and Spiritual Direction certificate program. Bill has been speaking in churches and conferences since 1987 and especially enjoys speaking with Kristi. You can listen to their weekly and read their weekly Soul Shepherding blog. This podcast is produced and edited by Angie Elkins Media, Inc.
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Episode 44: How to Build the Love Life You've Always Hoped For in Your Marriage—with Gary Thomas
11/30/2021
Episode 44: How to Build the Love Life You've Always Hoped For in Your Marriage—with Gary Thomas
Like Gary Thomas says, we come into marriage with certain “sexpectations” of what we’ll experience with our spouse. We look forward to romance, pleasure, and satisfaction over a lifetime of love together. But every couple struggles to sustain the passion. To understand each other’s needs and wants. To communicate our thoughts, feelings, and desires about the most personal part of our relationship. We want to draw close and experience all God designed sex to be, but we don’t know how to make it happen. Today’s guest, Gary Thomas, comes with practical insight to help you and your spouse break down walls to build the love life you’ve always hoped for. He helps us to understand What moved him to teach on the topic of married sex God’s design for your ideal love life Why sex can get better and better as you get older Why you don’t need a new spouse; you need new experiences together How to open up communication with your spouse about your love life The most important question to ask each other about sex How sex can glorify God as our Creator is an award-winning author, speaker, and professor whose books have sold over two million copies. His writings have established him as a thought-leader in the areas of marriage, parenting, and spiritual formation. Gary’s latest book, is exactly what you need to make your marriage stronger, in and out of the bedroom. Psychology, theology, research, story, and let’s-get-started ideas combine to make Married Sex a resource for you and your spouse like no other book you’ve read before. This podcast is produced and edited by Angie Elkins Media, Inc.
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Episode 43: How to Keep the Crazy Out of Christmas So You Can Celebrate from the Heart—with Tama Fortner
11/16/2021
Episode 43: How to Keep the Crazy Out of Christmas So You Can Celebrate from the Heart—with Tama Fortner
In our dreams, we’d love our Christmas season to look and feel like a Hallmark movie. We imagine handmade stockings hung over a crackling fireplace, smiling children wearing matching pajamas, colorful gifts piled underneath a stunning Christmas tree, and a delicious feast to share with the ones we hold dear. Yet so often, our reality is more frantic than festive. Our to-do list of shopping, cooking and cleaning, decorating and hosting leaves us rushed and exhausted. By Christmas Eve, we’re too worn out to worship. We wonder how to find the joy and peace we’re longing to experience with our family. Today’s guest, Tama Fortner, brings a fresh perspective on how we can approach the holiday season this year. She shares practical, heartfelt wisdom so we can understand How she let go of the pressure to create a “perfect” Christmas for her family Ways to cope when you feel overwhelmed by your to-do list When to rethink your old traditions and create new ones How to draw near to Christ despite a busy schedule Ways to support your spouse when they feel stressed How to show hospitality without wearing yourself out The reality of God’s love every day of the year is a bestselling author and ghostwriter with more than 40 titles to her credit. She has been blessed to work with some of the biggest names in Christian publishing to create inspirational books for children, teens, and adults. Tama and her husband are the parents of two kids and they make their home in Tennessee. Tama’s latest devotional book, , is your personal invitation to slow down and savor the beauty of the manger this year. Accompanied by seasonally inspired full-color photographs, this 31-day devotional brings a bit of calm to each day through a short reflection and Scripture, together with points to ponder and fun ideas for simplifying your Christmas traditions. This podcast is produced and edited by Angie Elkins Media, Inc.
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Episode 42: How a Mom Can Connect with Her Son and Build a Foundation of Faith in His Life with Christie Thomas
11/09/2021
Episode 42: How a Mom Can Connect with Her Son and Build a Foundation of Faith in His Life with Christie Thomas
Please click to read the notes for this episode or get more info on the show.
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Episode 41: How to Build Up Your Child's Heart in a World That Tears Them Down with Jamie Ivey
11/02/2021
Episode 41: How to Build Up Your Child's Heart in a World That Tears Them Down with Jamie Ivey
A fun, snowy day of sledding ended in broken bones for our young daughter. The following weeks held an hours-long surgery, isolation at home, and painful bullying after her re-entry into her classroom. We watched our child lose her smile. Her confidence. Her assurance that she was strong, wanted, and truly loved. Every child will face threats to their sense of worth. They’re pressed into a mold that says achievement equals acceptance and image earns inclusion. Without the truth of who God says they are, our kids will struggle to know they are purposed and precious to the One who made them. Today’s guest, Jamie Ivey, is here with a powerful message of hope for moms and dads who want to build up their child’s heart. She helps us to understand Why all of us need to be reminded of our value and purpose as God’s children What led her to write her uplifting book for children Why young kids are particularly open to receive God’s truth of who they are The unique role of parents in building a sturdy foundation for their kids’ identity Why you and your kids absolutely matter in God’s kingdom How to meet your children in the hardest places of asking who they are Jamie Ivey [ ] loves creating things that help people believe the truths about who God made them to be. She does this mostly through her popular podcast, “The Happy Hour” and the new YouTube show, The Jamie Ivey Show, and through multiple books geared towards women. Now she’s taking this passion to a younger generation with her book, God Made You to Be You. [ ] As a mama to four kids, she knows the value in kids learning at a young age that God made them to be themselves! Her whole family plus two dogs live in Austin, Texas, and they all love to visit the West Texas desert as often as possible!
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Episode 40: How Love Can Unlock the Door to Learning for Your Child with Janet Newberry
10/19/2021
Episode 40: How Love Can Unlock the Door to Learning for Your Child with Janet Newberry
Before your son or daughter even started kindergarten, you dreamed of all they’d do. You imagined an excitement to learn, fun friendships, and positive teachers who cherished your child and brought out their best. Yet perhaps you’re like many parents who grieve the gap between your hopes and expectations and the tough realities your child is facing at school. Pressure to perform is crushing your child emotionally. Learning or behavior struggles attach negative labels to your child’s identity. Maybe your child is so discouraged or frustrated that they want to give up and quit. Today’s guest, Janet Newberry, brings a powerful hope and insight for your family today. As an educator, school administrator, author, and consultant, she helps us to understand The “performance injuries” our kids suffer at school The impact of fear and stress on our kids’ learning, maturity, and happiness How to help our kids take hold of their “why” and purpose Why struggle is something to embrace—not avoid—in learning Why typical behavior modification methods do more harm than good How to navigate the tough decision of where to send your child to school The powerful connection between love and learning for our children Janet Newberry [ ] is an educator, consultant, and author who is passionate to transform your child’s growth and learning through the power of loving, supportive relationships. Take hold of Janet’s insights for your family on the Love is Fearless podcast . Janet’s book, Education by Design, Not Default, [] is a powerful resource to help parents and teachers to lead their children with love. Be sure to visit for Janet’s online learning community that provides targeted tools, help, and resources for parents to support their child’s education and journey to maturity.
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Episode 39: How to End the Power Struggles and Connect with your Challenging Child with Kirk Martin
10/12/2021
Episode 39: How to End the Power Struggles and Connect with your Challenging Child with Kirk Martin
I stood over my screaming child in her bedroom, making it as clear as possible that she was going to wear those pants OR ELSE! After a miserable two-hour tantrum, she was wearing those pants. But the victory in winning that battle was really a defeat of broken trust, hurt feelings, and distance between us. Do you struggle to relate to your stubborn child? Does your son push your buttons and refuse to cooperate? Would your daughter rather argue that submit to the most simple request? Are your days together filled with stress, conflict, and resentment? In your heart, are you secretly afraid that your strong-willed child faces a future of failure or difficulty? Today’s guest, Kirk Martin, is here with wisdom and proven strategies to transform your relationship with your challenging child. He explains The moment his relationship with his son, Casey, turned in a whole new direction How he became a popular coach for parents and teachers to relate with the kids in their lives Why the most well-intentioned parents become triggered and lose control The fears and frustration beneath your child’s bad behavior Effective ways to interrupt the negative cycle in your home Tips to take the stress out of homework What it really means to discipline your kids The power of accepting your child for who they are Kirk Martin is the founder of CelebrateCalm.com and host of the Calm Parenting Podcast. [https://celebratecalm.com/podcasts/] Kirk and his son, Casey, have helped one million parents stop the defiance, disrespect, and power struggles with the most strong-willed children and kids on the spectrum. Learn more about Kirk’s resources, coaching, and live events at CelebrateCalm.com, Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/calmparentingpodcast/], and Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/CelebrateCalm] for the help you need today.
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Episode 38: How to Clean Up the Stress Mess in Your Child’s Body for a Healthy School Year—with Dr. Kate Lyzenga-Dean
09/28/2021
Episode 38: How to Clean Up the Stress Mess in Your Child’s Body for a Healthy School Year—with Dr. Kate Lyzenga-Dean
How to Clean Up the Stress Mess in Your Child’s Body for a Healthy School Year—with Dr. Kate Lyzenga-Dean Headaches. Bad Dreams. Upset tummies. Grumpy moods. Distracted attention. Aches and pains. Sugar cravings. Our kids can show us they’re stressed without even saying a word. As moms and dads, we know the worries and troubles of life can take a toll on our kids’ physical health and well-being. Today’s guest, Dr. Kate Lyzenga-Dean, is here to help us understand the effects of stress on our kids’ bodies as they grow. She helps us learn and understand The effects of long-term stress on our kids’ bodies and health The difference between acute and chronic stress How food and nutrition play a part in our kids’ response to stress The important connection between stress and sleep How to use quick, practical stress management tools right in the moment The connection between our spiritual life and our physical well-being Why parents’ own self-care is essential to our child’s sense of peace and calm Where to take hold of more tips and tools to help your kids manage stress is a Functional Medicine Health Care Provider who knows how much damage chronic stress can do to the body, mind, and spirit. She always seeks the root cause of a health problem, which often comes from underlying chronic stress. As a practitioner and writer, Dr. Kate has created powerful tools to help her clients manage stress and move toward greater health. She created the as your first step toward whole-person, Functional Medicine, healthy stress relief. You’ll also find recipes, blog articles, and links for your own personal health consultation. Make sure to watch with your kids to learn—together—how to manage stress this school year! You can also take hold of Dr. Kate’s Calm Kiddos Lunch Planner and the awesome stress-busting supplement she shares on the show. This podcast is produced and edited by Angie Elkins Media, Inc.
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Episode 37: The Seven Unique Stages of a Marriage That Lasts a Lifetime--with Jackie Bledsoe
09/14/2021
Episode 37: The Seven Unique Stages of a Marriage That Lasts a Lifetime--with Jackie Bledsoe
This spring our daughter walked the aisle to say “I do” to the man who won her heart. As her mom and dad, we’re celebrating this season of firsts right along with them: Their first apartment, first shared trips and holidays as a married couple, and all the new discoveries they’re making about the one they love. Yet we know that this newlywed season only lasts for a time. To grow and thrive, their relationship needs to move through specific stages of change and maturity. If a couple fails to move forward and becomes stuck in a certain stage—or “ring” as our guest describes—their marriage can struggle and fall apart. Jackie Bledsoe joins us today to help us understand How Jackie and his wife moved from a difficult start in their own marriage to serving couples through marriage ministry How to identify the unique stage you and your spouse are living right now Why each of the seven “rings” of marriage offer new ways to grow as a couple What to do if you feel stuck in a negative rut in your marriage The powerful link between prayer and intimacy as a couple A word of hope for couples who want to build a new foundation for their relationship Jackie Bledsoe and his wife of 20 years, Stephana, are the parents of three kids. They make their home in Indiana. As an author and popular speaker, Jackie has also contributed to several well-known and award winning sites like Tony Dungy’s AllProDad , Disney’s Babble, Black and Married with Kids (BMWK), the NFL’s USA Football (USAF), and Coach Up. In addition, he has been featured multiple times on HuffPost Live and Yahoo! Shine, and was one of the official speakers at an Indianapolis Colts sponsored event for All Pro Dad. Learn more about The 7 Rings of Marriage and all of Jackie’s resources to grow a stronger marriage today! This podcast is produced and edited by Angie Elkins Media, Inc.
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36: How to Fire Up Your Prayer Life for Your Kids and Experience God Like Never Before--with Jodie Berndt
08/31/2021
36: How to Fire Up Your Prayer Life for Your Kids and Experience God Like Never Before--with Jodie Berndt
This summer, we dropped off our son for a week of summer camp. We sent him away with a sleeping bag, bug spray, and a whole lot of hopes and fears in our hearts. We worried if he’d stay safe and healthy, if he’d feel homesick or left out, or if he’d make poor choices he’d regret. We also carried high hopes that he’d have fun, build positive relationships, and grow a stronger faith in Jesus. Honestly, those are the same hopes and fears each of us hold for our children every day of the year. Nothing puts us on our knees like parenting the sons and daughters we love! We want to pray powerful, effective prayers that make a difference in their lives. Today’s guest, Jodie Berndt, is here with a great word of inspiration to fire up our prayer life for our kids. She helps us to understand What it means to pray the scriptures over our children How to break out of your “rut” and pray with confidence and excitement The unexpected struggles Jodie faced while parenting her teens, and how God met her in them How praying scriptures will change our goals and desires for our kids Why God wants you to pray about every detail of your life, big and small How to keep praying when you’re tired and discouraged in the waiting Why you can trust God completely and know your prayers make a difference has written or cowritten many books, including the bestselling Praying the Scriptures series for children, teens, and adult children. A speaker and Bible teacher, Jodie has been featured on programs like Focus on the Family, The 700 Club, and a host of popular podcasts, and she has written articles for Fox News, Club31 Women, and Proverbs 31 Ministries. She and her husband, Robbie, have four adult children, and they live in Virginia Beach, Virginia. This podcast is produced and edited by Angie Elkins Media, Inc.
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Episode 35: How Going All In with Jesus Can Transform Your Family Forever- with Alison Simmons
08/17/2021
Episode 35: How Going All In with Jesus Can Transform Your Family Forever- with Alison Simmons
Maybe like us, you put your faith in Jesus many years ago. Yet as life has brought pain and disappointment, loss and frustration, your faith in God has worn away. You look at your marriage and family relationships and wonder how you’ve grown so far apart. You wonder how your passion for Christ can be rekindled and if your most important relationships can ever be happy and close again. Today’s guest, Alison Simmons, knows the pain of a broken marriage. She knows the stress and strain of trying to be a “perfect” Christian while feeling as far from God as she could be. Her powerful testimony gives hope that God can break through the hurt and confusion. His love and power can draw us close to himself and transform our families. Through her honest testimony, Alison helps us to understand How she met Christ in the middle of her mess Her journey of divorce, remarriage, and growing her family How Alison let her marriage relationship take the place of God in her life The breakdown of her marriage and her frustrations in life as a mom The powerful encounter with God that transformed her heart and home How God used Scripture to give her a whole new attitude toward her husband The steps you can take to rekindle your passion for God and renew your relationships Alison Simmons is a writer and host of the . Her passion is to help you draw closer to God through his Word. If you sat down for coffee with Alison, she’d tell you that "I am a busy, audacious, outgoing, sometimes irritable, but always blessed, woman. A few years after becoming a Believer, I stopped investing in my relationship with the Lord years ago and found myself discontent and angry. I didn’t WANT to be this way, but I just couldn’t ‘get happy!’ It wasn’t until I started making time for God and His Word every day, praying to Him unashamedly and listening for His response that things started to change. I have come a long way in my walk with Jesus since then and now I help stressed out moms reclaim their joy through a relationship with Jesus." Connect with Alison at and find hope for your faith and family.
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Episode 34: How to Break the Cycle of Shame in Your Family--with Dave & Ann Wilson
08/03/2021
Episode 34: How to Break the Cycle of Shame in Your Family--with Dave & Ann Wilson
You scroll through your social media feed and feel layers of shame and insecurity building in your heart. Other parents’ kids seem confident and successful, while yours are taking one step forward and two steps back. Other couples create romance and fun every day, while you and your spouse are stuck in a rut and feel miles apart. The burden of shame steals the joy from your home. And, you see the sickness of perfectionism infecting your kids as well. Today’s guests, Dave and Ann Wilson, offer a powerful word of encouragement to break the cycle of shame in our families. They help us to understand Why we feel pressured to become perfect parents and sustain an ideal marriage Why Dave and Ann are so open and authentic about their own mistakes and struggles How to find freedom from the guilt you carry as a spouse or parent How to raise kids who feel loved and accepted as they are How God can use our parenting to expose our brokenness and bring healing The power of partnering with your spouse to give your kids what they need Why Jesus is our best hope as we seek to love our families well are the authors of Vertical Marriage: The One Secret That Will Change Your Marriage and No Perfect Parents: Ditch Expectations, Embrace Reality, and Discover the One Secret That Will Change Your Parenting. Additionally, they are touring speakers, as well as the radio hosts of the nationally syndicated radio show, Family Life Today. But it’s their singular passion for enriching lives through spreading the Word and wisdom of God that truly defines them. This podcast is produced and edited by Angie Elkins Media, Inc.
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Episode 33: How to Find Healing for the Father Wounds of Your Past--with Kia Stephens
07/20/2021
Episode 33: How to Find Healing for the Father Wounds of Your Past--with Kia Stephens
Every child’s heart longs for the love of a father. A warm and attentive dad gives his son or daughter a sense of security. They feel valuable, supported, and understood. A dad’s care and presence allow a child to grow and thrive into a healthy, whole adult who is able to build strong relationships for life. Yet many women and men carry painful father wounds that never heal. Those wounds create a ripple effect of pain and damage that can persist for generations. Today’s guest, Kia Stephens, offers a powerful word of hope for the hurting. She explains What led Kia to minister to those with father wounds How you can exchange your father wounds for the love of God How past hurts affect our adult relationships and parenting The breakthrough that helped Kia know God as her perfect Father Ways to begin a journey of freedom and forgiveness A word of advice for dads who want to love their children well Kia Stephens is a wife and homeschooling mom of two who is passionate about helping women know God as Father. For this reason, she created to help women exchange their father wounds for the love of God the Father. Kia is also the founder of Entrusted Women, which she created to equip Christian women communicators of color. In addition to these ministries, Kia faithfully serves in Bible Study Fellowship and her local church. When she is not writing or serving women, she enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends. Connect with Kia at and on and today! This podcast is produced and edited by Angie Elkins Media, Inc.
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Episode 32: How to Slow Down and Discover the Cure for Your Family's Hurry Sickness--with Jennifer Dukes Lee
07/06/2021
Episode 32: How to Slow Down and Discover the Cure for Your Family's Hurry Sickness--with Jennifer Dukes Lee
If we bump into a friend and they ask how we’re doing, most of us would probably reply the same way: I’m busy. Life feels overwhelming. I don’t know how to juggle the kids and my to-do list. I’m always running behind. Stress and fatigue is knocking me down. I wish I could just get away from it all. Today’s guest, Jennifer Dukes Lee, helps you to identify the “hurry sickness” that so easily infects your home. If the hustle of life is stealing your peace and joy, she’ll help you to understand How Jennifer discovered she was suffering from “hurry sickness” in her life What pushes us to move too fast, to the harm of our souls and our families The cure for the hurried heart How to cope when you feel like you’re running behind in your life Ways to help our kids grow and thrive at the pace God holds for them Why we need to create space and time to heal our hurts Why it’s never too late to reset the pace for your family Jennifer Dukes Lee lives on the fifth-generation Lee family farm in Iowa, where she and her husband are raising crops, pigs, and two beautiful humans. She writes books, loves queso, and enjoys singing too loudly to songs with great harmony. Once upon a time, she didn't believe in Jesus; now he's her CEO. Find Jennifer—and her book, Growing Slow--at and on Instagram at This podcast is produced and edited by Angie Elkins Media, Inc.
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Episode 31: Teamwork in Marriage--How to Work Together in Every Part of Your Life, with Robert and Kay Lee Fukui
06/29/2021
Episode 31: Teamwork in Marriage--How to Work Together in Every Part of Your Life, with Robert and Kay Lee Fukui
Three years ago, Rob left his day job and Joanna took on a new full-time career to become full-time partners in writing, podcasting, and building Growing Home Together. As they joined both their personal and working lives, they heard the same question over and over: I could NEVER work with my spouse! How can you be happy working together as a team? The answer to that question isn’t simple and it’s unique for every couple. In every marriage, a husband and wife must team up to parent kids, manage the home, and accomplish their goals. In whatever you aim to achieve together, you need skills and habits to move you toward success. Today’s guests, Robert and Kay Lee Fukui, are here with business and marriage expertise to equip us all for teamwork in our marriage. They offer practical insight to help you understand How Robert and Kay Lee met, married, and created both a marriage AND business partnership. Why they utilized a counselor from the beginning of their relationship. The key skills, habits, and mindsets that set you up for success as a team. How to make your differences work for you instead of against you. The one important habit that will build unity, structure, and closeness in your work and marriage. Practical tools to help you with work and life balance. How to cope with burnout when your life together is overwhelming. The need to grow as a listener to God and your spouse. Robert and Kay Lee Fukui are the co-founders of i61, inc., a marriage and business consulting company. They focus their work on assisting entrepreneur couples (who may or may not be working together) increase their margin of time and money in both marriage and business. Robert experienced 25 successful years in sales/marketing and played instrumental roles in the launch of six major brands. He was directly responsible for over $150 million in revenue and a recipient of national sales and leadership awards. Kay Lee worked in the banking industry and in her family business as operations manager for over 10 years before meeting the love of her life, Robert. Her passion is to see marriages flourish in the midst of building a profitable business. Together, they have developed an innovative consulting program, which equips couples to build a thriving Marriage AND a prosperous business. Their podcast, courses, and valuable content will move you forward, together. This podcast is produced and edited by Angie Elkins Media, Inc.
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Episode 30: What Every Dad Needs to Tackle the Tough Task of Fatherhood--with Becky Thompson and Dr. Mark Pitts
06/15/2021
Episode 30: What Every Dad Needs to Tackle the Tough Task of Fatherhood--with Becky Thompson and Dr. Mark Pitts
Even the most bold, assertive, and confident man feels the heavy burdens and fears that come with fathering kids in these challenging times. He wonders Do I have what it takes? Who is the right example to follow? How do I measure up to God’s perfect example of fatherhood? What does it take to be a success? Am I the only one who struggles? Who will walk this road of parenting with me? Today’s guests, Becky Thompson and Mark Pitts, are here to share the one most important source of help and encouragement that every dad needs. They help us to understand How—and why—the Midnight Mom and Midnight Dad communities were born and have grown to encourage so many. How a dad’s needs are different from a mother’s as he raises his kids. What a dad needs to tackle the tough task of fatherhood in these challenging times. How a close relationship with Father God equips a dad to parent his kids. How to move past the insecurity of knowing you can’t be a perfect parent. The powerful motivation to keep reaching for more in your life as a dad. How to grow in your confidence to pray for your kids. How community with other dads is a game-changer in the life of a father Becky Thompson and Dr. Mark R. Pitts are the father-daughter duo behind the , that encourages fathers with short, powerful prayers every night at midnight. Modeled off the runaway success of Midnight Mom, which has over 1.3 million followers, Midnight Dad meets fathers where they are and assures them that they are exactly who God chose as ‘dad’ for their family. The pair have written a new devotional, . It gives dads a sense of connection with other fathers, strength for each night and the day ahead, wisdom from the Bible for tough situations, affirmation of the importance of their role, and the reassurance that God is with them. This podcast is produced and edited by Angie Elkins Media, Inc.
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Episode 29: How You Can Find the Path to Happiness in Your Miserable Marriage--with Toni Nieuwhof
06/08/2021
Episode 29: How You Can Find the Path to Happiness in Your Miserable Marriage--with Toni Nieuwhof
Pain and stress, unresolved conflict, and past traumas can lead even the most committed couple to the brink of divorce. Perhaps you and your spouse—or a couple you know—is feeling so hurt and disconnected you wonder how to carry on. In your heart of hearts, you’re tempted to give up and walk away from your relationship. Today’s guest, Toni Nieuwhof, knows what it’s like to feel wounded and hopeless in her marriage. As a divorce attorney who experienced dramatic healing and joy in her own marriage, she brings a powerful and practical word of hope for couples. In this heartfelt conversation, Toni shares: How Toni and her husband reached a breaking point in their marriage How as a divorce attorney, she witnessed the pain and regret on the other side of splitting up What it’s like to feel stuck in survival mode in your marriage How to make a plan to reconnect and build the bond between you The lies that keep you from a healthy, happy relationship How to finally break the negative cycle of conflict The power of shared experiences to build intimacy Toni Nieuwhof is a family law mediator, former divorce attorney and co-host of the . She is the wife of Carey Nieuwhof, who is an influential leadership author and podcaster, and international speaker. Toni and Carey have spoken publicly about their marriage of more than three decades. In her downtime, Toni enjoys outdoor sports and spending time with Carey, their two grown sons, and their extended family and friends. Visit her online at . For practical help on how to find what you really want for the future of your marriage, take hold of Toni’s powerful book, Before You Split. Enter to win your very own copy by leaving the comment “Before You Split” on this post today! This podcast is produced and edited by Angie Elkins Media, Inc.
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Episode 28: How a Dad's Simple Letter to His Child Can Change Their Life Forever with Blake Brewer
05/25/2021
Episode 28: How a Dad's Simple Letter to His Child Can Change Their Life Forever with Blake Brewer
Today’s guest, Blake Brewer, faced unspeakable tragedy at the age of nineteen when his father died in his arms. Later that same day, he discovered his dad had provided an unexpected gift in the form of a letter to Blake and his siblings. The letter became a lifeline that permanently connected Blake to his dad’s wisdom, encouragement, and love. That life-changing experience prepared Blake to help you write a legacy letter to your own child today. In Blake’s conversation with Rob, he shares What drives him to be the best dad he can be to his three children How Blake’s dad made a huge impact on his life, faith, and future The hopes and needs only a dad can meet for his child The powerful impact of a father’s voice in his child’s life Three things every son and daughter need to hear from their dad Blake’s simple, effective strategy to help you create a “legacy letter” for your kids Blake Brewer is a writer, speaker, and father of three who served for over a decade in campus ministry with Student Mobilization. He founded The Endurance to equip dads to leave a legacy of love, wisdom, and spiritual encouragement for their children. At The Endurance you can join the Legacy Letter Challenge with other dads just like you. Blake’s tools, coaching, and community support will give you all you need to write a legacy letter to impact your kids for life.
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Episode 27: How to Love Your Spouse When It Doesn't Feel Like They Love You Back with Gary Thomas
05/18/2021
Episode 27: How to Love Your Spouse When It Doesn't Feel Like They Love You Back with Gary Thomas
You feel lonely in your marriage. Your spouse pursues every other relationship and activity instead of you. Romance gave way to rejection, and you’re asking tough questions in your heart. Does she love me anymore? Am I still attractive to him? Why don’t we talk like we used to? Will I always feel invisible and unappreciated? Am I the only one working on this marriage? You feel the pain of trying to love your spouse when it doesn’t feel like they love you back. Gary Thomas joins us today with a powerful word of hope for the spouse who feels alone in their marriage. He shares Gary’s unique journey to serve in ministry to married couples How God will use the difficulties in your marriage to do good things in your life The most important question you’ll ever ask about your marriage The truth of what it means to live with an imperfect person Why loving your spouse is not the same as enabling sinful behavior How transforming your perspective on your spouse can change your life Why a soul completely satisfied in God is able to be satisfied in marriage, too Gary Thomas is an award-winning author, international speaker, and professor whose books have sold over two million copies. His powerful ministry brings people closer to Christ and closer to each other. He unites the study of Scripture, church history, and the Christian classics to foster spiritual growth and deeper marriage relationships. Whatever season of marriage you are in, A Lifelong Love gives you the practical help you need to infuse your marriage with a spiritual passion that will not only change you but will change the world around you.
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Episode 26: How to Talk with your Kids About the Tough Issues They Face with Jimmy and Kristin Scroggins
05/04/2021
Episode 26: How to Talk with your Kids About the Tough Issues They Face with Jimmy and Kristin Scroggins
As parents of five kids, now ages 10 to 27, we’ve been blindsided by every kind of tough question over the years. You know the kind of questions we’re talking about: Where do babies come from? When can I have my own smartphone? Why does that family have two moms? What’s going on with the riots on the news? It’s tempting to dodge the questions instead of talking with your kids about the tough issues they face. Jimmy and Kristin Scroggins are here with a word of a hope and a powerful new book to share. They help us understand How God grew Jimmy and Kristin’s family and led them to write a parenting book Why parents can go all-in to embrace their unique role in their kids’ lives How knowing God’s design for his world equips us for gospel conversations with our children How to use the “Three Circles” tool as a map to communicate effectively with your kids The transformation that comes from understanding the complexity of your son or daughter’s character How to discuss important topics like sexuality, gender, and technology in a way that connects with your child’s heart Jimmy and Kristin Scroggins have been married for twenty-six years and have eight children. They have served at Family Church in South Florida since Jimmy became the lead pastor in July 2008. The Scroggins family is passionate about Family Church’s mission to build families by helping them discover and pursue God’s design. Jimmy also serves as a visiting seminary professor and Kristin co-leads The Mom Village Podcast at familychurchnetwork.com. Jimmy and Kristin’s book, Full-Circle Parenting https://www.christianbook.com/full-circle-parenting-guide-crucial-conversations/jimmy-scroggins/9781087713441/pd/713441?event=ESRCG will give you a “conversation map” to work through any tough conversations you have with your children. Whether it’s substance abuse or sex, “mean girls” or technology, you’ll be equipped to stay in the game and share gospel conversations as they grow.
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Episode 25: How to Grow a Strong Marriage Through the Changes of Life with Cheri Fletcher
04/27/2021
Episode 25: How to Grow a Strong Marriage Through the Changes of Life with Cheri Fletcher
Our life as a couple brings one transition after another. For Rob and I, we’ve added babies to our family and sent young adults out into the world. Job changes sent us cross-country and turned our routines upside-down. For years Joanna was a stay-at-home homeschooling parent, but now she’s working and sending our son off to school each day. Like us, you’ve had to face the changes of life as a couple. Those transitions can pull you together or create stress that drives you apart. That’s why we’re happy to welcome our guest Cheri Fletcher to the podcast today. Cheri and her husband Todd have experienced empty nesting and a crisis that forced them to change their lives in nearly every way. Cheri is here with great experience to help us understand The unforeseen events that forced Cheri and Todd to change their lives The losses and grief that come with change How God holds on to you so you don’t have to stay strong by yourself How to grow in empathy for each other’s unique needs and emotions How to approach life’s changes as a team Why you can celebrate the “new” God is putting in your life The ways a couple can “divorce-proof” their relationship in times of loss and change [Cheri Fletcher is a writer, speaker, singer, and the host of Your Spiritual Game Plan podcast. She loves to help women develop a spiritual game plan so they can live out the purpose God created for them. She wants to share the message of just how intentionally you were made to be a part of God’s plan. Through her writings, speaking, and podcast, https://cherifletcher.com/ it is her desire to equip you with an understanding of the enemy’s plot against that very plan. Cheri and her husband Todd are empty nesters and have just moved from Seattle, WA, to Cleveland, Tennessee. They have three grown children and one dog, Libby. Cheri enjoys running and walking with friends. She will also invite you in for coffee no matter what state her kitchen is in! To grow closer to your spouse and each other through every season of life, take hold of Rob and Joanna’s powerful resource, Mr. & Mrs.: 366 Devotions for Couples.
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Episode 24: Overcoming the Obstacle of Different Backgrounds in your marriage with Kate and Kagiso Motaung
04/13/2021
Episode 24: Overcoming the Obstacle of Different Backgrounds in your marriage with Kate and Kagiso Motaung
Every couple begins married life together with a different background of traditions and habits, values and relationship patterns. can create conflict and stress or be used by God to draw you closer to him and each other. Today’s guests, Kagiso and Kate Motaung, know all about bridging differences in their cross-cultural marriage. They offer hope and great wisdom to help couples understand How God wrote Kate and Kagiso’s love story in South Africa The cultural differences they faced in their new life together, both in South Africa and the United States The value of a mentor couples for your marriage A challenge to look for beauty in the unfamiliar aspects of your life Why parenting demands a whole new level of adjustment and compromise How to communicate effectively about your differences How “meeting each other under God’s Word” changes everything This episode—and Kagiso’s heartfelt prayer over YOUR marriage—is the encouragement you need to grow your love and understanding today. Kagiso and Kate met and married in South Africa before relocating to the United States. They have been married since 2004 and have three children. Kate is the author of A Place to Land: A Story of Longing and Belonging and co-author of Influence: Building a Platform that Elevates Jesus (Not Me). She is the host of the online writing community Five Minute Friday, and is the owner of Refine Services, providing editing services to writers. Kagiso is trained as a pastor and teacher, and currently serves as a Realtor in West Michigan. Connect with Kate on her website and Facebook page to discover her books, services, and inspiring resources. To win your own copy of her beautiful memoir—including Kate and Kagiso’s love story—leave a comment with “Loving Our Differences” to be entered in our giveaway drawing. God bless your marriage today!
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