Happy Thanksgiving with Luke and Levi: Q&A, Gratitude, and Giggles
Happy Thanksgiving week! Today I am sharing a very real, laughter-infused episode with my two youngest sons, Luke and Levi. Though it is a replay from 2 years ago, it’s still a listener favorite. Invite your kids to join as Luke and Levi answer a few questions, share what they are grateful for, and keep it all very real. Basically, this offers a sneak peek (listen) into our home during a holiday week!
Find links and show notes on my website:
Today’s episode: http://www.monicaswanson.com/Thanksgiving-2023
General podcast page: http://www.monicaswanson.com/podcast
Episode sponsor: HELLO FRESH, a brilliant option for this busy holiday season!
Go to the Hello Fresh website to discover how they can help you make wholesome, family meals without the stress!
Use code: 50MONICA for 50% off + free shipping!
The Monica Swanson Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit http://www.christianparenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Homethreads and use my code MONICA for a great deal: http://www.homethreads.com
* Check out mylifeinabook.com and use code MONICA at checkout for 10% off. Create an unforgettable gift for your mom this Mother’s Day.
* Get 15% off on your entire first order at happymammoth.com with code MONICA at checkout.
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How to be Unoffendable, with Brant Hansen
Head’s Up: This may be the most important thing you listen to before your holiday gatherings this year! I am so excited to share this conversation with Brant Hansen – radio show and podcast host, author, and truly amazing (/self-proclaimed quirky) man, with all of you!
It turns out giving up your “right” to be offended can be one of the most freeing, healthy, simplifying, relaxing, refreshing, stress-relieving, encouraging things you can do. It’s a radical, provocative idea; We’re not entitled to get offended or stay angry. In this conversation, Brant gets practical about how we can become unoffendable, and we also have fun talking about kids, family, and one of his Instagram Reels that Levi and I have watched way too many times! ☺
I hope this conversation inspires and encourages you to have the best holiday season ever. And I'd be so grateful if you would spread the word about this show!
Find links and show notes on my website:
Today’s episode: http://www.monicaswanson.com/brant-hansen
General podcast page: http://www.monicaswanson.com/podcast
Thank you to this episode's sponsor, HELLO FRESH!! (Have you tried it yet?) Check out all they have to simplify your meals in this busy season!
Use code: 50MONICA for 50% off + free shipping!
The Monica Swanson Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit http://www.christianparenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Homethreads and use my code MONICA for a great deal: http://www.homethreads.com
* Check out mylifeinabook.com and use code MONICA at checkout for 10% off. Create an unforgettable gift for your mom this Mother’s Day.
* Get 15% off on your entire first order at happymammoth.com with code MONICA at checkout.
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Finding Hope and Healing after Marriage Ends, with Brandi Wilson
While no one goes into a marriage imagining it will ever end, we know that divorce is a reality for approximately half of Americans. And while I will always be pro-marriage and encourage those of you in difficult marriages to seek help and fight to save your marriage, I know that sometimes there are no other options than divorce.
Today’s guest, Brandi Wilson, knows the pain of divorce. In today’s episode she shares her story of being married to a megachurch pastor, who in 2016 walked away from the church and his family. So, when Brandi’s 20-year marriage dissolved, she also lost her church community, her dreams for the future, and a huge part of her identity.
Yet, over 8 years later, Brandi has a message of HOPE and healing that I think will bless many listeners. If you or someone you love is navigating divorce, (especially while raising children) I hope you can tune in. Find notes and links to everything Brandi talks about in show notes:
Find links and show notes on my website:
Today’s episode: http://www.monicaswanson.com/brandi-wilson
General podcast page: http://www.monicaswanson.com/podcast
Check out CTCMath for a simplified and fun (Yes! Fun!) option for a homeschool math curriculum or just extra math practice at home!
The Monica Swanson Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit http://www.christianparenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Homethreads and use my code MONICA for a great deal: http://www.homethreads.com
* Check out mylifeinabook.com and use code MONICA at checkout for 10% off. Create an unforgettable gift for your mom this Mother’s Day.
* Get 15% off on your entire first order at happymammoth.com with code MONICA at checkout.
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
How To Support Students Standing Strong in the Public Schools
Public school parents, this episode will be a huge inspiration to you! Terry Ann Kelly is with us to talk about how God is working in the public school system through Students Standing Strong (S3). These are student-led Clubs held in public schools all across the nation which are completely legal and opening the door for amazing ministry opportunity in our public schools.
Terry Ann is the President and Founder of S3, and she has a wealth of experience and God-sized stories that will blow your mind and bless your heart.
Whatever situation you and your family are in, God will give you opportunities to represent Him and share His love with others. I think this conversation will inspire you to consider how God might use you (and your kids) in whatever season, school, or neighborhood you are in! Find links to S3 and listen to the episode over in show notes:
http://www.monicaswanson.com/terry-ann
Podcast page (for all episodes) http://www.monicaswanson.com/podcast
Check out CTCMath for a simplified and fun (Yes! Fun!) option for a homeschool math curriculum or just extra math practice at home!
The Monica Swanson Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit http://www.christianparenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Homethreads and use my code MONICA for a great deal: http://www.homethreads.com
* Check out mylifeinabook.com and use code MONICA at checkout for 10% off. Create an unforgettable gift for your mom this Mother’s Day.
* Get 15% off on your entire first order at happymammoth.com with code MONICA at checkout.
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Making Your Home the Hub!
I am so happy to be back with another monthly podcast episode covering highlights from my book, Raising Amazing: Bringing up Kids Who Love God, Like Their Family, and Do the Dishes Without Being Asked! Today we get to cover Chapter Seven: How we can make our homes the hub -- a welcoming place for our kids…and their friends.
Many of us have always imagined having a home that our kids love to be in, and a place their friends might want to gather in as well. Yet, making the idea become a reality can feel elusive…How do we practically create an environment that is welcoming and attractive to our kids and their friends? Do we need the best house with the coolest games and gadgets? How can we compete with technology and get kids to want to hang out with their family?
In today’s episode I’m answering all these questions and more. I think you’ll be encouraged and feel equipped to make your home the hub for your kids as well! Also fun bonus: Luke comes on to share his "thoughts" from Chapter 7 of Raising Amazing as well!
Find a free download: Dinner time conversation starters, over in show notes:
http://www.monicaswanson.com/Raising-Amazing-7
Podcast page (for all episodes) http://www.monicaswanson.com/podcast
Check out CTCMath for a simplified and fun (Yes! Fun!) option for a homeschool math curriculum or just extra math practice at home!
The Monica Swanson Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit http://www.christianparenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Homethreads and use my code MONICA for a great deal: http://www.homethreads.com
* Check out mylifeinabook.com and use code MONICA at checkout for 10% off. Create an unforgettable gift for your mom this Mother’s Day.
* Get 15% off on your entire first order at happymammoth.com with code MONICA at checkout.
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
God Never Gives Up On You, with Max Lucado
Max Lucado, America’s bestselling inspirational author, has always been a dream podcast guest of mine. I started reading Max’s books back in the 90’s when my faith journey was just beginning, and I’ve always admired his winsome ability to bring deep theological truths down to earth.
In this interview I also found him to be incredibly warm, funny, and conversational.
We talk about his brand new book, God Never Gives Up On You: What Jacob’s story teaches us about grace, mercy, and God’s relentless love. We also talk about Hawaii, golf, and the tattoo he thinks he might one day get (actually there are two!)
Max’s spiritual insights in this conversation are profound and comforting. I think you’ll agree with me he’s just a wonderful man who God has used – and continues to use – in big ways.
Find links and show notes on my website:
Today’s episode: http://www.monicaswanson.com/max-lucado
General podcast page: http://www.monicaswanson.com/podcast
Check out CTCMath for a simplified and fun (Yes! Fun!) option for a homeschool math curriculum or just extra math practice at home!
The Monica Swanson Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit http://www.christianparenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Homethreads and use my code MONICA for a great deal: http://www.homethreads.com
* Check out mylifeinabook.com and use code MONICA at checkout for 10% off. Create an unforgettable gift for your mom this Mother’s Day.
* Get 15% off on your entire first order at happymammoth.com with code MONICA at checkout.
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
The Power of Our Words, with Sarah Molitor
If you’ve had moments when your words have gotten the better of you (who hasn’t?) then this episode will encourage, challenge, and inspire you! Sarah Molitor -- best known for her darling 6-boy + 1 girl family on her super popular @modernfarmhousefamily Instagram account – is with us to share her honest journey learning to use her words for good.
I loved getting to know Sarah, and I think you will, too. Sarah opens up about how her words have hurt others, especially her husband. But she also shares what it took for her to own up to the negative pattern, make changes, and learn to use her words for good. My favorite parts of this conversation were the role Sarah’s parents played in this process (#parentinggoals), and the specific steps Sarah took when she was ready to change. (Documenting these in show notes!)
Sarah’s new book, Well Said*: Choosing Words that Speak Life, Give Grace, and Strengthen You Faith and Family just released! Find out more and grab notes over in my show notes:
http://www.monicaswanson.com/sarah-molitor
All show notes: http://www.monicaswanson.com/podcast
Check out CTCMath for a simplified and fun (Yes! Fun!) option for a homeschool math curriculum or just extra math practice at home!
The Monica Swanson Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit http://www.christianparenting.org
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Homethreads and use my code MONICA for a great deal: http://www.homethreads.com
* Check out mylifeinabook.com and use code MONICA at checkout for 10% off. Create an unforgettable gift for your mom this Mother’s Day.
* Get 15% off on your entire first order at happymammoth.com with code MONICA at checkout.
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Your Best Weapon or the Greatest Danger: Raising Amazing Chapter 6
I am so happy to be back with another monthly podcast covering highlights from my book, Raising Amazing: Bringing up Kids Who Love God, Like Their Family, and Do the Dishes Without Being Asked! Today we get to cover Chapter Six: All about the importance of surrounding your kids with helpful influences…and protecting them from bad ones!
There is no denying: We all become like the company we keep. Your child will grow up to be much like the people and other influences that surround them each day. In today’s episode we talk about the important influence of family members (with some unfortunately necessary warnings in there), as well as peer influences, online influences and more. We also talk about the importance of role models (and how to find good ones.) I hope this episode encourages you to tap into the power of influences in your kids’ lives!
Find a free download: A printable Scripture-based prayer for your child to be surrounded by good and godly influences.
http://www.monicaswanson.com/Raising-Amazing-6
Podcast page (for all episodes) http://www.monicaswanson.com/podcast
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Homethreads and use my code MONICA for a great deal: http://www.homethreads.com
* Check out mylifeinabook.com and use code MONICA at checkout for 10% off. Create an unforgettable gift for your mom this Mother’s Day.
* Get 15% off on your entire first order at happymammoth.com with code MONICA at checkout.
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Using Influence for Good (Good), with YouTuber, Matt Scharff
How would you respond if one of your kids told you they wanted to drop out of college and become a YouTuber? In case that topic has already come up in your home (or if, like me, you have just wondered how in the world you’d respond if it did!) today’s episode will give you a ton of insight…wand encouragement!
My son Levi is a huge fan of the YouTube Golf sensation (and brand) “GoodGood Golf.” (GoodGood might compare to Dude Perfect in the world of golf.) In that group, Levi’s favorite golfer is Matt Scharff. When we recently noticed that Matt had John 3:16 written on all of his golf caps, we were intrigued. I reached out to Matt to see if he’d be willing to share his story on my podcast. He said yes! And the rest…is in today’s episode.
I think you will love Matt and appreciate hearing his journey from “traditional family background, serious college student” to dropping out of college to pursue a YouTube career. He shares about how this went down with his parents (yikes!), and offers us advice in case we find ourselves in his parents’ position. He also tells us about his recent spiritual journey which has inspired him to put John 3:16 on his caps. (That, of course, is my favorite part of the story.) And at the end, Matt’s words to us parents…priceless! Invite your kids to listen and then visit my show notes to find and follow Matt and the crew over at GoodGood Golf!
Find more information and show notes at:
http://www.monicaswanson.com/Matt-Scharff
Podcast page (for all episodes) http://www.monicaswanson.com/podcast
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Homethreads and use my code MONICA for a great deal: http://www.homethreads.com
* Check out mylifeinabook.com and use code MONICA at checkout for 10% off. Create an unforgettable gift for your mom this Mother’s Day.
* Get 15% off on your entire first order at happymammoth.com with code MONICA at checkout.
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy