Have you ever felt like you were faking it in life or parenting? Like God may have something more for you, but you're unsure if youre ready or even worthy? You are so not alone.
This week Im joined by Mary Marantz, and wow, what a conversation. Mary shares her journey from deep-rooted self-doubt to walking confidently in Gods calling. Her words will breathe courage into the parts of you that feel small, unseen, or not enough. If fear has been holding you back, this ones for you.
Here are four things youll take away from this episode:
- Why feeling unqualified doesnt disqualify you from Gods calling
- The real reason we play small and how to step out of that trap
- Practical ways to push past fear and move forward with purpose
- Encouragement for using your God-given gifts even when youre scared
Mary is the bestselling author of Dirt and Slow Growth Equals Strong Roots. Shes also the host of The Mary Marantz Show and a powerhouse speaker who inspires women to rise from insecurity and step into their God-given purpose. Her newest book, Underestimated, is all about embracing the truth that you dont have to prove yourself, you just need to trust the One who called you.
I know this conversation will encourage you in both your parenting and your personal journey. Let it be a reminder: God doesnt call the qualified, he qualifies the called.
(00:00) Mary's Journey from Humble Beginnings to Ivy League Success
(02:49) The Struggle of Underestimating Oneself
(05:40) Understanding Fear and Its Impact on Creativity
(08:39) Flipping the Script: From Fear to Purpose
(11:29) The Gap Between Success and Significance
(18:09) The Cost of Achievement
(21:01) Overthinking and Its Consequences
(25:58) Neuroplasticity and the Power of Small Steps
(30:26) Confronting Fear and Embracing Change
Connect with Mary
Resources Mentioned
What is your achiever type? Quiz
A Great Cloud of Witnesses Prayer Journal
The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org
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Were continuing our school choice series, and todays episode is such a thoughtful one. Im joined by Ashley Grutzmachera public school teacher, mom, and passionate advocate for loving your neighbor and showing up well in your community. Ashley offers such a grounded and honest look into the public school experience, and I think this conversation will leave you feeling both encouraged and equipped.
Whether public school is your current path or you're simply exploring options, Ashley brings clarity and hope to the decision-making process.
Heres what youll hear in today's conversation:
- Public schools offer unique opportunities to build relationships, engage with diversity, and reflect Christ in a natural way.
- Faith and public education can coexist. With intentionality, families can stay grounded in their values while fully participating in the public system.
- Challenges will come, but so will growth. Ashley shares practical ways to prepare your kids spiritually for real-world experiences.
- You dont do this alone. Community, church, and family rhythms all help support your childs faith, wherever they attend school.
Ashley is a seasoned public school teacher and mom who brings a front-row perspective to the joys and challenges of raising Christian kids in a public school setting. Her heart for students and her passion for faithful parenting make her a trusted voice in this important conversation.
I hope this episode reminds you that with prayer, wisdom, and support, you can thrive wherever God calls your family.
With grace,
Steph
(00:00) Introduction to Public Education and Personal Background
(15:08) Benefits of Public Schooling
(29:53) Challenges in Public Schooling for Believers
(24:06) Misconceptions About Public Schools
(31:48) Navigating School Choices as Parents
(36:42) Core Values in Education
Resources Mentioned
The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org
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Were continuing our special series on school choices today, and Im so excited to share this conversation with Leigh Nguyen, a mom who never planned to homeschool but followed Gods nudge and hasnt looked back. Her story is honest, inspiring, and full of practical insight for anyone wondering if homeschooling could actually work for their family.
Whether youre curious about it, overwhelmed by it, or already in the thick of it, Leigh brings a calm, grace-filled perspective that might just be the encouragement you need today.
Heres what youll hear in today's conversation:
- Faith can lead us down unexpected paths. Leigh didnt start out with a homeschool plan, but God met her in the unknown.
- Homeschooling isn't perfect, but it's purposeful. Every hard moment is an opportunity for connection, growth, and trust.
- Learning happens everywhere. From the kitchen table to the grocery store, faith and education beautifully intertwine.
- Theres no right way to do it. Homeschooling looks different for every family and thats the beauty of it.
Leigh is a homeschooling mom of four with a background in education and a heart for helping other parents feel confident and equipped in their own homeschooling journey. She speaks and writes about faith-filled parenting and creating a home where learning and discipleship go hand in hand.
I hope this episode gives you clarity and encouragement as you navigate your familys next steps.
(03:03) The Decision to Homeschool
(05:55) Daily Life in Homeschooling
(09:10) Integrating Faith into Education
(11:58) Choosing Curriculum
(15:05) Overcoming Doubts in Homeschooling
(18:01) Socialization in Homeschooling
(20:29) Holistic Learning Through Everyday Activities
(23:29) The Socialization Debate in Homeschooling
(26:54) Challenges of Homeschooling: Finding Balance
(29:07) The Growth of Homeschooled Children
(33:42) Lessons Learned: Reflections on Homeschooling
(36:47) Advice for New Homeschooling Parents
Connect with Leigh
Little by Little Homeschool podcast
Resources Mentioned
The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org
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Were continuing our special series all about school options, and today were diving into private Christian education. This is a conversation that I think will really help if youre trying to figure out what role faith can (and should) play in your childs school life. I'm joined by Katelyn Freitas, the middle school principal at my kids school, and her insight is full of heart, wisdom, and practical encouragement.
Here are four takeaways from our conversation:
- Faith-based learning shapes character. Discipleship is woven into every subject and classroom moment.
- Partnership with parents matters. Christian schools work best when parents are active, involved, and aligned in mission.
- Community changes everything. Relationships between students, families, and staff create a spiritual foundation that lasts.
- Every child is discipled uniquely. Christian schools arent one-size-fits-all; theyre about helping each child grow in Christ.
Katelyn is a passionate leader in Christian education with years of experience in both teaching and administration. As a principal, she brings clarity, compassion, and a deep commitment to seeing students flourish academically and spiritually. Shes also someone I personally trust with my own kids which made this conversation extra special.
I hope this episode encourages you as you consider whats best for your family.
(02:54) Current Role and Responsibilities in Christian Education
(05:58) Understanding Private Christian Education
(09:08) Benefits of Private Christian Schools
(11:58) Challenges of Private Christian Education
(15:05) Community and Family Dynamics in Private Schools
(18:00) Identifying the Right Fit for Families
(20:56) Curriculum and Faith Integration in Christian Schools
(21:37) Integrating Faith and Education
(27:31) Discipline vs. Discipleship in Schools
(33:02) Navigating School Choices for Families
Resources Mentioned
Association of Christian Schools
The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org
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Were kicking off a brand-new series all about school choices because lets be honest, its something many of us didnt realize would be such a big parenting decision. Over the next five weeks we will be covering the pros and cons of multiple different school options: public school, private school, homeschool, and online school.
In this first episode, Im joined by my husband, Trevor, as we share our personal journey through public school, homeschooling, and Christian private school and why were always open to changing paths if thats whats best for our family.
Here are four key takeaways from our conversation:
- Your school decision doesnt have to be forever. Weve learned its okay to reevaluate and pivot when needed.
- Gods guidance matters more than a perfect plan. Seeking him first gives peace in the uncertainty.
- Every option has pros and cons. We talk candidly about what worked (and what didnt) in each of our experiences.
- This is a judgment-free zone. This whole series is about informing, not convincing so you can make the best choice for your family.
Trevor is my husband, parenting partner, and co-navigator of all things school-related. Hes walked through this journey with me step by step, and together weve faced the highs, lows, and many what now? moments that come with raising school-aged kids in todays world.
I hope this episode encourages you and reminds you that youre not alone in figuring this stuff out. Lets keep seeking God and trusting him to lead the way.
(00:00) Navigating School Choices
(02:52) The Impact of COVID on Education
(06:08) Homeschooling vs. Private School
(08:52) Values and Priorities in Education
(11:48) Making Informed Decisions
(15:00) The Role of Finances in Education
(17:53) Understanding Your Child's Needs
(20:57) Making Big Decisions Together
(23:54) Finding Peace in Uncertainty
The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org
Our Sponsors:* Check out Happy Mammoth and use my code CPPODCAST for a great deal: https://happymammoth.com
* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com
* Check out Marianne and the Maker: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com
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