Raising our kids to be world changers with Carlos Whittaker

Im so excited about this weeks episode because Im joined by two of my favorite guests Sissy Goff and David Thomas from the Raising Boys and Girls podcast! Theyre sharing incredible insights from their counseling practice and offering encouragement for every parent navigating the emotional ups and downs of raising kids today.

Here are four key takeaways from this episode:

• Anxiety and emotional overwhelm are on the rise, but there are simple, effective ways to help our kids cope.
• Sissy and David share how their therapy dogs are making a big difference in helping kids feel safe and supported.
• Small, consistent stepslike routines and regulation toolscan strengthen your childs emotional health.
• They tell us about their upcoming Raising Capable Kids Conference and share a special listener discount! (Use RAISING25 for 25% off tickets!)

Sissy and David are therapists, speakers, authors, and co-hosts of the Raising Boys and Girls podcast. With decades of combined experience at Daystar Counseling Ministries, theyre known for their practical, grace-filled approach to helping parents raise emotionally healthy, faith-rooted kids.

This conversation is packed with wisdom and encouragement for every parent whos ever felt overwhelmed or unsure. I hope it gives you the tools and confidence you need to support your child with love and clarity.

(03:04) The Importance of Encouragement for Parents

(06:06) Challenges Facing Kids Today

(09:07) Understanding Anxiety in Children

(12:01) The Role of Dogs in Therapy

(15:03) Tools for Emotional Regulation

(18:07) Practical Strategies for Parents

(20:59) Upcoming Conference and Resources

Connect with David Thomas and Sissy Goff:

Sissy and David

Daystar Counseling 

Daystar dogs - new books Owen Learns He Has What It Takes and Lucy Learns to Be Brave

Resources Mentioned:

Raising Capable Kids Conference  Use code: RAISING25 for 25% off ticket prices!

NIV Application Bible

Moms, Dads, and Grads Gift Guide

The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org

This weeks episode is special because Im sitting down with my friend and pastor, Brian Suter. Brian and his wife Courtney, planted Branch Church here in Minnesota about four years ago, and my family has been part of it since the beginning. Were talking all about how our church approaches kids ministry, and its a little different than what you might expect!

Here are four key takeaways from this episode:

• Every church and family is different, what matters is creating space for kids to grow spiritually.
• At Branch, weve seen firsthand how kids can engage with worship, teaching, and the church body when given the opportunity.
• Church planters and their families need encouragement, prayer, and practical help from their communities.
• Children are capable of profound spiritual insight when we trust them and include them in the churchs life.

Brian Suter is the founding pastor of Branch Church in Minnesota. He leads with a passion for authentic community and intentional discipleship. Alongside his wife, Courtney, Brian has helped shape a church that values family, connection, and spiritual growth for all ages.

This conversation gives a behind-the-scenes look at my own church and how we think about kids and discipleship. I hope it encourages you to think creatively about how your family can grow in faith together.

(00:00) Introduction to Brian Suter and Branch Church

(03:52) The Journey of Church Planting

(09:56) Supporting Church Planters

(11:57) Innovative Kids Ministry at Branch Church

(17:56) Challenges and Benefits of Kids in Service

(28:01) Encouraging Family Discipleship at Home

Resources Mentioned

Moms, Dads, and Grads Gift Guide

Branch Church

The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org

Todays episode is such a fascinating and encouraging conversation. Im joined by Justin Brierley, journalist, author, and Christian apologistand were diving into how we as parents can guide our kids through some of lifes biggest questions about faith, doubt, and belief.

Heres what youll hear in today's conversation:

• Helping kids ask honest questions about God and faith builds a stronger foundation for lasting belief.
• Topics like the resurrection, suffering, and science can be discussed in age-appropriate and meaningful ways.
• How we respond to questions is just as important as the answers we givegentleness builds trust.
• Sharing your personal faith and doubts can create a safe space for kids to explore theirs.
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Justin Brierley is a UK-based journalist, speaker, and author who has spent years hosting thoughtful conversations around faith and skepticism. His book, Why Im Still a Christian, explains why he still has faith in Jesus after conversations with skeptics and atheists all across the world. And his book, The Surprising Rebirth of Belief in God, explores how faith is making a comeback in surprising ways. Justin is passionate about equipping parents to walk alongside their kids through questions of belief with wisdom and compassion.

Whether your child is full of curiosity or facing doubt, this episode offers the tools and encouragement to walk that road together with faith, honesty, and grace.

(03:02) Engaging Skeptics: Convincing Arguments for God's Existence

(05:54) The Historical Evidence of the Resurrection

(15:01) Addressing the Problem of Suffering

(24:09) God's Response to Suffering and the Hope of Redemption

(25:05) Understanding Suffering Through Faith

(26:36) Navigating Children's Questions on Suffering

(29:58) Engaging with Skeptical Teens

(32:11) Using Science to Explain Faith

(37:17) Embracing Imperfection in Parenting

Resources Mentioned

Moms, Dads, and Grads Gift Guide

How a dice can show that God exists

Why Im Still a Christian book

Connect with Justin

Justin Brierleys website

Surprising Rebirth podcast

Justins YouTube

The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org

Todays episode is powerful, tender, and full of hope. Im joined by Lori Apon, a widow, a single mom of eight, and now a grandmother to twenty! Lori shares her deeply personal story of walking through grief and the chaos of early widowhood, and how Gods promises sustained her through it all.

Heres what youll hear in today's conversation:

• Even in deep grief, Lori shares how clinging to Gods promises brought strength and comfort.
• Building a community of mentors and support is crucialespecially for single parents navigating loss.
• Lori reminds us that healing takes time, and grace for yourself is essential in the process.
• Whether youre walking through loss or supporting someone who is, your presence and encouragement matter more than you know.

(03:05) The Journey of Becoming a Widow

(06:07) Challenges of Single Motherhood

(08:58) Building a Support System

(12:02) Navigating Grief and Community Support

(15:06) The Role of Mentorship in Parenting

(18:02) Faith and Overcoming Fear

(20:53) God's Promises and Their Impact

(23:49) Resources for Parenting Fatherless Kids

Connect with Lori

Raising Fatherless Kids podcast

Perspective Ministries

Resources Mentioned

Moms, Dads, and Grad Gift Guide

Fatherless events and resources

The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org

Today Im joined by Kyle Worley, and were breaking down what it actually means to have union with Christ and anchor our childrens identity in God in the middle of a world full of noise, confusion, and competing worldviews.  

Heres what youll hear in today's conversation:

• Understanding our connection to God through Jesus gives kids a steady anchor in a shifting world.  
• Kyle explains how we can teach our kids that faith is about relationship, not just rules.  
• A solid identity in Christ shapes how we parent, how our kids see themselves, and how they respond to the world.  
• You dont have to be a theologianKyle shares practical tips and resources to bring these truths into everyday family life.  

Kyle Worley is a pastor, theologian, and co-host of the Knowing Faith podcast. Hes passionate about helping families and churches understand deep theological truths in accessible ways, especially when it comes to teaching kids the beauty of the Gospel and their identity in Christ.  

This episode is packed with truth and encouragement. Whether theology feels natural to you or totally intimidating, I know youll leave feeling more equipped to guide your kids toward a deep, lasting relationship with Jesus.

(02:26) Cultivating Friendship in Family Dynamics

(04:53) Understanding Union with Christ

(10:24) Fellowship as the Goal of Salvation

(16:41) Communicating the Gospel to Children

(24:06) Identity in Christ: A Foundation for Parenting

(27:39) Encouragement and Resources for Parents

Connect with Kyle

Home with God book

Instagram

KyleWorley.net

Knowing Faith podcast

Resources Mentioned

Tiny Theologians Podcast

Slugs and Bugs

Kaleidoscope Kids Bibles

Untriggered

Moms, Dads, and Grads Gift Guide

Christian Parenting Podcast

The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org