Best Monica Swanson And Christian Parenting Podcasts (2024)

1
Highs and Lows from 25 years of Motherhood (and celebrating a BOOK RELEASE!) 35:32

30m ago35:32

35:32

My husband Dave is with me today for a special Mother’s Day/book release interview! Dave and I are reflecting on the last 25 years of my motherhood journey...highs and lows, what I have learned, and my advice for younger moms. I share about some of my biggest joys of motherhood, (the laughter and fun, and much more!) and some of my greatest challen…

1
Episode 50 How do I improve my marriage? Guests Dave & Ann Wilson 31:54

28m ago31:54

31:54

It’s week two of our new series asking “how do I _____” questions. Each week we’re bringing in amazing guests with practical advice for all areas of life. If you missed last week with Courtney DeFeo, we talked about cheering on other women, and you definitely need to go back and listen if you missed it. So so good. 🎉 This week we are tackling marri…

1
Episode 49 How do I cheer on other women? Guest Courtney DeFeo 34:42

5d ago34:42

34:42

It’s May and if you’re anything like me, you’re already tired just thinking about all of the end-of-year conferences, award ceremonies, track meets, class picnics, and everything else headed our way. But don’t worry, we will survive it all together! That being said, I’m SUPER EXCITED that May is finally here because TODAY is the day we start a new …

1
Parenting, Homeschooling, and Friendships with Grown Kids, with Sally Clarkson 35:17

7d ago35:17

35:17

Sally Clarkson’s books and podcast have inspired me for years. Living between England and Colorado, Sally’s writing and voice is like a trusted mentor who puts everything in perspective. I have always hoped to meet Sally so this interview was really special. I got to ask Sally about her heart for parenting, what the rhythms in her home were as her …

1
Raising Spiritual Champions with George Barna 43:19

14d ago43:19

43:19

Renowned researcher and bestselling author, Dr. George Barna is with us to share some startling data, along with a passionate call-to-action for Christian parents. This may be the most important episode you could listen to, and I pray that what we talk about inspires you to a deeper level of commitment in your parenting. (Don’t run away – I promise…

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Episode 48 Willie Robertson talks Duck Dynasty and sharing our faith 41:03

12d ago41:03

41:03

Have I told you this week how much my family loved Duck Dynasty? It was/is such a genius way to get people laughing while still instilling biblical truth and good old fashioned family values. The prayers around the table at the end of each show still get me. Today I have the privilege of chatting with Willie Robertson about all things Duck Dynasty,…

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The Fruit of a Purposeful Family, with Melissa Brown 32:24

21d ago32:24

32:24

When you come across a family with a bunch of young adults thriving in their faith, work, and passions, you can’t help but want to ask the parents: “Ok! What is the secret?” (Right?) And for good reason: Yes we can learn through mistakes and struggles, but I vote that it is even better to learn from those who have had successes! Melissa and Jonatha…

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Episode 47 Empty Nest Prep and Parenting Adult Children with Jim Burns 42:58

19d ago42:58

42:58

Seeing as though I have a first-grader and all, empty nesting seems a lifetime away. But for so many of us it’s one of those things that sneaks up in an instant leaving us and wondering what’s next and how to parent these new adults in our lives. Jim Burns is an absolute delight and comes today with lots of practical information on how to prepare f…

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Hard is Not the Same as Bad, with Abbie Halberstadt 55:43

28d ago55:43

55:43

Our most trying moments as a parent can quickly spiral into discouragement, hopelessness, and sometimes even resentment toward God or your family—partly because our culture has conditioned us to believe that anything this hard can’t possibly be good for us. If you’ve ever found yourself asking, “Why me, Lord?” today’s podcast guest will resonate wi…

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Episode 46 Parenting the various ages and stages of kids with Monica Swanson 41:50

26d ago41:50

41:50

I hope you enjoyed the solar eclipse yesterday and the reminders of God’s majesty and power over all things on heaven and earth. Not to mention, if the stats are accurate I’m guessing you listened to Bonnie Tyler at some point during the day because. . . . why not? Her 1983 hit song, Total Eclipse of the Heart, reached number 1 on the iTunes Top So…

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Raising Boys to Men, with Durenda Wilson 46:47

1M ago46:47

46:47

This one is especially for the boy moms out there! I know you'll love hearing from Durenda Wilson -- Mom to 8 (five boys!) author, podcaster, and someone I consider a virtual mentor -- as she shares from her new book, Raising Boys to Men. Durenda has homeschooled all of her kids, and now with grown children (and a bunch of grandchildren) she has a …

1
Episode 45 Living out your faith with Candace Cameron Bure 38:17

1M ago38:17

38:17

I come to you today with a slight problem. Okay, it’s a little bit bigger than slight. I’m a huge Candace Cameron Bure fan stemming back from Full House and bleeding all the way forward into the Hallmark Christmas movie era and now Great American Family Channel. Not to mention I’m obsessed with QVC and all of that makes me a HUGE Candace Cameron Bu…

1
Setting the First Tracks: Talk to Your Kids about Everything 29:27

1M ago29:27

29:27

Who do you want to set the first impressions on your kids on topics like: identity and self worth, sexuality and gender, politics, and other cultural hot topics? I vote YOU DO, Mom and Dad. I think most of us would say that we, the parents, are the best people to begin these conversations. Yet, it is easy to put these (sometimes awkward!) conversat…

1
Episode 44 I want God this Easter with Lisa Whittle 40:42

1M ago40:42

40:42

I hope you’re taking some time this week to slow down and spend a few minutes pondering Holy Week and all that it means to your faith. My prayer is that we don’t come out on the other side of Easter the same way we went into it. I pray that the very reminder of Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice on the cross sparks a new hope in our lives, causing us to wan…

1
How to Experience REAL JOY in a world gone mad, with Brant Hansen 41:42

2M ago41:42

41:42

Would you say that joy (a deep sense of well-being, regardless of circumstances) is something you live with daily? Brant Hansen joins us to tell us that this is not only possible, but promised to all who follow Jesus. In fact, through Christ, we can start to see the world in a more childlike, humble, and optimistic way. Brant and I are talking abou…

1
Episode 43 Where faith meets mental health: Laura Smith 34:34

2M ago34:34

34:34

According to the CDC, mental illnesses are the most common health conditions in the United States, with more than one in five adults suffering in some capacity. I say this not to be a downer, but to provide perspective as we consider the importance of treating ourselves well and seeking out the help we need. Laura Smith is with us today talking abo…

1
Episode 42 Your next brave step with Bob Goff 29:54

2M ago29:54

29:54

I’ve had the unbelievable fortune of interviewing Bob Goff several times over the last few years, and he never disappoints. Yes, he’s an author, podcaster, philanthropist, attorney, and much more. But I think my favorite thing is how he gives the most ordinary situations a “Bob Goff spin,” showing us how to live out the gospel in ways that are simp…

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Life is Messy, God is Good, with Cynthia Yanof 39:33

2M ago39:33

39:33

Today’s guest, Cynthia Yanof is the friend we all need. She is honest, encouraging, and hilarious. She shoots straight and stays humble. I am so glad she poured all of these things into her new book: Life is Messy, God is Good: Sanity for the Chaos of Everyday Life. In today’s conversation Cynthia and I talk about parenting (she has college age dow…

1
Practicing The Way, with John Mark Comer 42:52

2M ago42:52

42:52

Best selling author, teacher and Pastor, John Mark Comer, is here to talk about his newest book: “Practicing the Way”, which explores the concept of being an apprentice of Jesus. John Mark explains that to practice the way of Jesus, we must: “Be with Jesus, become like him, and do as he did” (the subtitle to the book.💥) In this conversation we talk…

1
Episode 41 Parenting Ahead with Kristen Hatton 36:41

2M ago36:41

36:41

I’m so excited to have my friend Kristen Hatton with us today. Not only is she a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate, but she’s also a brand new empty nester with a great perspective on fostering relationships with our kids now in preparation for when they live away from our homes. We talk a lot about communication in today’s show, with Krist…

1
Screentime and Other Ways Kids Spend their Days 29:36

2M ago29:36

29:36

If screentime is a challenge in your home (pretty sure that is most of us!) then this episode is for you! Today we’re talking about how we can be intentional about screens, sports, hobbies, and all the ways kids spend their days! - From Chapters 12 and 13 of my book: Raising Amazing: Bringing up Kids Who Love God, Like Their Family, and Do the Dish…

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Episode 40 Am I addicted to my phone? A conversation with Joey Odom 41:22

2M ago41:22

41:22

My name is Cynthia Yanof and I’m addicted to my phone (and my watch, and Netflix, and Diet Dr. Pepper, and Mahjong . . . . too much?) Good thing Joey Odom is with us today! We’re coming in hot with a grace-filled word for those of us all of us who need to be reminded that we can’t allow technology to trump our relationships. We’re talking about nav…

1
No Regrets Parenting in Difficult Cultural Times, with Rhonda Stoppe 38:48

3M ago38:48

38:48

Having a solid mentor in your life is a true gift; mentors offer us wisdom from their life experience and help us navigate all that we face. If you don’t have a mentor in your life, I encourage you to pray for, and seek one out. But I am also thankful that we live in a time when we can have “virtual mentors”, people we may not know in real life but…

1
Episode 39 Peace in the face of suffering with Joni Eareckson Tada 29:23

3M ago29:23

29:23

Joni Eareckson Tada had a diving accident as a teenager, leaving her a quadriplegic. Since that time God has used her life in incredible ways to impact millions of people all over the globe for Jesus. Joni has an incredible word for us today on finding peace in our lives by abiding with Jesus. I don’t know about you, but I know how to spend time wi…

1
7 Attitudes that will Sabotage Your Marriage (and 7 to Replace them with) with Dave 40:23

3M ago40:23

40:23

Happy Valentine’s Day! My husband Dave is with me as we celebrate our 28th Valentine’s Day together. ☺ In this episode we are talking through a blog post that has been very popular for many years now on my website: “7 Attitudes that Will Sabotage Your Marriage, and 7 to Replace them with.” Dave and I are sharing from our own experience -- as we’ve …

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Episode 38 Behind the Mess with Cynthia Yanof: Building our homes on a firm foundation 31:13

3M ago31:13

31:13

It’s one of those rare times where it’s just me and a mic today with no guest to be found. Be assured, I’m bringing lots of random thoughts laced with humor (and hopefully) wisdom along the way. But with the addition of lots of new listeners the last few months, I’m realizing it’s time to share some of what’s on my heart as well as how Life is Mess…

1
Let’s Talk about Kids and Dating, with JP Pokluda 41:49

3M ago41:49

41:49

Dating has never been simple (who remembers?!) but today it is more complicated than ever. The world offers all kinds of mixed messages to young adults and teenagers and our Christian culture isn’t giving a lot of alternatives. In such crazy times our kids need a voice of reason and a lot of Biblical wisdom to help them navigate. Pastor Jonathan “J…

1
Episode 37 Behind the Mess with Darin Kinder: Living Courageously 39:38

3M ago39:38

39:38

Yesterday was an incredible day and I’m so grateful for your support of Life is Messy God is Good. As we continue the push towards getting this word out, I would be so grateful if you would leave a review on Amazon (or wherever you purchased the book) as well as continue sharing on social media and recommending it to friends. Please accept my deepe…

1
Helping Siblings Become Friends, with Luke and Jonah 37:09

3M ago37:09

37:09

Since last March, at the end of each month I have been covering highlights from a chapter of 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 the topic of sibling relationships from Chapter 11, with the help of my two sons, Jonah (22) and Luke (19). I know sibli…

1
Episode 36 “Behind the Mess” with Kate and Brett Yanof 35:53

3M ago35:53

35:53

I’m writing to you from the airport in Dallas on my way to Nashville for book interviews. You guys, Life is Messy, God is Good is two weeks out from making its debut. YIKES! If you don’t follow me on social, be sure to do that now so you can see my fun updates. As you know, on MESSmerized we’re doing a little series called “behind the mess.” We’re …

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The Sacredness of Secular Work, with Jordan Raynor 34:20

4M ago34:20

34:20

Jordan Raynor is back with us (he’s been a favorite guest in the past!) with an encouraging message about the eternal value of our work. All of it! As Christians we often talk about how our workplace can be our mission field (and that is so true!) but Jordan suggests that is only part of the story. And he is passionate that we – and our kids, hear …

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Episode 35 Behind the Mess: Parenting Prodigals with Sharon Haynes 41:09

4M ago41:09

41:09

It’s hard to believe that we’re approaching THREE weeks until my book releases on February 6th (small panic attack as I’m typing this). In honor of the big day coming up, we’re going to do a fun series on MESSmerized the next few weeks where I interview people who are written about in the book. It’s a behind the scenes look at the ways life gets me…

1
What is Christian Deconstruction? (And how should we respond to it?) with Alisa Childers 37:08

4M ago37:08

37:08

Alisa Childers is back with a conversation I want every Christian parent to hear! A movement called “spiritual deconstruction” is sweeping through our culture, our churches, and (maybe especially) our universities. It is confusing and complex. It is leading young people away from the church and dividing families. In today's interview, Alisa offers …

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Episode 34 An Insider’s Look at Israel with JoAnn Doyle 42:48

4M ago42:48

42:48

If you’re anything like me, your heart remains heavy for Israel in these days. It's hard to wrap our heads around the war, God’s bigger plan for their nation, and the hardships so many are facing in the Middle East. Knowing this, I am so excited to have JoAnn Doyle from Uncharted Ministries joining us today. She’s got an amazing perspective on Isra…

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Monica’s (work and life!) Updates for 2024 29:08

4M ago29:08

29:08

Hey friends! Today I hope you can grab a cup of coffee (or your tennis shoes!) and join me for a more personal chat. I’m sharing updates from my podcasting and writing life, as well as personal reflections as I look at the year ahead. From my next book release (May 7!) to my fitness plans (💪🏼), from podcast topics, to skin-care in my 50’s (🤗) it’s …

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Episode 33 What’s your next “yes” for 2024? 44:09

4M ago44:09

44:09

Happy New Year! 🥳🎉🥳🎉🥳🎉 (Said with my most hoarse voice confirming I do in fact have my annual January cold. 🤒) I don’t know about you, but my social media is jam-packed with everyone’s 2024 resolutions and things they are adding, things they are dropping, and ways they are going to make the most of the new year. And I applaud the ambition! That bei…

1
The Value of Just Showing Up, with Drew Dyck 32:46

4M ago32:46

32:46

Happy New Year! Whether you are heading into 2024 with goals and resolutions, a word-of-the-year, and a whole lot of confidence, or you are just barely…plodding your way into it, this episode is for you! Drew Dyck, author of JUST SHOW UP, is with us to offer some encouragement and perspective. Drew reminds us that there is great value in every smal…

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Episode 32 Advent Love with Heather MacFadyen and Stephanie Martin 33:29

5M ago33:29

33:29

If you’re in a post-Christmas coma, you’re not alone! Eating cookies for breakfast and watching Hallmark movies instead of entertaining your kids is fine everyone . . . we are doing our best! That being said, can I invite you to join me and two of my favorite people for a few minutes to talk about love? Yes, it’s the last week of our Advent series …

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3 Ways to naturally instill character into your kids every day 25:34

5M ago25:34

25:34

With a little intentionality, we can develop character in our kids’ throughout the natural rhythms of our days. Whether your kids are toddlers or teenagers, this episode will equip you with some great tools for practical character development! Today I am pulling from chapters 9 and 10 of my book, Raising Amazing: Bringing up Kids Who Love God, Like…

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Episode 31 Advent Joy with Rodney Schell 26:52

5M ago26:52

26:52

When am I going to learn? Seriously, I’m 20 years into this parenting gig and still insisting on family car rides to look at Christmas lights this time of year. It’s the definition of insanity how I do it over and over again expecting a different result. In my defense, I’m envisioning a picturesque scene of hot chocolate, pj’s, and a spectacle of l…

1
10 Do’s and Don’ts for a Happy Family Christmas, with Dave and Monica 27:11

5M ago27:11

27:11

Happy Christmas week everyone! 🎄Join my husband Dave and I for a fun and hopefully helpful “date-night” style conversation! Dave and I are sharing wisdom we have gleaned over 28 Christmases together, most with a house full of boys...Some important “do’s” as well as a few “don’t”’s! Hopefully a few will be encouraging reminders and a few will make y…

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Episode 30 Advent Peace with Kay Wyma 32:35

5M ago32:35

32:35

We’re closing in on 12 days until Christmas, and I’m guessing the whole idea of “peace” feels illusive at this point? Or maybe that’s just me. 😂😂😂 Today my dear friend Kay Wyma is joining us on our Advent journey to discuss peace. How does Christmas bring us reminders of peace, especially in a world filled with discord and stress? (Hint: Peace isn’…

1
6 Discipline Mistakes to Avoid During the Holidays 36:31

5M ago36:31

36:31

One of the most important and challenging jobs we have as parents is that of disciplining our kids. Most of us wish it weren’t necessary (and a lot of parents today mostly ignore it!) but I have learned that good discipline is one of the greatest keys to raising amazing kids! Back when my oldest sons (now 24 and 22 years old) were very young, I rea…

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Be a Memory Making Mom this Christmas, with Jessica Smartt 36:31

5M ago36:31

36:31

As moms we want to fill the holidays with all kinds of magic and meaning for our families. We want to celebrate Advent, bless our kids with good food, special gifts, and then come out of it all with great memories, right? Yet, all of our best intentions often lead to a lot of overwhelm and frustration. (it’s not just me, is it?) If you feel any of …

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Episode 29 Advent Hope with Steve Frissell 31:13

5M ago31:13

31:13

It’s December and the time of year when we start receiving the perfect Christmas cards in the mail at the exact time as our “friends” start posting their perfectly wrapped presents underneath their fabulously decorated Christmas trees. Sickening, am I right? Ha. 🎄📷🤢 I’m fighting my own battle against the urge to make everything look perfect by send…

1
The Power of Parenting with Yeses and Nos 36:10

5M ago36:10

36:10

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 Eight: All about the importance of saying YES…and NO…to our kids. This is one of my personal favorite chapters/topics and I th…

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Episode 28 Managing Christmas Chaos with Lee Cordon 🎄🎄 43:48

5M ago43:48

43:48

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! And busiest . . . There’s truly nothing like Christmas and the anticipation of fun activities, family gatherings, and celebrating the birth of our Savior. But there’s also the practicalities of shopping, cleaning, hosting, and wrapping that bring chaos to our lives if we aren’t super intentional. (Not to me…

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Happy Thanksgiving with Luke and Levi: Q&A, Gratitude, and Giggles 24:00

6M ago24:00

24:00

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 sn…

1
Spiritual Rhythms: Worship Recap 19:17

6M ago19:17

19:17

Happy Thanksgiving week! Are you putting up your tree this week and getting a jump on Christmas decorations? Or are you a Thanksgiving loyalist who refuses to address the Christmas chaos until after the bird is consumed? I’m a little bit of both if I’m honest. I’m dead-set on fully embracing Thanksgiving, while also wanting to soak in every single …

1
How to be Unoffendable, with Brant Hansen 41:21

6M ago41:21

41:21

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 freein…

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Monica Swanson And Christian Parenting Podcasts

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