Sexuality and gender are among the most challenging—and unavoidable—topics facing Christian families today. As cultural voices grow louder, Christian parents can no longer afford silence or uncertainty. This episode of Christian Parent/Crazy World dives deep into these hot-button issues, offering not just “what to say,” but the biblical foundation and practical strategies every parent needs.

Joining Catherine for this vital conversation is Elizabeth Urbanowicz, founder and CEO of Foundation Worldview, a leading expert in equipping children with Christian apologetics. Elizabeth’s latest book, Helping Your Kids Know God’s Good Design: 40 Questions and Answers on Sexuality and Gender, provides the centerpiece for this episode’s candid, grace-filled, and refreshingly practical approach.

What You’ll Discover in This Episode

• Clear Biblical Foundations

  • How to root every conversation on sexuality and gender in God’s intentional, loving design.

• Making Sin Understandable

  • Creative object lessons and analogies to help children grasp what sin—and sexual sin—really is.

• Talking Consequences, Not Fear

  • Strategies to address the real-life impact of sex outside God’s design without shame-based tactics.

• Navigating LGBTQ+ & Transgender Topics

  • The “sandwich approach” for addressing same-sex attraction and gender identity issues with grace and truth for kids of all ages.

• Tackling Taboo Topics

  • A straightforward, biblical framework for honest conversations about masturbation and other uncomfortable questions.

• Grace for Imperfect Parents

  • Encouragement for parents who feel late to the conversation—why faithfulness, not perfection, defines godly parenting.

Why This Matters
In a culture saturated with confusion, Christian families have the opportunity—and the responsibility—to be the “trusted voice, the go-to source” for their children on some of life’s most intimate questions. The episode empowers parents to embrace their calling, equipping them to plant seeds of truth in their children’s hearts, nurture them with love, and trust God for the growth.

About the Guest
Elizabeth Urbanowicz is an award-winning educator and the founder/CEO of Foundation Worldview, known for her apologetics curriculum designed specifically for children. Her new book, Helping Your Kids Know God’s Good Design, is quickly becoming an essential resource for Christian families navigating these complex topics.

EPISODE LINKS

• Foundation Worldview

• Helping Your Kids Know God’s Good Design: 40 Questions & Answers on Sexuality & Gender (book)

• CatherineSegars.com Resources — Email Catherine Here (for more free parenting resources)

Parents, Are You Ready?
Will you step into these conversations with both truth and grace, becoming the safe harbor your children need as they navigate a confusing world? Listen in—and equip your family to see not just what the culture says, but the beauty and goodness of God’s design.

What’s your biggest struggle or question when it comes to talking about sexuality and gender with your children? Join the conversation and share your thoughts!

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Talking to Your Kids About Sex and Gender Feels Overwhelming? You’re Not Alone—But You’re the Parent God Chose for This Moment.

Every Christian parent knows “the talk” is coming—but what if it’s sooner (and more important) than you think? In today’s hyper-sexualized, ever-confusing culture, silence is not an option. Someone—or something—will shape your child’s understanding of sex and identity. The real question: Will it be you, or the world?

In this courageous episode of Christian Parent/Crazy World, Catherine sits down with trusted guest Elizabeth Urbanowicz, founder and CEO of Foundation Worldview. A seasoned educator, experienced apologist, and creator of biblically sound resources for families, Elizabeth Urbanowicz knows firsthand how to translate tough, complex topics for young hearts and minds. Her latest book, Helping Your Kids Know God's Good Design: 40 Questions and Answers on Sexuality and Gender, equips parents to start the conversation confidently and biblically—no matter your background.

What You’ll Learn and Why It Matters:

• Why Christian Parents Must Go First
  Catherine and Elizabeth Urbanowicz make the case that if you’re not the “first voice” your kids hear about sex and gender, you risk becoming just another commentary in a noisy world. The “founder’s effect” means early, honest conversations establish you—not TikTok or the classroom—as the expert in your child’s life

• Conversation Starters for Every Age
  Nervous about what to say? Take a deep breath. From age-appropriate ways to explain anatomy (“God has given us special body parts to be treated with special care”, to using simple analogies (“Just like we keep some toys special, some parts of our body are to be kept private”), Elizabeth Urbanowicz outlines practical conversation guides for little ones. She provides step-by-step approaches to discussing biological differences, the mechanics of sex, and the beauty of God’s design—without shame or fear.

• God’s Good Design: Framing Matters
  Instead of starting with “don’t do it,” this episode teaches you to anchor the entire conversation in God’s goodness—how He created sexual intimacy as a precious gift for marriage, reflecting Christ’s relationship with the Church, and as foundational, not shameful, to human identity.

• Addressing Parental Wounds and Fears
  What if your own story is marked by pain, brokenness, or unmet expectations? Elizabeth Urbanowicz offers heartfelt encouragement for parents who feel disqualified by divorce, loss, abuse, or regrets: “God is working all things together for your good by conforming you more into the image of His Son”. The goal is not a perfect family portrait—it’s pointing your kids to Jesus, no matter the journey.

• You Will Not Steal Their Innocence—You Will Protect It
  Afraid early conversations will “ruin” your child’s innocence? Elizabeth Urbanowicz gently challenges that notion: real harm comes not from truth, but from leaving kids uninformed and unprepared in a fallen world.

Notable Moments & Quotes:

• “Whoever is the first person to talk about a topic naturally becomes the expert in our minds.”

• “Sexuality is not something to be embarrassed or ashamed of. It’s a gift God has given to be used within its proper context.”

• “Our feelings do not determine what is right or wrong. God’s good design does. And it is for our good.”

About the Guest:
Elizabeth Urbanowicz holds a master’s degree in Education from Northern Illinois University and an MA in Christian Apologetics from Biola University. She’s a former elementary school teacher and now a foremost voice in equipping families, churches, and educators to help kids think biblically and critically. As founder of Foundation Worldview, her resources are used and loved in homes and ministries nationwide.

RESOURCES REFERENCED:

• Helping Your Kids Know God’s Good Design: 40 Questions and Answers on Sexuality and Gender (book by Elizabeth Urbanowicz)

• Foundation Worldview (foundationworldview.com)

• Recommended children’s books: God Made Your Body and How God Made Babies by Jim Burns

• Catherine’s free resources, podcasts, and articles for Christian parents available at catherinesegars.com

• Contact Catherine: [email protected]

Why Christian Parents Can’t Sit This One Out:
If you feel afraid, overwhelmed, or like you’re starting late, take heart: God is sovereign, even over our mistakes. Begin where you are, trust God’s leading, and choose to be the voice your child needs.

Discussion Starter for Listeners:
How will you intentionally become the “first voice” for your children on sex, identity, and God’s good design—even if it means facing your own discomfort or starting late? What step will you take this week to begin the conversation?

Tune in and be equipped—because Christian parenting may be crazy, but you don’t have to do it alone.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Wholesome entertainment that deals authentically with real life and honors God can feel almost impossible to find. Where can Christian parents turn for stories that inspire, edify, and wrestle with tough issues—without sacrificing biblical truth?

Catherine welcomes acclaimed author Felicia Ferguson, whose award-winning women’s fiction is making waves for all the right reasons. Felicia, who holds master’s degrees in health care administration and speech language pathology, writes novels featuring strong female characters who face trauma, tragedy, and real-world dilemmas—always anchored by Christian faith and ethical choices.

Together, they discuss how fiction can model kingdom impact, spark empathy, and equip Christians of all ages to handle adversity with faith. Felicia Ferguson reveals the inspiration behind her latest works, including "When Secrets Come Calling" and "The Choices She Made." She shares how her own professional and personal experiences—like navigating the loss of a parent or working with dementia patients—inspire her realistic, hope-filled storylines.

Key Insights & HighlightsWrestling with Trauma through Faith

Felicia's characters don’t avoid pain or gloss over difficult situations—like sexual assault, family secrets, or dementia. Instead, they walk through the challenges, lean into God, and make decisions rooted in biblical principles.

The Power of Redemptive Fiction

As Catherine notes, many Christian entertainment options simply sanitize secular stories without offering real answers or hope. In contrast, Felicia Ferguson’s novels show what it looks like to grieve, heal, and find identity in Christ—even if life doesn’t tie up with a pretty bow.

Identity Beyond Circumstance

A recurring theme in the conversation is pursuing an identity rooted not in career, family roles, or past mistakes—but in being a beloved child of God. In Felicia’s words: "Who I am intrinsically is who God created me to be."

Stories That Heal and Equip

Whether it’s helping readers process trauma or showing how to biblically navigate hard conversations, Felicia Ferguson’s ultimate goal is kingdom impact: “I want my characters to have that same experience because...I don’t see that enough in the Christian market.”

Real-Life Application

Catherine and Felicia discuss how stories—whether on the page or in real life—can prepare us as parents to face giants, support our kids through hardships, and remind us that healing and hope are possible through Christ.

Guest Bio

Felicia Ferguson is an award-winning author with master’s degrees in Health Care Administration and Speech Language Pathology. After a decade in the Florida Panhandle and a career as a speech therapist, Felicia now writes full-time from Colorado. Her passion is crafting women’s fiction featuring strong female leads who confront trauma and tragedy using biblical principles. Felicia’s uniquely encouraging perspective blends professional expertise with a heartfelt desire for kingdom impact, both in fiction and in life.

Episode Resources

• Felicia’s Website & Book Links

• "When Secrets Come Calling" 

• "The Choices She Made" 

• Catherine Segars Resources

Do you and your children have wholesome models for processing trauma, wrestling with identity, and making faith-based decisions? In a culture that defines us by achievements, roles, or wounds, how can you point your family toward finding identity and hope in Christ?

Tune in for encouragement, inspiration, and summer reading that truly makes a difference!

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Are you laying the right foundation for your child’s mental health? The answer may be more crucial—and more surprising—than you think.

On this episode of Christian Parent/Crazy World, Catherine sits down with Dr. Bill Senyard, an accomplished author, veteran pastor, and the creator of the acclaimed "Good Enough Parent" curriculum, for a candid, practical, and hope-filled conversation about strengthening our kids' mental health from the inside out.

We live in an age where children are struggling with anxiety, depression, and disconnection more intensely than ever before. As Catherine points out, the mental health crisis is at critical mass—and Christian parents cannot afford to ignore the warning signs.

Connectedness & Enoughness: The Two Pillars of Mental Health

Drawing from the latest neuroscience and attachment theory, Dr. Bill Senyard breaks down the core needs all children have for mental health:

• Connectedness: “Does someone really have my back?”

• Enoughness: “Am I lovable as I am?”

He unpacks how a child’s sense of security is built or broken—not through logic, lectures, or even discipline alone—but through a parent’s ability to attune to their child’s emotions:

“The process of a parent feeling the child's feeling, absorbing those feelings, and reflecting them back... so the baby knows they've been seen, heard, and understood.”

Attachment Styles: Which One Describes Your Child ... Or You?

Dr. Bill Senyard and Catherine discuss the four primary attachment styles that shape every child’s approach to life and relationships:

• Secure: Resilient, optimistic, comfortable in their own skin

• Avoidant: Self-reliant but disconnected, often lonely

• Anxious: Hungry for attention and affirmation, high-maintenance, struggles to self-soothe

• Fearful: Marked by deep wounds, vacillating between withdrawal and outbursts—often in need of professional help

Listeners will learn practical ways to spot these styles in their children (and themselves) and discover how to attune to each type’s specific needs—whether it’s giving space to the avoidant child or consistently pouring words of enoughness into the anxious.

Takeaways for Christian Parents

• Attunement—not arguments or advice—lays the foundation for your child’s mental health.

• Repairing the inevitable relational breaks starts with genuine humility: “I'm sorry. I was wrong. Please forgive me.”

• Our ability to connect with our kids flows from how deeply we experience God’s love and grace ourselves.

• There is hope and healing available—even for “epic fail” parents and broken kids.

About Dr. Bill Senyard

Host of the "Gospel Rant" podcast and seasoned pastor, Dr. Senyard brings decades of experience in ministry, family life, and counseling. His "Good Enough Parent" program is packed with free, actionable tools rooted in gospel grace, neuroscience, and practical wisdom.

Call to Action

What is your child’s attachment style? Where has connectedness or enoughness broken down—and what small step can you take this week to rebuild the bridge? Visit goodenoughparent.online for free resources, and consider how God’s irrational love for you could transform the way you parent.

Have you experienced the power of humble apology and attunement in your family? Share your story and join the conversation with other Christian parents committed to raising mentally healthy kids in a crazy world!

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Mental health challenges among our kids are at an all-time high—and as parents, it can feel overwhelming to know where to start.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and in this timely and enlightening episode, Catherine goes straight to the heart of the matter: What are the greatest mental health needs of our children, and what can we actually do about them as Christian parents?

Catherine is joined by Dr. Bill Senyard, an experienced pastor, ministry founder, podcast host, and author of over a dozen books on critical topics like forgiveness and God’s love for the unlovable. Drawing from both neuroscience and biblical wisdom, Dr. Bill Senyard highlights two foundational needs every child (and parent!) has: connectedness and enoughness.

Episode Highlights

• Crisis by the Numbers: Suicide and sadness are rising. Social media and shame are fueling a loneliness epidemic.

• Attachment Theory & The Gospel: Dr. Bill Senyard shows how both science and Scripture agree: Every child needs unconditional connectedness and the certainty that they are enough, no matter what.

• Shame vs. Security: Learn why so many kids (and adults) secretly believe God or their parents are disappointed in them—and how that undermines their mental health and relationship with God.

• Attunement in Action: Discover the “drip, drip, drip” strategy—intentional, random affirmation and connection in at least one in three interactions, proven to nurture healthy brains and souls.

• A Second Chance in Adolescence: Missed opportunities can be repaired! Dr. Bill Senyard explains how parents can restore connection and belonging, even after difficult seasons.

• A Father’s Example: Hear the moving letter Dr. Bill Senyard wrote to his son, modeling how to declare unshakeable love and acceptance, even amid clashes and failures.

“Every child needs at least one adult who is irrationally crazy about him or her.”
— Yuri Bronfenbrenner, as quoted by Dr. Bill Senyard 

Guest Bio: Dr. Bill Senyard

Dr. Bill Senyard is a pastor, ministry leader, host of the Gospel Rant podcast, and prolific author on topics like biblical parenting, forgiveness, and God’s love. He holds advanced degrees in theology and brings decades of experience as a spiritual guide, management consultant, and innovator. His work focuses on merging cutting-edge neuroscience—especially attachment theory—with practical, biblical truth that transforms families.

Episode Resources

• Catherine’s Free Resources & Newsletter

• Good Enough Parent program & Gospel Rant Podcast by Dr. Bill Senyard

Call to Action

Are you helping your child feel deeply connected and truly enough in your eyes—and God’s? This week, make a conscious effort in at least one out of every three interactions to affirm your child’s value and your unwavering love, especially during tough moments. Watch how it strengthens both their mental health and your bond!

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What if your family could experience faith that stretches far beyond your front door—all while riding to soccer practice or gathered around the dinner table?

This week on Christian Parent/Crazy World, Catherine invites listeners into a heart-expanding conversation designed to inspire parents and kids alike to join God's great story—as it unfolds across the globe. The mission: to help families connect with the courage, compassion, and steadfast faith of believers worldwide, and to see how their own lives can make a difference right where they are.

Through captivating real-life stories—ranging from kitchens in Kenya to war-torn Ukraine—Catherine and guest Kristy Graham reveal practical ways every family can nurture a global perspective, build spiritual resilience, and become world-changers for Christ.

Meet the Guest

Kristy Graham is the host of On the Ground, a podcast from Samaritan’s Purse that takes listeners straight to the heart of God’s work in the world. A mother of four navigating life at the crossroads of parenting and international ministry, Kristy weaves together firsthand reports from refugee camps, surgery wards, and disaster response teams, making global transformation tangible for every family. With years of service alongside her husband Edward Graham (of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and Samaritan’s Purse), she stands as an authentic voice encouraging parents to raise kids with wide-open eyes, anchored in a big, bold faith.

In This Episode

• Why stories of sacrifice and courage from places like Sudan, Kenya, and Ukraine can anchor your family’s faith—and how to bring those stories into everyday life

• The Amani Ya Juu Project: How women escaping tragedy sew brokenness into celebration and “peace from above”—and how their journey can encourage both parents and kids

• Children’s Heart Project: The ripple-effect of transforming lives—how a single surgery can change an entire community

• An Unforgettable Testimony: A missionary pilot held hostage whose story of compassion and hope will keep your whole family riveted

• Practical ways to model compassion, perspective, and obedience—whether you’re a nurse, a catering manager, or teaching kindness at your kitchen sink

• Why every family can be part of the Great Commission—right from home

Notable Quote:

“Even if we aren’t getting what we want, we’re getting what we need. The Lord is with us. His presence is…enough.” — Kristy Graham

Episode Resources:

The Children's Heart Project

Amani Ya Juu (website & online store)

On the Ground with Samaritan's Purse Episodes mentioned:

• Brokenness, Transformation, and Celebration: Amani Ja Juu

• Plane Hijacked in Africa: The Pilot's Story Part 1

• Plane Hijacked in Farica: The Pilot's Story Part 2

• Ukrainian Pastor Shares from the Front Lines

• Suffering for Christ's Sake (Rebuilding 500 Churches in Sudan)

• The Great Commission is for Everyone — On the Ground Podcast

Takeaway for Christian Parents

Let these stories spark new conversations in your home—about gratitude, compassion, and what it truly means to follow Jesus wherever He leads.

How could your family join God’s global story—starting right where you are today?

Listen now and discover the adventures, faith, and joy God wants to unleash in your family—no passport required.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What if the world measured motherhood, not by perfection or public acclaim, but by quiet courage, surrender, and faith? In this heartfelt Mother’s Day episode of Christian Parent Crazy World, Catherine invites celebrated author and mentor Rhonda Stoppe to lift the veil on the real stories of the moms of the Bible—fearless, flawed, faithful, and sometimes forgotten women whose lives still shape generations.

Drawing from her acclaimed new book, Moms of the Bible: Life Changing Lessons from the Fearless, Flawed, and Faithful, Rhonda Stoppe brings wisdom honed by decades of ministry, parenting, and podcasting (Old Ladies Know Stuff). Together, Catherine and Rhonda Stoppe explore what it means to mother in a world obsessed with perfection, reminding listeners that God’s view of motherhood is radically different—and infinitely more freeing.

What You’ll Discover in This Episode

God Sees and Honors Moms—Even When No One Else Does
Scripture overflows with stories of mothers just like you—women who wrestled, wept, waited, and worshiped as God unfolded His plans in unexpected ways. While culture often dismisses the daily work of mothering as mundane or menial, Catherine and Rhonda Stoppe reveal how the Bible places immense value on those unseen acts of love and faithfulness.

From Mary’s Brave Surrender to Rebecca’s Mistakes

• Hear how Mary, the mother of Jesus, chose courageous “yes” in the face of misunderstanding and rejection, modeling trust in God’s unseen plans.

• Explore Rebecca’s story—a tale of good intentions gone awry as she tries to “help” God’s promises along, unleashing sibling rivalry and a generational legacy.

• Learn that God works through flawed, real women, not perfect ones, and that repentance and humility write a new story for us and our children.

The Power and Danger of Partiality

• Rhonda Stoppe uncovers the lasting damage of favoritism in families, drawing from biblical narratives and honest reflections on her own upbringing.

• Listeners are encouraged to honestly assess their parenting, seek God’s agape love, and pursue forgiveness and restoration when favoritism has taken root.

When You Feel like the Mom with No Name

• Sometimes, a mother’s extraordinary impact is never recognized by the world—or even, at times, by her own children.

• The story of David’s unnamed mother powerfully affirms the kingdom value of unseen, faithful work.

• “The influence of unnamed mothers has shaped nations, inspired leaders, nurtured artists and motivated ordinary children to accomplish extraordinary achievements.” – Rhonda Stoppe

Real Talk: Healing from Deep Wounds

• In a moving post-interview segment, Rhonda Stoppe addresses the pain of those raised by abusive mothers through the biblical story of Herodias and her daughter, offering hope, the necessity of Christ-centered forgiveness, and the invitation to seek healing through biblical counseling.

Why This Matters

In a culture that honors mothers with a day, but often disenfranchises the work of motherhood, this episode re-centers the sacredness, complexity, and generational reach of a mother’s influence. Catherine and Rhonda Stoppe invite you to see your mothering through the eyes of God—full of purpose, dignity, and hope.

About the Guest

Rhonda Stoppe is a bestselling author, speaker, mom of four, and grandmother of fifteen. Known for her practical wisdom and biblical insight, Rhonda is host of the Old Ladies Know Stuff podcast and beloved mentor to moms and grandmothers across the nation. Her books, including Moms Raising Sons to Be Men and Real Life Romance, equip Christian families for generational impact.

Reflect & Respond

Which mom’s story resonated most with you—fearless Mary, flawed Rebecca, faithful Hannah, or a nameless mother who faithfully packed lunches and taught quietly in her home? What might change in your parenting if you saw yourself as called and seen by God, not defined by comparison or invisibility?

Notable takeaway:

“God doesn’t need perfection. He’s just looking for surrender. He works through the ordinary, the overlooked, and, yes, even the messy moments of motherhood to accomplish His extraordinary plans.” — Catherine

 

Call to Action:
This week, seek out a godly mentor—or encourage another mom who might feel forgotten. Your story matters. Your daily yes to God matters. How will you step boldly into your unique season of motherhood, trusting that God shapes generations through faithful, ordinary women?

Listen now and be refreshed—motherhood, in all its mess and glory, is sacred work in the hands of God.

Episode Resources

• Rhonda’s Website & Resources:
  noregretswoman.com (Free first chapter, video curriculum, articles, and more)

• Moms of the Bible: Life Changing Lessons from the Fearless, Flawed, and Faithful
  On Amazon

• Rhonda’s Podcast:
  Old Ladies Know Stuff Podcast

• Rhonda’s YouTube Channel:
  Rhonda Stoppe, No Regrets Woman

• Connect with Catherine & Free Parenting Resources:
  Free faith-filled resources for parents, including prodigal bundles, scripture lists, and more at catherinesegars.com

• Biblical Counseling Directory:
  Association of Certified Biblical Counselors (ACBC)

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

“You can be anything you want to be!” It’s the mantra of our age—a message pumped into children by movies, books, and even well-meaning parents. But is it true? Is it biblical? Or is there a deeper, more fulfilling truth that Christian parents should pursue with their kids?

In this weighty and relatable episode, Catherine unpacks the ever-present cultural myth that our kids can become whoever—or whatever—they dream, simply with enough hard work and imagination. Drawing from a heartfelt conversation with a devoted fellow parent at the ballfield, Catherine dives into the pressures parents feel to support every whim and wish, regardless of reality, gifting, or God’s design.

What Listeners Will Discover

• The distinction between cultural slogans and biblical truth—and why not every dream is planted by God.

• How the “follow your heart” advice is more Hallmark than Holy Scripture (04:43), and what happens when Christian parents simply echo the world’s encouragements.

• The story of Catherine’s baseball-loving young son, who declared, “God made me to play baseball,” and how it led Catherine to wrestle with what she should tell a child with a passionate, even possibly divinely inspired longing (06:57).

• A thoughtful review of the Christian film The Hill, which draws on the motif of David and Goliath but falls into the “prosperity gospel” trap, promising that faith alone guarantees earthly success (14:00). The real-life epilogue is more sobering—and more biblically honest.

• What it actually means to “do all things through Christ who gives me strength” (18:48), as Catherine carefully walks parents through the context of Philippians 4 and the secret of contentment, regardless of whether dreams come true.

• A practical, grace-filled response any Christian parent can use when their child dreams big—pointing them toward pursuing God’s purpose above personal ambition (22:49).

Notable Moments

“When my fourth child sat on my lap at the ripe age of six and told me he wants to be a Major League baseball player, he actually said, ‘Mom, God made me to play baseball.’ … I do know this: You can be whoever God created you to be, and whoever that is is amazing and awesome and it’s going to fulfill you more than anything else in life.” (23:28)

As a powerful takeaway, Catherine urges parents to help their kids seek to become who God designed them to be—not just anyone or anything the world applauds—reminding listeners that “God’s plan is the best plan,” even when it diverges from childhood dreams or cultural scripts.

Reflect & Respond

How can you encourage your children to dream boldly, while also helping them discover and pursue God’s unique calling for their lives? What steps can you take to align your parenting with God’s larger story, even when it means letting go of your own or your child’s expectations?

Tune in for real-life wisdom, biblical encouragement, and practical steps to parent with hope, faith, and purpose in a world full of crazy (and not always truthful) messages.

Episode Links

• The Hill (2023)

• Rudy (1993)

• The Rookie (2002)

• Philippians 4 – Bible Gateway

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What story is shaping your child’s life? In a world swirling with competing narratives and cultural confusion, it’s more crucial than ever for Christian parents to help kids understand that they are living inside of God’s bigger story.

In this powerful episode, Catherine sits down with seasoned ministry leaders and authors Randy and Rozanne Frazee, co-authors of Encountering God's Love from Genesis to Revelation. With over four decades of marriage, four children, and five grandchildren, the Frazees know first-hand the joys and the heartaches of parenting—and what grounds a family’s faith through it all.

Many of us grew up knowing fragmented Bible stories—Noah and the ark, David and Goliath—but not the overarching story that ties it all together. When our faith is reduced to a list of rules or isolated lessons, it’s fragile. Our children are left vulnerable to doubt, anxiety, and cultural currents when the storms of life hit.

The Frazees invite listeners to see Scripture as a unified, breathtaking narrative: a love story of creation, fall, rescue, and redemption. Drawing from decades of pastoral experience, Randy shares why it’s vital for families to understand that the Bible isn’t just a rule book—it’s the true story of reality, and your family has a part to play:

“If you’re going to be in church for even a year, you should be able to stand up and talk from Genesis all the way to Revelation—not in great detail, but enough to see that it’s one story,” Randy observes.

Listeners learn:

• The difference between just knowing Bible stories and knowing the Story—and why the latter is critical for resilient faith.

• How connecting the dots of God’s upper (divine) and our lower (day-to-day) stories helps kids find meaning, hope, and identity—even in messy, confusing seasons.

• Why communal Bible engagement (as a family or church) is transformational, not just individually but across generations.

• Practical ways to bring faith conversations into everyday family moments, including how mealtimes can become opportunities to discuss God’s story.

• How to maintain relationship, speak the truth in love, and remain hopeful when walking through prodigal seasons with your children.

• Why parents can be liberated by trusting God for the results, recognizing that only He causes the growth—even when we’ve been faithful but don’t see immediate fruit.

Catherine and her guests get real, sharing personal stories of loss, pain, prodigal children, and disappointment—and how reframing these moments in light of God’s bigger plan brings powerful hope, healing, and perspective. Rozanne movingly recounts her own prayers for a wandering child and what it means to wait, hope, and never cut off relationship as God writes new chapters.

“We have to understand—we’re not inviting God into our story. He’s inviting us into His." ~Catherine

If you’ve ever struggled with the pain of unanswered prayers or wondered how to talk to your kids when life doesn’t make sense, this episode will encourage and equip you to anchor your family in the only story that matters.

Are you helping your kids see themselves as main characters in God’s unfolding story—or as authors of a tale they're left to figure out on their own? This episode will inspire you to set your family’s narrative inside the greatest love story ever told.

Don’t miss this conversation—and consider: how can you help your children see beyond the “lower story” moments of today to the “upper story” that God is writing through their lives?

About the Guests:

Randy and Rozanne Frazee
Randy Frazee is Pastor Emeritus of Westside Family Church, author of The Story, and visionary leader whose work has revitalized churches nationwide; Rozanne Frazee is a writer and compassionate speaker passionate about biblical literacy in families. Together, their newest work, Encountering God’s Love: From Genesis to Revelation, is equipping families to rediscover how the Bible fits together and how every child (and parent!) can find their place in God’s unfolding story.

EPISODE LINKS & RESOURCES:

• Encountering God’s Love: From Genesis to Revelation (recommended for families, church groups, and homeschoolers)

• Randy Frazee's website: randyfrazee.com
• The Story Bible engagement campaign

• The Jesus Storybook Bible (for young children)

• Catherine's Free Resources for Parents

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The everyday choices parents make may matter more than anything else—especially in shaping a child’s faith and future. It’s not the grand gestures, but the consistent, authentic moments—shared meals, honest conversations, and humble apologies—that lay the foundation for a lasting legacy. In a culture that often undermines Christian values, the daily witness of a parent’s genuine faith speaks louder than any church service or lesson. These ordinary routines are where children see faith lived out, and where their beliefs and character take root

In this episode, host Catherine sits down with renowned guests Randy and Rozanne Frazee, a couple married for forty-four years, with four grown children and a legacy of lived faith. Randy, pastor emeritus of Westside Family Church and acclaimed author, together with Rozanne, who brings a warm, grounded wisdom and coauthored their bestselling book Real Simplicity, share personal stories and practical insights into the significance of authentic, everyday Christian parenting.

Key Insights & Takeaways

• More Than a Label: Discover the striking difference between nominal ("Christian in name only") families and homes where faith is consistently lived out, imperfectly but authentically.

• Sacred Tables: Learn how the dinner table becomes more than a refueling stop—it’s a sacred gathering, mirroring biblical feasts and communion, where something dies so the family can live.

• Modeling Vulnerability: Hear how parents who own their mistakes, invite tough questions, and provide space for doubts create a safe place for kids to wrestle with and own their faith.

• Science & Scripture: Unpack the neuroscience and statistics behind family meals: a Columbia University study reveals that five shared dinners a week dramatically reduce risks of substance abuse and other pitfalls.

• Practical Strategies for Every Family: Get ideas for starting small—one intentional meal a week, using technology (like family video calls), and simplifying meal planning with tools and teamwork.

• Anecdotes that Inspire: Listen to Randy’s transformation as a 14-year-old in a warm Christian home, and Rozanne’s moving story of a college guest brought to tears just by being asked to share her day.

Notable Moments & Quotes

"Messages come and go. But relationships—parents who live their faith authentically day in and day out—shape a child’s life forever."
– Catherine Segars 

“It is not about perfection; it’s about authenticity. The table is not just a place to eat—it’s the place to truly live and pass on the faith.”
– Randy Frazee

Meet the guests:

Randy Frazee is pastor emeritus of Westside Family Church in Kansas City, the author of numerous influential books including The Story, Believe, and The Joy Challenge. He is recognized nationally for his teachings on the intersection of faith and daily life.

Rozanne Frazee is a coauthor (with Randy) of Real Simplicity and a sought-after speaker on family, faith, and authentic living. Her warm insights on building strong, honest relationships have encouraged Christians for decades.

Married for over forty years, the Frazees have four grown children, several grandchildren, and a passion for strengthening families by making faith a lived reality.

Episode Resources

• Randy and Rozanne Frazee’s Website & Writings

• Encountering God's Love from Genesis to Revalation

• Real Simplicity: Making Room for Life – the Frazees’ book on creating family rhythms that matter

• Encountering God’s Love from Genesis to Revelation – their newest release, discussed in the next episode

• Catherine's Free Resources for parents

Think On This

Are you making space in your home for authentic faith to be lived out? What one simple shift could you make this week to draw your family closer—to each other and to God?

Tune in for inspiration, practical wisdom, and a renewed vision for parenting God’s way. Don’t miss the next episode, where Randy and Rozanne unveil the heart behind their new book, Encountering God's Love from Genesis to Revelation.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

How Do We Prepare Our Kids’ Faith for Secular College? Start Here.

Few things strike fear in the heart of Christian parents like sending a child to a secular university and wondering, “Will their faith survive?” Recent research shows nearly two-thirds of young adults raised in the church disengage from faith or Christian community after leaving home—a heartbreaking statistic for families who have labored in love and prayer for nearly two decades.

In this episode, Catherine sits down with Dr. Steven Hall, a respected professor at Lee University with decades of experience in pastoral ministry, counseling, and spiritual formation. Dr. Hall brings not only academic insight but a father’s hard-won wisdom—his own daughter lost her faith at a secular arts high school, plunging his family into a prodigal journey that every Christian parent fears.

Key Insights and Takeaways:

• It Can Happen to Any Family: Dr. Hall shares with powerful honesty how, despite prayerful and intentional parenting—including homeschooling and Christian education—his daughter’s faith was overturned in just two weeks at a new school. “We put her in the school, and two weeks later, they stole her,” he recalls, highlighting how the environment and sense of belonging can reshape beliefs almost overnight.

• The Power of Allies: Both Dr. Hall and Catherine underscore the vital importance of allies: teachers, mentors, counselors, and Christian communities who support and reinforce the faith and values parents instill. “You need an ally in your parenting. Pray for those allies…steward those relationships well,” Dr. Hall urges.

• Formation Over Information: As children grow, the need to belong and to form identity intensifies—especially in the teen and college years. Dr. Hall explains, “If you have an environment where your child believes they can belong and retain their faith, you are preparing good ‘soul soil’ for lasting fruit.”

• Consistent Adequacy—Not Perfection: Parents often carry guilt over prodigal seasons, but Dr. Hall and Catherine offer hope: even God, the perfect parent, had children who chose rebellion. “You don’t have to be exceptional—just consistently adequate,” Dr. Hall reassures, stressing faithfulness over perfection.

• Practical Soul-Forming Rhythms: Sabbath, prayer, fasting, and engaging in faith routines as a family are crucial. “We’re not just training for faith, we’re shaping a way of life,” says Dr. Hall.

• There Is Good News: Encouraging research from Barna now shows a rise in personal commitment to Jesus and Bible reading among Gen Z and Millennials. The hunger for authentic, lived faith is growing—and parents can help nurture that by living and modeling genuine discipleship.

Anecdotes & Notable Quotes:

• “If you want to protect your child from the negative influences of the world, when they're about seven, put them in a barrel and feed them through the knothole. At fourteen, plug the knothole. There's no foolproof method!”—Dr. Hall (quoting Mark Twain)

• “God is not looking for extraordinary, perfect parents. He’s looking for consistency. Trust the creature to the Creator.”

About the Guest:
Dr. Steven Hall is Associate Professor of Pastoral Ministry at Lee University, with a doctorate in Spiritual Formation and decades serving as a Church of God minister, clinical pastoral counselor, and founder of Ministry Oasis—a resource dedicated to the soul health of ministry families.

Are you praying for allies to join you in shepherding your child’s soul? Who are the people and communities partnering with you for the spiritual health of your family? Share your journey, struggles, and wins—and remember: you don’t have to do this alone. Tune in and find the encouragement, practical wisdom, and hope that God is still writing your child’s story.

Episode Links & Resources

Ministry Oasis
Dr. Steven Hall’s website offers free resources for soul health, spiritual disciplines, Sabbath practices, and more—especially helpful for pastors and their families, but practical for all parents.
Visit Ministry Oasis

Barna Research – Youth Exodus & Spiritual Renewal

• New Research: Belief in Jesus Is on the Rise, and It’s Fueled by Younger Adults (Apr 2024)

• Millennials and Gen Z Drive a Bible Reading Comeback (Nov 2023)

• Gen Z, Millennials, and the Changing State of Faith in America

Soul Health Planning, Sabbath & Family Rhythms

• Soul Health Plan PDF, Sabbath Practice Guides, Video Library

• Dr. Hall’s sermon series and practical tips for sabbathing with young children

Scripture Prayers & Prodigal Bundle
Catherine’s free resources for parents—Scripture lists, prayer guides, and her ebook for raising children in a faith-challenging culture.
Subscribe to Catherine Segars’ Website for The Prodigal Bundle

Recommended Books

• The Domestic Monastery by Ronald Rolheiser

• God in My Everything: How an Ancient Rhythm Helps Busy People Enjoy God by Ken Shigematsu

• The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer

• Emotionally Healthy Spirituality by Peter Scazzero

Want prayer or a network of allies?
Email Catherine directly at [email protected] or subscribe to her site for encouragement, practical faith-filled resources, and ways to connect with praying parents.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.