Listen on Your Favorite App
Christian Parent, Crazy World
Catherine SegarsThe Christian Parent, Crazy World podcast with Catherine Segars equips moms and dads to be godly parents in a world that often opposes their faith. As a passionate apologist and seasoned communicator, Catherine unpacks the tough cultural issues facing families today, offering insightful, biblically grounded guidance. Each episode helps parents understand the challenges of our times and respond with wisdom, confidence, and grace.
Topics covered on this podcast include:
- What to Do If Your Child Walks Away from the Faith
- Can Our Words Change the Future?
- Why Are So Many Kids Falling Away from The Faith?
- 13 Ways To Be a Better Parent This Year
- 5 Things Every Parent Needs to Know About Gen Z
- What Critical Foundation Do Many Parents Miss When Discipling Their Kids?
- How To Teach Your Kids the Christian Worldview
- Hope and Strategy for Parents of Prodigal Children
Want to read some of Catherine's most popular Christian parenting articles? Check them out here: https://www.crosswalk.com/author/catherine-segars/
Listen on Your Favorite App
Medical Freedom & Parental Rights: This Former Disney Star Speaks Out (w/ Leigh-Allyn Baker) - Ep. 150
June 9, 2025 - 62 min
When the world feels upside down, Christian parents are called to stand firm—but what happens when the very systems meant to protect our children threaten their bodies, minds, and hearts? Catherine sits down with Leigh-Allyn Baker—former Disney star turned medical freedom advocate and children’s author—to unpack one of the most divisive and urgent issues facing families today: how to safeguard our kids’ health and souls in a culture that often disregards parental rights, pushes conformity, and floods young minds with spiritually corrosive media. Key Highlights from This Episode: The Battle for Medical Freedom: Leigh-Allyn details her family’s experience with vaccine injury, the shocking aftermath, and why she fled California to protect her children from mandates and discrimination. When Standing Up Comes with a Price: Hear Leigh-Allyn’s account of going viral after speaking to a Tennessee school board—only to be publicly labeled a “domestic terrorist.” What Parents Aren’t Being Told: Learn why informed consent is more important than ever—from questionable laws stripping exemptions, to stories that never make the news. A Deeper Look at “Safe” Expert Advice: Featuring an eye-opening segment with Dr. Marty MaKary on how misguided medical recommendations (like those that caused America’s peanut allergy epidemic) remind us to question everything. Guarding Kids' Hearts AND Minds: Leigh-Allyn shares the transformation in her own faith, how “what you let into your body and your spirit” truly matters, and the link between physical and spiritual health. Raising Kids with Courage: Discover Leigh Allyn’s new book, One Small Little Voice, and her work with Kirk Cameron on Iggy and Mr. Kirk—a wholesome, biblical kids’ show designed to counteract Hollywood’s harmful messages. Why CONTENT Matters: Understand the real agenda behind children’s programming today—and what you can do to fill your child’s mind with truth and light. Why This Conversation Matters:In an era when every sphere—from schools to screens—competes for our children’s hearts, Christian parents can’t afford to be passive or uninformed. This episode is both a wake-up call and a roadmap: Stand up. Ask questions. Protect your rights. And above all, pour godly wisdom, beauty, and love into the next generation. About the Guest: Leigh-Allyn Baker is an American actress. She had recurring roles on Charmed and Will & Grace, and a starring role as mother Amy Duncan on the Disney Channel sitcom Good Luck Charlie. After leaving California, she became an outspoken advocate for parental rights and medical freedom, drawing on her own family’s journey through vaccine injury. Now based in Tennessee, she has teamed up with Brave Books to release One Small Little Voice and is starring with Kirk Cameron in “Iggy and Mr. Kirk.” Episode Resources: One Small Little Voice by Leigh Allyn Baker Brave Books Brave Streaming Service “Iggy and Mr. Kirk” Episode 1, Episode 2, Episode 3 Leigh-Allyn’s Viral School Board Meeting “Exposing the Truth about Peanut Allergies” The Megyn Kelly Show Blind Spots by Dr. Marty Makary Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
How Ancient Signs Explain Today’s Headlines: A Powerful Tool for Christian Families (w/ Jonathan Cahn) - Ep. 149
June 2, 2025 - 69 min
What if a 2,700-year-old prophecy could explain the chaos in America today—and offer your family a roadmap to understand our times? If you’ve ever wondered whether Scripture speaks to the headlines—or how to make biblical prophecy compelling and relatable for the next generation—this episode is for you. Catherine welcomes back internationally acclaimed best-selling author and prophetic voice Jonathan Cahn for a powerful conversation that bridges ancient truth with modern turmoil. Known by many as one of the most influential Christian leaders of our time, Jonathan returns to discuss the reimagining of his groundbreaking book The Harbinger—a New York Times bestseller for over 100 weeks—now released as a stunning, fully illustrated graphic novel designed to captivate a new generation. Together, Catherine and Jonathan explore why biblical prophecy isn’t just a theological niche—it’s a vital tool for apologetics and a faith-building resource for parents and teens alike. With clarity and conviction, Jonathan unveils the uncanny and often chilling ways that the prophetic patterns of ancient Israel are unfolding in America today. In this episode, you’ll discover: The shocking biblical parallels between Israel’s fall and America’s spiritual decline How prophecy can transform your family’s faith and spark meaningful dialogue with your teens Why modern-day prophetic fulfillment serves as a powerful and often overlooked defense of the Christian faith Jonathan shares how specific warnings from Scripture—originally spoken to ancient Israel—are now echoing in America through real-world events, political acts, and public declarations. These harbingers manifest in physical objects and moments of national significance—often through leaders who are unaware they are echoing the voice of God. From the fallen sycamore tree at Ground Zero to prophetic utterances on Capitol Hill, this conversation builds a compelling case for the supernatural accuracy of God’s Word. Don’t miss these unforgettable moments: Jonathan’s miraculous journey from never having written a book to penning The Harbinger, and the prophetic confirmations that guided him The jaw-dropping fact that Isaiah 9:10—the very verse warning of judgment—was the daily reading in the One Year Bible on September 11th… sixteen years before 9/11 A powerful discussion about America’s current “window of opportunity” for revival—and how humility, repentance, and prayer are key to changing the course of our nation Jonathan delivers a sobering reminder: “If we change the laws but don’t change the people, the unchanged people will change the laws back… The only thing that can save America is repentance and revival.” And Catherine challenges parents to respond with faith, not fear: “The signs of the times are not a cause to be afraid, but a call to return.” As you listen, ask yourself:What might God be saying to your family through the shaking of our times?How can you use prophecy—not only to defend your faith—but to plant seeds of unshakable hope in your children’s hearts? About the guest: Jonathan Cahn has been named along with Billy Graham as one of the top spiritual leaders to have radically impacted our world in modern times. He has spoken at the United Nations, on Capitol Hill, to members of Congress, and to millions around the world. Every one of his books, starting with The Harbinger onward, has become a New York Times bestseller. He is recognized as a prophetic voice for our times. His teachings and prophetic words on YouTube have received over 100 million views. He leads Beth Israel at the Jerusalem Center in Wayne, New Jersey, and Hope of the World ministry, a world outreach of God’s Word and compassion to the world’s most needy. Episode Resources: The Harbinger: A Graphic Novel (June 3, 2025) The Dragon's Prophecy: Israel, the Dark Resurrection, and the End of Days The Return of the Gods Beth Israel Worship Center Hope of the World Ministries Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
The 5 Biggest Obstacles Facing Gen Z and How Parents Can Help (w/ Dr. Jonathan Morrow) "Best Of" Episode 55
May 26, 2025 - 47 min
Are your kids prepared to withstand the tidal waves of our culture—or will they get swept away? The cultural currents our kids are facing aren’t just subtle—they’re hitting like tidal waves, challenging the very foundations of our parenting. If you’ve ever wondered what exactly our kids are up against and how in the world we, as parents, can help them stand strong, this “Best Of” episode of CP/CW is for you. Catherine welcomes back Dr. Jonathan Morrow, a true heavyweight in the world of apologetics and worldview training. With over 18 years equipping students and parents, Dr. Morrow is uniquely qualified to map out the storms facing our kids—and how you can help them stand strong. To unpack these seismic shifts, Jonathan digs deep into the five biggest challenges facing this generation. He doesn’t just identify headlines or surface trends—he gets to the heart of what’s shaping our kids every single day. In this episode, Dr. Morrow casts an unflinching light on what he calls the “cultural waves” crashing down on Gen Z and Gen Alpha: Digital Saturation & Distraction: Our kids are drowning in digital noise—a reality that shapes their minds and depletes their ability to reflect deeply on truth. “If Christianity never calls us to look different than the culture in which we’re in, we might want to reevaluate.” ~ Jonathan Morrow Scientism: Society treats the hard sciences as the only trustworthy source of truth, quietly nudging faith and morality out of the conversation. “If science is the only way you know something, guess what you can’t have knowledge of? Morality, spirituality, and history.” ~ Jonathan Morrow Relativism: “You do you.” In a world where truth is seen as subjective, our kids are tempted to believe there is no objective reality—just personal preference. Tribalism: Forget persuasion; today’s climate is about power and alliances. The result? A deeper us-vs-them mentality that threatens the unity Christ calls us to embody. The New Sexual Revolution: Cultural norms around sexuality and gender have been radically redefined—impacting even how our children understand themselves and others. Progressive Christianity: When secular ideologies get relabeled as Christian, children and teens may be drawn in by messages of acceptance and activism while losing sight of the Gospel’s transformative core. This episode isn’t just an exposé of what’s broken in our world—it’s packed with encouragement, powerful insights, and actionable wisdom that will help you and your kids become steadfast in faith. Don’t let culture catch your family off guard. Will you be a passive observer—or will you become the anchor your family needs? About the Guest:Jonathan Morrow holds master’s degrees in divinity and philosophy of religion and ethics, a doctorate in worldview and culture, and serves as Director of Cultural Engagement at Impact 360 Institute. He’s the author of Welcome to College, Questioning the Bible: 11 Major Challenges to the Bible's Authority, and Is God Just a Human Invention, and has trained thousands of young believers to build a lasting, reasonable, and robust faith. Resources & Next Steps: Other Episodes in this Series: Bridging the Generation Gap - 5 Keys to Reaching the Next Generation w/ Dr. Jonathan Morrow Learn more about Impact 360’s life-changing programs at impact360.org Grab Jonathan’s free resource, The Case for Christianity in Four Words, and discover his course for parents at jonathanmorrow.org Subscribe for more parenting resources at catherinesegars.com Share this episode with a fellow parent or leader navigating the Gen Z gap Let’s raise a generation that owns their faith and shines in the “crazy world” they’ve inherited—by God’s design, and for His glory. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Bridging the Generation Gap: 5 Keys to Reaching the Next Generation w/ Dr. Jonathon Morrow - Archive Ep. 54
May 19, 2025 - 41 min
How do we reach a generation that speaks an entirely different language—one shaped by screens, skepticism, and seismic cultural shifts? For Christian parents, grandparents, and youth leaders, it’s the challenge—and opportunity—of our age. In this compelling “best of” episode, Catherine sits down with renowned Christian apologist Dr. Jonathan Morrow to unlock the secrets of relating to Gen Z and Gen Alpha. As Director of Cultural Engagement and Student Discipleship at Impact 360 Institute, adjunct professor at Biola University, and the author of celebrated apologetics books, Jonathan brings nearly two decades of front-line experience equipping young people for lasting faith in a post-Christian world. Together, Catherine and Jonathan dive deep into five essential insights every adult needs to know about Gen Z: Why Gen Z are true “screenagers”—and how the digital world is dramatically accelerating and intensifying the questions of identity, meaning, and truth. How Gen Z is now thoroughly post-Christian, with only 4% holding a biblical worldview—what that means for sharing faith, and why “business as usual” discipleship just won’t work. The rise of “safe spaces,” intellectual bubble wrap, and the urgent need to introduce challenge and opposing ideas—inside the safety of Christian love and guidance. The paradox of safety: why today’s students crave safe spaces yet feel more unsafe, anxious, and mentally strained than ever before—and how parents can provide real security and hope. The opportunity and challenge of unprecedented diversity—what the Bible says about ethnicity, and how to navigate the subtle pitfalls of secular approaches to justice and inclusion. Throughout the episode, Jonathan shares real-world examples and tested strategies including immersive learning, intentional worldview training, and how to disciple students for life in “Babylon,” not Jerusalem. “There’s a world we want, and there’s the world that is—and they’re not the same world,” Jonathan observes, urging parents: “If we’re not intentionally helping them understand that truth exists and you can know it, they’re going to become Christian relativists.” This episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to faithfully guide the next generation to lasting faith—while respecting their unique struggles and leveraging their immense potential. Every generation faces its intersection with culture—this is ours. Notable Episode Moments: The hilarious nostalgia of card catalogs and how research has changed forever Practical advice for introducing “bad ideas” in healthy, guided ways—building spiritual and intellectual muscle Why anxiety, depression, and loneliness are skyrocketing, and where young people can find lasting safety A clear-eyed look at diversity: its beautiful biblical roots and how to celebrate differences without embracing every passing trend Are you proactively training your kids for the world as it is—or the world you wish it was? What is one step you can take this week to intentionally disciple your child amid the pressures and possibilities of Gen Z’s reality? Tune in for a conversation packed with actionable hope, fresh perspective, and the tools every Christian parent needs for today’s crazy world. About the Guest:Jonathan Morrow holds master’s degrees in divinity and philosophy of religion and ethics, a doctorate in worldview and culture, and serves as Director of Cultural Engagement at Impact 360 Institute. He’s the author of Welcome to College, Questioning the Bible: 11 Major Challenges to the Bible's Authority, and Is God Just a Human Invention, and has trained thousands of young believers to build a lasting, reasonable, and robust faith. Resources & Next Steps: Learn more about Impact 360’s life-changing programs at impact360.org Grab Jonathan’s free resource, The Case for Christianity in Four Words, and discover his course for parents at jonathanmorrow.org Subscribe for more parenting resources at catherinesegars.com Share this episode with a fellow parent or leader navigating the Gen Z gap Let’s raise a generation that owns their faith and shines in the “crazy world” they’ve inherited—by God’s design, and for His glory. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Is It Time to Find a New Church? 6 Signs Christians Shouldn’t Ignore - Ep. 148
May 12, 2025 - 46 min
Is Your Church Still the Right Soil for Your Family's Faith? The soil you plant your family’s faith in matters more than we often realize. It’s not just about where you go on Sunday—it’s about the spiritual environment shaping your children’s hearts every single week. And sometimes, the signs that something’s off are easy to miss… until it’s almost too late. In this eye-opening episode, Catherine gets real about a question that many Christian parents quietly wrestle with: “How do I know if it’s time to find a new church home?” Drawing from her own family’s deeply personal (and painful) church transition, Catherine walks through six red flags that might mean your current church isn’t cultivating the spiritual growth your family needs. They are: When churches skip parts of the Bible.If whole books or tough topics are off the table, your kids won’t get the full truth they need to stand firm in their faith. When the flesh goes unchallenged.A feel-good message might draw a crowd, but if no one’s being stretched or sanctified, something’s missing. When there’s a disconnect between evangelism and discipleship.Getting people in the door is important—but so is growing deep roots. If your church leans too hard one way, it leaves gaps that can stunt faith. When charisma outweighs character.A church built around a magnetic personality rather than godly integrity can quickly become a breeding ground for spiritual fallout. When the Holy Spirit has no room to move.Programs and polish are fine—but without the Spirit’s power, real transformation doesn’t happen. When the youth group is spiritually flat.If the next generation isn’t fired up for Jesus, it’s time to ask some hard questions about what seeds are (or aren’t) being sown. With honesty, compassion, and hard-won wisdom, she shines a light on issues that are often ignored—but have huge consequences. This isn’t about being picky—it’s about being purposeful. Catherine reminds us that the stakes are high when it comes to our kids’ spiritual formation. The cost of change can be steep, but the fruit of a thriving, Spirit-led church family is worth every step. In this episode, you’ll also learn: Why glossing over hard truths sets kids up for weak faith How to spot signs of spiritual stagnation in your home The warning signs of a numbers-driven, personality-centered church culture What to look for in a youth group that truly disciples your kids Encouragement for parents facing tough church decisions Mentioned Resources: ✨ Catherine’s free Prodigal Bundle: Hope-filled tools, Scripture lists, and encouragement for parents of prodigals → Download it here 📖 The Heavenly Man by Brother Yun – a powerful testimony of bold, persecuted faith Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Is the Church on Life Support?—Nick Vujicic’s Wake-Up Call to American Christians - Ep. 147
May 5, 2025 - 33 min
Is the American church asleep at the wheel—on the very edge of spiritual collapse while pretending all is well? In one of the most profound and challenging episodes yet, Catherine welcomes world-renowned evangelist Nick Vujicic to the show for a candid, no-holds-barred conversation that every Christian parent needs to hear. Born without arms or legs, Nick’s extraordinary journey from hopelessness to hope has reached over 2 billion people across 74 countries. But today, his urgent warning is not for the world, but for the American church and its families. Nick Vujicic pulls no punches, declaring: “We are asleep, we're on a ventilator… If we don't actually repent as a country, we're about to be jack hammered, dude.” This episode began in Episode 146 with intentions to discuss cancel culture and Christian values in finance but quickly transforms—through a “divine interruption”—into a prophetic wake-up call. The conversation exposes the deep divides, delusions, and complacency within the Western church, shining a light on the dire need for unity, repentance, and genuine disciple-making. Key insights and takeaways: The American church is dangerously divided, distracted by political tribalism, and often failing to address real issues like pornography, mental health, and compassion for the hurting. Nick laments the “delusional” state of believers who substitute church growth for true discipleship, warning that, “We are going to be the biggest judged country in the world because we were given the most. And look at what we've done.” Leadership accountability is critical: Many pastors are unable to address taboo topics like sexual addiction and abortion, often because they themselves are ensnared or complicit. True revival starts at home: Nick urges parents to reclaim spiritual leadership, prioritize Scripture memorization, serve the poor, and model real faith—instead of outsourcing spiritual formation to church leaders. Catherine echoes Nick’s call, sharing how a change in church “soil” radically transformed her children’s faith journey and underlining the need for churches that are both uncompromising and overflowing with love for the lost. Notable moments: Nick’s passionate critique: “If your church didn’t teach you how to preach to your neighbor in love, they failed you.” A heartfelt challenge to pastors and youth leaders: “If you actually allow one of His kids to get off the path, it’s better for you to commit suicide… That’s how sacred your job is.” Catherine’s warning: “We can’t make America great again if we don’t know what made it great in the first place… we need a deep church, not a wide church.” About Our Guest: Nick Vujicic is a world-renowned evangelist, motivational speaker, and founder of Nick V Ministries. Born without arms or legs in Australia, Nick has inspired millions across 84 countries, reaching over 2 billion people with the message of hope and Jesus Christ. After facing cancelation by his own bank for his Christian convictions, Nick co-founded ProLife Fintech to empower believers to steward their finances according to their faith. Despite being “canceled” by major corporations for his faith, Nick refuses to back down from the call to awaken and unite the church. Parents, are you awake? Are you equipping your children with a biblically grounded faith that can withstand the pressures and confusions of today’s world? Are you modeling true discipleship—or just religious activity? Tune in to this urgent, eye-opening episode and consider: What is God calling you and your family to change? And is it time to plant your family in deeper soil for the sake of your children’s faith? EPISODE LINKS: Nick V Ministries ProLife Fintech “Going from Megachurch to Microchuruch” The Roys Report Don’t miss next week’s follow-up as Catherine shares practical steps on discerning when—and how—to find a faith community that champions both truth and love. This is the wake-up call we all need. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Your Money, Their Agenda: Is Your Bank Betraying Your Values? (w/ Nick Vujicic) - Ep. 146
April 28, 2025 - 43 min
Is your money funding causes you stand against? Most Christian families have no idea that their bank may be silently supporting abortion, transgender procedures for minors, and even the silencing of believers. In this powerful episode, Catherine sits down with world-renowned evangelist and motivational speaker Nick Vujicic to expose the dangerous influence financial institutions have over people of faith—and what you can do about it. After being canceled by his own bank for his biblical convictions, Nick uncovered just how deeply major financial institutions are entangled with political agendas that directly oppose Christian values. From funding Planned Parenthood to freezing accounts of those who dare to speak truth, the reality is more shocking—and more urgent—than most realize. In this episode, Catherine and Nick discuss: Nick’s incredible testimony: from a childhood without limbs or hope to becoming a global evangelist who has reached billions with the Gospel. How his family's courageous stand for faith under Communist Yugoslavia shaped his unshakable trust in God. The shocking story of how Nick’s bank dropped him in 2019 based on false accusations tied to his Christian beliefs. Why many major banks today are quietly supporting abortion, gender ideology for minors, and anti-biblical movements. How ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) policies and massive investment firms like BlackRock are setting agendas that impact your money—and your family. How financial institutions are increasingly weaponizing money to silence Christian voices. Practical steps every Christian family can take to align their banking with their biblical values. Nick’s exciting launch of ProLife Fintech, a groundbreaking banking alternative created specifically for faith-driven families and organizations. Nick also shares how ProLife Fintech is not just a financial service—it's a movement to reclaim financial stewardship for the Kingdom, ensuring that your resources advance life, liberty, and biblical truth. Guest Bio: Nick Vujicic is a world-renowned evangelist, motivational speaker, and founder of Nick V Ministries. Born without arms or legs in Australia, Nick has inspired millions across 84 countries, reaching over 2 billion people with the message of hope and Jesus Christ. After facing cancelation by his own bank for his Christian convictions, Nick co-founded ProLife Fintech to empower believers to steward their finances according to their faith. Resources Mentioned: 🌟 Learn more about ProLife Fintech and open an account 🙌 Nick V Ministries 📚 Connect with Catherine Segars and download her free ebook for moms Don't Miss This: Next week, Catherine and Nick dive even deeper with a prophetic challenge to the American church—and why planting your family in the right spiritual soil could change everything. Are you ready to put your money where your faith is?Don't miss this urgent, eye-opening conversation! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Is the Way You Share Your Faith Building a Bridge—or a Wall? (w/ Michael French) - Ep. 145
April 21, 2025 - 61 min
Every Christian parent longs to see their prodigal child—or any lost loved one—return to faith. But what if, in our eagerness to “speak truth” and correct their course, we’re actually widening the gap between them and God? In this eye-opening episode, Catherine welcomes Michael French—an attorney-turned-pastor with decades of experience in both traditional church settings and unconventional, deeply relational ministry. Through friendships forged in unexpected places—from tabletop games to immersive role play—Michael has reached those the Church often overlooks or even avoids: witches, warlocks, LGBTQ+ individuals, and the spiritually wounded. Michael’s story challenges how we think about evangelism, reminding us that Jesus always led with love before calling for change. He built relationships with the rejected, the broken, and the misunderstood—then spoke truth into hearts softened by compassion. This episode will reshape how you approach the prodigals and lost loved ones in your life—and rekindle hope that no one is too far gone. Key Insights from the Episode: 🔹 Relationship Before EvangelismJesus didn’t start with sermons—He started with dinner. Michael and Catherine unpack how Christ’s method started with relationship before sharing a hard truth. If we want to reach the lost, we must begin with compassion, curiosity, and shared humanity. 🔹 When Love Leads—Transformation FollowsReal change begins when people feel truly seen and heard. Transformation doesn't happen through lectures—it happens through love that listens and stays. 🔹 Truth Without Love Is a Weapon“Love without truth is a lie. But truth without love is a weapon,” Catherine shares. The episode explores how truth, when delivered without empathy, can become a wedge—especially in families. But truth spoken in love becomes a bridge. Practical Advice for Parents of Prodigals Ditch the Christianese. Speak like a person, not a pulpit. Model repentance. Say, “I’m sorry. I was wrong. Please forgive me,” for the times that you delivered truth in a harsh way. That humility opens doors. Trust the slow process. Progress may be invisible. But even moving from “-6 to -5” matters. Let God clean the fish. You’re called to speak truth in love, not to fix. Let Jesus handle transformation. A Call for Christian Parents You never have to compromise truth—but you must lead with love.Is your pursuit of truth drawing your child closer…or pushing them away? 🔹 What apology do you need to make?🔹 Where can you lead with empathy instead of argument?🔹 How can you love your prodigal or loved one without conditions—and trust God with the outcome? This episode is your roadmap to loving like Christ: boldly, compassionately, relationally.Because love lays the foundation where truth can take root. About Michael French: A former attorney and long-time pastor, Michael now leads Patria Ministries, a global network of 200+ ministries across 12 countries. He is widely known for ministering in unconventional spaces and loving those who feel deeply rejected by religion. His work is a masterclass in how to hold truth without weaponizing it, and how to love without diluting it. EPISODE LINKS: Patria Ministries The Danger of Speaking Truth without Love by Catherine Segars 📚 For free resources and Catherine’s Prodigal Bundle, visit catherinesegers.com. 💬 Don’t do this journey alone—share this episode and join the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Engaging Kids in Meaningful Prayer: A Parent's Guide (w/ Erica Renaud) - Archive Ep. 56
April 14, 2025 - 43 min
Prayer is one of the most powerful tools in the Christian life—but teaching it to our kids? That can feel overwhelming. As parents, we often feel ill-equipped, unsure of how to introduce our children to something so deep, so spiritual, and so foundational. In this best of episode of Christian Parent/Crazy World, host Catherine Segars revisits a rich conversation with Erica Renaud—author, speaker, and mom of five—about a topic close to every Christian parent’s heart: teaching our children how to pray. Erica is the author of Pray With Me: Help Your Children Engage in Authentic and Powerful Prayer. In this episode, she shares how her passion for prayer was born out of her own struggles as a teen, and how it has grown into a ministry that helps families and churches guide kids into vibrant, Spirit-filled prayer lives. Let’s be honest—there are shelves full of resources to teach adults how to pray. But what about our kids? Where’s the guidebook for them? If prayer is essential for walking closely with God, shouldn’t we be equipping our children early to use this spiritual lifeline? Here’s the thing: our kids can't catch what we don't throw them. If we’re not modeling prayer, if we’re not talking about it, practicing it, and inviting them into it—how will they ever know its power? This episode is packed with insight and encouragement to help you do just that. What You'll Learn in This Episode: 💬 Prayer as a Two-Way Street: Erica encourages us to teach our kids that prayer is talking with God—not just talking to Him. It's a conversation, not a monologue. 🤝 Partnering with God: When children begin to understand that prayer isn’t just about asking—it’s about aligning with God's will—they start to experience the joy of being part of His work on earth. 🧭 Be the Guide, Not the Guru: You don’t have to be a theological expert to lead your kids in prayer. Erica gives us permission to be learners alongside our children—and that humility is what makes the journey beautiful. 🕯️ Making Space for the Sacred: From soft music to candlelight, Erica offers simple, practical ways to create sacred spaces where kids can focus and feel safe entering God’s presence. 😕 When Prayers Go Unanswered: Erica addresses one of the toughest aspects of prayer—disappointment. She shares how to walk kids through these moments by leaning on God's character and reminding them (and us) of His faithfulness. 📖 The Practice of Remembering: Teaching our kids to look back and recall God's faithfulness builds a foundation of trust that can carry them through life’s hardest moments. This episode is more than a how-to—it’s a heart-to-heart. It’s a call for us, as parents, to step into the role of spiritual shepherd—not with perfection, but with purpose. So, how can you begin creating a prayer culture in your home? Maybe it's praying at bedtime, before meals, or even during car rides. Start small. Be consistent. And watch how God shows up. About the Guest: Erica Renaud is a powerful speaker, passionate writer, and the author of Pray With Me: Help Your Children Engage in Authentic and Powerful Prayer. She’s the co-founder of two prayer initiatives and frequently speaks at events and conferences throughout the Northeast, encouraging others to go deeper in their walk with God through prayer. Closer to home, Erica and her husband lead regular prayer and worship gatherings in their local congregation while raising their five children. Erica Renaud: Website, Instagram, Facebook Resources Mentioned: Pray With Me: Help Your Children Engage in Authentic and Powerful Prayer by Erica Renaud Let Us Pray by Watchman Nee Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
A Loaded Weapon and a Bag of Chips: Rethinking How We Drive (w/ Jennifer Eikenhorst) - Ep. 144
April 7, 2025 - 55 min
Driving is a privilege, not a right. Yet many underestimate the life-altering consequences of one split-second distraction behind the wheel. In this deeply moving episode, Catherine speaks with Jennifer Eikenhorst—author of Left Turn Life Unimagined and host of the Accidental Hope podcast—about the devastating impact of inattentive driving. Jennifer shares her powerful testimony of being involved in a fatal accident, a tragedy that forever altered many lives. This conversation goes beyond statistics and safety tips. It’s a wake-up call to view our vehicles not just as tools for convenience, but as potential weapons—two tons of steel that we command every day, often with casual disregard. Imagine this: You're walking around a room filled with your loved ones—your children, your spouse, your friends—holding a loaded gun in one hand and a bag of chips in the other. You wouldn’t dream of it. Yet, many of us do the equivalent every day when we drive distracted—texting, daydreaming, eating—all while operating a vehicle capable of immense harm. As followers of Christ, we are called to love our neighbor. That includes every pedestrian, cyclist, and fellow driver we encounter. Our driving is more than just a habit—it’s a spiritual responsibility. Every time we take the wheel, we must choose mindfulness, vigilance, and compassion over convenience and distraction. In this eye-opening episode, you’ll learn: Why distractions like voice texting, daydreaming, or even snacking can be deadly. What Jennifer faced legally and emotionally after her accident—and how it reshaped her understanding of accountability and grace. How we can raise the next generation of responsible drivers who see driving not as a right, but as a sacred duty to protect life. One of the most unforgettable moments in the episode is when Jennifer compares driving to handling a loaded weapon. Her story will challenge you to reflect on your own driving habits—and what message you're sending to your children. Call to Action: As Christian parents, let’s redefine driving as an act of love. Let’s teach our children to steward the responsibility of driving with reverence and caution. Let’s model what it means to value every life on the road. Reflect: What small changes can you make to drive more intentionally? Could those changes save a life? Tune in now and join a conversation that could change how you—and your family—approach the road forever. About the Guest: Jennifer Eikenhorst is a mother of four, teacher, and faith-driven speaker whose life was forever changed by a tragic accident. In the aftermath, she found purpose in sharing hope and healing with others facing accidental loss. As the author of Left Turn: Life Unimagined and host of the Accidental Hope podcast, Jen offers a compassionate space for those navigating grief and guilt. She also serves on the advisory council for the Hyacinth Fellowship, supporting those who have unintentionally caused harm. Her journey is a powerful testament to God’s grace, redemption, and the resilience of faith. EPISODE RESOURCES: Other Episodes in this Series: #143 “The Shame We Bury: Finding God in Our Darkest Moments" #142 "When Life Shatters: Finding God in Our Darkest Moments" Jen’s Website & Podcast Jen’s Book: Left Turn: Life Unimagined The Hyacinth Fellowship Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Meet Your Host
Catherine Segars is an award-winning actress and playwright—turned stay-at-home-mom—turned author, speaker, blogger, and motherhood apologist. This homeschooling mama of five has a master’s degree in communications and is earning a master’s degree in Christian apologetics. Catherine helps parents navigate through dangerous secular landmines to establish a sound Biblical foundation for their kids. Author of the e-book Five Myths about Motherhood That Make You Feel Mere, And Why They're Wrong, Catherine is also passionate about helping mothers see their worth in a season when they often feel overwhelmed and irrelevant. You can find Catherine’s blog, dramatic blogcast, and other writings at www.catherinesegars.com and connect with her on Facebook and Instagram.