Raising Rock

Motherhood is beautiful. It's also exhausting. Between the laundry, school pickups, meals, interrupted conversations, sleepless nights, and endless to-do lists, many moms wonder if they're missing what God has for them. What if He's been there all along? In this episode, I'm joined by author Chelsey DeMatteis to discuss her new devotional, Mercy in the Margin, and how God meets mothers in the ordinary moments, unexpected interruptions, messy mistakes, and daily limitations of motherhood. We talk about one of the greatest lies modern moms have been told: that we should be able to do it all. Chelsey reminds us that God never asked us to be limitless. Instead, He invites us to bring our limitations to Him, where His mercy is more than enough. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, struggling with mom guilt, constantly busy, or simply longing to experience God's presence in everyday life, this conversation offers practical encouragement and biblical hope. We discuss: Finding God in the ordinary moments of motherhoodWhy busyness has become a badge of honorThe difference between being busy and being faithfulWhy it's okay to have limitsLetting go of the pressure to do everythingHow God meets us in interruptionsMom guilt and God's graceDiscovering mercy in the middle of mistakesPractical encouragement for overwhelmed Christian momsResting in God's faithfulness during every season of motherhood If you've ever wondered whether God sees you in the dishes, diapers, carpools, or daily routines, this conversation is for you. How to connect with Chelsey: Follow Chelsey on Instagram Visit Chelsey's website ⁠⁠How to connect with Raising Rock: Learn more about ⁠Raising Rock⁠. Follow Raising Rock on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠Pinterest⁠. On our website, you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. At Raising Rock, we thoughtfully and prayerfully vet the guests we invite onto our podcast. While we are unlikely to feature guests whose beliefs or values stand in direct opposition to the mission and principles of Raising Rock, we also recognize that no two individuals or ministries align perfectly on every issue. Some of our guests may hold differing opinions, have varying approaches to certain topics, or share content on their personal platforms that does not fully reflect all of Raising Rock's views and convictions. Featuring a guest on our podcast should not be interpreted as a full endorsement of every belief, opinion, product, or piece of content they have shared. Our desire is to engage in meaningful conversations that encourage families, promote wisdom, and point parents toward raising children with strong character and faith. As always, we encourage our audience to thoughtfully consider all content through the lens of Scripture and with discernment.

How do we raise daughters who know who they are in Christ when the world is constantly telling them who they should be? In this episode, I'm joined by bestselling author Nancy Wilson to discuss one of the biggest challenges facing Christian parents today: raising girls with a secure identity rooted in Jesus instead of culture. We talk about why a daughter's confidence begins long before the teenage years, how mothers can cultivate security from childhood through high school, and why feeling deeply loved at home changes everything. We also tackle many of the questions parents are asking today: Crop topsMakeupFake nailsSpray tansTwo piece bathing suitsModestyFriendshipsSocial media"Snoopervising"Preparing daughters for the teenage yearsBuilding confidence without prideHelping girls find their identity in Christ Rather than offering a list of rules, Nancy shares biblical wisdom for raising daughters whose hearts are anchored in Christ and whose confidence isn't determined by culture. Whether you're raising a preschooler, elementary-aged daughter, tween, or teenager, this conversation will encourage you with practical wisdom for every stage. ⁠⁠How to connect with Raising Rock: Learn more about ⁠Raising Rock⁠. Follow Raising Rock on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠Pinterest⁠. On our website, you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. At Raising Rock, we thoughtfully and prayerfully vet the guests we invite onto our podcast. While we are unlikely to feature guests whose beliefs or values stand in direct opposition to the mission and principles of Raising Rock, we also recognize that no two individuals or ministries align perfectly on every issue. Some of our guests may hold differing opinions, have varying approaches to certain topics, or share content on their personal platforms that does not fully reflect all of Raising Rock's views and convictions. Featuring a guest on our podcast should not be interpreted as a full endorsement of every belief, opinion, product, or piece of content they have shared. Our desire is to engage in meaningful conversations that encourage families, promote wisdom, and point parents toward raising children with strong character and faith. As always, we encourage our audience to thoughtfully consider all content through the lens of Scripture and with discernment.

Hormone health has become one of the biggest conversations among women today. From cortisol and cycle syncing to nutrition, supplements, and hormone balancing, there's no shortage of advice. But what if we're asking the wrong first question? In this episode, we're stepping away from the typical hormone health conversation to ask something even more foundational - what does the Bible actually have to say about our health? Joining me is Anna Melendez of The Fresh Pursuit to discuss how Scripture shapes the way we pursue wellness, steward our bodies, manage stress, embrace rest, and trust God in every season. This isn't an episode about the newest supplement or the latest hormone protocol. It's about building a biblical foundation that influences every health decision we make. Whether you're struggling with hormone imbalance, chronic stress, burnout, fatigue, or simply want to honor God with your body, this conversation will encourage you to pursue health with wisdom instead of striving. In this episode we discuss:• What the Bible says about caring for our bodies• Stewardship versus making health an idol• Why Jesus' pace matters for our health• The connection between stress, rest, and women's health• How Christian women can pursue wellness without anxiety• Practical encouragement for building healthy rhythms that glorify God How to connect with Anna: Follow Anna on Instagram @the.fresh.pursuit ⁠⁠How to connect with Raising Rock: Learn more about ⁠Raising Rock⁠. Follow Raising Rock on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠Pinterest⁠. On our website, you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

As Christian parents, it's easy to give every issue the same weight. Screen time. Bedtimes. Music. Smartphones. Lying. Stealing. But should they all be treated the same? In this episode, we're introducing a simple framework that's changing conversations in our own home: Is this a moral issue... or is this our family's preference? We'll talk about the difference between God's clear commands in Scripture and the ways individual families faithfully apply biblical wisdom. More importantly, we'll discuss why that distinction matters and how confusing the two can unintentionally shape the way our children think about God, sin, and obedience. Our goal isn't to raise children who simply follow our family rules. It's to raise children who know how to seek the Lord, understand His Word, and faithfully apply it throughout their lives. We also created a free discussion guide to help your family continue the conversation together. ⁠⁠How to connect with Raising Rock: Learn more about ⁠Raising Rock⁠. Follow Raising Rock on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠Pinterest⁠. ⁠⁠ ⁠ On our website, you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Grief touches every one of us, yet so many of us feel completely unprepared when someone we love experiences a devastating loss. We want to help. We want to say the right thing. But too often, our words unintentionally place even more weight on the person who is already carrying so much. In this episode, we sit down with Pam McConnell, former Vice President at Nike. After walking through the heartbreaking loss of her husband and other profound personal losses, Pam has dedicated her life to helping others navigate grief with compassion, wisdom, and practical care. She challenges one of the most common phrases we say to grieving people—"Let me know what you need"—and offers a more thoughtful, Christlike way to come alongside those who are hurting. Whether you're grieving yourself or simply want to love someone else well, this conversation will equip you with practical ways to show up, meaningful encouragement rooted in empathy, and a better understanding of what people experiencing loss truly need. This is one of those conversations every person should hear—because sooner or later, every one of us will either grieve or walk alongside someone who is. Check out Pam's new podcast ⁠⁠How to connect with Raising Rock: Learn more about ⁠Raising Rock⁠. Follow Raising Rock on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠Pinterest⁠. On our website, you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Divorce changes a family forever, but it doesn't have to define its future. Whether you're walking through a divorce, raising children in a blended family, co-parenting with an ex-spouse, or considering remarriage, this conversation offers biblical wisdom, practical encouragement, and realistic expectations for the road ahead. In this episode, we sit down with Laura Petherbridge, author of The Smart Stepmom and a trusted voice on stepfamilies, remarriage, and divorce recovery. Together, we talk honestly about how divorce impacts children, why blended families are often more challenging than people expect, common mistakes couples make when entering remarriage, and practical ways to build stronger, healthier relationships. Laura's wisdom is compassionate, realistic, and deeply rooted in Scripture. Whether you're a child of divorce, a single parent, a stepparent, remarried, dating after divorce, or simply want to better understand and support families walking this road, this is an episode you'll want to save and share. How to connect with Laura: Visit her website The Smart Stepmom Follow her on Instagram ⁠⁠How to connect with Raising Rock: Learn more about ⁠Raising Rock⁠. Follow Raising Rock on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠Pinterest⁠. ⁠On our website, you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Every photo, funny story, milestone, and parenting moment can now be shared with the world in just a few seconds. But just because we can post something about our children, should we? In this episode, we sit down with Leah Plunkett, author of Sharenthood, for one of the most thoughtful conversations we've had about raising kids in a digital age. Rather than telling parents what they should or shouldn't post, this conversation invites us to think more intentionally about how we steward our children's stories. Together, we explore what it means to protect not only our children's physical privacy, but also their emotional, spiritual, mental, and digital privacy. We discuss the lasting digital footprints we create for our kids, how to think critically before sharing online, and practical questions every parent can ask before hitting "post." Whether you're someone who shares often or rarely, this episode offers biblical wisdom and thoughtful perspective for navigating social media in a way that honors both our children and the responsibility God has given us as parents. How to connect with Leah Plunkett: Follow Leah on Instagram ⁠⁠How to connect with Raising Rock: Learn more about ⁠Raising Rock⁠. Follow Raising Rock on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠Pinterest⁠. ⁠⁠ ⁠ On our website, you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

John Corcoran’s story is almost unbelievable. He graduated from college, became a high school teacher, and spent 17 years in the classroom, all while unable to read. He finally learned to read as an adult, and what happened next turned his greatest struggle into his life’s work. In this episode, we sit down with John, author of The Teacher Who Couldn’t Read and founder of the John Corcoran Foundation, along with his granddaughter Kayla Schiedler, who has spent years working alongside him in literacy. John has shared his story on 20/20, 60 Minutes and The Oprah Winfrey Show, and has spent decades advocating for people who struggle to read. His foundation works to prevent and eradicate illiteracy by helping children and adults learn to read and supporting effective literacy instruction. Kayla grew up around that mission and has made it her own, finding so much joy in helping struggling readers and their families, including ours. This is a fascinating conversation about John’s incredible story, the reading crisis in America, what we misunderstand about kids who struggle to read, and the hope that comes when they finally receive the instruction they need. If you have a child who struggles with reading, or you simply want to better understand how children learn to read, don’t miss this one. How to connect with John and Kayla: Watch The Truth About Reading documentary Follow The John Corcoran Foundation on Instagram Follow The Truth About Reading on Instagram Follow Kayla Schiedler on Instagram For more on the politics and influences that have shaped how reading is taught in America, listen to Sold a Story by journalist Emily Hanford. ⁠⁠How to connect with Raising Rock: Learn more about ⁠Raising Rock⁠. Follow Raising Rock on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠Pinterest⁠. On our website, you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

What if the first few chapters of Genesis shape far more than just what our children believe about creation? In this episode, we're joined by children's author Hannah Pierrou to talk about why Genesis lays the foundation for a child's understanding of identity, purpose, truth, and ultimately the gospel itself. Together we discuss: • Why every child needs a biblical foundation beginning in Genesis • What it means that our children were created on purpose and for a purpose • How the gospel is woven into the story of creation • The true meaning and significance of the rainbow • Helping children understand God's design in an age of confusion • Practical ways to make biblical truth come alive through books, conversations, and everyday moments • Building meaningful bedtime routines that disciple our children Whether your kids are toddlers or elementary-aged, this conversation will encourage you to intentionally lay a biblical foundation that can shape the rest of their lives. If you've ever wondered where to begin when teaching your children a biblical worldview, this episode is a great place to start. How to connect with Hannah: Follow Treehouse Storyteller on Instagram Visit the Treehouse Storyteller website. ⁠⁠How to connect with Raising Rock: Learn more about ⁠Raising Rock⁠. Follow Raising Rock on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠Pinterest⁠. On our website, you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

You want to disciple your kids. You want God's Word to be part of your family's everyday life. But between school, sports, dinner, bedtime, and everything else competing for your attention, family devotions can feel like one more thing you're not doing well enough. What if you started with just three minutes? In this special episode of the Raising Rock Podcast, Ann and Elise introduce Pebbles: A Daily Devotional for Kids, a new Monday-through-Friday audio devotional designed to help families bring biblical truth into the ordinary moments of everyday life. But Pebbles didn't begin as a podcast idea. It began with more than 5,000 devotionals handwritten over fifteen years by Ann's father and Elise's grandfather, Pastor Dick Dresselhaus. Just days before he passed away, an idea emerged: What if the biblical truths he had spent years praying over and sharing with adults could be carried forward to the next generation? That idea became Pebbles. Each episode is less than three minutes and takes a biblical truth, principle, or idea from one of his original One for the Road messages and reshapes it for children, ending with a simple question families can use to keep the conversation going. Listen during breakfast. Turn it on during the drive to school. Play it on the way to practice. Three minutes. One biblical truth. One opportunity to start a conversation that might matter far beyond today. In this episode, Ann and Elise share the story behind Pebbles, why they created it, how families can use it, and why discipling our kids doesn't always have to mean adding something big to an already-full day. Pebbles: A Daily Devotional for Kids is available Monday through Friday on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Find Pebbles on Spotify Find Pebbles on You Tube Find Pebbles on Apple ⁠⁠How to connect with Raising Rock: Learn more about ⁠Raising Rock⁠. Follow Raising Rock on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠Pinterest⁠. ⁠⁠ ⁠ On our website, you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Pornography is one of the biggest discipleship challenges facing this generation. The average age of first exposure continues to drop, and many children don't go looking for pornography. Instead, pornography finds them. So what should parents do? In this episode, I'm joined by Andrew Buck of The Freedom Fight to discuss one of the most important conversations Christian parents need to have. Andrew shares his own story of being exposed to pornography at just 11 years old, the addiction that followed through middle school, high school, and college, and how Christ ultimately brought lasting freedom. Today, Andrew dedicates his life to helping students break free from pornography and sexual addiction while equipping parents to respond with both truth and grace. In this episode we discuss: • What pornography does to the brain• Why exposure is different from addiction• Warning signs your child may be struggling• How pornography affects boys and girls• What to do if your child has been exposed• How to respond if your child confesses an addiction• Practical ways parents can create a safe environment for honest conversations• Why shame is never the path to lasting freedom• The hope that Christ offers for those battling pornography Whether you're parenting young children, tweens, teenagers, or college students, this conversation will equip you to navigate one of the most difficult issues families face today with wisdom, truth, and hope. How to connect with Freedom Fight: Parent Equipping Webinar 30-Day Challenge ⁠⁠How to connect with Raising Rock: Learn more about ⁠Raising Rock⁠. Follow Raising Rock on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠Pinterest⁠. ⁠⁠ ⁠ On our website, you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Talking to your kids about sex can feel overwhelming. When should you start? What should you say? What if you've waited too long? And how do you teach your children about God's design for sex in a culture that's already teaching them something else?This week, we sit down with Kristen Miele, founder of Sex Ed Reclaimed, to talk about one of the most intimidating topics in parenting. Kristen has spent more than 15 years equipping families to have honest, age-appropriate conversations about sex, puberty, pornography, relationships, and God's beautiful design for our bodies.Together, we discuss:• How to talk to your kids about sex without fear or shame• When parents should start talking about sex (it's probably earlier than you think)• Why "the talk" shouldn't be one awkward conversation• What to do if you feel like you've already waited too long• How to create ongoing, age-appropriate conversations about sex• Why parents, not culture, should be the primary voice shaping their children's understanding of sex• How to help your children develop a healthy, biblical understanding of sex, puberty, relationships, and God's designIf the words sex education make you think of uncomfortable classrooms, awkward conversations, or something you'd rather avoid, this episode will completely change your perspective. As Kristen explains, sex education isn't one awkward talk. It's a lifetime of conversations that help our children understand God's beautiful design before the world teaches them a counterfeit.Whether your children are toddlers, elementary-aged, tweens, or teenagers, this conversation will encourage you to start where you are. If you've never talked about sex before, it's not too late. If you've already started, you'll leave with practical ideas for continuing the conversation in a way that builds trust, confidence, and a biblical foundation.Because when it comes to talking about sex, our goal isn't simply to protect our children. It's to prepare them with truth.How to connect with Kristen:Learn more about Sex Ed Reclaimed *use code " ROCKCO" for 20% off the Sex Education curriculumFollow Kristen on Instagram How to connect with Raising Rock: Learn more about ⁠Raising Rock⁠ Follow Raising Rock on ⁠Instagram⁠ Follow Raising Rock on Pinterest⁠ ⁠⁠ ⁠On our website, you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock.On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more.As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer).Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Every child is uniquely created by God, yet it's easy to parent through the lens of our own expectations, frustrations, or fears instead of His truth. In this episode, Bethany Kimsey of Warrior Motherhood joins us to talk about one of the greatest gifts we can give our children: seeing them the way God sees them. Together, we discuss how intentional prayer, praying Scripture, and studying the unique way God designed each child can transform the way we parent, discipline, and lead our families. Whether you're in the middle of toddler tantrums, navigating the teenage years, or simply longing to become a more intentional parent, this conversation will encourage you to slow down, seek God's wisdom, and trust Him to reveal what your child needs most. In this episode, you'll learn: Why praying for your children changes you as much as it changes themHow to pray Scripture over your kids with purposeWhat it means to see your child through God's eyesWhy every child needs a different approach to parenting and disciplineHow to use "The Pause" before responding in challenging momentsPractical ways to build a rhythm of prayer into your home Because sometimes the greatest shift in parenting doesn't begin with changing our child. It begins with asking God to change the way we see them. How to connect with Bethany: ⁠⁠How to connect with Raising Rock: Learn more about ⁠Raising Rock⁠. Follow Raising Rock on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠Pinterest⁠. ⁠⁠ ⁠ On our website, you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Money is an important topic that many parents feel unprepared to discuss and often fail to intentionally prepare their children for. Should kids receive an allowance? Should they tithe? How do we teach generosity, hard work, contentment, and wise stewardship in a world that constantly encourages more, more, more? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Shane Enete of Biola University to discuss why financial literacy is an essential part of discipleship. Together, we explore biblical principles for teaching children about money, practical ways to introduce saving, spending, and giving, and how parents can intentionally shape their children's hearts long before they begin earning their own income. Whether your children are preschoolers or teenagers, this conversation will equip you to raise kids who not only understand money, but who also understand that everything we have ultimately belongs to God. In this episode, we discuss: • Why teaching kids about money is a discipleship issue• Biblical examples of stewardship and financial wisdom• Navigating allowances and earning money• Teaching children to give and tithe joyfully• Practical ways to raise financially responsible kids• Helping children develop contentment in a culture of consumerism Because we are not simply raising children who know how to make money. We are raising future stewards of all that God has entrusted to them. How to connect with Dr Shane: Listen to the Money Storybook Bible Follow Dr Shane on Instagram ⁠⁠How to connect with Raising Rock: Learn more about ⁠Raising Rock⁠. Follow Raising Rock on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠Pinterest⁠. ⁠⁠ ⁠ On our website, you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

How do we build strong families in a broken world? This week, we sit down with Kari Trent Stageberg from Strong Families for a deeply encouraging conversation about brokenness, redemption, parenting, and the intentional choices that help shape healthy, thriving families. Kari shares her powerful testimony of going from broken to blessed, including leaving an abusive relationship and experiencing the unconditional love and support of her parents during one of the most difficult seasons of her life. Her story is a beautiful reminder that God can redeem even our deepest wounds and use them for His glory. We also discuss the unique personalities within our families and relationships, how understanding those differences can strengthen our marriages and parenting, and practical ways parents can intentionally make their children feel deeply loved, seen, and valued. Building on our previous conversation with Dr. John Trent about The Blessing, Kari takes these principles and makes them incredibly practical, discussing: • Meaningful touch and affection• Spending intentional quality time together• Celebrating victories and successes• Walking alongside our children through disappointments and losses• Helping our children feel deeply known, loved, and secure We also talk about repair in parenting, the importance of apologizing to our children, and why humility, repentance, and grace can profoundly shape a child's experience of childhood. Whether you're trying to parent differently than you were raised, navigate difficult family relationships, better understand the personalities within your home, or simply become more intentional as a parent, we pray this conversation encourages you. Topics discussed: • Kari's testimony: from broken to blessed• Leaving an abusive relationship• The unconditional love of parents• Different personalities in families and relationships• Practical ways to intentionally bless your children• Helping children feel deeply loved, seen, and valued• Repair, humility, and apologizing in parenting• Building strong families through God's grace How to connect with Kari: Visit Strong Families on their ⁠website⁠. Visit Strong Families on ⁠Instagram⁠. ⁠⁠How to connect with Raising Rock: Learn more about ⁠Raising Rock⁠. Follow Raising Rock on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠Pinterest⁠. On our website, you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Every parent wants more than outward obedience. We want children whose hearts love what is good, honor God, and choose what is right, even when no one is watching. In this episode, we sit down with parenting author and speaker Ginger Hubbard to talk about one of the biggest shifts parents can make: moving beyond correcting behavior to shepherding the heart. Together, we explore the heart behind some of the most common parenting struggles, including: • Lying • Complaining • Sibling rivalry • Disrespect • Disobedience • Tattling For each behavior, Ginger shares practical, biblical questions parents can ask to help children recognize the heart issue beneath their actions, along with Scripture that points them back to God’s truth. We also share personal stories from our own parenting journey and discuss how God has been teaching us to look beyond behavior modification and pursue lasting heart transformation. If you’ve ever found yourself correcting the same behavior day after day, this conversation will encourage you with practical, gospel-centered tools to help shepherd your child’s heart. Our prayer is that this episode equips you to parent with greater wisdom, grace, and confidence as you point your children to Christ. How to connect with Ginger Hubbard: Learn more about Ginger Hubbard Follow Ginger on Instagram Use code "parenting" for 10% off your order ⁠⁠How to connect with Raising Rock: Learn more about ⁠Raising Rock⁠. Follow Raising Rock on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠Pinterest⁠. On our website, you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Every child longs to know they are loved, valued, accepted, and seen. But in the busyness of everyday life, many parents unintentionally miss opportunities to communicate those life-shaping truths. In this heartfelt conversation, Dr. John Trent, best-selling author, speaker, and founder of StrongFamilies.com shares the timeless biblical message behind The Blessing and why it has transformed families around the world for decades. Growing up in a single-parent home, John understands what it feels like to search for acceptance and belonging. After coming to faith in Christ, he discovered something in Scripture that changed the trajectory of his life: God's design for passing a blessing from one generation to the next. Together, we unpack the five practical elements of a biblical blessing and how every parent, grandparent, and caregiver can intentionally communicate love, identity, security, and purpose to the children in their lives. John's warmth, humor, and wisdom make this conversation feel like sitting across the table from a trusted friend. You'll laugh, you'll be encouraged, and you'll walk away with practical ways to strengthen your relationship with your children—starting today. Whether your children are toddlers, teenagers, or grown adults, it's never too early, or too late, to begin giving them the blessing they were created to receive. In this episode, we discuss: • What "The Blessing" actually is—and why it's deeply rooted in Scripture. • The five elements every child needs to hear and experience. • How your words shape your child's identity and future. • What to do if you didn't receive a blessing growing up. • How to begin creating a legacy of encouragement in your family today. This is one of those conversations you'll want to revisit again and again. How to connect with Dr. John Trent: Visit Strong Families on their website. Visit Strong Families on Instagram. ⁠⁠How to connect with Raising Rock: Learn more about ⁠Raising Rock⁠. Follow Raising Rock on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠Pinterest⁠. ⁠⁠ ⁠ On our website, you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

In this deeply moving episode, we sit down with Julie Fowler of Julie Fowler Ministries to share her powerful testimony of infertility and pregnancy loss. Julie shares her journey through infertility and pregnancy loss, including multiple miscarriages, and how God led her to create resources that support grieving couples. After walking through the heartbreak of losing multiple pregnancies, Julie turned her pain into purpose by creating Bible studies, grief resources, and a ministry dedicated to helping couples navigate the difficult journey of infertility and child loss. Together, we discuss: • How to cope with pregnancy loss and miscarriage• The unique grief that comes with infertility• Why husbands and wives often grieve differently after pregnancy loss• Practical ways to support a friend experiencing pregnancy loss• What not to say to someone walking through infertility or grief• Finding hope in God during seasons of unanswered prayers• How faith can sustain you through grief and suffering• Resources, Bible studies, and encouragement for grieving parents Whether you have personally experienced infertility, miscarriage, stillbirth, or pregnancy loss, or you're looking for ways to support someone you love, this conversation offers biblical encouragement, practical guidance, and hope for the journey ahead. You are not alone. Connect with Julie Fowler Ministries and explore her resources for pregnancy loss support, infertility encouragement, grief resources, and Christian Bible studies for healing. ⁠⁠How to connect with Raising Rock: Learn more about ⁠Raising Rock⁠. Follow Raising Rock on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠Pinterest⁠. On our website, you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

What happens when unimaginable grief meets the transforming power of Jesus? In this week's episode, we sit down with Matthew McDonough for a powerful conversation about faith, healing, child loss, Christian wellness, and the redemptive love of Christ. Matthew shares his personal testimony, including the heartbreaking experience of losing a child and the ways God met him in the depths of grief. Together, we discuss how Jesus brings hope in suffering, the ongoing process of sanctification, and what it means to trust God through life's hardest seasons. We also explore practical topics like health and wellness from a biblical perspective, hormone health for men and women, family wellness, nutrition, and how caring for our bodies can support our spiritual, emotional, and physical well-being. Matthew's passion for Jesus is contagious, and his story is a powerful reminder that no one is beyond God's grace, healing, or redemption. Whether you're navigating grief, searching for hope after loss, curious about Christian health and wellness, or simply wanting to grow deeper in your faith, this conversation will encourage and challenge you. In this episode, we discuss: Christian testimony and life transformationLosing a child and faith through griefHope and healing after lossThe power of prayer and trusting God in sufferingJesus' saving and transforming powerSanctification and spiritual growthChristian health and wellnessHormone health for men and womenFamily health and healthy habits for kidsNutrition, lifestyle changes, and whole-body wellnessBiblical encouragement for difficult seasonsHow to connect with Matthew: Learn more about Matthew and Fear the Lamb on instagram. Use this link to shop Matthew's hat and other merch items at 15% off. ⁠⁠How to connect with Raising Rock: Learn more about ⁠Raising Rock⁠. Follow Raising Rock on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠Pinterest⁠. ⁠⁠ ⁠ On our website, you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

This week on the Raising Rock Podcast, I sit down with Katy Faust, founder of Them Before Us and author of Raising Conservative Kids in a Woke City. This episode originally aired in 2025, but in light of recent headlines surrounding abortion, Down syndrome, and growing conversations about human value, we felt it deserved another moment in the spotlight. At the heart of Katy's work is a simple but challenging question: What happens when the desires of adults conflict with the rights and needs of children? Together, we discuss children's rights, God's design for family, and some of the most difficult cultural questions facing parents today. We talk about IVF, surrogacy, donor conception, same-sex parenting, and why Katy believes every child has a right to be known and loved by their mother and father whenever possible. We also discuss how parents can raise children with biblical convictions in a culture that increasingly challenges those beliefs. Katy shares practical wisdom from her book, including ways to help children think critically, engage culture with confidence, and stand firm in truth without losing compassion. Whether you agree with every conclusion or are hearing these ideas for the first time, this conversation will challenge you to think deeply about family, human dignity, and what it means to put children first. Topics discussed:• Children's rights and the mission of Them Before Us• IVF, surrogacy, and donor conception• God's design for family• Raising conservative kids in a progressive culture• Teaching children to think biblically• Truth, courage, and compassion in today's world As parents, our goal isn't simply to tell our children what to think. Our goal is to teach them how to think biblically. We hope this conversation helps you do exactly that. How to connect with Katy: Learn more about Them Before Us Learn more about Katy Faust Follow Katy Faust and Them Before Us on Instagram How to connect with Raising Rock: Learn more about ⁠Raising Rock⁠. Follow Raising Rock on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠Pinterest⁠. ⁠ On our website, you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

What do you say when your child asks, "How do we know God is real?" Or, "Did Jesus really rise from the dead?" What about the question at the foundation of so many others: "Is there such a thing as truth?" In this episode of Raising Rock, Elise sits down with Tricia Scribner of Dr. Nana Talks and Mama Bear Apologetics to discuss why apologetics matters for families and how parents can begin equipping their children to think critically about faith, truth, and Christianity. Whether you've never studied apologetics before or you're looking for practical ways to have deeper conversations with your kids, this episode will help you navigate some of the biggest questions your children may face. Together, they discuss how to teach kids to defend their faith, how to evaluate competing truth claims, evidence for the existence of God, the historical case for the resurrection of Jesus Christ, and why a strong biblical worldview matters in today's culture. More importantly, this conversation is not just for your children. It is for you, too. If you've ever wrestled with questions about faith, doubted your ability to answer hard questions, or wanted greater confidence in what you believe and why you believe it, this episode will encourage and strengthen your own faith journey. Topics discussed include: • Christian apologetics for parents• How to teach apologetics to children• Is there objective truth?• How do we know God exists?• Evidence for the resurrection of Jesus• Defending the Christian faith• Raising children with a biblical worldview• Critical thinking and faith• Answering tough questions about Christianity• Faith-based parenting and discipleship This is a conversation every Christian parent should hear because the goal is not simply to teach our children what to believe, but to help them understand why it is true. How to connect with Tricia: Learn more about Tricia Follow Tricia on Instagram Learn more about Mama Bear Apologetics Follow Mama Bear Apologetics on Instagram ⁠⁠How to connect with Raising Rock: Learn more about ⁠Raising Rock⁠. Follow Raising Rock on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠Pinterest⁠. On our website, you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Motherhood requires relinquishing from the verybeginning. We relinquish sleep. Time. Comfort. Control. Plans. Dreams. And eventually, even our hearts as our children grow and leave home. And as much as we relinquish, there is still this subtlethread of ownership that runs through motherhood. That our children belong to us. In this episode, Elise shares the message she gave onMother’s Day on what it means to truly surrender our children to the Lord through the story of Hannah in 1 Samuel. Because surrendered motherhood is not just about givingthings up. It is about settling ownership. Our children are not ours to control. They are entrusted to us by God to steward. This conversation dives into:• Why control keeps us anxious• How convenience quietly shapes our parenting• Why comfort can become an idol• How to teach our children discernment instead of dependence on us• What it practically looks like to parent with open hands Surrendered Motherhood is hard. A surrendered life is hard. But not surrendering to the Lord is a different kind of hard. Pick your hard.   ⁠⁠How to connect with Raising Rock: Learn more about ⁠Raising Rock⁠. Follow Raising Rock on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠Pinterest⁠. ⁠⁠ ⁠ On our website, you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Do you ever feel like your happiness depends on everything going your way? As moms, we are constantly managing schedules, meeting needs, and carrying the responsibilities of home and family. Without even realizing it, our peace can become tied to our expectations, our plans, and our desire for things to unfold the way we hoped. When that happens, our focus subtly shifts. Instead of magnifying Jesus, we begin magnifying our own needs, our frustrations, and our circumstances. In this episode of the Raising Rock Podcast, we are joined by author Morgan Krueger to discuss her new book, Made to Magnify: Choosing to Live for Jesus When Everything Tells You to Live for Yourself. Together, we talk about the daily battle between living for our own comfort and happiness and living for the glory of God. Morgan shares biblical encouragement for Christian moms who want to trust God more deeply, surrender control, and find lasting peace by fixing their eyes on Christ. If you have ever felt overwhelmed when life does not go according to plan, this conversation will remind you that true joy is not found in getting everything you want. It is found in making much of Jesus. You were not made to magnify yourself. You were made to magnify Him. How to connect with Morgan: Learn more about Morgan How to connect with Raising Rock: Learn more about ⁠Raising Rock⁠. Follow Raising Rock on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠Pinterest⁠. ⁠ On our website, you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussion of infant loss and grief. In this deeply moving conversation, Elise sits down with Lauren Cummings Johnson of Choose Joy Nursing to hear her powerful testimony of faith in the midst of unimaginable loss. Lauren shares the story of her daughter, Lily Ann, who was diagnosed with a rare illness and passed away as an infant. She opens up about what it looked like to walk in obedience when God asked her to surrender the child she loved so deeply, how she and her husband navigated grief, and the ways the Lord has sustained them through heartbreak. Lauren also shares what it has been like to carry grief while preparing to welcome her son—holding both sorrow and hope at the same time. In this episode, we discuss: Infant loss and grieving as a Christian motherTrusting God when His plan is painfulWalking in obedience during sufferingPregnancy after lossFinding hope in ChristChoosing joy and extending grace in every seasonIf you are walking through infant loss, miscarriage, pregnancy after loss, or deep grief of any kind, we pray this conversation reminds you that God is near to the brokenhearted and faithful in every season. How to connect with Lauren: Learn more about Lauren. Learn more about Choose Joy Nursing. Listen to the song that Lauren discusses on the show. How to connect with Raising Rock: Learn more about ⁠Raising Rock⁠. Follow Raising Rock on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠Pinterest⁠. On our website, you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Note for parents: This episode is intended for adults and is not appropriate to listen to with children in the room. This is one of those conversations you might wish you didn’t have to have… but you absolutely do. We’re joined by Greta Eskridge, author of It's Time to Talk to Your Kids About Porn, to talk about a reality every parent is facing: it’s not if our kids will be exposed… it’s when. And it’s no longer just something “out there.” It’s showing up through apps, through friends, and through completely unexpected places. Gone are the days of thinking we can simply protect our kids by limiting access. So what do we do? In this conversation, we talk about when to start, what to actually say without fear or shame, and how to prepare our kids instead of only trying to protect them. We also walk through the subtle ways exposure is happening today and how we can raise kids who respond with truth and discernment. How to connect with Greta: Learn more about Greta on her Instagram ⁠⁠How to connect with Raising Rock: Learn more about ⁠Raising Rock⁠. Follow Raising Rock on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠Pinterest⁠. ⁠⁠ ⁠ On our website, you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

This week, we’re having a real conversation about something that can quietly shape our parenting more than we realize… pride. Not the obvious kind, but the subtle kind. The kind that shows up in our thoughts, in our reactions, and even in the way we talk about our kids. Because if we’re honest, a lot of our parenting isn’t just about our children. It’s about us. What people think. How it reflects on us. What it says about us. And without even realizing it, that can start to shape the words we speak over them. We might downplay their strengths. Highlight their struggles. Try to get ahead of judgment before it ever comes. But our kids are listening. And over time, those words don’t just pass by… they take root. And if there’s even a chance that our kids become what they hear us say about them, it’s worth asking—what are we actually speaking? ⁠⁠How to connect with Raising Rock: Learn more about ⁠Raising Rock⁠. Follow Raising Rock on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠Pinterest⁠. ⁠⁠ ⁠ On our website, you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

We’re told it’s harmless. That it’s deserved. That motherhood is so hard, you need something to take the edge off. But what if that message is shaping more than we realize? In this conversation with Ericka Andersen, we talk about what it looks like to see alcohol differently. Not just sobriety, but a shift in perspective that changes everything. Because there are things we don’t always talk about. The moments you miss when you’re just a little buzzed. The subtle cues from your husband. The small, meaningful things your kids say and do. Even the quiet ways the Lord is speaking that are easy to overlook when your mind isn’t fully clear. And over time, something that started as a way to relax can quietly become something you feel like you need, shaping patterns in your mind and body. This episode isn’t about shame. It’s about awareness. It’s about asking honest questions. What would it look like to be fully present in motherhood, with clarity instead of coping? You may never think about alcohol the same way again. Listen to “Breaking the Wine Mom Myth” now. How to connect with Ericka Andersen: Learn more about Ericka on Instagram How to connect with Raising Rock: Learn more about ⁠Raising Rock⁠. Follow Raising Rock on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠Pinterest⁠. On our website, you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Some of the most dangerous sins don’t look like sin. They’re subtle, respectable, and easy to excuse. In this conversation with Tilly Dillehay, we talk about the sins women are especially vulnerable to, the ones that quietly take root in the heart. Her book, My Dear Hemlock, is inspired by The Screwtape Letters, but written for the modern woman. It imagines a woman’s life being analyzed and targeted by a demon, exposing just how subtle and strategic deception can be. And that’s exactly what we unpack in this episode. We talk about envy that keeps us focused on what others have, lust that isn’t always physical but emotional and rooted in discontent, a quiet sense of superiority especially toward our husbands, and a desire to appear holy without actually wanting to be holy. We talk about how deception works, not by pulling us away all at once, but by slowly reshaping what we love. How easy it is to love the appearance of something, the appearance of goodness, the appearance of faith, while our hearts are being formed by something entirely different. And underneath all of it is this: most of our battles are invisible. But they are not small, and they are not neutral. This is a conversation about the heart, because that’s where the real battle is. How to connect with Tilly: Learn more about Tilly Dillehay and follow her on Instagram. How to connect with Raising Rock: Learn more about ⁠Raising Rock⁠. Follow Raising Rock on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠Pinterest⁠. ⁠⁠ ⁠ On our website, you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

I have followed Blake for years, and she was someone I consistently went to for her take on politics and what was happening in the world. So when her content suddenly shifted, I noticed immediately. The commentary was gone. In its place was motherhood, home, and a quieter kind of presence that felt different in the best way. I had to ask her why. Her answer honestly stopped me. Obedience. This conversation felt like sitting down with a friend I have known forever. We talk about what it looks like to walk away from something you are good at and known for because God is asking you to, and what it takes to actually trust Him when you do not have the full picture. Blake shares the heart behind that shift, what obedience has looked like in her real life, and how it has shaped her as a wife, a homeschool mom, and a content creator. We also get into being high capacity women, what happens when that capacity gets redirected, and some of the behind the scenes of creating content in a world that constantly pulls for more. This one is honest, grounding, and just really, really good. How to connect with Blake: Learn more about Blake. Follow Blake on Instagram. ⁠⁠How to connect with Raising Rock: Learn more about ⁠Raising Rock⁠. Follow Raising Rock on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠Pinterest⁠. ⁠⁠ ⁠ On our website, you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

We recorded this episode because of you. After sharing our recent movie reviews, we received so many thoughtful messages from moms who are trying to navigate what their kids watch and how to think about entertainment in a way that feels wise and intentional. This conversation is not about creating a list of what you should or should not allow in your home. It is about stepping back and asking better questions. In this episode, my mom and I talk through some familiar titles like Harry Potter, Star Wars, Frozen, and Moana, but more importantly, we talk about the why behind what we choose to watch. Just because we grew up with something or because everyone else is watching it does not automatically make it right for our kids. Entertainment is not neutral, and what our children consume is shaping how they see the world, authority, identity, and truth. Our heart is to encourage you, not overwhelm you. You do not have to get it perfect, but you can be intentional. We share a simple framework to help you think through movies before you press play, and how to use what your kids are watching as an opportunity for conversation, not just consumption. Because at the end of the day, we are not just raising kids who watch. We are raising kids who think, who discern, and who are rooted in truth. ⁠⁠How to connect with Raising Rock: Learn more about ⁠Raising Rock⁠. Follow Raising Rock on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠Pinterest⁠. ⁠⁠ ⁠ On our website, you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

We had such a meaningful conversation with Laurie Krieg, author of Raising Wise Kids in a Sexually Broken World, about one of the most important responsibilities we have as parents…talking to our kids about the world they’re growing up in. In this episode, we talk about how to approach conversations around sex, LGBTQ topics, and pornography in a way that is thoughtful, grounded, and rooted in truth. Laurie’s heart, and what makes her book so impactful, is that these conversations aren’t guided by culture, they’re guided by the Gospel. The Bible should be our foundation, and she does such a beautiful job showing parents how to actually live that out in real, everyday conversations with our kids. We also talk about how to teach something our kids don’t naturally have yet…discernment. Not fear. Not avoidance. But wisdom. How to be the first voice shaping what they hear, how to guide them before the world does, and how to help them navigate what they will inevitably encounter. This isn’t always easy to talk about, but it matters. And this conversation gives practical ways to begin. If you’ve ever wondered when to start or what to say, this episode will help you take that first step. How to connect with Laurie Krieg: Learn more about Laurie Krieg Follow Laurie Krieg on Instagram How to connect with Raising Rock: Learn more about ⁠Raising Rock⁠. Follow Raising Rock on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠Pinterest⁠. On our website, you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

We are so excited to welcome David Thomas and Sissy Goff from Raising Boys & Girls to The Raising Rock Podcast. David and Sissy have spent decades counseling children and equipping parents, and their newest book, Capable: A Guide to Raising Kids Who Know They Can Do Hard Things, continues that mission. In this episode, we talk about something every parent wants for their children: capability. How do we raise kids who can face challenges, navigate disappointment, and grow through difficulty instead of shrinking from it? David shares a powerful insight from his work with boys: when something goes wrong, many boys instinctively swing between blame and shame. They either point the finger outward or turn the criticism inward. The healthy middle ground we want to teach them is ownership. Sissy also explains how many girls tend to move toward perfectionism, placing immense pressure on themselves to get everything right. Throughout the conversation, they offer practical wisdom for parents on: • Raising children who are capable and resilient• Helping kids navigate big emotions and setbacks• Teaching ownership instead of blame or shame• Guiding boys and girls through their different emotional patterns If you want to raise kids who can face the world with confidence, humility, and courage, this conversation is full of wisdom. How to connect with Raising Boys and Girls Learn more about Raising Boys and Girls Follow Raising Boys and Girls on Instagram Follow Sissy on Instagram How to connect with Raising Rock: Learn more about ⁠Raising Rock⁠. Follow Raising Rock on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠Pinterest⁠. ⁠ On our website, you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

In this episode of the Raising Rock Podcast, we sit down with author, speaker, and parenting expert Arlene Pellicane to talk about one of the biggest challenges facing families today—technology and our kids. Arlene is the host of the Happy Home Podcast and the author of several books including Screen Kids, Parents Rising, Calm, Cool, and Connected, Growing Up Social (co-written with Dr. Gary Chapman), and 31 Days to Becoming a Happy Mom. Her work focuses on helping families strengthen their relationships, build healthy habits, and raise children who love God and value what’s right. She has appeared on outlets like the Today Show, Fox & Friends, and Focus on the Family. In our conversation, we talk honestly about the reality of raising kids in a screen-saturated world and what parents can actually do about it. Together we discuss: • How to recognize signs of screen or gaming addiction in kids• The subtle ways technology begins to take over childhood• Why limits and boundaries actually help children thrive• Practical ways parents can reset their family’s technology habits• What healthy technology use can look like in your home This conversation is full of practical wisdom and encouragement for parents who want to raise thoughtful, grounded kids in a digital age. How to connect with Arlene: Learn more about Arlene. Follow Arlene on Instagram. On our website, you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

As we close out Season 1, we’re taking time to pause, reflect, and give thanks. In this episode, we share what the Lord has been placing on our hearts through Psalm 73—a reminder to keep our eyes fixed on Him, especially when the world feels loud, confusing, or heavy. We reflect on God’s faithfulness over this past season and express deep gratitude for the ways He has led, sustained, and grown us through this podcast. We also invite you behind the scenes into some of the quiet, private moments that make up the DNA of Raising Rock—moments of prayer, surrender, obedience, and growth that often happen off-mic but shape everything we do. Above all, this episode is simply a heartfelt thank-you. We are so grateful for what the Lord has done through this podcast and through each of you who has joined us along the way. Our prayer is that Season 1 has encouraged your heart, pointed you back to Christ, and reminded you that He is near. We’re looking ahead with expectation as we prepare to launch Season 2 in March 2026, trusting the Lord to continue leading every step. Thank you for listening, for sharing, and for being part of this community. We pray you are richly blessed by Season 1—and we can’t wait to continue this journey together. If you loved this episode, it would mean so much if you’d leave a 5-star review and share it with a friend. Follow along on Instagram at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@raisingrockco⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.raisingrockco.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠—our website is now live! There you’ll find our products and merch, parenting toolsand resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover freedownloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20%off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.    

In this special Christmas episode, Elise Orozco shares a message given at the Mission Church Women’s Christmas Tea in Carlsbad. If you loved this episode, it would mean so much if you’d leave a 5-star review and share it with a friend. Follow along on Instagram at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@raisingrockco⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.raisingrockco.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠—our website is now live! There you’ll find our products and merch, parenting toolsand resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover freedownloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20%off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.    

In this deeply encouraging conversation, Elise is joined by Elizabeth Mosser from Intentional Parents, a ministry devoted to guiding families in the way of Jesus through relationships, wholeness, and everyday life. This episode is all about motherhood. Together, Elise and Elizabeth talk honestly about the real challenges mothers face: navigating our limitations, carrying the invisible pressures culture places on us, walking through grief or pain, processing disappointment, and learning to trust God in the moments we feel overwhelmed or inadequate. Elizabeth offers practical, Spirit-led wisdom for how to let God meet you in every season of motherhood — not by striving harder, but by inviting the Holy Spirit into your daily rhythms, allowing Him to lead, strengthen, and transform you from the inside out. If you’ve ever felt tired, stretched thin, or unsure of how to carry what’s in front of you, this conversation is for you. Connect with Elizabeth and Intentional Parents:– Website: intentionalparents.org– Instagram: @intentional_parents Their podcast, The Intentional Parents podcast can be found on Spotify, Apple or wherever you listen to your podcasts. If you loved this episode, it would mean so much if you’d leave a 5-star review and share it with a friend. Follow along on Instagram at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@raisingrockco⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.raisingrockco.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠—our website is now live! There you’ll find our products and merch, parenting toolsand resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover freedownloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20%off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.    

In this episode, I sit down with Abbie Halberstadt — mama of ten, author, and creator of M Is for Mama — to talk about the raw, real struggles many of us moms walk through: mom-guilt, impatience, that tendency to snap when we’re tired or overwhelmed, and how what’s in our hearts so often spills out inour words and actions. We dig into how to guard our hearts, lean on grace, and let our identity in Christ shape our motherhood — rather than guilt, perfectionism, or comparison. Abbie brings her own story, biblical wisdom, anddecades of real-life motherhood to the table, helping moms reclaim confidence, kindness, and peace in the daily chaos. Books by Abbie Halberstadt:• M Is for Mama: A Rebellion Against Mediocre Motherhood — a call to embrace biblical motherhood with grace and purpose.• You Bet Your Stretch Marks: Finding Beauty and Worth in the Ways Motherhood Marks Our Bodies and Souls — a powerfulreminder of the beauty, worth, and dignity of motherhood. If you’re a mom navigating guilt, overwhelm, or those messy “mom feels,” this episode is for you. Tune in — and remember:your value isn’t in Instagram-worthy moments or perfect schedules — it’s in Christ and the rhythms He gives. Find Abbie:Instagram: @m.is.for.mamaWebsite: www.misformama.netPick up her books — search on your favorite retailer or follow the links on her site. If you loved this episode, it would mean so much if you’d leave a 5-star review and share it with a friend. Follow along on Instagram at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@raisingrockco⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ andvisit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.raisingrockco.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠—our website is now live! There you’ll find our products and merch, parenting toolsand resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover freedownloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20%off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify,YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.    

In this episode, I sit down with my dear friend Anna Melendez—chiropractor, health and wellness expert, and the heart behind The Fresh Pursuit. Anna’s story is raw, honest, and deeply hopeful. Over the last few years, she has walked through the heartbreaking journey of miscarriage and repeated loss, a road far too many women know but rarely talk about openly. Anna shares how she navigated grief, mourning, and the quiet questions that come with shattered expectations. But she also shares where she found strength: in the presence of Jesus, in His nearness, and in the slow, steady work of healing only He can do. This conversation is tender, real, and full of encouragement for any woman who has faced loss, waited in the unknown, or found herself in seasons she never imagined. Anna reminds us that even when life breaks us open, God meets us with compassion, grace, and a fresh invitation to draw near. Whether you’ve experienced miscarriage personally or love someone who has, this episode holds space, offers comfort, and points us back to the One who never wastes our pain. You can connect with Anna Melendez and follow her journey at:Instagram: @the.fresh.pursuit If you loved this episode, it would mean so much if you’d leave a 5-star review and share it with a friend. Follow along on Instagram at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@raisingrockco⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.raisingrockco.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠—our website is now live! There you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

In this week’s episode, we sit down with Dr. Timothy Dresselhaus—a retired Chief of Medicine and lifelong student of Scripture—for a deep, theological conversation about faith, family, and making God’s Word the heartbeat of our homes. We talk about: Why theology matters for every family (not just scholars) How to make Bible study a rhythm your family actually looks forward to Helping children understand why they believe—not just what they believe How to stay anchored in truth in a shifting culture Dr. Dresselhaus brings years of study, teaching, and real-life wisdom to the table, offering practical insight for parents who want their children to grow in truth and character. Whether you’re starting family devotionals or ready to go deeper, this episode will challenge and encourage you. Want to explore Dr. Dresselhaus’s work further? Here are a few of his books: Seven Deadly Lies of Our Culture & Church The Crimson Thread: Tracing the Story of Jesus from Genesis to Revelation Preeminent Jesus: My Father the Pastor If you loved this episode, it would mean so much if you’d leave a 5-star review and share it with a friend. Follow along on Instagram at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@raisingrockco⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.raisingrockco.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠—our website is now live! There you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

This week on the Raising Rock Podcast, Elise sits down with Katy Faust — founder of Them Before Us, an organization that boldly champions children’s rights above adult desires. Katy is a warrior for truth in a world that’s lost its moral compass. With conviction and compassion, she breaks down some of today’s most difficult cultural topics — from why IVF can violate children’s rights, to her hope that Obergefell v. Hodges (the ruling legalizing same-sex marriage) will one day be overturned. Her message isn’t about stirring division, but about calling us back to God’s design for family, marriage, and human flourishing. Katy’s book, Raising Conservative Kids in a Woke City, is a must-read for every parent who wants to equip their children to stand firm in truth. It’s full of age-based scripts, word tracks, and practical tools for talking about gender, socialism, economics, abortion, and more — all through a biblical lens. This episode will challenge you — and encourage you.Listen with an open heart, and be reminded that truth spoken with courage and love has the power to change a generation. If you loved this episode, it would mean so much if you’d leave a 5-star review and share it with a friend. Follow along on Instagram at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@raisingrockco⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.raisingrockco.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠—our website is now live! There you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

This week, Elise sits down with her sweet friend Lauren Gilmore, host of The Little Lights Podcast — a storytelling podcast designed to help children learn and live out the fruit of the Spirit. Lauren shares the heart behind Little Lights: why she started creating Christ-centered stories for kids, how these stories meet children in their everyday struggles, and practical ways parents can help their little ones grow in love, joy, peace, and more. Whether your child is navigating big emotions or learning to walk in kindness, this conversation will remind you that God’s Word lights the way — even for the littlest hearts. If you loved this episode, it would mean so much if you’d leave a 5-star review and share it with a friend. Follow along on Instagram at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@raisingrockco⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.raisingrockco.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠—our website is now live! There you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Last week, you heard Mike Conway’s story — a powerful testimony of addiction, redemption, and the hard reality of relapse. This week, we continue the conversation with his wife, Sara Conway. When Mike relapsed, their story didn’t end there. Sara stood firmly on the promises of God. She prayed, believed, and clung to the hope that the Lord had a plan for their family even in the darkest season. She is a stunning example of what it means to be a wife who loves faithfully — for better or for worse. This isn’t a polished, picture-perfect story. It’s raw. It’s real. It’s what happens when grace meets brokenness and God writes a redemptive story through it. If this episode touched your heart or you’d like to support Teen Challenge San Diego, ⁠visit their website here⁠. If you loved this episode, it would mean so much if you’d leave a 5-star review and share it with a friend. Follow along on Instagram at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@raisingrockco⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.raisingrockco.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠—our website is now live! There you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

This week’s conversation is one you won’t forget. Mike Conway’s story is raw, powerful, and drenched in God’s mercy. From addiction… to becoming a pastor… and then facing the darkness of relapse while in ministry — Mike knows what it means to hit rock bottom. But he also knows the relentless, pursuing love of Jesus. This is Part 1 of a two-part series. In this episode, Mike shares his journey of brokenness and redemption — the highs, the lows, and the grace that met him in the middle of it all. ✨ Next week, Part 2 continues with his wife, Sara — a powerful testimony of faith, forgiveness, and walking through the valley together. If this episode touched your heart or you’d like to support Teen Challenge San Diego, visit their website here. If you loved this episode, it would mean so much if you’d leave a 5-star review and share it with a friend. Follow along on Instagram at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@raisingrockco⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.raisingrockco.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠—our website is now live! There you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

In this heartfelt conversation, I sit down with my friend Mia Elliott — host of Was That Too Much?, interior designer, and all-around amazing human — to talk about the real stuff: motherhood, infertility, growing up in the church, and learning to walk through challenges without becoming bitter. It’s one of those cozy, honest, heart-level conversations that reminds you that you’re not alone. 🌿 If you’ve ever wrestled with waiting, wondered where God is in the hard seasons, or just needed a little encouragement for your own journey, this one’s for you. If you loved this episode, it would mean so much if you’d leave a 5-star review and share it with a friend. Follow along on Instagram at ⁠⁠⁠⁠@raisingrockco⁠⁠⁠⁠ and visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.raisingrockco.com⁠⁠⁠⁠—our website is now live! There you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Romance novels are often seen as harmless entertainment, but in this episode we take a closer look at the silent ways they shape women’s hearts, minds, and relationships. These stories promise escape and excitement, but many quietly erode joy, peace, and contentment—often leaving women dissatisfied with real life and real intimacy. We talk honestly about why explicit romance novels function like pornography for women, setting up unrealistic expectations, distorting God’s design for love, and robbing us of the ability to fully cherish the relationships we’ve been given. We also explore the double standard: men are shamed for pornography, but women are often excused when turning to romance novels for the same kind of escape. This episode isn’t about shame—it’s about freedom. Together we uncover the lies, bring them into the light, and talk about how to cultivate hearts that are rooted in truth, satisfied in Christ, and able to experience genuine peace and intimacy in the relationships God has entrusted to us. If you loved this episode, it would mean so much if you’d leave a 5-star review and share it with a friend. Follow along on Instagram at ⁠⁠⁠@raisingrockco⁠⁠⁠ and visit ⁠⁠⁠www.raisingrockco.com⁠⁠⁠—our website is now live! There you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Heidi St. John is a nationally recognized speaker, author, and host of The Heidi St. John Podcast. She has been encouraging moms for decades with her wisdom, humor, and honesty about faith, family, and culture. In this bonus episode, Heidi joins us to speak directly to the hearts of mothers navigating difficult seasons. We talk about homeschooling, daily rhythms that bring peace, how to overcome seasons of loss or discouragement, and how to keep moving forward when life feels overwhelming. Heidi’s words are practical, heartfelt, and rooted in Scripture—reminding us that God is faithful no matter what we face. Whether you’re walking through heartache or just needing a fresh dose of encouragement, this conversation will strengthen and uplift you. Connect with Heidi on Instagram: @heidistjohnFollow her ministry: @faiththatspreaksListen to The Heidi St. John Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify If you loved this episode, it would mean so much if you’d leave a 5-star review and share it with a friend. Follow along on Instagram at ⁠⁠@raisingrockco⁠⁠ and visit ⁠⁠www.raisingrockco.com⁠⁠—our website is now live! There you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Greg Stier is the founder of Dare 2 Share Ministries and one of the most powerful storytellers I have ever met. His story about his family and background is fascinating—you’ll be hooked from the start. Saved at a young age, Greg later led his mother to the Lord, and from there, God set him on a path that has impacted millions. Greg’s passion is clear: mobilizing others to share the gospel. He has a gift for demystifying evangelism—making it accessible for anyone to share the good news of Jesus Christ. From age 5 to 55 and beyond, Greg believes everyone can do it. In this episode, he shares practical tips for teaching a young child, an elementary student, or a teenager how to confidently share their faith. His approaches are simple, easy to remember, and immediately applicable for families. You’ll walk away encouraged, equipped, and inspired to live on mission in your own home and community. Learn more about Greg and his ministry at Dare 2 Share. There you will find resources like How To Share The Gospel and Greg's book, Radical Like Jesus: 21 Challenges to Live a Revolutionary Life (also on Amazon). You can also join the movement on November 8 for Day of Global Youth Evangelism If you loved this episode, it would mean so much if you’d leave a 5-star review and share it with a friend. Follow along on Instagram at ⁠@raisingrockco⁠ and visit ⁠www.raisingrockco.com⁠—our website is now live! There you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

In this episode, I sit down for a real conversation with Suzanne Venker—author, relationship coach, and bold cultural commentator who never shies away from saying what she thinks about life, love, and the choices women face. Suzanne has spent years challenging the narrative that women should “have it all” by showing the cost of constant hustle and the beauty of prioritizing home and family. Her words changed my life in the season when I left my career to be home with my kids, and I couldn’t be more honored to have her as a guest. We talk about: - Why the “have it all” message doesn’t deliver what it promises. - How women can find freedom and fulfillment in choosing family first. - The cultural lies that leave women burned out, and the truth that sets them free. - The grace to step off the treadmill of comparison and embrace the season you’re in. If you’ve ever felt torn between career and family, or if you’ve wondered whether choosing home means losing yourself, this episode will breathe fresh clarity into your journey. If you loved this episode, it would mean so much if you’d leave a 5-star review and share it with a friend. Follow along on Instagram at @raisingrockco and visit www.raisingrockco.com—our website is now live! There you’ll find our products and merch, parenting tools and resources, and a deeper look into who we are and the heart behind Raising Rock. On the Resources page, you’ll also discover free downloads created just for families—practical tools to help you raise a ROCK, a Playlist For The Heart, and more. As a thank-you for being a podcast listener, enjoy 20% off your first order with code PODCAST20 (one-time use per customer). Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

On this episode of Raising Rock, I sit down with an old friend I grew up with—someone whose story is raw, real, and full of God’s grace. She became a mom at 16, walked through the pain of alcoholism, and knows firsthand the weight of generational sin. Now, as a mom of several kids, she’s choosing to parent with intention and honesty—having the hard conversations about where she and her husband have struggled, while pointing her children to the hope and freedom found in Jesus. This isn’t a polished story—it’s a beautiful one. It’s about cycles being broken, grace stepping in, and what it looks like to raise kids who know the truth of their past but also the power of God’s redemption for their future. If you loved this episode, it would mean so much if you’d leave a 5-star review and share it with a friend. Follow along on Instagram ⁠⁠@raisingrockco⁠⁠ and visit ⁠⁠www.raisingrockco.com⁠⁠ to explore more of our heart and tools for families. Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

This week I get to sit down with someone who has deeply influenced my own journey—my mentor and friend, Jo Dalzell. Jo is a wife, mom of three, grandmother of nine, and one of the most steady examples of faithfulness I know. In this conversation, Jo shares about her early years of marriage as a South African newlywed married to an Irishman, the challenges of immigration, and the struggle of being unequally yoked in her early marriage. Through every difficulty, Jo chose to trust God and keep loving her husband. Today, she’s blessed to see him as a strong man of faith, and together they are a picture of God’s redeeming work in marriage. If you’ve ever felt weary in a hard season—or longed for encouragement that God is still at work—Jo’s story will remind you that He is faithful to carry us through. If you loved this episode, it would mean so much if you’d leave a 5-star review and share it with a friend. Follow along on Instagram ⁠@raisingrockco⁠ and visit ⁠www.raisingrockco.com⁠ to explore more of our heart and tools for families. Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

The messages in today’s music and entertainment industry are shaping an entire generation—and not always for the better. In this episode, I sit down with Chloe, the face behind Make Music Right, an incredible movement dedicated to exposing the destructive messages hidden in popular music and calling parents to action. Together, we unpack how music influences culture, why it matters what our kids listen to, and practical ways families can protect their homes from harmful voices. This conversation is eye-opening, convicting, and filled with hope. If you’ve ever wondered how to guide your kids through the noise of culture, this is one episode you won’t want to miss. ⚠️ Warning: This episode is for adults only and not intended for children. If you loved this episode, it would mean so much if you’d leave a 5-star review and share it with a friend. Follow along on Instagram @raisingrockco and visit www.raisingrockco.com to explore more of our heart and tools for families. Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Whether you homeschool full-time, part-time, or not at all, today’s episode with Kristi Clover is packed with encouragement and practical tips you can use in your home. Kristi is a well-known voice in the homeschooling world — but her wisdom goes far beyond academics. She shares how to intentionally teach your children a Christian worldview, no matter what type of schooling you choose, and how to weave faith into everyday life. For homeschool families, Kristi gives her best advice on where to find curriculum, how to stay organized, and how to make learning joyful. She also points you to the exact resources she uses — from curriculum lists to organization hacks — and shares exclusive discounts for listeners. Connect with Kristi & Explore Her Resources:     •    Main site & all resources: KristiClover.com (https://kristiclover.com)     •    Free Sanity Savers for Moms book: KristiClover.com/sanity (https://kristiclover.com/sanity)     •    All things homeschooling (curriculum, tips, videos & more): KristiClover.com/homeschooling (https://kristiclover.com/homeschooling)     •    Ultimate Homeschool Organization course: HomeschoolOrganization.com (https://homeschoolorganization.com) — Use code CLOVER30 for $30 off (case sensitive)     •    Follow Kristi on Instagram & YouTube: @KristiClover (https://www.instagram.com/kristiclover) If you loved this episode, it would mean so much if you’d leave a 5-star review and share it with a friend. Follow along on Instagram @raisingrockco and visit ⁠www.raisingrockco.com⁠ to explore more of our heart and tools for families. Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

This week on the Raising Rock Podcast, I’m joined again by the lovely Morgan Mullen of @mullendesignco—a stay-at-home mom turned business owner whose journey began with a simple goal: make $1,000 a month to help with groceries. Today, she runs a thriving interior design company, and in Part 2, we dive deeper into how she built it, why she built it, and how she keeps motherhood her first priority. Morgan opens up about the heart behind her business, the intentional choices that allow her to protect family time, and the role gratitude and faith play in balancing entrepreneurship with motherhood. It’s a conversation about chasing your purpose without sacrificing what matters most. If you’ve ever wondered how to pursue your dreams while keeping your family first, this episode will speak right to you. If you loved this episode, it would mean so much if you’d leave a 5-star review and share it with a friend. Follow along on Instagram @raisingrockco and visit www.raisingrockco.com to explore more of our heart and tools for families. Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

This week on the Raising Rock Podcast, I’m joined by the lovely Morgan Mullen of @mullendesignco—a stay-at-home mom turned business owner whose journey started with a simple goal: make $1,000 a month to help with groceries. Today, she runs a thriving interior design company, but what’s even more inspiring is how she’s done it—with gratitude, intention, and family at the center. In Part 1, we talk about the heart behind it all—daily rhythms, staying rooted in what matters, and how gratitude transforms not just your mindset, but your motherhood. We even touch on the importance of protecting childhood in a world that pushes kids to grow up too fast. If you’ve ever wondered how to pursue your purpose without sacrificing your family, this episode will speak right to you. If you loved this episode, it would mean so much if you’d leave a 5-star review and share it with a friend. Follow along on Instagram ⁠@raisingrockco⁠ and visit ⁠www.raisingrockco.com⁠ to explore more of our heart and tools for families. Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, You Tube or wherever you get your podcasts.

What does it really look like to live out your faith when it costs you something? In this episode, I sit down with Tori Jensen, a former first responder who was fired for standing firm in her religious beliefs during the challenges of 2020. Her story isn’t just about what she lost—it’s about what she gained: a deeper faith, stronger convictions, and a clear vision for the kind of courage she wants to model for her children. We talk about how she had honest conversations with her daughters about why she chose faith over fear, why she decided to pursue sobriety, and how spiritual discipline shapes not only our own lives but the lives of our kids. Tori also shares her passion for health and wellness, how she helps other women care for their bodies without making it an idol, and the values she’s working to instill in her children in a world that feels like it’s constantly shifting. This conversation is honest, challenging, and deeply encouraging—especially if you want to raise kids who know what they believe and have the courage to stand firm in it. If you loved this episode, it would mean so much if you’d leave a 5-star review and share it with a friend. Follow along on Instagram ⁠@raisingrockco⁠ and visit ⁠www.raisingrockco.com⁠ to explore more of our heart and tools for families. Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, You Tube or wherever you get your podcasts.

In this special episode—released on his 90th birthday—I sit down with my Papa, the first love of my life and the man who has quietly shaped generations with his steadiness, humility, and faith. A lifelong pastor, husband, father, and counselor, Papa shares the lessons learned from a lifetime of walking closely with the Lord and coming alongside others through their most defining seasons. This conversation is full of simple truth, steady wisdom, and the kind of love that only comes from a life rooted in Christ. You’ll hear why integrity matters, what legacy really means, and what he hopes every family will remember. He’s the epitome of a ROCK—and the heart of our family. Whether you're navigating change, parenting with purpose, or longing to leave a legacy that lasts—this one is for you. If you loved this episode, it would mean so much if you’d leave a 5-star review and share it with a friend. Follow along on Instagram ⁠@raisingrockco⁠ and visit ⁠www.raisingrockco.com⁠ to explore more of our heart and tools for families. Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, You Tube or wherever you get your podcasts.

In part two of Helping Kids Resist Instant Gratification: Why Patience and Endurance Matter, we pick up right where we left off. In a world that prizes comfort, speed, and shortcuts, how do we raise kids who can endure, follow through, and keep their word? In this episode, I sit down with Jocelyn Cooper - pastor’s wife, homeschool mom of four, and one of the wisest mentors in my life - to talk about raising children who can grow into steady, trustworthy young adults. Jocelyn shares insight into why teaching patience and endurance in childhood is essential for shaping future adults who don’t give up when things get hard. This conversation is full of practical wisdom and biblical encouragement - and will challenge and bless any mom who wants to raise kids of strong character in a world that’s always pushing for “right now.” If you loved this episode, it would mean so much if you’d leave a 5-star review and share it with a friend. Follow along on Instagram ⁠@raisingrockco⁠ and visit ⁠www.raisingrockco.com⁠ to explore more of our heart and tools for families. Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, You Tube or wherever you get your podcasts.

In a world that prizes comfort, speed, and shortcuts, how do we raise kids who can endure, follow through, and keep their word? In this episode, I sit down with Jocelyn Cooper - pastor’s wife, homeschool mom of four, and one of the wisest mentors in my life - to talk about raising children who can grow into steady, trustworthy young adults. Jocelyn shares insight into why teaching patience and endurance in childhood is essential for shaping future adults who don’t give up when things get hard. This conversation is full of practical wisdom and biblical encouragement - and will challenge and bless any mom who wants to raise kids of strong character in a world that’s always pushing for “right now.” If you loved this episode, it would mean so much if you’d leave a 5-star review and share it with a friend. Follow along on Instagram ⁠@raisingrockco⁠ and visit ⁠www.raisingrockco.com⁠ to explore more of our heart and tools for families. Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, You Tube or wherever you get your podcasts.

We close the series with what might be the most tender of all the ROCK values—kindness. But don’t mistake it for weakness. In this episode, we explore how true kindness reflects the heart of God and carries quiet strength. In a world that’s increasingly self-focused, we talk about good old-fashioned kindness—why it matters, how it shapes our children, and why we’ve made it a pillar of Raising ROCK.   If you loved this episode, it would mean so much if you’d leave a 5-star review and share it with a friend. Follow along on Instagram ⁠@raisingrockco⁠ and visit ⁠www.raisingrockco.com⁠ to explore more of our heart and tools for families. Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, You Tube or wherever you get your podcasts.

Part three is all about courage—not the loud, showy kind, butthe quiet strength that helps kids do what’s right, even when it’s hard. We talk about how to model true bravery for our children and why, in today’s world, it’s more important than ever to raise kids who can stand firm in truth—even if they have to stand alone. As always with ROCK, it starts in theheart. If you loved this episode, it would mean so much if you’d leave a 5-star review and share it with a friend. Follow along on Instagram ⁠@raisingrockco⁠ and visit ⁠www.raisingrockco.com⁠ to explore more of our heartand tools for families. Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts.

In part two, we dive into a value that’s high on every mom’s radar: obedience. We share personal stories, honest reflections, and real-life moments that have shaped our perspective. Raising kids who can listen and respond with a willing heart isn’t easy—but it’s something we’re all working toward. This conversation is full of grace, laughter, and encouragement for moms who want to cultivate obedience from the inside out. If you loved this episode, it would mean so much if you’d leave a 5-star review and share it with a friend. Follow along on Instagram ⁠@raisingrockco⁠ and visit ⁠www.raisingrockco.com⁠ to explore more of our heart and tools for families. Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, You Tube or wherever you get your podcasts.

In part one of this four-part conversation, my mom and I unpack the first core value of Raising Rock—Respect. We talk about what it really means to honor others, how respect has shifted in our culture, and why teaching our kids to live with consideration and regard for others is so foundational. This episode sets the stage for what ROCK is all about. If you loved this episode, it would mean so much if you’d leave a 5-star review and share it with a friend. Follow along on Instagram ⁠@raisingrockco⁠ and visit ⁠www.raisingrockco.com⁠ to explore more of our heart and tools for families. Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, You Tube or wherever you get your podcasts.

Welcome to the very first episode of the Raising Rock Podcast! In this grace-filled conversation, we open up about why this podcast exists, how it started, and what it means to raise kids with intention in a world that often glorifies chaos. You’ll hear the story behind the name Raising Rock, what it looks like to parent with faith and purpose, and why we believe being present isn’t enough—our kids need direction, virtue, and heart-level change. This isn’t a podcast about perfect parenting. It’s about showing up, even when it’s messy, and choosing to raise kids rooted in truth. Real moms. Real conversation. Real life. If you loved this episode, it would mean so much if you’d leave a 5-star review and share it with a friend. Follow along on Instagram @raisingrockco and visit www.raisingrockco.com to explore more of our heart and tools for families. Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, You Tube or wherever you get your podcasts.