Opting out of technology with Erin Loechner
May 28 • 34:30
Opting out of technology with Erin Loechner
Episode:

Opting out of technology with Erin Loechner

May 28, 2024 • 34:30 • Steph Thurling

Todays episode is one you won't want to miss. Im joined by the delightful and insightful Erin Loechner. Erin began her career as a social media influencer and has since transitioned to a homeschool mama who has completely stepped away from social media. She shares her journey and insights in her new book, The Opt-Out Family: How to Give Your Kids What Technology Cant.

Heres what youll takeaway in todays episode:

  • How to make informed choices about technology use in your family without falling into the trap of tech-bashing.
  • Understanding the influence of social media algorithms and tech companies targeting our children.
  • Erin and I share personal stories and mistakes weve made with tech in our own families.
  • Practical ways to engage your family in activities that are more captivating than any algorithm.

Join us for a refreshing and non-judgmental discussion that will equip you with the tools and encouragement to navigate technology in your family thoughtfully and intentionally.

07:31

The Opt Out Family: Prioritizing Real-Life Connections

14:31

Understanding the Social Media Algorithm

28:36

Teaching Responsible Use and Building Trust in the Digital World

Connect with Erin  here

Resources mentioned:

https://www.optoutfamily.com/

The Opt-Out Family

Dwell Bible

Our Sponsors:
* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Podcast:

The Christian Parenting Podcast

With Steph Thurling
As believing parents, we know how important it is to raise our kids with love and intentionality. We want to give our kids a full picture of God's love for them every day! But some days, it's really hard! We are stretched thin, tired, and often feel unequipped. The Christian Parenting Podcast gives parents the space and resources to set aside perfection and grow into the perfectly imperfect parents God made them to be. Join host Steph Thurling and her guests as they discuss practical tips and spiritual guidance for your parenting journey.
All Episodes:
Apr 15 • 28:08
Gods faithfulness in the midst of grief with Lori Apon

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

Heres what youll hear in today's conversation:

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

(03:05) The Journey of Becoming a Widow

(06:07) Challenges of Single Motherhood

(08:58) Building a Support System

(12:02) Navigating Grief and Community Support

(15:06) The Role of Mentorship in Parenting

(18:02) Faith and Overcoming Fear

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

(23:49) Resources for Parenting Fatherless Kids

Connect with Lori

Raising Fatherless Kids podcast

Perspective Ministries

Resources Mentioned

Moms, Dads, and Grad Gift Guide

Fatherless events and resources

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

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Happy Mammoth and use my code CPPODCAST for a great deal: https://happymammoth.com
* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Apr 8 • 34:14
Helping your kids understand their identity in Christ with Kyle Worley

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

Heres what youll hear in today's conversation:

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

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

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

(02:26) Cultivating Friendship in Family Dynamics

(04:53) Understanding Union with Christ

(10:24) Fellowship as the Goal of Salvation

(16:41) Communicating the Gospel to Children

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

(27:39) Encouragement and Resources for Parents

Connect with Kyle

Home with God book

Instagram

KyleWorley.net

Knowing Faith podcast

Resources Mentioned

Tiny Theologians Podcast

Slugs and Bugs

Kaleidoscope Kids Bibles

Untriggered

Moms, Dads, and Grads Gift Guide

Christian Parenting Podcast

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

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Happy Mammoth and use my code CPPODCAST for a great deal: https://happymammoth.com
* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Apr 1 • 38:57
The Power of Prayer in Every Season with Willa Kane and Sally Breedlove

Hello Friends,

Todays episode was such a gift. Im joined by Willa Kane and Sally Breedlove. Their journeyfrom personal tragedy to launching a global prayer movementleft me deeply inspired, and I know it will move you too.

Here are four key takeaways from this episode:

  • Whether parenting littles or guiding grown children, prayer and scripture remain the foundation.  
  • Everyday momentslike carpool lines or worship musiccan become tools for spiritual growth in your family.  
  • They share honestly about the challenge of being spiritually in sync with your spouse.  
  • There is deep joy in watching faith grow not only in your kids, but also in your grandkids.

Willa and Sally are the co-authors of the Eighth Day Prayers series, a beautifully crafted resource designed to guide families in intentional, scripture-centered prayer. With years of experience as moms (and now grandmothers!), they speak from the heart and from a place of deep wisdom and faith.

This conversation had me teary more than once. I hope it encourages you to lean into prayer and trust Gods faithfulness in every season of parenting.

With love,

Steph

(08:13) The Meaning Behind Eighth Day Prayers

(17:30) The Impact of Consistent Prayer

(22:00) Encouragement for Busy Parents

(23:30) Practical Tips for Engaging with Scripture

(23:49) Finding Quiet Moments in Parenting

(25:31) Utilizing Carpool Time for Spiritual Growth

(26:46) The Impact of Daily Practices on Future Generations

(29:08) The Power of Music in Faith Transmission

(30:15) Observing Faith in the Next Generation

(31:39) Navigating Challenges in Parenting

(33:18) Trusting God Through Difficult Times

(35:42) Leading with Delight in Parenting

(37:05) Reflecting on Parenting Journeys

(41:24) The Importance of God's Delight in Us

(43:32) Sharing Resources for Spiritual Growth

Resources Mentioned:

Adventure Bible

Untriggered

Subscribe to Christian Parenting

Eighth Day Prayers

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

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Happy Mammoth and use my code CPPODCAST for a great deal: https://happymammoth.com
* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.com
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Apr 1 • 38:57
The Power of Prayer in Every Season with Willa Kane and Sally Breedlove

Hello Friends,

Todays episode was such a gift. Im joined by Willa Kane and Sally Breedlove. Their journeyfrom personal tragedy to launching a global prayer movementleft me deeply inspired, and I know it will move you too.

Here are four key takeaways from this episode:

  • Whether parenting littles or guiding grown children, prayer and scripture remain the foundation.  
  • Everyday momentslike carpool lines or worship musiccan become tools for spiritual growth in your family.  
  • They share honestly about the challenge of being spiritually in sync with your spouse.  
  • There is deep joy in watching faith grow not only in your kids, but also in your grandkids.

Willa and Sally are the co-authors of the Eighth Day Prayers series, a beautifully crafted resource designed to guide families in intentional, scripture-centered prayer. With years of experience as moms (and now grandmothers!), they speak from the heart and from a place of deep wisdom and faith.

This conversation had me teary more than once. I hope it encourages you to lean into prayer and trust Gods faithfulness in every season of parenting.

With love,

Steph

(08:13) The Meaning Behind Eighth Day Prayers

(17:30) The Impact of Consistent Prayer

(22:00) Encouragement for Busy Parents

(23:30) Practical Tips for Engaging with Scripture

(23:49) Finding Quiet Moments in Parenting

(25:31) Utilizing Carpool Time for Spiritual Growth

(26:46) The Impact of Daily Practices on Future Generations

(29:08) The Power of Music in Faith Transmission

(30:15) Observing Faith in the Next Generation

(31:39) Navigating Challenges in Parenting

(33:18) Trusting God Through Difficult Times

(35:42) Leading with Delight in Parenting

(37:05) Reflecting on Parenting Journeys

(41:24) The Importance of God's Delight in Us

(43:32) Sharing Resources for Spiritual Growth

Resources Mentioned:

Adventure Bible

Untriggered

Subscribe to Christian Parenting

Eighth Day Prayers

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

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Mar 25 • 37:59
Preparing for the College Years with Dr. Greg Jones

Hey there! 

This weeks conversation is one that got me thinking aheadway ahead. While my oldest is still in middle school, college feels like its going to be here before I know it. Thats why Im so grateful to have *Dr. Greg Jones*, president of Belmont University, on the podcast today to talk about helping our kids prepare for life beyond high school with purpose, faith, and community at the center.  

Here are four key takeaways from this episode:

Choosing a school isnt about prestigeits about finding a place where your child can grow, thrive, and live out their calling.  

Relationships formed during the college years play a vital role in shaping a students identity and faith.  

Not getting into a dream school isnt the endit can be a redirection toward Gods best.  

Each childs path is unique, and our job is to guide them with patience, grace, and a big-picture mindset.  

Dr. Greg Jones is the president of Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee. With a background in theology, leadership, and education, Dr. Jones is passionate about helping students discover their God-given purpose and equipping families to think beyond rankings and toward flourishing futures.  

This episode is full of wisdom for parents at every stage. Whether college is around the corner or years away, I hope it encourages you to guide your kids with faith and intentionality.

With love,

Steph Thurling

(02:56) The Role of Community in College Selection

(06:04) Finding Purpose and Character Formation

(08:45) Navigating College Decisions and Parental Guidance

(11:58) The Importance of Relationships in College

(14:46) Helping Kids Discover Their Purpose

(18:08) Trends in College Students Today

(20:51) Dealing with Rejection and Redirection

(23:56) The Long View of Parenting

(27:11) Final Thoughts on Faith, Hope, and Love

Resources Mentioned

Subscribe to Christian Parenting

Easter Bundle

Adventure Bible

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

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
About the Host

Steph Thurling

Steph Thurling is Executive Director of Christian Parenting and host of The Christian Parenting Podcast.

Steph has her master’s in youth, family, and culture from Fuller Theological Seminary and has a background in youth and children’s ministry. She is co-author of Raising Prayerful Kids, a book that shares easy, life-giving, and fun ways to teach kids to pray. She loves helping families grow closer to each other and to God through meaningful experiences and conversations. Steph is a frequent speaker at churches and mom groups and is known for her relatable stories, practical ideas, and gentle encouragement.

Steph lives in Minnesota with her husband and three amazing and hilarious kids. When she is not hanging out with her family, you can probably find her on a walk with a friend, organizing things that won’t stay organized, or somewhere cozy reading a book.

More from Steph →