Christian Parent, Crazy World

Every parent wants their kids to thrive, but what if the key to their success isn’t just grades or good behavior, but the life lessons we pass on? It’s not just important—it’s essential. Episode Overview In this deeply personal and practical episode, Catherine unpacks the three biggest life lessons every parent must teach their kids, weaving wisdom from her years as a performer, mother, and follower of Christ. Drawing from her unique background in theater and comedy improv, Catherine reveals how these powerful truths have shaped her own journey and can equip families to navigate an unpredictable world. Through heartfelt stories and moments of humor—including the hilarious tale of how pretending to be a British exchange student launched her acting career—Catherine demonstrates how the unpredictable nature of improv mirrors real life. She brings home the point that life rarely goes according to our script, but our response makes all the difference. The Three Life Lessons You can't choose what happens to you, but you can choose how you respond.Life throws curveballs—sometimes it’s a dashed dream, a difficult diagnosis, or a sudden job loss. Drawing from both personal experiences and touching examples, Catherine encourages parents (and their kids) to focus on their response rather than circumstances. [See: 11:02] Accept what happens and build.The secret of successful improv—and life—is to accept what you’re given and build on it. Catherine shows how this principle, grounded in biblical truth, calls us not to live in denial or despair, but to trust that God can work with whatever comes our way, using disappointment and surprise for something greater. [See: 14:08] Allow God to turn mistakes into masterpieces.Sometimes the biggest mistake sparks our greatest victory. With moving real-life stories—like a stage mishap that became an improv masterpiece and a heartbreaking miscarriage that ultimately led to miraculous new life—Catherine illustrates how, when we surrender our failures to God, He can redeem them beyond what we imagined. [See: 20:33] Why These Lessons Matter Parents don’t have the power to control everything in their children’s lives, but they can equip them with a mindset rooted in faith, resilience, and hope. These lessons go beyond advice—they’re lifelines for navigating a broken world with confidence that God is always at work, even in the mess. Memorable Quote “It’s often the mistake that turns into a masterpiece.” — Catherine [See: 20:38] Episode Resources Catherine’s Website Resources:https://catherinesegars.com/resourcesAccess free resources for Christian parents, including the Prodigal Bundle, “Beyond the Lies” ebook, scripture lists, and more. Call to Action:How has God turned a mistake or unexpected challenge in your life into a masterpiece? Share your story or reflect on what lesson God may want your family to “build on” right now! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

How can Christian parents safeguard their children in a world where sexual exploitation is hidden in plain sight—even within their own homes? In this crucial episode of Christian Parent/Crazy World, Catherine welcomes Dr. Rondy Smith, founder and CEO of Rest Stop Ministries—the first long-term residential restoration program in Tennessee for female survivors of sex trafficking. Dr. Smith brings decades of frontline experience walking with women through profound trauma toward hope and restoration. The conversation delves into one of the most urgent questions facing parents today: “How can we protect our kids from being sexually exploited?” Drawing on powerful personal stories—including a heart-wrenching letter from a survivor whose abuse spanned eight years without her parents’ knowledge—Dr. Smith exposes the shocking reality: predators are often familiar faces, and exploitation is happening everywhere, not just distant or impoverished places. Key insights and takeaways: Myth-Busting: Over 60% of victims know their traffickers; they could be family friends, relatives, or acquaintances. Familiarity is not safety. Cybersex Trafficking: Dr. Smith recounts how online predators exploit children’s innocence and manipulate them through social media and gaming platforms, turning everyday devices into “porn boxes” with unfettered access to vulnerable youth. Warning Signs: Parents must trust their intuition and watch for behavioral changes such as panic over losing access to devices or withdrawal from routine activities. Open Communication: Survivors say they wish someone had intervened sooner—parents must foster safe spaces where children feel supported, not judged, regardless of what has happened. Hope and Restoration: No matter how deep the trauma, God is able to bring healing. Stories shared in the episode highlight recovery, reconciliation, and new beginnings for survivors and their families. Notable moments include Rondy's passionate call for parents to “think like a predator”—not out of fear, but out of wisdom and love for their children. The episode closes with a moving time of prayer and encouragement, affirming that Christian parents are called to be active peacemakers: to engage, educate, and advocate for their kids and their communities. Quote from the episode:"Wherever your kids are, the predators are there. We have to begin thinking like a predator and know that they’re out there." – Dr. Rondy Smith Anecdote:The episode features a survivor’s letter detailing eight years of secret exploitation, her eventual disclosure, and her journey to healing—a story that could “be happening in your home right now and you don’t know it,” as Catherine observes. Call to Action:Have you built an open channel of communication with your children? Are you prepared to spot the signs and have the hard conversations, even when it’s uncomfortable? Take today's conversation beyond the episode—pray, seek wisdom, and consider supporting ministries like Rest Stop. Share this episode and equip your family for the world we live in. Because awareness, prevention, and restoration are not just vital—they are part of our calling as Christian parents. EPISODE LINKS: Learn more about Rest Stop Ministries: reststopministries.org Rest Stop: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter The Exodus Road: What Are Human Trafficking Warning Signs? NCOSI: National Center on Sexual Exploitation  Subscribe for free parenting bundles at catherinesegars.com Tune in to learn the truth, equip yourself, and make your home a place where darkness cannot hide. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When your child comes home asking if science and faith can coexist, how will you answer? In this eye-opening episode, Catherine takes on one of the most pressing battlegrounds for today’s Christian families: the supposed war between science and belief. Are young people right to think science has rendered God unnecessary? What do you do when biology class asks your kids to choose between facts and faith? To help tackle these big questions, Catherine welcomes Allan Pereira, creative force and co-creator behind the new documentary series, The Science Dilemma. With a background in student ministry, creative arts, and Christian non-profits, Allan brings a thoughtful, accessible approach to making complex scientific discoveries understandable for everyone—especially parents and teens who don’t have a science degree. What You’ll Discover in This Episode: Why Science Pushes Young Faith to the EdgeUnpack the cultural narrative that claims belief in God is “unscientific.” Catherine and Allan reveal why so many teens walk away from faith and how Darwinian evolution is presented not as theory, but as fact—even when the evidence leaves gaping holes. The Power of Questioning “Settled Science”Can science ever be truly settled? Discover why the spirit of honest inquiry is central to science—and how both believers and skeptics sometimes make the mistake of shutting down hard questions. “The truth is—it's moving. You can put me in prison, but it's still moving.”—Catherine, reflecting on Galileo’s courage to question the establishment Unveiling the Case for Intelligent DesignExplore the three giant dilemmas rocking evolutionary theory: The machines inside the cell: Discover how molecular “machines” operate with mind-boggling complexity, resembling factories more than blobs of protoplasm. The code in our DNA: Learn why the existence of sophisticated genetic language points powerfully to an intelligent programmer. “There is no known existence of coded language without a programmer—and that's what we have in our cells,” says Catherine. What the fossils really say: Examine why the missing transitional fossils and the instant appearance of new body plans (the “Cambrian Explosion”) just don’t add up with classic Darwinian expectations. The Science Dilemma’s Special TouchFrom world-class experts like Dr. Stephen Meyer and Dr. Michael Behe to street interviews and a show-stopping arrowhead sorting experiment with a three-year-old, this series (and conversation) brings cutting-edge scientific discovery and child-like insight together to pose the question every one of us must answer: “Who made these?” Equipping Ordinary Parents for Extraordinary ConversationsFeeling unqualified? Don’t be! Catherine and Allan remind you: “You don’t have to be an expert to step into these conversations with your kids. You just need the courage to sat, 'Let’s explore this together.’” About the Guest:Allan Pereira is the dynamic co-creator of The Science Dilemma docu-series and podcast. He’s a veteran of student ministry and creative communications, with years spent championing families and faith—including fighting for foster children, producing faith-based media, and equipping parents to disciple the next generation. While not a scientist by training, his journey proves that curiosity and obedience can change lives. Why This Matters:With “the mind” under attack in today’s secular culture, Christian parents must reclaim their place at the table. Resources like The Science Dilemma offer a compelling, user-friendly way to strengthen faith, equip teens, and show the world that Christianity can stand up to the toughest questions science can pose. Modern Application:Parents, take heart! Your voice—and your willingness to simply ask questions—can be the difference-maker for a child wrestling with doubt in an “anti-faith” world. Episode Links: Watch or learn more about The Science Dilemma: thesciencedilemma.com Follow The Science Dilemma on YouTube and Instagram Follow Allan CP on Instagram Explore resources for parents at Catherinesegars.com Ben Stein's Exchange with Dr. Richard Dawkins Dr. John Lennox exchange "That's a very good question... I notice it was asked originally by a snake." Thought-Provoking Question:How are you preparing your family to handle questions that challenge both their faith and their intellect? What scares you most about engaging these conversations—and what might change if you simply said, "Let’s explore together"? Tune in, and start building a faith that’s as resilient as it is reasonable—one conversation at a time. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When Life Throws a Curveball: How to Stay Faithful When the Bottom Drops Out Few challenges stretch a parent’s faith and emotional reserves more than life’s unexpected curveball seasons—the plot twists that leave you wondering, “God, what are you doing?” How do you remain anchored in truth when the bottom drops out? This week on Christian Parent/Crazy World, Catherine welcomes back her very first guest and trusted friend, Dr. Erin Barry, to help parents not only survive, but find hope and stability in life’s most turbulent moments. Dr. Barry is a clinical Christian counselor, author, homeschool expert, and co-founder of inseparableLives.com. Her biblically grounded wisdom comes from over 30 years of walking families through the storms of life. In this transparent and practical episode, Catherine gets real about her own season of loss, uncertainty, and a series of shocking life upheavals—from parenting a prodigal, to family moves, to sudden job loss. Using these stories as a backdrop, Dr. Barry unpacks essential biblical strategies for clinging to faith and finding stability when life feels out of control. Key Insights & Takeaways Find Your Safe Circle Not everyone is equipped to carry the weight of your story. Dr. Barry urges listeners to seek out wise, mature friends or a counselor who can “sit in the ashes” with you—without minimizing, judging, or rushing your healing process. “For seven days Job’s friends sat in silence—sometimes, that’s all we need.” Grieve Without Comparison Your pain is valid, even if others have it worse. This episode addresses the tendency to minimize your own suffering and offers permission to mourn at your own pace. “Healing is not a competition—it’s a process.” Honor Different Grieving Styles Don’t expect everyone in your family to process pain the same way. Grace and patience protect relationships from being torn apart during crisis. Anchor in Truth, Not Fear When fear and catastrophic thinking take over, Dr. Barry encourages listeners to pause and return to “what is true today.” Worrying about every “what if” tomorrow is not God’s design. “God promises what we need for today—not for every ‘what if’ tomorrow brings.” Worship as a Weapon True perspective and peace are found in worship, not just on Sundays, but in everyday moments. Worship redirects your focus to God’s character and faithfulness. Embrace God’s Bigger Story Even when God doesn’t “remove the rocks”—the hardships—He can “raise the water” and carry you over them, bringing profound good out of suffering. Notable Moments Catherine shares how her perspective on parenting was upended by a prodigal child season and life transitions. Dr. Barry recounts her son’s diabetes diagnosis and how walking through pain has deepened her empathy and faith. Inspiring testimony of hope: The legacy of Ashley Averell and how God brings good from heartbreak, equipping and sending young people on mission. “The greatest human tragedy—the Cross—became the foundation of our hope. God is still good, even when the rocks don’t move.” About the Guest Erin A. Barry is an author, speaker, counselor, and educational consultant. She holds a bachelor’s degree in education, an NCCA Masters of Arts, and Doctor of Clinical Christian Counseling. Erin’s passion is to see people walking in wholeness, body, soul, and spirit as God designed. She is the author of Yes, You Can Homeschool! The Terrified Parent’s Companion To Homeschool Success and, alongside her husband Brett, is co-founder of inseparableLives.com, a ministry devoted to nurturing Christ-centered hearts dedicated to oneness with God, spouse, and community. Episode Resources inseparableLives.com – More about Dr. Erin Barry and her ministry. Yes, You Can Homeschool! The Terrified Parent’s Companion To Homeschool Success – Buy on Amazon catherinesegars.com – Catherine's free Christian parenting resources and newsletter. Christian Parent/Crazy World podcast archive Previous episodes: How Can a Good God Allow So Much Evil and Suffering in the World?(w/ Dr. Douglas Groothuis) Call to Action Are you in a season where your carefully written life script has been torn up? Do you wonder how to support your children when you yourself are shaken? Listen in for compassionate, biblically wise encouragement that brings both honesty and hope. How do you model to your children what it means to grieve, persevere, and worship in the midst of disappointment? Share your thoughts or experiences—your story might encourage another parent walking a similar journey. Don’t miss next week as Dr. Barry returns with more practical wisdom for navigating life’s greatest challenges—with faith, hope, and grace. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Nothing repairs a parent-child relationship—or models the heart of the gospel—more powerfully than eight humble words: “I’m sorry. I was wrong. Please forgive me.” In a world where authority is often prized over humility, Catherine shines a light on the crucial, yet challenging, words every parent must be willing to say. In this deeply practical “Best Of” episode, Catherine explores why these eight words are harder to say than most—and how they carry the potential to transform the atmosphere of our homes. With her trademark honesty and grace, Catherine tackles the barriers parents face in admitting fault and offers biblically-grounded wisdom for restoring trust when we inevitably get it wrong. What You’ll Hear in This Episode: The three critical objectives achieved when parents humbly apologize, including healing breaches in trust, modeling biblical repentance, and affirming your child’s growth and autonomy. Why saying “I’m sorry” isn’t always enough—and the importance of going beyond surface-level apologies to confessing, “I was wrong,” especially when our delivery lacks love. A breakdown of the four parenting phases—caregiver, cop, coach, and counselor—and how operating in the wrong one can damage relationships with older kids. Catherine’s actionable, eight bonus words: “What can I do to make it right?”—a powerful next step for restoration and collaboration with your child. Rooted in 1 Corinthians 13, Catherine reminds listeners that even “if I speak with human eloquence and angelic ecstasy, but I don’t love, I’m nothing but the creaking of a rusty gate.” She vulnerably shares her own journey toward quicker humility and confesses her husband models this with grace she’s always striving to emulate. Notable Quotes from This Episode: “Parenting really isn’t about perfection. It’s about formation—ours and theirs.” “Dictators last for a season. But at some point, there will be a citizens’ revolt.” “Our kids need to see humility and repentance from us.” If you want a legacy of trust, openness, and faith in your family, tune in to learn the eight essential words every parent should have in their relational toolbox. Ask Yourself:When was the last time you told your child, “I was wrong. Please forgive me”? What might change in your home if humility and grace defined your relationship repairs? Want more practical steps for rebuilding after mistakes? Don’t miss next week’s "best of" episode, where Catherine welcomes back Kirsten Vossler, host of the Rejoicing in Motherhood podcast, to share seven practical, grace-filled steps for resetting when you’ve blown it with your kids. Subscribe and invite Catherine into your parenting journey at catherinesegars.com for free resources, encouragement, and faith-filled insight. Parenting as a Christian may be crazy, but you don’t have to do it alone. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When spiritual heroes fall, what happens to our faith—and that of our children? Financial manipulation and abuse within the church can leave deep wounds, shaking the foundation of trust and faith for entire families. In this powerful episode of Christian Parent/Crazy World, host Catherine tackles one of the most urgent and painful issues affecting Christian families today: how to respond when trusted church leaders become charlatans, using their position for financial—or even sexual—exploitation. With real-life stories, audio clips, and biblical insight, this episode equips parents to guide their children through disappointment without abandoning the truth of the Gospel. Joining Catherine is featured guest Clifton Payne Jr., pastor, writer, Hebrew University scholar, and author of What the Bible Really Says About Tithing and Giving: It’s Different Than You Think. Having left the faith for fourteen years after witnessing financial abuse firsthand, Clifton Payne Jr. brings both scholarly expertise and personal experience to this heart-wrenching discussion. What You’ll Discover in This Episode: Financial Abuse—A Widespread Scandal: Hear stories of pastors manipulating the vulnerable, including Clifton Payne Jr.’s grandmother and infamous televangelists promising “seed money” blessings for thousand-dollar gifts. Charlatans Across Denominations: It’s not just one stream of Christianity; financial and sexual misconduct strike churches everywhere—from charismatic circles to mainline denominations to the Catholic church. The Impact on Faith and Family: Discover why these betrayals don’t just hurt individuals—they threaten the faith of the next generation. Catherine lays bare how hypocrisy often drives children and parents alike away from church and sometimes, from God. Biblical Wisdom for Difficult Days: Get to the heart of the Bible’s teachings on money, tithing, and generosity. Clifton Payne Jr. strips away manipulation, revealing how God’s desire for our hearts is profoundly different from the “prosperity gospel” sales pitch. Honest Conversations at Home: Learn how to talk with your children about church scandals—without letting cynicism win. Public harm requires public correction, and as Christian parents, we are called to shepherd our homes by telling the truth. Why This Matters:This episode will challenge, grieve, and encourage you to see beyond the headlines and scandals. It’s a reminder that our faith must be rooted in Christ, not in flawed messengers. When parents grapple honestly with church failures and model God-honoring generosity, they provide children with a foundation that lasts beyond any scandal. Modern Application:Christian parents, are you prepared to shepherd your children through disappointment in the church? Are you modeling discernment, generosity, and faith that isn’t shaken by human failure? About the Guest:Clifton Payne Jr. is a pastor, writer, and biblical scholar with advanced study at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem. His experiences with church financial abuse and long journey back to faith uniquely equip him to address manipulative money tactics and help families find biblical clarity in confusing times. His book, What the Bible Really Says About Tithing and Giving: It’s Different Than You Think, is available on Amazon and other major booksellers. EPISODE LINKS: Clifton Payne Jr.’s Book: What the Bible Really Says About Tithing and Giving: It’s Different Than You Think Subscribe to Catherine's resources for Christian parents on her website. Mike Winger’s Expose on Shawn Bolz & Bethel Church: The Skeletons in Bethel’s Closet Are Now Going to Speak Televangelists: Last Week Tonight with John Oliver Call to Action:How are you preparing your children to discern truth in a world full of spiritual counterfeits? What honest conversations could you start this week—even in the face of heartbreak—to root their faith in Jesus, not fallen heroes? Tune in next week as Catherine and Clifton Payne Jr. dig deeper into what the Bible really teaches about tithing and giving—setting your family free from confusion and manipulation. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Letting Go Isn’t Losing—It’s Trusting God with Your Children’s Future How do you faithfully release your children into the world while still nurturing connection and influence? In this profoundly honest episode, host Catherine is joined by Jaime Hampton of the Praying Christian Women Podcast to tackle one of the most challenging—and transformative—realities of parenting: letting go. For Christian parents, “letting go” isn’t about giving up; it’s about surrendering control, deepening trust, and transferring ownership of our children’s faith from our hands into God’s. Drawing from personal experience and biblical wisdom, Catherine and Jaime explore four distinct phases of parenting, revealing how to step back while keeping communication and relationship strong. What You’ll Discover in This Episode: The Four Phases of Parenting Caregiver: From diapers to first steps, parents meet every need. Cop: Setting boundaries and keeping children safe before they fully understand. Coach: Explaining the “why” behind rules as children mature. Counselor: Giving advice only when asked, respecting your adult child’s autonomy while remaining a trusted source of wisdom. Jesus as the Model for Letting Go: In a powerful discussion on John 17, Jaime and Catherine reflect on how Jesus prepared His disciples, equipped them, and ultimately sent them out, because “greater works than these you will do.” Christ’s example gives parents a biblical blueprint for releasing children in faith, not fear. Prayer—The Invisible Influence: Letting go doesn’t mean the end of parental influence. As Catherine says, “Our greatest influence over the lives of our kids happens on our knees.” Whether praying through a prodigal season or releasing a child to public school, parents have spiritual authority to intercede for their children, guided by God’s wisdom and timing. MEET THE GUEST: Jaime Hampton is a wife and mother of three who recently relocated from Alaska to Utah with her family, embracing the challenges of a new climate and culture. With her eldest in college and two younger kids in school, Jaime co-hosts the Praying Christian Women podcast with her longtime friend and prayer partner, Alana Terry. Their show began as an outgrowth of their honest coffee-time conversations about faith and prayer, offering encouragement for women to grow spiritually. EPISODE RESOURCES: The Praying Christian Women Podcast Jaime’s Website, Instagram, Substack Catherine’s Website & Resources Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Want to memorize more Scripture with your kids this year than ever before? You don’t need a seminary degree, a flawless routine, or a photographic memory—just a melody, a little intention, and a willingness to make God’s Word a part of your family’s everyday life. In this inspiring “Best Of” New Year’s episode of Christian Parent/Crazy World, Catherine welcomes special guest Zac Fitzsimmons, a gifted singer-songwriter and worship leader whose heart for God’s Word and knack for turning Scripture into unforgettable songs have helped countless families hide God’s Word in their hearts. What You’ll Discover in This Episode: A Simple, Powerful Way to Memorize Scripture: Catherine reveals her family’s surprisingly simple—yet incredibly effective—method for learning Scripture together: setting Bible verses to music. No perfection or superhuman recall required; just sing along as you fold laundry, do dishes, or carpool. Meet Zac Fitzsimmons: Psalm Songwriter, Worship Leader, Dad: Guest Zac Fitzsimmons, whose musical talents began at age 15 and blossomed into a life of leading worship and setting entire psalms to melody, shares his journey and explains why full, word-for-word renditions of Scripture make such a powerful educational tool. Zac performs live acoustic versions of Psalm 1 and Psalm 8: This incredible artist offers a moving example of how entire chapters can be memorized, meditated upon, and made meaningful through melody. The Science & Soul Behind Singing the Bible: Learn why music is a “supersonic power” for memory—moving truths from short-term to long-term storage in the brain. Whether you’re a parent who’s forgotten where you put your phone (again!) or a child learning a new psalm, a good melody makes all the difference. Tips for Busy, Imperfect Parents Take small “bites”—learn Scripture in short, daily repetitions. Use sign language or hand motions alongside melody to anchor memorization. Leverage idle moments—while driving, during chores, or winding down at bedtime. Reframe your expectations: even one verse a month adds up! Notable Moments & Quotes: “If you can remember the theme song to The Beverly Hillbillies, you can remember God’s Word.” “Scripture flows deeper through a melody—first into our heads, then into our hearts.” The memorable “Jello” method: how repetition turns memory from liquid to solid. Parents, what’s your first Scripture verse or passage you want to memorize together this year? Share your story and join the movement—because Christian parenting may be crazy, but you don’t have to do it alone. EPISODE RESOURCES: You can email Catherine to offer feedback and tell her about your Bible memory plan for the new year at catherine@catherinesegars.com. Zac Fitzsimmons Bio: Zac is a Christian singer/songwriter from Minnesota, USA. He has led congregations in musical worship for over twenty years and is most known for his ongoing endeavor of writing music and melodies to the Psalms word for word from the English Standard Version of the Bible. These songs are being discovered by people worldwide as valuable tools for soaking in the scriptures in a new way and aiding in scripture memorization. You can find links to the audio, lyric videos and chord charts at www.psalmsongswordforword.com You can also find Zac on YouTube and Instagram. To receive downloads of Zac & Catherine’s live perform of Psalm 8, Zac’s performance of Psalm 1, and all of Catherine’s Scripture songs, and pro tips for memorizing the Bible, subscribe at Catherine’s website: https://catherinesegars.com/resources See Catherine’s complimentary article on Crosswalk: “Learn More Scripture This Year with This #1 Proven Method” SCRIPTURE SONG ARTISTS: The Corner Room Seeds Family Worship King Things Esther Mui Benjamin NG The Bigsby Show (for the books of the Bible and the 12 Disciples) SIGN LANGUAGE RESOURCES: Hands Speak,  Signs Savvy, ASL Dictionary     Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.