
Pardon the Mess with Courtney DeFeo - Christian Motherhood, Biblical Parenting, Raising Christian Kids
by Courtney DeFeo and Christian Parenting
Is this your podcast?Insights from recent episode analysis
Audience Interest
Podcast Focus
Publishing Consistency
Platform Reach
Insights are generated by CastFox AI using publicly available data, episode content, and proprietary models.
Most discussed topics
Brands & references
Total monthly reach
Estimated from 11 chart positions in 11 markets.
By chart position
- 🇺🇸US · Parenting#28100K to 300K
- 🇨🇦CA · Parenting#1475K to 30K
- 🇲🇽MX · Parenting#1961K to 10K
- 🇭🇰HK · Parenting#703K to 10K
- 🇳🇬NG · Parenting#104500 to 3K
- Per-Episode Audience
Est. listeners per new episode within ~30 days
34K to 111K🎙 Daily cadence·656 episodes·Last published 2d ago - Monthly Reach
Unique listeners across all episodes (30 days)
113K to 371K🇺🇸81%🇨🇦8%🇲🇽3%+8 more - Active Followers
Loyal subscribers who consistently listen
45K to 148K
Market Insights
Platform Distribution
Reach across major podcast platforms, updated hourly
Total Followers
—
Total Plays
—
Total Reviews
—
* Data sourced directly from platform APIs and aggregated hourly across all major podcast directories.
On the show
From 10 epsHost
Recent guests
Recent episodes
I Keep Feeling Like I’m Failing My Kids
Jun 4, 2026
32m 02s
Trailer
Jun 1, 2026
1m 43s
Meet your new host, Scarlet Hiltibidal!
May 28, 2026
39m 43s
Week 38: Be sanctified - Jesus
May 25, 2026
10m 53s
When decisions are tough with Megan Jones
May 21, 2026
29m 25s
Social Links & Contact
Official channels & resources
Official Website
Login
RSS Feed
Login
| Date | Episode | Topics | Guests | Brands | Places | Keywords | Sponsor | Length | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6/4/26 | ![]() I Keep Feeling Like I’m Failing My Kids | It’s officially Scarlet Hiltibidal’s first episode as the new host of Pardon the Mess, and she’s kicking things off with a conversation every mom needs to hear.If you’ve ever laid in bed replaying your parenting failures, wondered if your bad moments are shaping your kids forever, or felt crushed under the pressure to “get motherhood right,” this episode is for you.Scarlet shares honest stories from her own home, the parenting advice that radically changed her perspective as a young mom, and the freeing truth that the gospel was never about pretending we’re perfect parents. It’s about pointing our children to a perfect Savior.She explores how our failures can actually become places where grace shines bright, why joy and peace in motherhood cannot be built on performance, and how repentance, humility, and dependence on Jesus create a healthier home than image management ever could.In this episode, Scarlet talks about:• Why motherhood often feels spiritually heavy and emotionally exhausting• The difference between parenting for performance versus parenting from grace• How our identity in Christ changes the way we respond to our failures• The beauty of apologizing to our kids and modeling repentance• Why children do not need flawless parents — they need parents who know Jesus• How the Holy Spirit empowers us to live with joy, peace, and dependence instead of striving• Practical ways to reset the tone of your home when everything feels chaoticThis episode is a reminder that your worst moments are not the truest thing about you. Jesus is still present in the mess, still forming your children, and still offering grace for today.Whether you’re parenting toddlers, teenagers, or somewhere in between, this conversation will help you exhale, laugh a little, and remember what matters most.Today's Scripture Focus: Romans 8:1-4If this episode encouraged you, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a mom friend who needs some hope today.Special thanks to Michelle Glass who shared a beautiful testimony for this week's Messy Mom Moment!Resources:Get to know Scarlet hereAfraid of All the ThingsSign up for Morning Minute Moms, Dads, and Grads Gift GuidePrefer video? This episode is on YouTube!Connect with Pardon The Mess:Christian ParentingPardon The MessScarlet’s InstagramScarlet’s FacebookPardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | 32m 02s | ||||||
| 6/1/26 | ![]() Trailer | As parents, we know raising kids is the opposite of neat and tidy. Pardon the Mess is a podcast for Christian moms who love Jesus, love their kids, and still feel behind on most days. Each week, host Scarlet takes one real parenting mess (morning meltdowns, discipline guilt, raising kind kids in a world that doesn't feel kind) and untangles it with honesty and grace, one small, faithful step at a time. No five-step systems. No longer to-do lists. Just clarity about what matters most and permission to let the rest go.Pardon the Mess is part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit www.ChristianParenting.org.Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | 1m 43s | ||||||
| 5/28/26 | ![]() Meet your new host, Scarlet Hiltibidal! | Well, it’s a bittersweet day for me. I am delighted to introduce you to your NEW HOST of Pardon the Mess, Scarlet Hiltibidal. This is my last episode as your host, and I am feeling all the emotions. I am grateful and sad and feeling so much peace.Thank you for letting me into your lives for a few years. I pray God encouraged you in your role as a Christian parent. A special thanks to Jill Jefferson, Steph Thurling, Jeannette Tapley and the entire team at Christian Parenting. I couldn’t have done it without you all.Today, you will get to know Scarlet and her family. She has a beautiful heart for the Lord and the imperfect journey of parenting. She is passionate about the gospel and has a new twist on the Thursday episodes. And great news - the Monday prayer episodes will be returning after the summer!Much love and gratitude,Courtney DeFeo 00:00 Introduction and Family Dynamics03:03 Scarlet's Unique Childhood and Background06:00 Transition to Writing and Parenting08:57 The Journey to Becoming a Writer11:55 Joining Christian Parenting and Future Plans16:15 Navigating Parenting Challenges with Grace21:13 Embracing Imperfection in Parenting25:00 Finding Hope Amidst Struggles30:32 Preparing for the Future of Parenting PodcastConnect with Pardon The Mess:Christian ParentingPardon The Mess Courtney DeFeoResources from today’s show:Connect with Scarlet HiltibidalConnect with Courtney DeFeoOpen a LearningRX centerSummer Reading PicksPrefer video? This episode is on YouTube!Sign up for Morning MinutePardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | 39m 43s | ||||||
| 5/25/26 | ![]() Week 38: Be sanctified - Jesus | Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. (Hebrews 12:2)All the people we have talked about this year are heroes of faith. Whether they were named or unnamed, their stories hold significance in God’s word, which is always worthy of our attention! As much as we want our kids to take on the characteristics of the people in this great cloud of witnesses, our primary desire is that our kids become like Jesus, our rabbi, friend, perfect king, and our Savior.We become more and more like Jesus as we spend more time with him. It’s the process of sanctification, or being made holy. We cannot be fully sanctified on this side of heaven, but the Holy Spirit does work within us as we surrender, obey, and return to him when we get it wrong. We are shaped to look more and more like Jesus.Our kids will make mistakes, struggle with sin, and face challenges. We all do; it’s part of living in a broken world. But as they become more like him, their responses to those things will change because becoming more like Jesus means choosing truth over lies, kindness over gossip, love over selfishness, and obedience over comfort.As we end this year of praying for our kids, let’s pray that our kids become like Jesus, that they live such a full life of faith that others will say, “They loved like Jesus loved.”Jesus, sanctify __________ through your Spirit. Shape their heart to reflect you in how they love, serve, follow, and obey. May they go to you every day and learn to talk with you and listen to your voice all day long. May they allow you to help them be more like you every day so that your light shines through them. Amen.Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | 10m 53s | ||||||
| 5/21/26 | ![]() When decisions are tough with Megan Jones | Big decisions in motherhood often come with uncertainty—especially when it comes to balancing family, work, calling, and the many demands on our time.In this episode, the tables are turned as Megan Jones interviews Courtney about her decision to step away as host of Pardon the Mess. The conversation explores the tension many moms feel when navigating career decisions, learning when to say yes or no, and discerning God’s direction in changing seasons.Together, they talk honestly about the twists and turns that can come with work and motherhood, the challenge of trusting God with the unknown, and the importance of following his leading even when the path forward isn’t fully clear.This episode is a thoughtful encouragement for anyone walking through a season of transition or making difficult decisions for themselves or their family.Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Background02:59 The Importance of Mentorship05:56 Navigating Change and Transitions12:08 Finding Purpose in Parenting17:59 Reflections on Priorities and Regrets18:48 Psst — we may have hidden a little surprise in this episode 🎉 In case you can't wait until May 28th to meet your new host!23:56 Looking Ahead: Future Plans and EncouragementConnect with Pardon The Mess:Christian ParentingPardon The Mess Courtney DeFeoResources from today’s show:Connect with MeganOpen a LearningRX centerSummer Reading PicksPrefer video? This episode is on YouTube!Sign up for Morning MinutePardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | 29m 25s | ||||||
| 5/18/26 | ![]() Week 37: Spread God’s word - Epaphroditus | How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” (Romans 10:14–15)Epaphroditus is not a name that many people know from the Bible, but his story is incredible. He was sent by the Philippians to bring a gift to Paul while he was in prison, but he did more than deliver a package—he ministered, encouraged, and served so faithfully that he became sick and nearly died. Once he recovered, he carried back the Letter to the Philippians, making sure that Paul’s message reached the church.Paul describes Epaphroditus as a minister, brother, coworker, and soldier. He was totally committed to both Paul and Jesus, and his story is a reminder that God uses all people to spread his word.Just like Epaphroditus was entrusted with a message, so are we. As soon as our kids accept Jesus, their mission begins. Sharing the gospel doesn’t require a microphone or a mission trip to a different city or country. Our mission to spread God’s truth happens in everyday conversations, acts of kindness, and bold faith. Whether at school, on the playground, or at home, our children carry the light of Jesus wherever they go. We are God’s first plan to spread the gospel, and not one of us is called to be quiet about it.So this week, let’s pray that our kids grow to know, love, and follow Jesus, and that they are so excited about their faith that they can’t help but share the hope of it all.Jesus, I pray that _______ will respond to your call to make disciples and share the gospel wherever they go. May they live in a way that reflects you working in their hearts. Give them the courage they need to share with others, and when they do, may they do so lovingly and gracefully. Amen.Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | 8m 10s | ||||||
| 5/14/26 | ![]() Looking back over the years of parenting with Jeannie Cunnion | Parenting often feels like a journey of wondering whether we’re getting it right—and it can be easy to tie our worth to the outcome of our children’s lives and choices.In this episode, Jeannie Cunnion joins the conversation to reflect on the highs, challenges, and lessons learned through years of motherhood. Together, we talk about what really matters in parenting, how to release the pressure of trying to control outcomes, and why joy grows when we place our trust in God instead of our performance.The conversation also explores the role of the Holy Spirit in parenting and the reminder that we were never meant to do this alone. God is at work in our homes in ways we cannot manufacture on our own.This episode is a meaningful encouragement for moms who want to parent with more grace, freedom, and dependence on God.00:00 The Exhaustion of Motherhood04:10 Navigating Food and Family Life06:04 Reflections on Parenting Through the Years12:57 Faithfulness in Motherhood15:48 The Importance of Instilling Faith17:03 Cultivating Joy in Parenting18:56 Relying on the Holy Spirit24:29 The Power of Scripture in Family Life30:03 Transformative Parenting Practices33:32 Trusting God with Our ChildrenConnect with Pardon The Mess:Christian ParentingPardon The Mess Courtney DeFeoResources from today’s show:Connect with JeannieCloser to God Don’t Miss Out Mom Set FreeRaising Boys and GirlsABC Scripture CardsI Can Learn The Bible - scripture memory sourceOpen a LearningRX center Moms, Dads, and Grads Gift GuidePrefer video? This episode is on YouTube!Sign up for Morning MinutePardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | 38m 27s | ||||||
| 5/11/26 | ![]() Week 36: A legacy of faith - Eunice and Lois | I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also. (2 Timothy 1:5)Eunice and Lois are very briefly mentioned as the mother and grandmother of Timothy, but they are known for passing on a legacy of sincere faith. Have you ever thought about your kids being grandparents or parents one day? It’s incredible to think that what you pour into your kids now will influence what they pour into their own kids and impact generations to come.Sometimes, raising kids can feel mundane and like an unseen role, when the truth is that this important work can actually raise up generations of faith-filled men and women. This feels like a lot of pressure, but faith is so often caught, not taught. If we model a sincere faith to our kids, they are likely to follow the same path.We don’t know what the future holds for our kids. Whether they become parents and grandparents or not, they will have an influence on the next generation of believers. As they know, love, and follow Jesus, they aren’t just impacting the world directly in front of them. They are also impacting people they don’t even know yet.This week, let’s pray that our kids see the bigger calling on their lives and that their sincere faith will ripple out to many generations.Jesus, I pray that __________ is a godly influence on everyone around them, that they live out a sincere faith in a way that influences their family, their friends, and their future family as well. Lord, I pray that you would begin to create a legacy of faith in my children to love God and love others.Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | 13m 50s | ||||||
| 5/7/26 | ![]() Why discomfort is critical for our kids with Sissy Goff and David Thomas✨ | confidenceresilience+3 | Sissy GoffDavid Thomas | Pardon the MessChristian Parenting+1 | — | confidenceresilience+7 | — | 29m 01s | |
| 5/4/26 | ![]() Week 35: Proclaim faith publicly-the jailer’s house✨ | faithbaptism+4 | — | Acts | — | faithbaptism+5 | — | 10m 02s | |
Want analysis for the episodes below?Free for Pro Submit a request, we'll have your selected episodes analyzed within an hour. Free, at no cost to you, for Pro users. | |||||||||
| 4/30/26 | ![]() How do I grow in my faith with Shelley Giglio✨ | faith growthparenting+4 | Shelley Giglio | Passion ConferencesPassion City Church | — | faithparenting+4 | — | 35m 24s | |
| 4/27/26 | ![]() Week 34: Contentment - Paul✨ | contentmentfaith+4 | — | Philippians 4:11–13 | — | contentmentPaul+5 | — | 13m 38s | |
| 4/23/26 | ![]() Finding faithful friends with Tammie Floyd✨ | communityfriendship+4 | Tammie Floyd | Gateway ChurchChristian Parenting | — | parentingcommunity+4 | — | 39m 14s | |
| 4/20/26 | ![]() Week 33: A passionate faith - Peter✨ | faithdiscipleship+3 | — | Matthew 14:29–31Matthew 14:31 | — | Peterfaith+5 | — | 12m 25s | |
| 4/16/26 | ![]() How to stop procrastinating and get unstuck with Jon Acuff✨ | procrastinationparenting+3 | Jon Acuff | Procrastination Proof | — | procrastinationparenting+5 | — | 33m 35s | |
| 4/13/26 | ![]() Week 32: Repentant heart - Zacchaeus✨ | repentancefaith+3 | — | 1 John 1:9 | — | Zacchaeusrepentance+3 | — | 8m 39s | |
| 4/9/26 | ![]() The love language that matters most by Dr. Gary Chapman✨ | love languagesfamily relationships+3 | Dr. Gary Chapman | The 5 Love LanguagesThe Love Language That Matters Most | — | love languagesfamily+4 | — | 37m 39s | |
| 4/6/26 | ![]() Week 31: Focus on Jesus - Mary✨ | focus on JesusChristian parenting+3 | — | John 12:3 | — | MaryMartha+5 | — | 9m 30s | |
| 4/2/26 | ![]() My Virtual Mentor: Leaving a legacy with Jeff Henderson | Legacy is something every family is building, whether intentionally or not. But in the middle of busy schedules and full lives, it can be easy to lose sight of what we’re actually passing down.In this month’s My Virtual Mentor episode, Jeff Henderson, author, pastor, and leader, shares wisdom on what it means to live and lead with legacy in mind. The conversation explores what truly matters at the end of our lives, the values we want to instill in our children, and how to be more intentional with the time we’ve been given.We talk about the tension between work and family, why choosing your family matters more than you think, and how everyday decisions shape the kind of legacy you leave behind.This episode is designed to not only encourage personal growth, but also spark meaningful conversations, with a mentor, spouse, or trusted friend, about the kind of life and family you want to build.If you’re just getting started - don’t miss the previous episodes:My Virtual Mentor: Why Mentorship MattersMy Virtual Mentor: Intimacy with GodMy Virtual Mentor: Personalities and TemperamentsMy Virtual Mentor: Stewardship & Generosity My Virtual Mentor: Time Management & Creating MarginMy Virtual Mentor: Identity in Christ (Part 1 and Part 2)My Virtual Mentor: Prioritizing Your Marriage Chapters:00:00 Reconnecting at Chick-fil-A Headquarters05:01 Lessons on Leadership and Legacy from Truett Cathy12:50 End-of-Life Perspectives: What Truly Matters17:04 Navigating Parenting with Encouragement and Wisdom18:20 The Weight of Words22:14 Preparing for Impact23:35 Defining Legacy and Values28:01 Carrying on Family Traditions34:20 Leadership and Influence in Parenting37:43 A Prayer for ParentsMY VIRTUAL MENTOR GUIDE (MARRIAGE)Scripture to memorize:Deuteronomy 6:5-7Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.Scriptures for prayer and study:Psalm 78:4, Matthew 6:20-21, Psalm 103:17, Proverbs 29:18Books for further study:Eat Mor Chikin: Inspire More People by Truett CathyChoosing to Cheat by Andy StanleyThe Legacy Life by David GreenDivine Disruption by Tony Evans and childrenDiscussion questions:What do you want to pass down from your parents?What do you want your kids to say about you when your life is over? What values matter most to you? Connect with Pardon The Mess:Christian ParentingPardon The Mess Courtney DeFeoResources from today’s show:Connect with Jeff HendersonWhat To Do Next by Jeff HendersonFOR by Jeff HendersonResources from Titus 2 MentoringOpen a LearningRX center Prefer video? This episode is on YouTube!Pardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | 40m 05s | ||||||
| 3/30/26 | ![]() Week 30: Salvation - the thief on the cross | Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.” (Luke 23:42–43)As Jesus was led to his crucifixion, he was surrounded by two men on crosses next to him, all three of them facing death. One man was mocking and doubting Jesus, but the other man turned to Jesus in his final moments and was promised eternity with Jesus.Although not much was shared in this interaction, the thief did proclaim Jesus was Lord. It’s a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to repent and accept Jesus. There is always hope; in fact, the Bible says that everyone who calls on his name will be saved (Romans 10:13). This story also reminds us that doing good works or earning our way to heaven is not what Jesus offered us; it is a free gift.As believing parents, our hope is that there is more distance between our kids’ salvation and their death than there was for the thief on the cross. We know that true peace, joy, and hope is found in following Jesus, and we want our kids to have that for a lifetime; we want them to experience a full life of faith. We want them to spend many years drawing others to faith. However, we must never count out a child that is full of sin and far from God. God is still reaching for them up until their last breath.This week, let’s pray that our kids accept the free gift of salvation and spend their lives following Jesus.Jesus, thank you for the gift of salvation. Lord, please draw __________ to you. Help them to understand what following you means, that there is nothing they can do to make you love them less or more, and that you give them the gift of peace on earth now and eternal life with you later. Amen.If you love this episode and don’t have your copy of A Great Cloud of Witnesses yet, it’s not too late to get yours! Go ChristianParenting.org to get your copy and follow along. And don’t forget to tune in to Pardon the Mess every Monday for more prayer episodes. Order A Great Cloud of Witnesses todayPardon the Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | 8m 54s | ||||||
| 3/26/26 | ![]() Marriage reconciliation and restoration with Cheryl Scruggs | Marriage can be both deeply challenging and incredibly beautiful, and many couples experience seasons of disconnection along the way.In this episode, Cheryl Scruggs shares her powerful story of reconciliation after walking through divorce and finding her way back to her husband years later. Together, the conversation explores the realities of marriage, the slow drift that can happen over time, and the hope that restoration is possible, even after deep hurt.We talk about the importance of communication, the danger of letting resentment grow in silence, and the role of community in helping marriages stay healthy. There is also practical encouragement for women who want to be more intentional in their relationships and create space for honesty and healing.This episode is a reminder that while marriage takes work, it is also a place where God can bring growth, redemption, and renewed connection.Here are the verses she shared!Matthew 19:26With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.Deuteronomy 8:2 (read full chapter too)Remember how the Lord your God led you all the way in the wilderness these forty years, to humble and test you in order to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep his commands.Ephesians 3:20Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us.Chapters:00:00 Navigating Life's Challenges03:02 The Journey of Marriage Ministry06:02 Crisis in Marriage: Recognizing the Signs09:09 Building a Stronger Connection11:59 The Importance of Vulnerability in Relationships19:20 Navigating the Transition to Empty Nesting22:02 The Importance of Nurturing Intimacy24:34 Overcoming Disconnection in Marriage27:32 The Role of Counseling in Strengthening Relationships29:59 Practical Steps to Show Love and Respect31:54 Finding Hope and Redemption in MarriageConnect with Pardon The Mess:Christian ParentingPardon The Mess Courtney DeFeoResources from today’s show:Connect with Cheryl and JeffThriving Beyond Belief - Cheryl’s podcastThriving Beyond Belief - Cheryl’s newest bookI Do Again - Jeff and Cheryl’s bookOpen a LearningRX centerSign up for Morning MinutePardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | 37m 13s | ||||||
| 3/23/26 | ![]() Week 29: Let go of perfection - Martha | “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:41–42)Martha kind of gets a bad rap. In her story, Jesus and the disciples were staying at her home. Martha spent her time making food and busying herself to make her home hospitable, while her sister Mary sat at the feet of Jesus and listened to him. We all want to be Mary, choosing time with the Lord over the busyness of life (more on that in two weeks), but it’s important to remember that as disciples of Jesus we are called to sit and serve.In Martha’s case, it was all about priorities. Creating a hospitable home and serving others is important. In fact, Martha served Jesus and his disciples again at a dinner given in Jesus’s honor before Passover.But when it comes to serving others are we focused on Pinterest perfection or on making people feel comfortable and pointing to Jesus with our actions? It’s more about our attitude than our actions. Taking care of Jesus and his disciples was a good thing—but it seems as though Martha was seeking perfection. The truth is, seeking perfection is setting ourselves up for failure because it means we are depending more on ourselves than on Jesus. We can’t be perfect, only God is perfect.Today’s world looks like perfection and our kids are growing up right in the middle of it. But we can encourage them to keep their eyes on Jesus and serve him and others because it’s what’s in their hearts, not what makes them look best.This week, let’s pray that our kids can let go of any pressure for perfection and learn to rest in Jesus and his perfection. Let’s pray that when they are overwhelmed by the things of life they redirect their hearts toward the most important thing.Jesus, when __________ feels overwhelmed by the busyness of the world, help them to focus their heart back to you. Give them the peace to let go of perfection and expectation, and to rely on you instead. May they serve others out of a response to your love, not out of obligation, pride, or image. Amen.If you love this episode and don’t have your copy of A Great Cloud of Witnesses yet, it’s not too late to get yours! Go ChristianParenting.org to get your copy and follow along. And don’t forget to tune in to Pardon the Mess every Monday for more prayer episodes. Order A Great Cloud of Witnesses todayPardon the Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | 7m 51s | ||||||
| 3/19/26 | ![]() Navigating Foster Care with Meredith Brock | Foster care is a journey that holds both deep brokenness and incredible beauty. For many families, it can also feel overwhelming to know how to step in and support children from hard places.In this episode, Meredith Brock, CEO of Proverbs 31 Ministries and a foster and adoptive mom, shares insights from her family’s experience with foster care and how the journey has shaped her faith and motherhood. The conversation explores the realities of caring for vulnerable children, the tension of holding both joy and heartbreak, and the ways God often meets families in their most difficult moments.Together they talk about what it looks like to support children with hard stories, how foster care can refine and stretch a family’s faith, and why the church has such an important role in caring for these kids.It’s also a reminder that supporting the foster care system isn’t limited to becoming a foster parent. Whether through respite care, advocacy, or supporting families already in the system, there are meaningful ways we can all step in and help.00:00 Introduction and Personal Background05:53 The Call to Foster Care11:57 The Importance of Community Support17:58 Respite Care and Community Involvement24:07 Personal Growth Through Foster CareConnect with Pardon The Mess:Christian ParentingPardon The Mess Courtney DeFeoORDER YOUR 2026-2027 PRAYER JOURNAL NOWResources from today’s show:Connect with MeredithConnect with Proverbs 31 on InstagramProverbs 31 MinistriesFoster the Family Open a LearningRX centerSign up for Morning MinuteChristian ParentingPardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | 35m 55s | ||||||
| 3/16/26 | ![]() Week 28: Believe in miracles - Jairus | But Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” (Matthew 19:26 ESV)Jairus was a synagogue leader and a man of status and faith. When his young daughter became deathly ill, he desperately fell at Jesus’s feet and pleaded for him to come and heal her. Jesus agreed, but on the way news reached them that Jairus’s daughter had died. The fellow leaders looked at Jairus and said, “Why bother the teacher anymore?” because she was already dead (Mark 5:35). But Jairus refused to believe death had the final word, and he put his hope in Jesus. When they arrived at the house, Jesus commanded the little girl to get up, and she did!“Why bother?” is a question filled with doubt, finality, and despair. Our world is hard and that makes people question the goodness of God. Why bother? How could God let bad things happen to good people? Where is God when things are this bad?Our kids will face those questions their entire lives. But Jesus does, indeed, have the final word. He told Jairus, “Don’t be afraid; just believe” (Mark 5:36), and he repeatedly tells us the same. We can show our kids how to put their whole faith in Jesus and how to trust him even when others say it’s too late, or too silly, or too difficult. God’s ability to perform miracles in our life has not changed, because he is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). We should find great hope in that!This week, let’s pray that our kids believe that God can do the impossible and have a faith that they hold onto even when the world says to them, “Why bother?”Jesus, I pray that __________ puts their hope in you. Give them a faith that believes in your possibilities. When things are hard, and the rest of the world says to give up or that faith is pointless, may they remember your promises and call on you for help. Help them to recall the miracles you have performed before and give them hope to see those miracles again. Amen.From blindness to healing with Kylie WhiteIf you love this episode and don’t have your copy of A Great Cloud of Witnesses yet, it’s not too late to get yours! Go ChristianParenting.org to get your copy and follow along. And don’t forget to tune in to Pardon the Mess every Monday for more prayer episodes. Order A Great Cloud of Witnesses todayPardon the Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | 14m 50s | ||||||
| 3/12/26 | ![]() ADHD 101 - Tips to better support neurodivergent children with Dr. Kelly Cagle | Many families today are navigating life with neurodivergent children, from ADHD to dyslexia to autism, and it can feel overwhelming to know how to best support them.In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Kelly Cagle, host of Parenting IQ, who has a passion for helping moms create refreshing rhythms at home. She shares personal stories, research-backed insight, and practical ways parents can better support kids with ADHD.One of my favorite parts of this conversation was her encouragement for parents to truly understand their kids, to see the unique and beautiful way their brains process the world. It can be tempting to try to force neurodivergent kids into more typical patterns of behavior, but when we learn how their brains work, we can lead with empathy and help set them up to thrive.I learned so much from this conversation, and I think it will really encourage parents walking this road.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Hosts01:12 Personal and Professional Background of Dr. Kelly Cagle03:05 Understanding ADHD: Definitions and Personal Experiences05:30 Challenges in Traditional Education for ADHD Children10:59 The Impact of Society and Genetics on ADHD15:52 Navigating Parenting with ADHD: Systems and Support19:06 Understanding Neurodiversity in Parenting21:42 Homeschooling vs. Traditional Education25:04 Navigating Diagnoses and Labels30:43 Practical Strategies for Parents32:00 The Journey of Writing a BookConnect with Pardon The Mess:Christian ParentingPardon The Mess Courtney DeFeoORDER YOUR 2026-2027 PRAYER JOURNAL NOWResources from today’s show:Connect with KellyParenting IQ Podcast7 Personal Systems to Lower StressADHD is awesome by Penn HoldernessSign up for Morning MinuteOpen a LearningRX centerThe Hunt for the KrakenLives of Faith and Grace seriesPardon The Mess is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | 36m 48s | ||||||
Showing 25 of 670
Sponsor Intelligence
Sign in to see which brands sponsor this podcast, their ad offers, and promo codes.
Similar Audience Demographics
Podcasts that attract a similar listener profile
Chart Positions
12 placements across 11 markets.
Chart Positions
12 placements across 11 markets.

























