
Feeling Like a Failure as a Parent
From Practice Makes Parent by Focus on the Family
April 8, 2026 · 46 min · Episode 124
About this episode
The episode discusses feelings of failure in parenting and offers insights on managing these emotions.
We always say, "parenting is more about transformation than perfection." The discussion explores feelings of failure, shame, fear, and regret that many parents experience. Lauren Whitman, author and counselor, shares insights, and talks about the importance of naming deeper emotions, repairing relationships through apology, and maintaining a gospel-shaped identity to combat negative self-talk. We also take a listener question about parental overwhelm and reactive behavior, offering compassionate guidance to a struggling mother. When Parents Feel Like Failures: How Jesus Quiets Our Distress Take The Free Parenting Assessment Tool Ask Us Your Question via Voicemail or Email Support the show! If you enjoyed listening to Practice Makes Parent with Dr. Danny Huerta and Rebecca St. James, please give us your feedback.
People in this episode
Hosts: Dr. Danny Huerta, Rebecca St. James
Guest: Lauren Whitman
Topics covered
- parenting
- feelings of failure
- shame
- gospel-shaped identity
- parental overwhelm
- reactive behavior
Keywords
- parenting
- failure
- shame
- emotions
- relationships
- apology
- self-talk
- overwhelm
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Focus on the Family
More episodes of Practice Makes Parent
- Legacy of Courage · June 11, 2026 · 9 min
- Legacy Parenting for Dads · June 10, 2026 · 44 min
- Teaching Your Kids To Read The Bible · June 3, 2026 · 49 min
- Principles Over Prescriptions in Parenting · May 26, 2026 · 50 min
- Uncomfortable Conversations With Your Kids · May 20, 2026 · 53 min
- Q & A Session · May 13, 2026 · 43 min
Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Practice Makes Parent podcast page.