The Heidi St. John Podcast

For a long time, we trusted our public libraries to be safe, neutral places for families and kids. But that’s just not true anymore. In this episode, I talk honestly about how taxpayer-funded libraries have shifted from simply offering books to actively promoting ideology—and why so many parents feel dismissed or even silenced when they raise concerns. I’ll share how we got here, why the American Library Association matters, and what everyday moms and dads can actually do about it—from showing up locally to building better alternatives that protect kids and respect families.Prime Sponsor: No matter where you live, visit the Functional Medical Institute online today to connect with Drs Mark and Michele Sherwood. Go to homeschoolhealth.com to get connected and see some of my favorites items. Use coupon code HEIDI for 20% off!Show mentions: http://heidistjohn.com/mentionsWebsite | heidistjohn.comSupport the show! | donorbox.org/donation-827Rumble | rumble.com/user/HeidiStJohnYoutube | youtube.com/@HeidiStJohnPodcastInstagram | @‌heidistjohnFacebook | Heidi St. JohnX | @‌heidistjohnFaith That Speaks Online CommunitySubmit your questions for Fan Mail Friday | heidistjohn.com/fanmailfriday

We’re living in a moment where a teenager with a phone can shape theology faster than a pastor with a Bible—and the result is confusion, compromise, and a “feel-good” faith that can’t save. In this eye-opening conversation, Mike Winger joins me to expose what’s really driving digital discipleship, why “almost right” theology spreads so fast, and what parents, pastors, and leaders can do right now to anchor the next generation in Scripture—before the algorithm does. Prime Sponsor: No matter where you live, visit the Functional Medical Institute online today to connect with Drs Mark and Michele Sherwood. Go to homeschoolhealth.com to get connected and see some of my favorites items. Use coupon code HEIDI for 20% off! Show mentions: Mentions — Heidi St JohnWebsite | heidistjohn.comSupport the show! | donorbox.org/donation-827Rumble | rumble.com/user/HeidiStJohnYoutube | youtube.com/@HeidiStJohnPodcastInstagram | @‌heidistjohnFacebook | Heidi St. JohnX | @‌heidistjohnFaith That Speaks Online CommunitySubmit your questions for Fan Mail Friday | heidistjohn.com/fanmailfriday

In today’s Fan Mail Friday, I’m answering questions from listeners navigating hard seasons with courage and conviction. We’ll talk about homeschooling, parenting, caregiving, comparison, and learning to rest without quitting. This episode is an encouragement to stay faithful and trust that God is still at work, no matter the season.Prime Sponsor: No matter where you live, visit the Functional Medical Institute online today to connect with Drs Mark and Michele Sherwood. Go to homeschoolhealth.com to get connected and see some of my favorites items. Use coupon code HEIDI for 20% off!Show mentions: http://heidistjohn.com/mentionsWebsite | heidistjohn.comSupport the show! | donorbox.org/donation-827Rumble | rumble.com/user/HeidiStJohnYoutube | youtube.com/@HeidiStJohnPodcastInstagram | @‌heidistjohnFacebook | Heidi St. JohnX | @‌heidistjohnFaith That Speaks Online CommunitySubmit your questions for Fan Mail Friday | https://www.heidistjohn.net/fanmailfriday

The church was never meant to sit this one out. Today, Dr. Corey Miller joins me for a bold conversation about immigration, ICE, and the growing courage crisis inside the church. We talk about how compassion has been confused with compromise, why law and order are not unbiblical, and what happens when Christians disengage from the cultural moment. This episode is a wake-up call to step back into the public square with clarity, conviction, and courage.Prime Sponsor: No matter where you live, visit the Functional Medical Institute online today to connect with Drs Mark and Michele Sherwood. Go to homeschoolhealth.com to get connected and see some of my favorites items. Use coupon code HEIDI for 20% off!Show mentions: http://heidistjohn.com/mentionsWebsite | heidistjohn.comSupport the show! | donorbox.org/donation-827Rumble | rumble.com/user/HeidiStJohnYoutube | youtube.com/@HeidiStJohnPodcastInstagram | @‌heidistjohnFacebook | Heidi St. JohnX | @‌heidistjohnFaith That Speaks Online CommunitySubmit your questions for Fan Mail Friday | heidistjohn.com/fanmailfriday

My son-in-law, Pastor Ryan Bates, is in the studio with me today, and we’re talking about life-giving parenting—especially when it comes to raising boys in a culture that’s confused (and often hostile) toward masculinity. We discuss why children are a blessing, why the family is under attack, what the Bible actually teaches about discipline, and how to raise boys with courage, purpose, and a love for the Lord. I think you’re going to be encouraged.Prime Sponsor: No matter where you live, visit the Functional Medical Institute online today to connect with Drs Mark and Michele Sherwood. Go to homeschoolhealth.com to get connected and see some of my favorites items. Use coupon code HEIDI for 20% off!Show mentions: http://heidistjohn.com/mentionsWebsite | heidistjohn.comSupport the show! | donorbox.org/donation-827Rumble | rumble.com/user/HeidiStJohnYoutube | youtube.com/@HeidiStJohnPodcastInstagram | @‌heidistjohnFacebook | Heidi St. JohnX | @‌heidistjohnFaith That Speaks Online CommunitySubmit your questions for Fan Mail Friday | heidistjohn.net/fanmailfriday

Pastor Rich Blum joins me for an unfiltered conversation about what happens when cultural hostility no longer stays outside the church doors. We unpack the disruption of a Minnesota church service and why moments like that demand courage and real shepherding—not silence. From COVID and government overreach to education, freedom, and biblical authority, this episode is a clear call for pastors and believers to stop playing defense and start leading. This is no time to shrink back—it’s time for faithful leadership to rise.Prime Sponsor: No matter where you live, visit the Functional Medical Institute online today to connect with Drs Mark and Michele Sherwood. Go to homeschoolhealth.com to get connected and see some of my favorites items. Use coupon code HEIDI for 20% off!Show mentions: http://heidistjohn.com/mentionsWebsite | heidistjohn.comSupport the show! | donorbox.org/donation-827Rumble | rumble.com/user/HeidiStJohnYoutube | youtube.com/@HeidiStJohnPodcastInstagram | @‌heidistjohnFacebook | Heidi St. JohnX | @‌heidistjohnFaith That Speaks Online CommunitySubmit your questions for Fan Mail Friday | heidistjohn.net/fanmailfriday

The knives are out—and homeschool freedom is on the chopping block. In this episode, I expose the growing push by lawmakers to bring homeschooling under government control, with New Jersey leading the charge. I’m joined by Rose-Anne Uwague (Ro), a New Jersey homeschool mom and advocate on the front lines of this fight, to break down what these bills really mean and why every parent should be paying attention. This is a wake-up call for families who value parental rights and freedom.Prime Sponsor: No matter where you live, visit the Functional Medical Institute online today to connect with Drs Mark and Michele Sherwood. Go to homeschoolhealth.com to get connected and see some of my favorites items. Use coupon code HEIDI for 20% off!Show mentions: http://heidistjohn.com/mentionsWebsite | heidistjohn.comSupport the show! | donorbox.org/donation-827Rumble | rumble.com/user/HeidiStJohnYoutube | youtube.com/@HeidiStJohnPodcastInstagram | @‌heidistjohnFacebook | Heidi St. JohnX | @‌heidistjohnFaith That Speaks Online CommunitySubmit your questions for Fan Mail Friday | heidistjohn.net/fanmailfriday

Homeschool burnout is real—and it’s wearing moms down. In this episode, my friend Zan Tyler joins me for an honest, hope-filled conversation about why burnout happens, the pressure homeschool moms quietly carry, and how to lighten the load without quitting. We talk about resetting unrealistic expectations, building community, delegating what you can, and finding the grace to keep going. If you’re exhausted, discouraged, or wondering how much longer you can do this, this episode is for you. You’re not failing—and you’re not alone.Prime Sponsor: No matter where you live, visit the Functional Medical Institute online today to connect with Drs Mark and Michele Sherwood. Go to homeschoolhealth.com to get connected and see some of my favorites items. Use coupon code HEIDI for 20% off!Show mentions: http://heidistjohn.com/mentionsWebsite | heidistjohn.comSupport the show! | donorbox.org/donation-827Rumble | rumble.com/user/HeidiStJohnYoutube | youtube.com/@HeidiStJohnPodcastInstagram | @‌heidistjohnFacebook | Heidi St. JohnX | @‌heidistjohnFaith That Speaks Online CommunitySubmit your questions for Fan Mail Friday | heidistjohn.net/fanmailfriday

It’s Fan Mail Friday, and we’re digging into the real battles so many of you are facing right now—honoring your spouse while serving, finding a solid church home, raising and homeschooling kids with confidence, navigating financial uncertainty, and staying engaged in the pro-life fight. If you’re feeling stretched, discouraged, or unsure how to stand firm in this season, you’re not alone. Let’s open God’s Word and find the wisdom and courage we need for the everyday battles of faith and family.Prime Sponsor: No matter where you live, visit the Functional Medical Institute online today to connect with Drs Mark and Michele Sherwood. Go to homeschoolhealth.com to get connected and see some of my favorites items. Use coupon code HEIDI for 20% off!Show mentions: http://heidistjohn.com/mentionsWebsite | heidistjohn.comSupport the show! | donorbox.org/donation-827Rumble | rumble.com/user/HeidiStJohnYoutube | youtube.com/@HeidiStJohnPodcastInstagram | @‌heidistjohnFacebook | Heidi St. JohnX | @‌heidistjohnFaith That Speaks Online CommunitySubmit your questions for Fan Mail Friday | heidistjohn.net/fanmailfriday

Iran is bleeding—and the world is quiet. Today I’m talking about why the silence is so revealing, why the media won’t touch it, and why the Left’s “human rights” outrage disappears when it doesn’t serve the narrative. What’s happening in Iran is a warning sign for the West. Pay attention. Prime Sponsor: No matter where you live, visit the Functional Medical Institute online today to connect with Drs Mark and Michele Sherwood. Go to homeschoolhealth.com to get connected and see some of my favorites items. Use coupon code HEIDI for 20% off! Show mentions: Mentions — Heidi St JohnWebsite | heidistjohn.comSupport the show! | donorbox.org/donation-827Rumble | rumble.com/user/HeidiStJohnYoutube | youtube.com/@HeidiStJohnPodcastInstagram | @‌heidistjohnFacebook | Heidi St. JohnX | @‌heidistjohnFaith That Speaks Online CommunitySubmit your questions for Fan Mail Friday | heidistjohn.net/fanmailfriday

AI is changing everything—from how we work to how we relate to one another—but the Church was never called to hide. Today I’m joined by my friend Kary Oberbrunner for a timely conversation about faith, technology, entrepreneurship, and why safety can’t be our highest pursuit. We talk about artificial intimacy, raising discerning kids in a digital age, the cost of authentic leadership, and why bold faith has always required risk. This is a hope-filled reminder that God’s people are called to engage the culture with wisdom, courage, and truth.Prime Sponsor: No matter where you live, visit the Functional Medical Institute online today to connect with Drs Mark and Michele Sherwood. Go to homeschoolhealth.com to get connected and see some of my favorites items. Use coupon code HEIDI for 20% off!Show mentions: http://heidistjohn.com/mentionsWebsite | heidistjohn.comSupport the show! | donorbox.org/donation-827Rumble | rumble.com/user/HeidiStJohnYoutube | youtube.com/@HeidiStJohnPodcastInstagram | @‌heidistjohnFacebook | Heidi St. JohnX | @‌heidistjohnFaith That Speaks Online CommunitySubmit your questions for Fan Mail Friday | heidistjohn.net/fanmailfriday

From parenting teens and inviting kids into faith, to marriage, money, and staying grounded in a noisy culture, today’s Fan Mail Friday tackles real listener questions about living out biblical truth in everyday life. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure, hear this clearly: you’re not alone. God sees your faithfulness, His Word is steady, and He is still leading His people forward—one obedient step at a time.Prime Sponsor: No matter where you live, visit the Functional Medical Institute online today to connect with Drs Mark and Michele Sherwood. Go to homeschoolhealth.com to get connected and see some of my favorites items. Use coupon code HEIDI for 20% off!Show mentions: http://heidistjohn.com/mentionsWebsite | heidistjohn.comSupport the show! | donorbox.org/donation-827Rumble | rumble.com/user/HeidiStJohnYoutube | youtube.com/@HeidiStJohnPodcastInstagram | @‌heidistjohnFacebook | Heidi St. JohnX | @‌heidistjohnFaith That Speaks Online CommunitySubmit your questions for Fan Mail Friday | heidistjohn.net/fanmailfriday

When a culture loses moral clarity, it doesn’t choose righteousness—it chooses chaos. From Venezuela to the streets of America, we’re watching people defend tyranny and reject truth. In this episode, I break down the spiritual roots of today’s outrage, the role of education and media, and why silence is no longer an option. God always preserves a remnant—and this is our moment to stand.Prime Sponsor: No matter where you live, visit the Functional Medical Institute online today to connect with Drs Mark and Michele Sherwood. Go to homeschoolhealth.com to get connected and see some of my favorites items. Use coupon code HEIDI for 20% off!Show mentions: http://heidistjohn.com/mentionsWebsite | heidistjohn.comSupport the show! | donorbox.org/donation-827Rumble | rumble.com/user/HeidiStJohnYoutube | youtube.com/@HeidiStJohnPodcastInstagram | @‌heidistjohnFacebook | Heidi St. JohnX | @‌heidistjohnFaith That Speaks Online CommunitySubmit your questions for Fan Mail Friday | heidistjohn.net/fanmailfriday

Our culture is lying about identity—and the consequences are devastating. In this bold follow-up conversation, Walt Heyer exposes how trauma and ideology fuel confusion, and why real compassion means telling the truth and returning to God’s design. This is a hard conversation, but it’s one we can’t afford to ignore.Prime Sponsor: No matter where you live, visit the Functional Medical Institute online today to connect with Drs Mark and Michele Sherwood. Go to homeschoolhealth.com to get connected and see some of my favorites items. Use coupon code HEIDI for 20% off!Show mentions: http://heidistjohn.com/mentionsWebsite | heidistjohn.comSupport the show! | donorbox.org/donation-827Rumble | rumble.com/user/HeidiStJohnYoutube | youtube.com/@HeidiStJohnPodcastInstagram | @‌heidistjohnFacebook | Heidi St. JohnX | @‌heidistjohnFaith That Speaks Online CommunitySubmit your questions for Fan Mail Friday | heidistjohn.net/fanmailfriday

As we close out 2025, I’m taking a moment to look back on the year that was—the hard moments, the blessings, and the faithfulness of God that carried us through it all. Then we’ll talk about where we’re headed and how to step into the new year with courage, hope, and a faith that’s anchored in truth. You’re not alone, friends. God is already at work as we move forward together.Prime Sponsor: No matter where you live, visit the Functional Medical Institute online today to connect with Drs Mark and Michele Sherwood. Go to homeschoolhealth.com to get connected and see some of my favorites items. Use coupon code HEIDI for 20% off!Equipping The Persecuted Coffee | ETPcoffee.comShow mentions: http://heidistjohn.com/mentionsWebsite | heidistjohn.comSupport the show! | donorbox.org/donation-827Rumble | rumble.com/user/HeidiStJohnYoutube | youtube.com/@HeidiStJohnPodcastInstagram | @‌heidistjohnFacebook | Heidi St. JohnX | @‌heidistjohnFaith That Speaks Online CommunitySubmit your questions for Fan Mail Friday | heidistjohn.net/fanmailfriday

In this special episode, I’m joined by my son Spencer for a heartfelt conversation about raising boys in today’s world. We talk about faith, responsibility, work ethic, and why the quiet, everyday moments of parenting are shaping boys into godly men more than we realize. If you’re raising sons and wondering how to disciple them with confidence in a confusing culture, this episode is for you.Prime Sponsor: No matter where you live, visit the Functional Medical Institute online today to connect with Drs Mark and Michele Sherwood. Go to homeschoolhealth.com to get connected and see some of my favorites items. Use coupon code HEIDI for 20% off! Equipping The Persecuted Coffee | ETPcoffee.com Show mentions: Mentions — Heidi St JohnWebsite | heidistjohn.comSupport the show! | donorbox.org/donation-827Rumble | rumble.com/user/HeidiStJohnYoutube | youtube.com/@HeidiStJohnPodcastInstagram | @‌heidistjohnFacebook | Heidi St. JohnX | @‌heidistjohnFaith That Speaks Online CommunitySubmit your questions for Fan Mail Friday | heidistjohn.net/fanmailfriday

Should AI be your tutor? Your counselor? Your kid’s shortcut? Today we’re asking the hard questions about artificial intelligence and faith. My guest, Rob McDole of Cedarville University, explains why discernment matters more than ever, how closed AI systems work, and what it looks like to prepare students spiritually—not just technologically—for the future. If you’re a parent, educator, or leader, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.Prime Sponsor: No matter where you live, visit the Functional Medical Institute online today to connect with Drs Mark and Michele Sherwood. Go to homeschoolhealth.com to get connected and see some of my favorites items. Use coupon code HEIDI for 20% off!Equipping The Persecuted Coffee | ETPcoffee.comShow mentions: http://heidistjohn.com/mentionsWebsite | heidistjohn.comSupport the show! | donorbox.org/donation-827Rumble | rumble.com/user/HeidiStJohnYoutube | youtube.com/@HeidiStJohnPodcastInstagram | @‌heidistjohnFacebook | Heidi St. JohnX | @‌heidistjohnFaith That Speaks Online CommunitySubmit your questions for Fan Mail Friday | heidistjohn.net/fanmailfriday

It’s Fan Mail Friday, and today we’re answering honest questions from listeners who are feeling the weight of life and culture. From spiritual burnout and church hurt to parenting, finances, fear, and dry seasons of prayer, this episode speaks to the moments when faith feels heavy—but God is still at work. We’ll talk about conviction versus condemnation, trusting the Lord in uncertain times, teaching kids discernment without cynicism, and why laughter can actually be part of spiritual warfare. If you’ve ever wondered, “Am I the only one struggling like this?”—you’re not. Stick around. You’ll be encouraged.Prime Sponsor: No matter where you live, visit the Functional Medical Institute online today to connect with Drs Mark and Michele Sherwood. Go to homeschoolhealth.com to get connected and see some of my favorites items. Use coupon code HEIDI for 20% off!BRAVE Books | heidibrave.comEquipping The Persecuted Coffee | ETPcoffee.comShow mentions: http://heidistjohn.com/mentionsWebsite | heidistjohn.comSupport the show! | donorbox.org/donation-827Rumble | rumble.com/user/HeidiStJohnYoutube | youtube.com/@HeidiStJohnPodcastInstagram | @‌heidistjohnFacebook | Heidi St. JohnX | @‌heidistjohnFaith That Speaks Online CommunitySubmit your questions for Fan Mail Friday | heidistjohn.net/fanmailfriday

In this Christmas Special, I want to invite you to slow down and listen with your kids. Gather them close—on the couch, in the car, or wherever you are—and take a moment to remember why we celebrate Christmas at all. Today, I’m sharing the story of Jesus’ birth and reminding families that God kept His promise by sending a Rescuing King. Jesus didn’t just come as a baby—He came to defeat sin, bring hope, and offer salvation to all of us. This is a meaningful episode to enjoy together as a family on Christmas Day.Prime Sponsor: No matter where you live, visit the Functional Medical Institute online today to connect with Drs Mark and Michele Sherwood. Go to homeschoolhealth.com to get connected and see some of my favorites items. Use coupon code HEIDI for 20% off!Show mentions: http://heidistjohn.com/mentionsWebsite | heidistjohn.comSupport the show! | donorbox.org/donation-827Rumble | rumble.com/user/HeidiStJohnYoutube | youtube.com/@HeidiStJohnPodcastInstagram | @‌heidistjohnFacebook | Heidi St. JohnX | @‌heidistjohnFaith That Speaks Online CommunitySubmit your questions for Fan Mail Friday | heidistjohn.net/fanmailfriday

Is fear holding you back from what God is calling you to do? Today I’m joined by Dave Pasti, author of Worth the Risk, for a powerful conversation about faith, courage, marriage, and choosing obedience over comfort. This is real-life bravery—the kind that costs something and changes everything.Prime Sponsor: No matter where you live, visit the Functional Medical Institute online today to connect with Drs Mark and Michele Sherwood. Go to homeschoolhealth.com to get connected and see some of my favorites items. Use coupon code HEIDI for 20% off!BRAVE Books | heidibrave.comEquipping The Persecuted Coffee | ETPcoffee.comShow mentions: http://heidistjohn.com/mentionsWebsite | heidistjohn.comSupport the show! | donorbox.org/donation-827Rumble | rumble.com/user/HeidiStJohnYoutube | youtube.com/@HeidiStJohnPodcastInstagram | @‌heidistjohnFacebook | Heidi St. JohnX | @‌heidistjohnFaith That Speaks Online CommunitySubmit your questions for Fan Mail Friday | heidistjohn.net/fanmailfriday