Crazy Cool Family

Designing 2026: Goals That Matter  Feeling overwhelmed by goal-setting? In this episode, we share a simple, biblical framework for setting meaningful goals for 2026—starting with you and then your marriage.  Using Mark 12:30, we break goals into four areas: heart, soul, mind, and strength, and talk about how small, realistic steps can lead to real growth over time.  We also dive into: How to set personal goals without burnout  Why the soul is often overlooked—and why it matters  Protecting your mind in a world full of noise  Designing your marriage instead of letting it drift  How to set marriage goals without creating conflict  Progress matters more than perfection.  🎧 Next episode: Setting goals as a family and building unity at home.  Podcast Resources: Click here for everything Crazy Cool Family! Give us a review! Buy the Deep Dive TODAY! (Listen to the episode for a special offer)

Season Finale: Wrapping Up 2025 with Crazy Cool Family As 2025 comes to a close, Don and Suzanne are taking a moment to reflect, celebrate, and cast vision for what’s ahead. 🎉 In this final episode of the year, you’ll hear highlights from Season 7 of the Crazy Cool Family Podcast and learn how God has been using this ministry to impact families across the U.S., Europe, and even Africa. 🌍  This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a global movement to inspire and equip parents to build strong, Christ-centered families. From practical parenting strategies to sibling relationships, guest interviews, and the launch of new resources like The Playbook and Deep Dives, 2025 was packed with tools to help parents win at home.  In this episode, Don and Suzanne share:  🎙 Their favorite moments and guests from the podcast this year  📘 How The Playbook and Deep Dives are helping parents apply simple, powerful principles every day  🌍 Updates on Crazy Cool Family’s international impact, including teaching families in Africa  💡 Their one big piece of advice for parents heading into 2026  Whether you’ve been listening since episode one or just discovered Crazy Cool Family this year, this season finale will encourage and equip you to keep going. Parenting is learned one step at a time, and every family can win.  👉 Tune in now, get inspired, and step into 2026 ready to notice your kids, be present in the moment, and make family your greatest investment.  Podcast Resources: Click here for everything Crazy Cool Family! Give us a review!

Holiday Chaos or Holiday Memories? Creating Traditions That Last  The holiday season is here—and with it comes the mix of joy, chaos, and never-ending to-do lists. 🎁 From decorating the house to wrapping gifts, baking cookies, and attending every school or church event, it’s easy for parents to feel more overwhelmed than joyful.  In this episode of the Crazy Cool Family Podcast, Don and Suzanne Manning share candid reflections and look back on 30+ years of parenting seven kids through the holiday hustle. They’ve been through the late-night wrapping sessions, Christmas concerts, chaotic car rides to find the “perfect tree,” and even baking sessions where the cookies didn’t turn out quite right. Through it all, they’ve discovered that holidays aren’t about perfection—they’re about shaping memories.  You’ll hear practical ideas and “holiday hacks” for: Including your kids in the preparations (even if it’s messier and slower). Shifting the focus from getting to giving through serving neighbors, writing notes, or sibling gift exchanges.  Creating simple family traditions—from decorating bedrooms with mini trees to baking monkey bread—that knit kids’ hearts to yours.  Letting go of busyness and embracing peace, even when schedules get overwhelming.  Whether you’re a parent of toddlers, teens, or grown kids, this conversation will encourage you to slow down, laugh at the chaos, and focus on what truly matters. Because the greatest gift you can give your children this season isn’t perfect cookies or matching wrapping paper—it’s the gift of connection.  👉 Tune in today and start creating holiday traditions that will outlast the chaos and shape your family for generations.  Podcast Resources: Click here for everything Crazy Cool Family! Give us a review!

Re-Run ALERT! Two Ingredients for the BEST Thanksgiving Week (Part 2)  Part 2 (Ep. 323, originally Ep. 144) Welcome back, Crazy Cool Families! Today we’re continuing our series, ‘Two Ingredients for the BEST Thanksgiving Week.’ This is part two—originally Episode 144 and now Episode 323. Last week we shared the first ingredient, and today we’ll give you the second one that ties it all together to help your family have the best Thanksgiving yet. Let’s dive in!”  In this episode you’ll hear about:  The second “ingredient”: appreciation—recognizing people with gratitude and value.  Why appreciation changes relationships and creates an atmosphere of connection.  How to use the 5 Love Languages (words, service, gifts, touch, time) to show appreciation at Thanksgiving.  Practical examples for navigating stressful family dynamics with gratitude.  A simple but powerful challenge to share what you appreciate around the Thanksgiving table. Podcast Resources: Click here for everything Crazy Cool Family! Give us a review!

Two Ingredients for the BEST Thanksgiving Week (Part 1)  Part 1 (Ep. 322, originally Ep. 143)  Thanksgiving can be one of the most joyful times of the year—or one of the most stressful. In this episode, we’re bringing back one of our favorite holiday conversations to help your family lean into joy, peace, and purpose this Thanksgiving. We kick off our two-part series with the first ingredient for the best Thanksgiving week, and it may surprise you: awareness.  We’ll talk about how awareness changes the way you approach family gatherings, helps you notice others’ needs, and invites God’s presence into the holiday. If you want this year to be less about stress and more about connection, this episode is a great place to start!  👉 In this episode you’ll hear about:  Why Thanksgiving often feels stressful—and how to flip it into peace and joy.  The first “ingredient” for the best Thanksgiving: awareness.  How awareness helps you notice needs, love people better, and invite God into the moment.  Practical ways to lead your family toward joy, not chaos, during the holiday.  Podcast Resources: Click here for everything Crazy Cool Family! Give us a review!

From Chaos to Connection: 30+ Years of Parenting Lessons  After 33 years of parenting seven kids, Don and Suzanne Manning are stepping into a brand-new season: empty nesters! But before you picture peace and quiet, join us for this powerful episode of the Crazy Cool Family Podcast where we look back at decades of parenting, the lessons learned, and the incredible fruit that comes from choosing family—over and over again.  In this episode, Don reflects on: The early years of parenting and what he would tell his younger self.  How focusing on connection over control transformed his family.  Why choosing family as your “main thing” is always worth it.  How chaos and failure became tools God used to shape him as a dad.  You’ll hear raw and relatable stories—from dragging toddlers down the carpet (oops!) to persevere through teenage disconnect. Don reminds us that parenting isn’t about being perfect—it’s about never quitting. Mistakes don’t disqualify you; disengaging does.  This conversation isn’t just for parents with littles. It’s for every stage: young parents learning the ropes, families juggling the chaos of multiple kids, and those entering the bittersweet transition of launching young adults. You’ll walk away encouraged, challenged, and reminded that family is worth it.  Whether you’re knee-deep in diapers or navigating curfews with teens, this episode will inspire you to choose connections, embrace grace, and build a family culture that lasts for generations.  👉 Tune in now and be reminded: parenting is hard, but it’s the greatest, most rewarding work you’ll ever do.  Podcast Resources: Click here for everything Crazy Cool Family! Give us a review!

30+ Years, 7 Kids, One Big Lesson: Family Is Worth It In this episode, Macy rapid-fires questions at Suz, drawing out three decades of parenting wisdom from raising seven kids to navigating the empty-nest season. Together, they unpack the heart of family as God’s idea—where parenting is discipleship, connection matters more than tasks, and playing the long game pays off. From marriage teamwork and practical rhythms to the power of community, prayer, and the joy of adult children, this conversation offers encouragement and tools for every season of parenting. Whether you’re in the toddler trenches, managing teens, or stepping into grandparenthood, you’ll find faith-filled wisdom and relatable stories to inspire your family journey. Family is God’s design—prioritize connection, invite Jesus daily, and play the long game. You’ll learn how to: Build connection that creates capacity and peace in your home. Use small resets (like a 5-minute tidy or micro-dates) to beat chaos. Lead as a unified marriage team and signal love to your kids. Lean into community and prayer as a protective covering. Encourage adult kids and celebrate fruit in the next generation. This episode is for new parents, large families, empty nesters, and anyone who wants practical rhythms and spiritual encouragement for raising a Christ-centered home. Podcast Resources: Click here for everything Crazy Cool Family! Give us a review!

Do we Celebrate Halloween as a Family or no? How do you celebrate Halloween as a family and is it bad to do?   RE-RUN ALERT!!Halloween hasn't changed over the years and our conversation about it/beliefs on the topic remain the same. Do you need help deciding how your family celebrates Halloween? Then this podcast is for you! First off, your family needs to personally seek God and obey what he is saying for your family. There is no right or wrong. Obeying God is top priority!   Secondly, if you do decide to dress up and go house to house here are some mindsets you can empower your kids with.   Focus on Light vs. Darkness: Emphasize themes of light, drawing from verses like John 1:5 ("The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it").   Use Halloween as a time to connect with neighbors and friends. Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages fellowship and building each other up, which can be reflected in community activities. Share the gospel or pray for people as you go door to door.   Encourage creative expression through costumes and decorations. This encourages creativity and imagination in them - and honestly it is just so fun to dress up.   Teach children about discernment, focusing on Philippians 4:8, which encourages thinking about things that are true, noble, and right. Discuss the difference between fun and fear and avoid anything that glorifies evil.  These are simple mindsets to help place in our kids' minds as we approach this holiday!  Podcast Resources: Click here for everything Crazy Cool Family! Give us a review!

Kids can’t learn new skills when their nervous system is flooded. In this episode, Suz and Kenzie show you how to regulate first and coach second using our MONSTER cue: My Only Need: Start To Emotionally Regulate. You’ll learn a faith-filled, brain-wise plan for toddler tantrums, big-kid blowups, and teen flare-ups—without losin;g your own peace.  You’ll Learn Thermostat vs. thermometer parenting: How to set the room’s emotional “temperature,” not just read it.  The MONSTER check: A simple in-the-moment phrase that grounds you and your child.  Storm vs. sunshine timing: Correct for safety in the storm; train skills in the calm.  Age-by-age scripts for toddlers, big kids, and teens that lower intensity fast.  Pick-your-battle triage: Safety, maturity, and “my-issue” filters so you don’t fight every fight.  Reset tools that work: 4/6 breathing, colors game, cold water splash, squeeze/hug items, wall pushups/jumping jacks, worship/quiet song.  Regulate → Repair → Rehearse so growth sticks.  Faith integration: “Peace lives in me—let’s go find it,” plus short prayers that invite the Holy Spirit into hard moments.  “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” — Isaiah 26:3  (See also Galatians 5:22–23 for the fruit of the Spirit and Philippians 4:7 for God’s peace.) Podcast Resources: Click here for everything Crazy Cool Family! Give us a review!

Parenting Through Meltdowns: Turning Chaos into Connection  Every parent has been there—the dreaded meltdown. Whether it’s your toddler on the kitchen floor, your teenager slamming a door, or even you holding back tears in the car, meltdowns are part of family life. But what if these moments aren’t just problems to solve, but opportunities to connect?  In this episode of the Crazy Cool Family Podcast, Don and Suzanne share wisdom from raising seven kids and over 30 years of parenting experience to help you reframe how you see meltdowns. We’ll dive into why meltdowns happen, how they make us feel as parents, and—most importantly—how to respond in ways that build character, strengthen relationships, and reduce chaos in your home over time.  You’ll learn practical strategies for handling toddler tantrums, school-day meltdowns, and teenage blow-ups without adding fuel to the fire. From turning a “no” into a redirect, to knowing when to pause and offer grace, this conversation will help you see meltdowns as moments to disciple, not just discipline.  We’ll also explore the spiritual side of meltdowns—how God uses adversity to grow us, and how we can model compassion, patience, and love even when emotions run high.  Parenting isn’t about perfection—it’s about connection. So, if you’ve ever felt embarrassed, overwhelmed, or unsure in the face of a meltdown, this episode is for you.  👉 Tune in now and discover how to transform meltdowns into meaningful, crazy cool parenting moments.    Podcast Resources: Click here for everything Crazy Cool Family! Give us a review!

Can you parent with grace and discipline at the same time? Absolutely. In this episode, Don and Suzanne Manning explain how to combine God’s favor (grace) with training to standards (discipline) to build self-control, connection, and freedom in your home. You’ll learn the difference between firm vs. harsh, how to respond not react, and a simple “same-side of the line” visual that moves you from power struggles to partnership. The conversation includes empathy that doesn’t excuse behavior, practical scripts for correction, and a preview of emotional regulation tools for “meltdown moments.” Anchored in Hebrews 12:6 and Galatians 5:1, this episode equips you to set clear boundaries and keep a gentle tone—so your kids actually learn.  Key takeaways:  Grace (favor) + discipline (training) lead to true freedom and self-control.  Be firm, not harsh—respectful tone makes correction stick.  Use “Help me understand…” to pair empathy with consequences.  Stand shoulder-to-shoulder with your child and point them to God’s standard.  Prioritize long-term connection over short-term compliance.  Start practicing emotional regulation during meltdowns (for you and your child).  Podcast Resources: Click here for everything Crazy Cool Family! Give us a review!

In this episode, Don and Suzanne Manning share how to teach kids integrity without lectures. Learn how to model honesty, coach truth-telling with a “respond, don’t react” approach, and create a family culture of integrity. Get age-by-age strategies for littles, middles, and bigs that make character building stick. Anchored in Proverbs 10:9 and John 8, this episode equips you to help your child keep their word, repair quickly, and walk securely.   What you’ll learn:   Why modeling + quick repair beats perfection   A 6-step script to coach honesty (lower shame, raise truth)   Age-specific tools for Littles (2–7), Middles (8–12), Bigs (13+)   Family language that makes truth-telling safe   Bible stories (Jonah; Woman caught in adultery) that illustrate integrity and kindness    🎧 Listen now and start your 3:1 Praise Challenge this week. Then share your family’s integrity win with us!  Podcast Resources: Click here for everything Crazy Cool Family! Give us a review!

In this episode of the Crazy Cool Family Podcast, Suz and McKenzie talk with Becky, founder of Clean Mama about simple, sustainable home keeping routines for busy families. Learn the 5 daily cleaning tasks, a practical weekly cleaning schedule (bathrooms, dusting, vacuuming, floors, catch-all), how to involve kids in chores, and how to keep a non-toxic home with easy DIY cleaners. If you’re overwhelmed by clutter, laundry, and dishes, this conversation will help you create peaceful family rhythms that support Christian parenting and the mission of your home.  What you’ll learn:  The 5 daily resets: wipe counters & dishes, check floors, make beds, tidy clutter, daily laundry check  The weekly flow that prevents marathon cleaning days  Rotating tasks & monthly focus (deep clean + organize without overwhelm)  How to show, don’t tell when teaching kids chores (age-appropriate tools + tiny wins)  Mindset shifts: “I get to” gratitude, timing tasks (<5 minutes!), and starting where you are  Non-toxic favorites: Becky’s go-to DIY stone spray (water + rubbing alcohol + a little dish soap)  Getting back on track after travel, sickness, or newborn—why you start with today  Why a made bed is a mood booster and room “anchor”  Quote to remember:  “Hard doesn’t mean bad. Small, faithful steps at home serve your Kingdom mission.”  Podcast Resources: Click here for everything Crazy Cool Family! Give us a review! Clean Mama site & resources Homekeeping Society (membership) Crazy Cool Family Home Sweet Home Deep Dive

Reclaiming Motherhood: Hard ≠ Bad  Suzanne sits down with her daughters—now mothers themselves—for an honest, hope-filled conversation about reclaiming a life-giving vision of motherhood. They unpack the tension most moms feel: the days are long, the needs are endless, and perfectionism and isolation creep in. Together they reframe motherhood as Kingdom work—discipleship in real time—where “hard” can be holy, refining, and deeply meaningful.  You’ll hear practical ways to trade victim-thinking for vision: making motherhood the main thing (letting chores serve connection), joining your child’s world to build present-moment memories, creating more deposits than withdrawals with specific encouragement, and using quick repentance to repair when you blow it. The episode also tackles common pain points—asking for help, carving out breaks before burnout, battling loneliness with intentional friendships and spouse check-ins, and resetting your perspective so you see your kids as the blessing they are. Anchored in Isaiah 40:11, this conversation offers gentle leadership for moms in every season.  Takeaways:  Motherhood is discipleship—hard doesn’t mean bad.  Prioritize connection; let tasks fit under the mission of mothering.  Name weaknesses, bring them to light, and ask for help.  Combat loneliness with quick, deep check-ins and God-with-us moments.  Keep a 3:1 encouragement-to-correction rhythm.  Repent fast; repair fast. Connection beats perfection.  Isaiah 40:11: God gently leads those with young.  Try it this week: 10 minutes of undistracted play, one clear ask for help, celebrate one tiny win out loud.  Podcast Resources: Click here for everything Crazy Cool Family! Give us a review!

Why You Should Take Your Kid on a Mission Trip??? In this inspiring episode, Don and Suzanne Manning are joined by longtime friend and missions expert Dr. Chris Searcy to discuss the life-changing impact of mission trips on children and teens. With over 25 years of experience and 2,500+ students led on global trips, Chris shares powerful stories and practical advice for families.  Discover why mission trips aren’t just for "super Christians," but are actually a core part of discipleship. Learn how sending your child to serve beyond their comfort zone can awaken purpose, grow their faith, and transform their view of the world. Whether your child is 5 or 15, you’ll walk away with ideas to cultivate a family on mission.  Topics include: The difference between "serving" and being "on mission"  Age-appropriate ways to get your kids involved  How to overcome fear, safety concerns, and the cost  What really happens on a student mission trip  Perfect for families seeking to raise kingdom-minded kids. Listen today and take your first step toward building a family that lives on mission.  Podcast Resources: Click here for everything Crazy Cool Family! Give us a review!  

What happens when spouses see parenting differently? In this episode of the Crazy Cool Family Podcast, Don and Suzanne Manning dive into the power of parenting with unity—even when you have different methods.  Through practical stories, biblical encouragement, and years of wisdom, they show how to: Create safe, judgment-free check-in conversations  Encourage each other without criticism  Respond as a team, not competitors  Build unity that creates safety and peace for your kids  Plus, they share helpful tools like “pillow talk,” the family dashboard, and the idea of safe words to help you work through conflict with grace.  If you want to strengthen your marriage and create a more unified family culture, don’t miss this episode.  Podcast Resources: Click here for everything Crazy Cool Family! Give us a review!  

Is your marriage stuck in a cycle of miscommunication and method wars? In this episode, Don and Suzanne Manning unpack a powerful concept that will radically transform your relationship: agreeing on values, not methods.  You’ll learn: Why unity doesn’t mean uniformity  How to define and agree on your family’s core values  Practical tools to navigate disagreements and grow together  How becoming the best version of yourself actually strengthens your marriage  Discover the Marriage Unity Triangle and how to stop trying to fix your spouse — and start supporting them instead. If you're ready to parent as a united team and build a strong, joy-filled marriage, this episode is for you.  Podcast Resources: Click here for everything Crazy Cool Family! Give us a review!  

How to Start the School Year with Confidence (Not Chaos) Back-to-school season can feel like a whirlwind—supplies, sports, schedules, and stress. In this episode of the Crazy Cool Family Podcast, Don and Suzanne unpack how to approach August with peace, purpose, and powerful parenting strategies.  They share real-life stories and practical tips for helping your kids through transitions, easing anxiety, and setting them up for a confident start. From preparing emotionally and spiritually to casting vision for the year ahead, this episode walks you through how to replace back-to-school dread with excitement.  You’ll learn how to affirm your child’s identity, speak truth over their fears, and use everyday moments—like haircut appointments and school shopping—as opportunities for connection. Whether you’ve got toddlers starting preschool or teens headed to high school, this conversation is filled with grace and encouragement for every stage.  Plus, learn how to involve dads, stretch the to-do list over time, and start early so you don’t lose your peace under pressure.  Podcast Resources: Click here for everything Crazy Cool Family! Give us a review!  

Ready or not.... The Fall is Coming! In this episode of the Crazy Cool Family Podcast, Don and Suzanne Manning tackle the chaos and pressure of August head-on. From back-to-school shopping to emotional transitions, they unpack practical strategies to help families navigate the busiest time of year with clarity and connection.  You'll learn: How to ease your child’s anxiety about a new school year  The importance of starting preparations early (hello, July haircuts!)  Ways to empower your kids with confidence through affirmations, vision casting, and emotional support  Simple tools to replace stress with encouragement—and why your attitude as a parent sets the tone for the entire family  Whether you're a seasoned homeschooler, a school-drop-off pro, or a first-timer sending your little one off to kindergarten, this episode is packed with practical wisdom to help you and your kids thrive.  🎧 Tune in now to make this your most intentional back-to-school transition yet.  Podcast Resources: Click here for everything Crazy Cool Family! Give us a review!

What is the most important lesson to teach your kids this summer? In this episode of the Crazy Cool Family podcast, we’re wrapping up summer with the most essential parenting topic: leading your kids to Jesus. Whether your children are toddlers or teens, creating a family culture where God conversations happen naturally is one of the most powerful tools you have.  Don and Suzanne walk through how to talk about faith with kids at different stages: Littles (ages 0–6), Middles (elementary age), and Bigs (middle and high school). They emphasize that helping your children follow Jesus isn’t about doing more—it’s about being intentional with the everyday moments. From thanking God for the sunshine to sharing how you handle frustration at work, your children learn what a real relationship with Jesus looks like by watching you live it.  They also offer practical encouragement for parents who feel unsure, are new in their faith, or have kids pushing away from God. Real stories, relatable struggles, and timeless truth make this episode a must-listen.  🎧 Listen now + grab our $3.99 Deep Dives to keep the conversation going! Podcast Resources: Click here for everything Crazy Cool Family! Give us a review!