Carpool Conversations

What happens when God calls your family to something new—and it feels a little scary? This week, we were joined by Andre Rose, who shares his family’s story of trusting God through a big life transition. From the first moment he sensed God might be leading them somewhere new, to their decision to finally say “yes”, Andre talks about how they navigated uncertainty together as a family.If your family is walking through a change—or just wondering how to know if God is calling you to something new—this conversation will encourage and equip you to take that next step with confidence.--Question of the Week: What’s the scariest part about a big change? What’s the most exciting part?--Hosts: Amy Lowe & Sara JonesGuests: Andre RoseProducers: Emily Alters & Cody Braun--Learn more about WinShape Camps at WinShapeCamps.org!Instagram: @WinShapeCampsTikTok: @WinShapeCampsFacebook: @WinShapeCamps Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Talking to our kids about the "birds & the bees" can feel overwhelming—but if we don’t, the world will have the conversation for us. In this episode, Amy and Sara sit down with Dr. Juli Slattery to explore why this conversation is so important and how parents can approach it with confidence and grace. From understanding biblical sexuality to setting healthy boundaries with technology, Dr. Slattery offers practical wisdom for normalizing ongoing conversations with your kids—starting early and continuing as they grow. You’ll hear insights on:• Why "the talk" can feel intimidating for parents.• How regular conversations create openness and trust.• Tips for having the "birds & the bees" conversation with kids.• The connection between screen limits and protecting our kids’ hearts..Whether your kids are little or already teens, this episode will equip you to approach the “birds and bees” with biblical truth and everyday practicality.Links/Resources:Dr. Juli Slattery’s NewsletterJava with Julie PodcastBook: Start Talking to Your Kids about Sex – Julia SaduskyBook: Mama Bear Apologetics® Guide to Sexuality –  Hillary Morgan FerrerBook: Surrendered Sexuality: How Knowing Jesus Changes Everything – Juli SlatteryPDF: 4 Tips for Talking about the Birds and Bees--Question of the Week: Younger – Do you want to be a parent one day? What kind of parent do you want to be?Older – Do people talk about sex at school?--Hosts: Amy Lowe & Sara JonesGuests: Dr. Juli SlatteryProducers: Emily Alters & Cody Braun--Learn more about WinShape Camps at WinShapeCamps.org!Instagram: @WinShapeCampsTikTok: @WinShapeCampsFacebook: @WinShapeCamps Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In today's episode, Amy and Sara sit down with Kendy Bowman as she shares her journey of parenting through grief after the passing of her husband, Cameron. She talks about the unexpected ways God prepared her family, the peace that surpasses understanding, and how she has learned to embrace both the hard and the hopeful moments along the way.Kendy also opens up about what it looks like to help kids process something you’ve never experienced yourself, creating a new life as a family, and finding joy again even as grief remains. Whether you’re walking through grief yourself or want to support someone who is, this conversation offers encouragement, practical steps, and the reminder that you are not alone.Book: The Grieving BrainBook: The Grieving BodyBook: My Wynter Season--Question of the Week: What are ways we can care for someone who has lost someone?--Hosts: Amy Lowe & Sara JonesGuests: Kendy BowmanProducers: Emily Alters & Cody Braun--Learn more about WinShape Camps at WinShapeCamps.org!Instagram: @WinShapeCampsTikTok: @WinShapeCampsFacebook: @WinShapeCamps  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What does it really mean to be an engaged parent? In this episode, Michael Kelly—author of The Whole Story for the Whole Family—joins us to talk about parenting with intentionality. From helping kids grow in faith to normalizing spiritual conversations at home, Michael unpacks the mindset and actions that shape engaged parenting. Whether you’re raising little ones or navigating the teen years, this conversation offers encouragement, practical tips, and a reminder that parenting is more of a field than a factory.Book: The Whole Story for the Whole Family – by Michael KellyBook: The Tech-Wise Family – by Andy Crouch--Question of the Week: (Younger) What do you think it would mean for me to be the "best parent ever?" (Older) Where do you need me to dial in more into your life? Where would you like me to step back?--Hosts: Amy Lowe & Sara JonesGuest: Michael KelleyProducers: Emily Alters & Cody Braun--Learn more about WinShape Camps at WinShapeCamps.org!Instagram: @WinShapeCampsTikTok: @WinShapeCampsFacebook: @WinShapeCamps  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Every kid receives love differently. Understanding how your kids best experience love can transform your relationship with them. In this episode, Amy and Sara sit down with Dr. Gary Chapman—world-renowned author of The 5 Love Languages—as he shares how understanding your kids' unique love language can strengthen your connection and help them feel truly loved. Learn practical ways to speak love in a way your kids can hear, understand, and feel.The Five Love LanguagesThe Five Love Languages of ChildrenThe Five Love Languages QuizzesTeen's Guide to the Five Love LanguagesChoose Greatness: 11 Wise Decisions that Brave Young Men MakeThings I Wish I'd Known Before We Became Parents--Question of the Week: How do you love someone who is super different than you?--Hosts: Amy Lowe & Sara JonesGuests: Dr. Gary ChapmanProducers: Emily Alters & Cody Braun--Learn more about WinShape Camps at WinShapeCamps.org!Instagram: @WinShapeCampsTikTok: @WinShapeCampsFacebook: @WinShapeCamps Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Did you know that over 35% of Americans today have a step-relationship? Blended families are more common than ever—and with them come unique dynamics that can be both beautiful and complex.In this episode, Amy and Sara sit down with Ron Deal, one of the nation’s leading experts on stepfamilies, to talk about how parents can lead with grace, patience, and understanding in blended family dynamics. Ron shares powerful metaphors, like his famous "crock-pot" analogy, to explain why these families need time—not pressure—to thrive. He also unpacks common challenges, offers practical tools for step-parents, and gives hopeful encouragement to those in the thick of it.Whether you're parenting in a blended family, supporting one, or simply want to better understand how to love the people in your community, this conversation is full of wisdom, empathy, and next steps.Website: Family Life BlendedBlended Family Resources: The Smart StepfamilyThe Smart Stepfamily: 7 Steps to a Healthy FamilyPDF: A Guide to Building Love with the 5 P's of Step-Parenting--Question of the Week: For those in Step-families: What are some benefits of us having a blended family? For those not in Step-families: Who do you know that might be in a blended family and what kind of questions do you have about blended families?--Hosts: Amy Lowe & Sara JonesGuests: Ron DealProducers: Emily Alters & Cody Braun--Learn more about WinShape Camps at WinShapeCamps.org!Instagram: @WinShapeCampsTikTok: @WinShapeCampsFacebook: @WinShapeCamps Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Marriage takes intentionality—and in the middle of raising kids, balancing work, and keeping up with the daily grind, it’s easy for couples to put their relationship on the back burner. In this episode, Amy and Marissa sit down with Genee Francis, Assistant Director of Content and Programming at WinShape Marriage, to talk about what it really looks like to invest in your marriage. From practical rhythms to heart-level encouragement, Genee shares wisdom for strengthening connection, building trust, and keeping Christ at the center—no matter your season. Whether you’re newly married or years into the journey, this conversation is filled with hope, humor, and practical ways to grow stronger together.Explore WinShape Marriage Retreat OptionsExplore WinShape Marriage Free Resources-Question of the Week: What qualities are you going to look for in someone to marry one day? Why are those important to you? --Hosts: Amy Lowe & Marissa RayGuests: Genee FrancisProducers: Emily Alters & Cody Braun--Learn more about WinShape Camps at WinShapeCamps.org!Instagram: @WinShapeCampsTikTok: @WinShapeCampsFacebook: @WinShapeCamps  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What makes summer camp such a meaningful and formative experience for kids—and why do so many keep coming back year after year? In this episode, Amy sits down with two leaders from the WinShape Camps team for a behind-the-scenes look at how camp is intentionally designed to help kids grow in faith, confidence, and resilience. From counselor influences to outdoor play and faith-filled moments that stick, you’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of how camp can shape your kids in powerful ways. You'll also hear about what sets WinShape Camps apart, why camp remains valuable as kids get older, and how it creates a safe space for them to try new things, build relationships, and thrive.WinShape Camps WebsitePodcast: Are My Kids Ready for Overnight Camp?-- Question of the Week: What is a recent challenge that you have overcome?--Hosts: Amy LoweGuests: Keenan Riley & Emma Del SestoProducers: Emily Alters & Cody Braun--Learn more about WinShape Camps at WinShapeCamps.org!Instagram: @WinShapeCampsTikTok: @WinShapeCampsFacebook: @WinShapeCamps  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Parenting today can feel more challenging than ever before. Research shows that anxiety is increasing at an alarming rate, and there seems to be a decrease in kindness happening at the same time. That's where some Biblical truth can help us as parents. In this episode, Sara and Amy sit down with Ammie Akin — a wife, mom of three boys, and career educator with a background spanning all levels of administration, from elementary to high school and college. Ammie shares about being authentic as a parent, utilizing the Bible to help guide you, finding joy in whatever stage of parenting you're in, and being intentional in everyday moments.Book: The Anxious Generation--Question of the Week: Who is the kindest person you encounter at school (or you can pick a different location)? What specific things do they do that made you think of them as kind?--Hosts: Amy Lowe & Sara JonesGuests: Ammie AkinProducers: Emily Alters & Cody Braun--Learn more about WinShape Camps at WinShapeCamps.org!Instagram: @WinShapeCampsTikTok: @WinShapeCampsFacebook: @WinShapeCamps Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

When we walk through something hard, our instinct is often to take control, fix it ourselves, or hold everything together for the people we love. But what if healing comes not from holding on—but from letting go? And what does letting go look like?In this episode, Amy and Marissa sit down with Kylie White—wife, mom of four teens, philanthropist, and a servant-leader in her family’s business, Chick-fil-A. Kylie shares how God met her in the midst of a life-changing diagnosis and a pivotal moment of surrender. She opens up about her journey of letting go, discovering the dynamic power of the Holy Spirit, and finding a depth to her faith she never knew before.Kylie's story reveals how her letting go of control led to profound spiritual transformation, and how these lessons are shaping her life as a wife, mom, and leader. We hope this episode will inspire you to loosen your grip, find peace in God’s presence, and trust in His faithfulness—even when the path ahead feels uncertain.Kylie White's Blog--Question of the Week: First, tell your kid(s) a story about a time when you stepped out in bold faith. What did that look like—whether big or small? Then ask them: Are there any areas where you need to take steps of bold faith?--Hosts: Amy Lowe & Marissa RayGuests: Kylie WhiteProducers: Emily Alters & Cody Braun--Learn more about WinShape Camps at WinShapeCamps.org!Instagram: @WinShapeCampsTikTok: @WinShapeCampsFacebook: @WinShapeCamps Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Parenting can feel heavy—especially when we carry around the weight of how our kids will turn out on our shoulders. But what if we weren’t meant to carry that pressure? In this episode, Amy and Sara sit down with bestselling author and mom of five boys, Jeannie Cunnion, to talk about parenting in freedom rather than fear.Jeannie shares encouragement for moms and dads who are weary from trying to do it all perfectly. She dives into what it looks like to trade our performance mindset for a grace-filled approach to both parenting and our relationship with God. Whether you’re raising toddlers or teenagers, you’ll walk away from this episode feeling lighter, more equipped, and reminded that you’re not in this alone.--Jeannie Cunnion WebsiteThe 509 FoundationMom Set Free Bible Study by Jeannie Cunnion--Question of the Week: Where are you feeling stress or pressure in your life?  And then – As your mom/dad where do I stress/worry too much in our relationship?--Hosts: Amy Lowe & Sara JonesGuest: Jeannie CunnionProducers: Emily Alters & Cody Braun--Learn more about WinShape Camps at WinShapeCamps.org!Instagram: @WinShapeCampsTikTok: @WinShapeCampsFacebook: @WinShapeCamps Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today, Amy Lowe and Emily Alters sit down with two incredible parents who have launched their kids into adulthood and are now navigating the empty nest season—Jeff Stryker and Lynn Alters. Between them, Jeff and Lynn bring decades of parenting wisdom to the table. Both of their families have deep roots at WinShape Camps, with kids who spent summers growing up at camp and are now faithfully following Jesus in their own unique callings. These two empty nesters reflect on their parenting journeys—sharing both meaningful wins and honest missteps—and offer practical advice and encouragement for moms and dads still in the thick of it. Whether you're raising little ones or teenagers, their insight brings encouragement and perspective for the road ahead.Parenting truth we’re holding onto today: You won’t do everything perfectly—but being intentional, present, and Christ-centered matters more than you think.Plus: Don’t miss what Jeff and Lynn are still learning—even after raising kids into adulthood.--Question of the Week: What is something I'm doing well (as a parent)? What is something I could work on (as a parent)?--Hosts: Amy Lowe & Emily AltersGuest: Lynn Alters, Jeff StrykerProducers: Emily Alters & Cody Braun--Learn more about WinShape Camps at WinShapeCamps.org!Instagram: @WinShapeCampsTikTok: @WinShapeCampsFacebook: @WinShapeCamps Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A summer job is just a job—right? Not when it’s working at camp. Today, Amy and Marissa dive into the transformative experience of serving as Summer Camp Staff. Working at camp helps young adults grow in their faith, develop leadership skills, and prepare for life beyond college. Longtime WinShape Camps staffers Alex Scales and Grace Kilgore share the lessons they’ve learned, why they kept coming back, and how their summers on staff shaped their futures. Whether your kids are still little or heading toward their college years, this conversation offers a powerful glimpse into how camp can impact both campers and the incredible college students who invest in them. Plus, if you know a college student looking for a meaningful summer, we’ll share how they can get involved!Want to learn more about working at WinShape Camps? --Question of the Week: What is your dream job? What skills do you need if you had that job? --Hosts: Amy Lowe & Sara JonesGuests: Alex Scales & Grace KilgoreProducers: Emily Alters & Cody Braun--Learn more about WinShape Camps at WinShapeCamps.org!Instagram: @WinShapeCampsTikTok: @WinShapeCampsFacebook: @WinShapeCamps Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In today's episode, Amy and Sara sit down with Capri and Jason Brooks to talk all about prayer—how to model it, practice it as a family, and specific prayers to pray over your kids. Capri and Jason share practical ways to make prayer part of everyday life, along with the "S's" they pray over their children: salvation, safety, and spouse. Whether you’re looking to grow your own prayer life or help your kids posture their hearts towards prayer, this conversation is full of encouragement and practical real-life tips!--Question of the Week: What is something that you are worried about that we could pray about together?--Hosts: Amy Lowe & Sara JonesGuests: Capri and Jason BrooksProducers: Emily Alters & Cody Braun--Learn more about WinShape Camps at WinShapeCamps.org!Instagram: @WinShapeCampsTikTok: @WinShapeCampsFacebook: @WinShapeCamps Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In today’s episode, Amy and Sara dive into the importance of Sabbath and how families can create rhythms of rest in their busy lives. Whether you’re looking to start small or deepen your current Sabbath practices, this conversation will encourage you to slow down, be present, and experience the blessings of intentional rest. Sara also shares about her own journey of making Sabbath a priority for her family and offers practical ways to incorporate Sabbath into your weekly routine. --Book: Sabbath: Finding Rest, Renewal, and Delight in our Busy LivesVideo: Bible Project - SabbathMom Daughter Weekends at WinShape CampsDad Son Weekends at WinShape CampsWinShape Camps for Families--Question of the Week: How can we use our Sundays to rest and refresh ourselves, so that we are ready for the new week?--Hosts: Amy Lowe & Sara JonesProducers: Emily Alters & Cody Braun--Learn more about WinShape Camps at WinShapeCamps.org!Instagram: @WinShapeCampsTikTok: @WinShapeCampsFacebook: @WinShapeCamps Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What's the secret to connecting with your boys in meaningful ways? In today’s episode, Amy and Sara are joined by Sara’s husband, Chase Jones—a Licensed Professional Counselor and Marriage & Family Therapist—to unpack how parents can build strong connections with their sons. Drawing from his years of counseling experience, Chase shares insights on common struggles boys face, the key ingredients for meaningful connection, and practical ways parents can encourage, support, and lead their boys. From pulling them out of the digital world to cultivating leadership and resilience, this episode is packed with expert advice, real-life wisdom, and a reflective question to spark meaningful conversations in your family.The 5 Love Languages QuizBook: The Anxious GenerationArticle: 5 Ways to Shore up Boys' Social SkillsBlog: A Father's Devotion: The Question of Abundant Living--Question of the Week: What makes it hard to be a boy in today's world? What makes it hard to be a girl in today's world?--Hosts: Amy Lowe & Sara JonesGuest: Chase JonesProducers: Emily Alters & Cody Braun--Learn more about WinShape Camps at WinShapeCamps.org!Instagram: @WinShapeCampsTikTok: @WinShapeCampsFacebook: @WinShapeCamps Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How can we help our kids feel safe and secure in an uncertain world? In today's episode, Amy and Sara are joined by Alexis Basik, a Licensed Master Social Worker and trauma-focused care expert, to discuss how parents can help their kids build security and trust in today’s uncertain world. Alexis walks us through key developmental stages for kids —unpacking the lies kids often believe about trust, their unique developmental needs, and practical ways parents can support them. As WinShape Camps prepares for this summer’s theme, UNCHARTED, Alexis connects the dots between navigating life’s uncertainties and trusting in a faithful God. Tune in for expert advice, encouragement, and a reflective question to spark meaningful conversations with your family.Resources:WinShape Camps Theme Preview - Uncharted--Questions of the Week: Has there ever been a moment when someone broke your trust? How did it feel/what did you do about it? --Hosts: Amy Lowe & Sara JonesGuest: Alexis BasikProducers: Emily Alters & Cody Braun Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Every parent dreams of their kids developing a deep love for God’s Word, but where do you start? In this episode, Amy and Sara sit down with Margaret Sharpe—Manager of WinShape Camps International and a passionate follower of Jesus—to explore how parents can inspire a love for Scripture in their children. Drawing from her experience with WinShape’s international projects and and her own faith journey, Margaret shares practical steps like modeling a personal love for the Bible, embracing its rich narratives, and helping kids connect its overarching story to their everyday lives. From accessible Bible study methods to creating meaningful family habits, Margaret’s wisdom and tips will equip and encourage you to lead your kids deeper into God’s Word. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation packed with practical takeaways for your family’s faith journey!--Resources:The Jesus Storybook BibleThe Bible Made Easy for KidsSOAP Bible Study Method--Questions of the Week: What is your favorite Bible story, and why? If you could choose to be one character in the Bible, who would you want to be, and why?--Hosts: Amy Lowe & Sara JonesGuest: Margaret SharpeProducers: Emily Alters & Cody Braun Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, Amy and Sara sit down with David Blanchard, Director of Fellows at Impact 360, to explore practical ways parents can help Generation Z develop a lasting faith. Drawing from over 15 years of experience in discipleship and drawing insights from the latest Barna research, David shares strategies for equipping kids to know God deeply, build strong character, and live out their faith with kingdom influence. He emphasizes the importance of moving from a consumer mindset to a multiplier mindset in discipleship and offers actionable tips for fostering meaningful faith conversations at home. Tune in for encouragement and actionable advice on raising faith-filled kids in today’s world.Research: 5 Things You Need to Know About Gen Z in 2024 by Barna ResearchBook: Know. Be. Live. by John D. BasieImpact 360 Institution--Questions of the Week: How is your generation different from my generation?--Hosts: Amy Lowe & Sara JonesGuest: David BlanchardProducers: Emily Alters & Cody Braun--Learn more about WinShape Camps at WinShapeCamps.org!Instagram: @WinShapeCampsTikTok: @WinShapeCampsFacebook: @WinShapeCamps  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Living out family values takes intentionality—and in today’s episode, Angela Fielder joins us to share how her family does just that. Angela, a member of the Cathy family and a proud WinShape Camps parent, talks about identifying our family values, passing them down to our kids, and weaving them into everyday life. From mission trips to family worship nights, Angela shares practical examples and heartfelt stories that will inspire you to make your family values more than just words on the wall.Podcast: Identifying your Family Values--Questions of the Week: What do you think is most important to our family, and why? How have you seen our family grow this year? Where do you think we still need to grow? --Hosts: Amy Lowe & Sara JonesGuest: Angela FielderProducers: Emily Alters & Cody Braun--Learn more about WinShape Camps at WinShapeCamps.org!Instagram: @WinShapeCampsTikTok: @WinShapeCampsFacebook: @WinShapeCamps Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.