The Monica Swanson Podcast

We all know there is no formula for good motherhood (bummer!) Yet, the Bible does offer plenty of wisdom to help us navigate well. By understanding the gospel story and considering how God has made each of our families uniquely, Christian moms have access to the very best guide. Every day, moms must make decisions...so many decisions! The Bible has clear guidelines for some, but others are less clear and require wisdom and discernment. Today, Emily Jensen, co-founder of Risen Motherhood, joins us to talk about how we can make good decisions as Christian moms. We are drawing from her recent book, Gospel Mom (co-authored by Laura Wifler.)  We cover spiritual disciplines, some good questions to ask yourself as you make decisions, and how to view other moms who may choose to make different decisions than we do! Find show notes and links over at http://www.monicaswanson.com/gospel-momGeneral podcast page: http://www.monicaswanson.com/podcast Looking for a Bible-based math or science homeschool curriculum? All my boys have used DIVE/Shormann Math and science for short-but-thorough lessons through the AP level! They believe it was the best preparation for their college studies in engineering and data analytics. Shormann Algebra 1&2 prepares kids for everything on the Pre-SAT, SAT, and ACT with over 200 practice questions! Go to diveintomath.com to learn more! The Monica Swanson Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit www.christianparenting.org Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

If you’ve been a mom for more than a minute, you have dealt with difficult emotions. Destructive mommy anger has been one of the hardest issues for me personally, and I am so grateful for God’s grace in offering me forgiveness, grace, and a new way to parent. Now I am passionate about helping other moms overcome the cycle of overwhelm, anger, and guilt.  Today’s guest, Natalie Hixson shares my passion, and has dedicated the past 8 years to coaching moms who struggle with anger. In today’s episode Natalie shares some of her story, as well as practical tools for overcoming overwhelm. I appreciate her wise perspective on mommy guilt, and her “SIT and Pray” acronym is a helpful tool for any mom who even occasionally gets angry (um, I think that’s all of us!? 😉)  Be sure to see show notes for links to Natalie’s free download, coaching services, and anything specific mentioned in this episode. Please spread the word about this show as it is such an important and little-talked about topic!  Find notes for today’s conversation at: http://monicaswanson.com/anger-natalie General podcast page: http://www.monicaswanson.com/podcast Looking for a Bible-based math or science homeschool curriculum? All my boys have used DIVE/Shormann Math and science for short-but-thorough lessons through the AP level! They believe it was the best preparation for their college studies in engineering and data analytics. Shormann Algebra 1&2 prepares kids for everything on the Pre-SAT, SAT, and ACT with over 200 practice questions! Go to diveintomath.com to learn more! The Monica Swanson Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit www.christianparenting.org  Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

As we near the end of this fall series on the most frequently-asked-parenting questions, today we come to the topic that I have probably been asked the very most about: DISCIPLINE! I am grateful to have my husband with me to cover this challenging and potentially divisive, but incredibly important topic! Dave and I begin this episode with the WHY of discipline. We share Scripture and common sense reasons for disciplining our kids, ideally starting at a very young age. We spend the second part of the episode sharing some of the “how” of discipline…from our experience as well as the research we have done. We cover the biblical concept of “the rod”, as well as using our kids’ “currency” to offer natural and logical consequences. Be sure to visit my website show-notes for a free printable with helpful guidelines for discipline!  Find notes for today’s conversation at: http://monicaswanson.com/discipline General podcast page: http://www.monicaswanson.com/podcast Looking for a Bible-based math or science homeschool curriculum? All my boys have used DIVE/Shormann Math and science for short-but-thorough lessons through the AP level! They believe it was the best preparation for their college studies in engineering and data analytics. Shormann Algebra 1&2 prepares kids for everything on the Pre-SAT, SAT, and ACT with over 200 practice questions! Go to diveintomath.com to learn more! The Monica Swanson Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit www.christianparenting.org  Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

I am so excited to get to share this honest Mom-chat with my friend Jessica Smartt. I have loved Jessica’s books (links to them over in my show notes) and getting to know her in real life a couple years ago, and I appreciate her wisdom, conviction, and humor. I think you'll enjoy getting to know her too!In today’s episode Jessica shares three helpful parenting “goals” for sibling relationships, and then we go on to cover questions I have received from Instagram messages and emails. We cover a lot! -- From what to do about a mean sibling, to how to handle competition…When parents should get involved vs. when to let kids sort things out on their own, and more! I think you’ll find this practical and helpful. (And I think we’re going to need a part 2! -- Let us know if you agree over in show notes!)  Find notes for today’s conversation at: http://monicaswanson.com/siblings-jessicasmartt General podcast page: http://www.monicaswanson.com/podcast Looking for new math or science homeschool curriculum? All my boys have used DIVE/Shormann Math and science for Bible-based, short-but-thorough lessons, through AP level! They believe it was the best preparation for their college studies in engineering and data analytics. Shormann Algebra 1&2 prepares kids for everything on the Pre-SAT, SAT, and ACT with over 200 practice questions! Go to diveintomath to learn more! The Monica Swanson Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit www.christianparenting.org  Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

I’m so excited to get to share a sneak peek, — some special clips from 7 of the interviews which are a part of the Character Training Course.  And the fun news is: The Character Training Course is finally open (only until next Monday!) I hope you can go over to the COURSE PAGE to see what’s in there and join over a thousand families who are saying YES to raising kids of character!  Whether or not you are a part of the course, today’s guests will inspire you in the areas of: Raising kids with a strong work ethic Helping kids learn to COPE with difficult seasons and developing a vocab for big emotions. Managing our own emotions in parenting and avoiding angry responses. Encouragement for Father and daughter relationships.  Nurturing gratitude and fighting entitlement in our kids. Helping girls navigate friendships. Words from my son (the original Character Training Student!) reflecting on his experience going through character training at home! Find show notes and links to listen at: http://www.monicaswanson.com/character-clips General podcast page: http://www.monicaswanson.com/podcast Looking for new math or science homeschool curriculum? All of my boys have used DIVE/Shormann Math and science for Bible-based, short-but-thorough lessons, through AP level! They believe it was the best preparation for their college studies in engineering and data analytics. Shormann Algebra 1&2 prepares kids for everything on the Pre-SAT, SAT, and ACT with over 200 practie questions! Go to diveintomath to learn more! The Monica Swanson Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit www.christianparenting.org  Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

We all want our kids to have good character, but we don’t always consider how crucial character is to our kids’ future success. In today’s interview, former multi-billion-dollar investment manager, Dennis Trittin, helps us connect the dots and find even more motivation for raising kids of character.After over 30 years managing investments and studying successful leaders all over the world, Dennis shifted his focus to sharing what he had learned with the next generation. Writing books and speaking to students, parents, and educators, Dennis is passionate about inspiring the next generation to embrace the kind of character that will help them get jobs, (and not get fired from them!) nurture healthy relationships, and live happy, fulfilling lives. Today we draw from his book, What I Wish I Knew at 18: Life Lessons for the Road Ahead.Show notes: http://www.monicaswanson.com/characterandsuccessGeneral podcast page: http://www.monicaswanson.com/podcastLooking for new math or science homeschool curriculum? All of my boys have used DIVE/Shormann Math and science for Bible-based, short-but-thorough lessons, through AP level! They believe it was the best preparation for their college studies in engineering and data analytics. Shormann Algebra 1&2 prepares kids for everything on the Pre-SAT, SAT, and ACT with over 200 practie questions! Go to diveintomath to learn more!The Monica Swanson Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit www.christianparenting.orgPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome to week 2 of this fall series focused on “Most-asked-about” Parenting topics. Today we tackle a hot topic in our culture which I think is incredibly important for parents to tune into.  My guest, Rachel Gilson, has an amazing testimony (I can’t wait or you to hear it!) From her background as an atheist and a lesbian, to being confronted with the reality of Jesus’ love for her (at Yale, no-less!) Rachel’s story is powerful. Now as a wife, Mom, and Christ-follower, Rachel is in a unique position to communicate Truth and love to this generation.   I hope you can listen and consider sharing this episode with people in your lie. Find links to Rachel’s book and anything else we talk about in show notes at: www.monicaswanson.com/rachel-gilson  show notes: www.monicaswanson.com/podcast  Looking for new science or math homeschool curriculum? All my boys have used DIVE/Shormann Math for Bible-based, short-but-thorough science and math lessons, through the AP level! Your kids will love Dr. Shormann’s short, well-put-together lessons, and Shormann’s Algebra 1 and 2 classes will equip your kids for the PSAT, SAT, and ACT with over 200 practice qustions! Go to diveintomath.com to learn more!  The Monica Swanson Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit www.christianparenting.org  Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This week we kick off a month + of “most-requested” parenting topics. We’re going to cover some hard topics and some hot topics. Today we kick it all off with a topic important for every parent: Raising mentally strong kids!  My guest, Lauren Gaines, has a background in school psychology and has taught at the University level. More recently Lauren began wearing the title of “homeschool Mom”.  In today’s interview Lauren tells us about the cognitive triangle, how to help kids “take captive their thoughts” and the power of metacognition (thinking about what you’re thinking about.) With relatable examples and ideas you can try at home, today (!) I think you’ll find a ton of practical help in this conversation!    Find all of the links and show notes at: www.monicaswanson.com/lauren-gaines  show notes: www.monicaswanson.com/podcast  Looking for new science or math homeschool curriculum? All my boys have used DIVE/Shormann Math for Bible-based, short-but-thorough science and math lessons, through the AP level! Your kids will love Dr. Shormann’s short, well-put-together lessons, and Shormann’s Algebra 1 and 2 classes will equip your kids for the PSAT, SAT, and ACT with over 200 practice qustions! Go to diveintomath.com to learn more!  The Monica Swanson Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit www.christianparenting.org Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome to part 4 of my September Women’s Wellness Series. Today we get to talk about the common, yet often-confusing topics related to pelvic floor health! My good friend, Doctor of Physical Therapy, Sierra Rehrer, is with us to help us understand the various women’s health issues related to the pelvic floor. She shares the most common pelvic floor problems, what we can do at home to strengthen the pelvic floor, and when it is time to see a doctor or physical therapist.  Sierra has a strong background in women’s health and a heart to educate and support women in every season. She has many resources available to help you with pelvic floor weakness, urge incontinence, and more. Sierra also has a son with Spina Bifida, and a heart to support families navigating life with disabilities.  Find LOTS of links to resources and helpful content that Sierra is sharing at: www.monicaswanson.com/pelvic-floor  All episode show notes: www.monicaswanson.com/podcast  Looking for new science or math homeschool curriculum? All my boys have used DIVE/Shormann Math for Bible-based, short-but-thorough science and math lessons, through the AP level! Your kids will love Dr. Shormann’s short, well-put-together lessons, and Shormann’s Algebra 1 and 2 classes will equip your kids for the PSAT, SAT, and ACT with over 200 practice qustions! Go to diveintomath.com to learn more!  The Monica Swanson Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit www.christianparenting.org  Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome to part 3 of my September Women’s Wellness Series. As we go through these topics, I am very aware that we are just scratching the surface, and I am already working on plans for more of these in the future!   The topic of hormones alone could be a month-long series (if not more!) but I think this honest chat with my friend, Greta Eskridge, is a great start. Greta has had a long and challenging journey with hormones, from PMS to perimenopause. While her story may not offer a solution or specific remedies for everyone’s struggles, I believe that this girlfriend-style chat will open the door to more conversations ahead. Maybe even conversations between you and people in your life.  If you resonate with Greta’s story of painful emotions, extreme moods, or other hormonal symptoms that seem to be more than “just PMS” I encourage you to see a medical professional, talk to your spouse or a trusted friend, and ask God to help you find solutions. Find show notes to today’s conversation at: www.monicaswanson.com/greta-hormones show notes: www.monicaswanson.com/podcast  Looking for new science or math homeschool curriculum? All my boys have used DIVE/Shormann Math for Bible-based, short-but-thorough science and math lessons, through the AP level! Your kids will love Dr. Shormann’s short, well-put-together lessons, and Shormann’s Algebra 1 and 2 classes will equip your kids for the PSAT, SAT, and ACT with over 200 practice qustions! Go to diveintomath.com to learn more!  The Monica Swanson Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit www.christianparenting.org Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this, my most vulnerable episode to date, I share my personal journey overcoming obsessions with food, exercise, and the scale. Beginning with my background as a competitive gymnast, to typical teenage insecurities, to dieting and obsessing as a lifestyle, to laying it all down in surrender to the Lord, and the amazing (though very practical) path He led me to when everything changed!  (Including landing at my ideal weight without following any plan!) Perhaps most importantly, I am convinced that what I share from my journey will be applicable to almost any hangup you might face. The lessons I learned and the freedom I found is available to anyone seeking. I pray it helps you (and please consider sharing this episode with people you care about!)  This episode draws from my book, The Secret of Your Naturally Skinny Friends. Find out more by reading that book and sign up for my Women’s Wellness email list to receive encouragement, freebies, and updates!  Show notes for this episode can be found at: www.monicaswanson.com/my-journey Get my tiny little book here.  Join my Women’s Wellness email list HERE! (Note: A new freebie with: “5 Things I Did to Become Happy, Healthy, and Free” will be sent to you when you sign up!)  All show notes: www.monicaswanson.com/podcast  Looking for new science or math homeschool curriculum? All my boys have used DIVE/Shormann Math for Bible-based, short-but-thorough science and math lessons, through AP level! Go to diveintomath.com to learn more!  The Monica Swanson Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit www.christianparenting.org  Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Jeanine Amapola is a popular influencer for Gen Z, but even more, she is wise beyond her years! After a long season of straddling the fence between sincere faith and hidden sin, Jeanine faced the truth: Only a true surrender to God would truly satisfy. Jeanine joins us to chat through some of the topics in her recent book, Becoming Happy and Healthy. We cover friends (good ones and the toxic type,) adventure, career, and the power of habits. Jeanine opens up about secret sins and the importance of someone willing to tell you the truth. Jeanine's testimony is powerful and I love her heart to point women (young and old) to the gospel.  My favorite part of this interview is towards the end when Jeanine speaks directly to the young women listening. it is a powerful word! I hope you can listen in, then invite your daughters to join you as well. Show notes: http://monicaswanson.com/jeanine-amapolaGeneral podcast page: http://www.monicaswanson.com/podcast Looking for new math or science homeschool curriculum? All of my boys have used DIVE/Shormann Math and science for Bible-based, short-but-thorough lessons, through AP level! Shormann Algebra 1&2 prepares kids for everything on the Pre-SAT, SAT, and ACT with over 200 practice questions! Go to diveintomath to learn more! The Monica Swanson Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit www.christianparenting.org Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

We do a lot for our kids, but nothing is more powerful or effective as praying for them. Yet, many of us feel intimidated or inadequate in our prayer lives. Life is busy. We are tired. What is the best way to pray for our kids?  Brooke McGlothlin is here to help! In today’s episode she shares her unexpected journey to becoming a praying mom, and steps that anyone can take to elevate their prayer lives. I love Brooke's focus on praying Scripture for our kids, and I’ll be including a few of the prayers from her book, Praying Mom, over in show notes. There is so much good stuff in this episode (including a closing prayer by Brooke for all of you and your families!) I hope you enjoy this encouraging conversation! Show notes: http://monicaswanson.com/brooke-mcglothlin General podcast page: http://www.monicaswanson.com/podcast Looking for new math or science homeschool curriculum? All of my boys have used DIVE/Shormann Math and science for Bible-based, short-but-thorough lessons, through AP level! They believe it was the best preparation for their college studies in engineering and data analytics. Shormann Algebra 1&2 prepares kids for everything on the Pre-SAT, SAT, and ACT with over 200 practice questions! Go to diveintomath to learn more! The Monica Swanson Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit www.christianparenting.org  Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

I thought we could all use a little “parenting pep talk” right about now…As we wrap up a busy summer and prep for the new school year, we need reminders of how important our role is as parents, the job description God has given us, and the difference we can make in our kids’ lives through our involvement, support, and prayers.  In this episode I am chatting with Leslie Nunnery, author, podcaster, and host of the popular “Teach Them Diligently” homeschool conference. I love Leslie’s passion for parenting with strength and dignity, her commitment to God’s Word, and her sincere desire to support families! In show notes find the specific Bible verses Leslie mentions as well as links to her (new) book, “How to Create a Legacy Bible”, the “40 Day Thanksgiving Journal”, “Heart School” and more. Show notes: http://monicaswanson.com/leslie-nunnery General podcast page: http://www.monicaswanson.com/podcast Looking for new math or science homeschool curriculum? All of my boys have used DIVE/Shormann Math and science for Bible-based, short-but-thorough lessons, through AP level! They believe it was the best preparation for their college studies in engineering and data analytics. Shormann Algebra 1&2  prepares kids for everything on the Pre-SAT, SAT, and ACT with over 200 practie questions! Go to diveintomath to learn more! The Monica Swanson Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit www.christianparenting.org  Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

We all have unique interests and strengths, and then other areas that, well, don’t come so naturally. (right?) That’s perfectly normal. Yet, being well-rounded is important for navigating every area of life. I think it is a good idea to zoom out occasionally and take inventory of how we and our kids are doing in the way of being well-rounded, and balanced!  In this episode I am sharing what I call the “Five Building Blocks” of a well-rounded student. Whether your kids go to a traditional school, or they are homeschooled (or some combination of the two!) this little audit should be helpful!  If you enjoy this topic, you will really enjoy my BRAND NEW ONLINE COURSE: The Well-Rounded Homeschooler. In this self-paced digital course, I dive deeper into each of the five building blocks with short videos, resource lists, bonus interviews, and tons of beautiful printables. (Though it is a course for homeschool families, I believe any intentional family will get a lot out of it!) Find show notes with links to things mentioned at: http://monicaswanson.com/well-rounded/ {Go directly to the course page at: https://monicaswanson.com/wellroundedhomeschooler/} General podcast page: http://www.monicaswanson.com/podcast/ Looking for new math or science homeschool curriculum? All my boys have used DIVE/Shormann Math and science for Bible-based, short-but-thorough lessons, through AP level! They believe it was the best preparation for their college studies in engineering and data analytics. Shormann Algebra 1&2  prepares kids for everything on the Pre-SAT, SAT, and ACT with over 200 practie questions! Go to diveintomath.com to learn more! The Monica Swanson Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit www.christianparenting.org Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Lindsey Mimnaugh has grown a huge online following for her beautiful curriculums, nature studies, and always-inspiring social media posts (See: Treehouse Schoolhouse online) I love her book suggestions and all of her ideas for training little ones with good habits, life skills, and open-ended play! Beginning her homeschooling journey before she had kids of her own (by homeschooling other people’s kids!) Lindsey has experience and wisdom to share. In today’s episode we talk about five ways to set toddlers up for success. These are great ideas for turning what can feel like very long days (or was it just me?) into intentional opportunities to shape young lives and prepare kids for a life of learning ahead! See show notes for a summary of Lindsey’s list and links to everything she mentions! Show notes: http://monicaswanson.com/treehouse-schoolhouse General podcast page: http://www.monicaswanson.com/podcast Looking for new math or science homeschool curriculum? All of my boys have used DIVE/Shormann Math and science for Bible-based, short-but-thorough lessons, through AP level! They believe it was the best preparation for their college studies in engineering and data analytics. Shormann Algebra 1&2 prepares kids for everything on the Pre-SAT, SAT, and ACT with over 200 practie questions! Go to diveintomath to learn more! The Monica Swanson Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit www.christianparenting.org  Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Summertime is so special, yet the days are fleeting (right?) And without some intentionality it’s easy to wrap up summer, wondering where the days have gone.  Whether your kids are about to start back to school already (like here in Hawaii!) or you still have a few weeks, you’ll be glad to make the most of these days while summer is still in the air! In today’s episode I suggest FIVE things families can do, for a no-regrets summer. These are not difficult, but they won’t happen on their own!  I’m mentioning quite a few suggested resources in this episode, which you’ll find linked to in show notes.  www.monicaswanson.com/summer-things General podcast page: http://www.monicaswanson.com/podcast Looking for new math homeschool curriculum? All of my boys have used DIVE/Shormann Math for Bible-based, short-but-thorough science and math lessons, through AP level! They believe it was the best preparation for their college studies in engineering and data analytics. Go to diveintomath to learn more! The Monica Swanson Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit www.christianparenting.org Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This is part 3 of my summer mini-series on parenting and youth sports. Be sure to tune into the last two episodes if you have missed them! In today’s episode, my son Luke (20,) joins me talk about his experience pursuing a professional surf career. For context he explains a bit about how competitive surfing works, where he is now in the process, and his ultimate goals. He talks about how he got started surfing competitively, some of his early inspiration, and the twists and turns of youth surfing. Luke talks honestly about some of the ways our parenting shaped his competitive experience (good and bad,) and how his faith has impacted his perspective.  At the end Luke and I chat a bit about the competitive mindset and some sports psychology principles he has learned more recently. I think this part can apply to most athletes and well beyond the world of sports. This is a long one – but I think your kids might enjoy and I hope it encourages you in some way too! PS Luke is currently looking at starting his own podcast, so stay tuned and look for where you might follow him over in show notes… www.monicaswanson.com/luke-swanson General podcast page: http://www.monicaswanson.com/podcast Looking for new math homeschool curriculum? All of my boys have used DIVE/Shormann Math for Bible-based, short-but-thorough science and math lessons, through AP level! They believe it was the best preparation for their college studies in engineering and data analytics. Go to diveintomath to learn more! The Monica Swanson Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit www.christianparenting.org  Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome to part II of our summer series on parenting and youth sports. Be sure to catch last week’s (packed!) episode if you missed it! Today my husband Dave is with us to consider 3 important FAITH PRINCIPLES that impact our kids’ athletic endeavors.  Background: Dave played soccer through the collegiate and professional level, and we are both super competitive people. We have navigated parenting our four sons through all kinds of recreational sports, and now our son, Luke, is a professional surfer, and our youngest son, Levi, is passionate about competitive golf.In today's episode Dave and I are passing on principles that we have learned and are constantly working on in our own family. From the purpose of sports, to helping kids remain grounded in their identity (apart from sports), to keeping our family's priorities straight, I think this is all practical and relevant to all kinds of sports and other activities.Whether your kids are highly competitive or just do sports for fun, I think we cover a lot of important ground in this conversation! Find show notes and links to everything mentioned at: www.monicaswanson.com/dave-swansonAll podcast episodes can be found at: http://www.monicaswanson.com/podcast Looking for math or science homeschool curriculum? All my boys have used DIVE/Shormann Math and science for Bible-based, short-but-thorough science and math lessons, through AP level! They believe it was the best preparation for their college studies in engineering and data analytics. Go to diveintomath to learn more! Note: 25 % off SUMMER SALE through the end of July!  The Monica Swanson Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit www.christianparenting.org  Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Note: This is the first of a 3-part summer series on Youth Sports. (I'm so excited about this!) I hope you’ll spread the word and comment over in show notes to keep the conversation going.  According to recent research, 70% of kids drop out of organized athletics by the age of 13. Today’s guest, John O’Sullivan, suggests that this is because youth sports have become adult-centered, ultra-competitive, and crazy-expensive. I don’t think he’s wrong. Since my husband and I have shared conversations about youth sports on social media this year, I’ve heard from a lot of families who wanted more on this topic. I recently read O’Sullivan’s book, Changing the Game, and knew that his voice would be a helpful addition to this conversation!John played collegiate and professional soccer and has spent decades coaching and speaking to coaches and parents about the youth sports culture and how we might reverse some dangerous trends. He has a popular Ted Talk on the topic as well (link to that in show notes!) In today’s episode we talk about early specialization, when to give kids the “nudge” to be more committed to their sport, and how to help all of our kids grow up to love sports and lead an active lifestyle! I think this is a great conversation that will offer you some food for thought as you consider your kids’ athletic endeavors. Find show notes, links to John’s books (including his new one coming out later this year!) and his Ted Talk at: www.monicaswanson.com/john-osullivan  All show notes: www.monicaswanson.com/podcast  Looking for new science or math homeschool curriculum? All my boys have used DIVE/Shormann Math for Bible-based, short-but-thorough science and math lessons, through AP level! Go to diveintomath.com to learn more!  The Monica Swanson Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit www.christianparenting.org Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy