Wire Talk with Karen Stubbs

Today we’re continuing our Mothers of the Bible series by looking at Hannah’s story in 1 Samuel. Hannah was a woman who longed for a child and wrestled with seasons of waiting and disappointment. Listen as Karen teaches through this story, reminding us that God invites us to trust Him, even when our prayers feel unanswered. If you’ve ever waited on God for something close to your heart, we hope you are encouraged to persevere today.Episode Recap:This week we’re looking at Hannah’s story (0:43)Don’t miss the BOAW birthday party after the Soar Conference this year! (2:30)Hannah is where, “...for this child I have prayed.” comes from (5:00)Hannah had dealt with infertility for years (7:00)Your pain may be different from Hannah’s but we can learn from her response (11:03)Hannah and Jochebed both had hearts that were surrendered to the Lord (12:40)Hannah recognized that it was the Lord who made her strong (16:00) Like sheep, we need to follow first (17:28)We must continually remind ourselves that God is good (19:06)Scripture: 1 Samuel 2:1-2 (NIV) “Then Hannah prayed and said:“My heart rejoices in the Lord;    in the Lord my horn is lifted high.My mouth boasts over my enemies,    for I delight in your deliverance.“There is no one holy like the Lord;    there is no one besides you;    there is no Rock like our God.”Discussion Questions: What is something in your life that feels like a “waiting season” right now?How do you typically respond when God doesn’t answer a prayer in your timing?What would it look like to surrender that situation fully to God, like Hannah did?Where are you tempted to compare your life to others, and how is that affecting your heart?How can you remind yourself daily that “God is good” even when life feels hard?Practically speaking, what does it look like for you to let God be your strength instead of trying to do it all yourself?Resources:Register for the SOAR Conference today. Become a WT+ Insider today! boaw.mom/insiderPick up Karen’s Prayer Journal in the BOAW StoreWant More of This Conversation?Insiders will hear Karen share a personal story of a season of waiting in her own life and what God taught her through it. Head HERE and join us for the full conversation.

This week, we kick off our month of celebrating moms with a new series: “Mothers of the Bible.” Today we’re looking at the life of Jochebed, a woman who faced unimaginable fear and made an unthinkable choice to save her son. Through her story, Karen and Emily unpack what it looks like to do our best for our kids and trust God with the rest. If you’ve ever struggled to let go, this conversation will meet you right where you are. Episode Recap:We’re kicking off a new series by looking at the lives of some mothers in the Bible (0:49)Jochebed was Moses’ mom (2:00)She did everything in her power to keep Moses alive (4:10)God enabled Jochebed to nurse Moses after his adoption by Pharoah’s daughter (8:00)Jochebed did everything she could and left the rest up to God (9:50)Jochebed was not Moses’ savior (10:20)Only God can reach our children’s hearts (10:55)Let go of your need to be a perfect parent (11:35) Children are a blessing - try not to hoard the blessing (15:05)Scripture: Psalm 56:3 (NIV) “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.”Discussion Questions: Where in your parenting are you trying to “be the savior” instead of trusting God?What does it look like practically to “open your hands” and give your children back to God each day?How can you balance doing your part as a parent while still surrendering outcomes to the Lord?In what ways might striving for “perfect parenting” be keeping you from trusting God more deeply?Resources:Register for the SOAR Conference today. Become a WT+ Insider today! boaw.mom/insiderPick up Karen’s Prayer Journal in the BOAW StoreWant More of This Conversation?In Wire Talk+, Karen and Emily go deeper into real-life parenting moments, sharing honest stories about when letting go has been hardest for them and how they navigated situations they couldn’t fix for their kids.Head HERE and join us for the full conversation.

Are you trusting your mom gut or Googling yourself into anxiety?In this episode, pediatrician Dr. Laura Bleekrode shares wisdom from nearly 40 years of experience to help moms cut through the noise and parent with confidence. We talk about how social media and constant information can erode your instincts and how to get back to trusting yourself. You’ll be reminded that you know your child better than anyone and that matters!Episode Recap:Dr. Bleekrode is a mom of 8 who owns a pediatric practice and has been practicing medicine for 36 years (1:11)How does Dr. Bleekrode “do it all”?  (4:36)What are you seeing in today’s families that moms didn’t face 20 years ago? (6:15)Our “social networks” used to be personal (6:30)God gave mom’s intuition for a reason! (8:53)What symptoms require immediate medical or psychological attention? (12:13)My toddler is not sleeping for hours at a time, multiple times a month (15:55)What does a healthy sleep routine look like for a toddler? (20:06) Have you noticed parents trying to control all outcomes for their children? (27:20)How does your faith shape the way you counsel your patients? (28:13)Scripture: Isaiah 26:3 (NIV) "You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.”Discussion Questions: When you feel anxious about your child, where do you tend to turn first; your friends, your instincts, or Google?Can you think of a time your “mom gut” was right? What helped you trust it (or ignore it)?What outside influences (social media, advice, comparison) tend to shake your confidence as a mom?How can you create stronger, real-life support systems instead of relying on online answers?What is one area where you can release perfection and trust God more in your parenting this week?Resources:Become a WT+ Insider today! boaw.mom/insiderPick up Karen’s Prayer Journal in the BOAW StoreWant More of This Conversation?WT+ Insiders will hear Dr. Bleekrode share 4 things she wishes all her patients knew! Head HERE and join us for the full conversation.

May can feel overwhelming for moms, filled with endless events, expectations, and emotional moments.Today Karen offers practical wisdom to help you navigate the busyness without losing your joy (or your mind.) From setting realistic expectations to prioritizing what truly matters, this conversation is full of encouragement.Episode Recap:May is just December with sunscreen! (0:30)May feels chaotic with elementary schoolers - how do I get through? (4:40)Sit down with your high schooler and help them prioritize (9:10)Don’t be a wet blanket on your high schooler’s parade (10:15)Working mom here struggling with school events - help!  (11:15)This season has me emotionally up and down with my Senior(14:35) Scripture: Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NIV) “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.”Discussion Questions: What part of May feels the most overwhelming for you right now?Are you trying to attend everything? What might you need to let go of?How can you involve your kids in deciding what matters most this month?Where are you feeling guilt, and is it justified or self-imposed?What is one small way you can slow down and enjoy this season?Resources:Become a WT+ Insider today! boaw.mom/insiderPick up Karen’s Prayer Journal in the BOAW StoreWant More of This Conversation?In the extended WT+ conversation, Karen and Emily get even more practical. Karen shares her system for breaking down exactly how to prioritize without feeling overwhelmed or stretched too thin. If you’re craving less stress and more clarity this month, don’t miss this part of the conversation!Head HERE and join us for the full conversation.

Mom guilt can make even the best moms feel like they’re falling short. In this episode, Karen and Emily talk through the pressures we carry and the expectations we place on ourselves. They offer a practical, biblical perspective to help you recognize what’s true and what isn’t. We hope you walk away encouraged and ready to let go of unnecessary guilt! Episode Recap:Supermoms are a modern day myth (2:00)Stay tuned after the show for Wire Talk+ (6:20)I have been pregnant or postpartum for the past 4 years, everything feels uphill from here. How does anyone do this? (7:04)How do I make the transition to being a stay at home mom? (12:42)My 6 yr old’s incessant talking overwhelms me, help! (15:19)My fuse is pretty short these days, how do I work on this? (19:20)Join us for more questions on WT+ - link in show notes! (26:29) Scripture: Isaiah 40:11 (NIV) “He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.”Discussion Questions: When do you tend to feel mom guilt the most, and what usually triggers it?What expectations are you placing on yourself right now that aren’t  necessary or realistic?How can you distinguish between conviction from the Holy Spirit and unnecessary guilt?What is one practical way you can “let go” of guilt this week and focus on what truly matters?Resources:Become a WT+ Insider today! boaw.mom/insiderGo through our Mom Core curriculum with friends or on your ownPick up Karen’s Prayer Journal in the BOAW StoreWant More of This Conversation?On WT+ today we are answering more questions about guilt, including questions about love languages and dealing with in-laws. Don’t miss it, subscribe today! Head HERE and join us for the full conversation.

Family dynamics can get complicated quickly, especially when expectations, boundaries, and communication styles start to clash. Today we’re talking about how to navigate tension with extended family without losing your peace (or your voice.) We hope you’ll walk away with practical ways to communicate clearly, pursue peace, and love your extended family well.Episode Recap:Moms can easily get stuck in the middle of family conflicts (1:59)I’m stuck in the middle of conflicts between my mom and my husband, help! (4:02)My MIL is extremely difficult, even mean and petty toward me (7:47)How can I be good friends with my mother in law and still have boundaries? (11:30)How can grandparents be closer to the grandchildren of divorced parents? (14:33)Join us for more questions on WT+ - link in show notes! (18:00) Scripture: Romans 12:18 (NIV) “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”Discussion Questions: Where do you feel the most tension right now with extended family or in-laws? What makes that situation difficult?Do you tend to avoid conflict or confront it quickly? How does your temperament affect the way you handle family tension?Are you currently acting as a “middleman” in any relationships? What would it look like to step out of that role in a healthy way?What does it look like to “live at peace…as far as it depends on you” in your current situation?What is one practical step you can take this week to improve communication or reduce tension in a family relationship?Resources:Become a WT+ Insider today! boaw.mom/insiderCheck out Boundaries by Dr. Henry Cloud & Dr. John TownsendListen to a past episode on boundaries with familyDownload our FREE temperaments packetWant More of This Conversation?On WT+ today we are answering more questions about extended family - how to make vacations and extended time together work well - and Karen shares her insights on keeping family connected and what to do when someone pulls away.Head HERE and join us for the full conversation.

Ever find yourself second guessing your parenting decisions? You’re not alone. In this episode, Karen answers questions from moms navigating school struggles, motivation, and knowing when to step back. We hope you walk away feeling encouraged to trust God with the parenting choices you are making.Episode Recap:One parenting decision won’t make or break your child (1:50)My 1st grader doesn’t work hard in school and I can’t make her care! (2:30)How do I motivate my 10 year old yellow/green son? (5:00)My son is reluctant to participate in extracurriculars, how should I handle this? (11:42)Don’t project your fears and anxieties onto your child (14:15)Ask God for the wisdom you need to make parenting decisions today (15:00)Scripture: James 1:5 (NASB) “But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach and it will be given to him”Discussion Questions: When do you find yourself second guessing your parenting the most? What tends to be the trigger?Are there areas where you might be over-helping (or enabling) instead of allowing natural consequences to teach your child?What practical systems (routines, checklists etc.) could help your child take more ownership?Are you projecting fears about your child’s future instead of focusing on what’s true today?What would it look like to release your parenting decisions to God and trust Him with the outcome?Resources:Listen to the rest of our conversation on WT+: boaw.mom/insiderUse A Grown Up’s Guide to Kids’ Wiring to become a better student of your childCheck out our BRAND NEW Bible study: How To Teach Your Kids the BibleDownload our FREE temperaments packetWant More of This Conversation?In WT+, we dive into tougher parenting moments: attachment struggles, discipline that isn’t working, and navigating disagreements with your spouse. Plus, you’ll hear Karen’s practical ways to stay consistent when it feels like nothing is sticking.Head HERE and join us for the full conversation.

If you’ve ever wondered, “Am I ruining my teenager’s life?” - you’re not alone. Today, Karen answers questions from moms navigating strong personalities, emotional pushback, and the tension between protecting and preparing their teens. With her trademark practical wisdom, she reminds us that what feels like conflict is often part of God’s process for refining our kids.Episode Recap:As moms, we can see the writing on the wall but our teens literally can’t (1:45)My daughter and I fight all the time, I just do not like her right now (4:02)You cannot take their attitude and/or push back personally (7:43)How do I motivate my lazy teenage son? (9:01)We don’t need to coddle our sons (11:09)Look into our new study: How to Teach Your Kids the Bible (13:30)My daughter’s career dreams are unrealistic, how do we talk to her about it? (13:45)Any tips for a blue mom raising a melancholy 15 year old teen? (17:36)Our job is not to solve all our kids’ problems, it’s to point them to the Lord (19:41)Scripture: Galatians 6:9 (NLT) “​​So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.”Discussion Questions: When have you felt like your teen misunderstood your intentions? How did you respond?Where are you tempted to take your teen’s behavior personally?What would it look like to “get out of God’s way” in your parenting right now?How can you stay emotionally steady when your teen is not?What is one boundary you need to hold with confidence this week? Resources:Listen to the rest of our conversation on WT+: boaw.mom/insiderCheck out Karen’s Peace for the Anxious Mom study todayCheck out our BRAND NEW Bible study: How To Teach Your Kids the BibleDownload our FREE temperaments packetPick up Karen’s devotional for Teenage Girls on AmazonWant More of This Conversation?WT+ listeners will hear Karen encourage you to stand firm in your parental convictions without damaging the relationship. Karen shares personal stories of the fruit that both she and her children have reaped from maintaining stricter boundaries in the teenage years. Head HERE and join us for the full conversation.

If you’re in the stage of parenting where tears, tantrums, and big emotions seem to take over every day, you’re not alone. Today Karen and Emily are tackling questions from moms navigating the emotional ups and downs of preschoolers and early elementary kids. They discuss why some kids cry more than others, how to handle tantrums without giving in, and how to guide sensitive kids through big feelings. If you’re in the thick of it these days, we hope this episode reminds you that this stage is normal and it won’t last forever! Episode Recap:All of our kids go through hard phases, you are not alone (1:08)My 5 year old boy cries about EVERYTHING - help! (3:05)My son’s temper tantrums are out of control, what can I do? (7:08)My 4 yr old is very dependent on her brother, I’m worried about her clinginess (9:11)How do I approach the “stranger danger” conversation with my outgoing girl? (12:39)You’re not going to change the way your kid is wired, but you can understand it (20:00) Scripture: Proverbs 22:6 (NIV) “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.”Discussion Questions: How do you usually respond when your child cries or throws a tantrum? How’s that working for your family? Karen talked about helping kids learn that not every situation is a “10 out of 10.” How do you teach your children perspective when they’re upset?What are some practical ways you can help your child learn to express feelings with words instead of tears?How does remembering that this stage is temporary change the way you respond in the moment?Resources:Listen to the rest of our conversation on WT+: boaw.mom/insiderSend us your questions through the BOAW Moms app [Apple] [Google Play]Check out our BRAND NEW Bible study: How To Teach Your Kids the BibleWant More?Wire Talk+ listeners get extended conversations every week. Today Karen and Emily are sharing tips for how to make mornings easier with reluctant risers.Head HERE and join us for the full conversation.

Last week, Karen talked about the temperaments. This week, she takes that conversation one step further by answering real questions from moms who are navigating strong-willed kids, harsh words, whining, and emotional outbursts. If you’ve ever looked at your child and thought, I know their heart is sweet, so why is this coming out so sideways? this episode is for you. Karen shares practical wisdom for understanding your child’s wiring, correcting with grace, and helping them grow.Episode Recap:Last week, we talked about blue and red temperaments (2:00)My blue/green son often comes across as critical and harsh (3:00)My rising Kindergartener is controlling and bossy and can be physical (7:23)My daughter used to love being the center of attention, now she’s self-conscious (12:25)What is the temperaments book you reference all the time? (16:05)Pick a “lane” when you take the temperaments test (18:57) Scripture: Hebrews 12:11 (NIV) “No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.”Discussion Questions: Which of my child’s behaviors may be connected to their temperament, and which ones need clear correction?Do I tend to react to my child’s tone or behavior in a way that escalates things?How can I better coach my child after the emotional moment has passed?Where does my own temperament make parenting this child especially hard?What would it look like to be more patient and intentional in helping this child grow over time?Resources:Listen to the rest of our conversation on WT+: boaw.mom/insiderEpisodes featuring moms of different temperament colors: 330, 331, 332, 333Grab Personality Plus for Parents by Florence Littauer Take the Colors Temperament Quiz todayWant More of This Conversation?Wire Talk+ listeners get extended conversations every week! Today Karen delves deeper into how moms’ own temperaments affect the way they respond to their kids and gives a helpful rundown of the core needs of each temperament.Head HERE and join us for the full conversation.

Today Karen and Emily tackle listener questions about kids with big emotions; the pouters, the perfectionists, the rule followers, and the fiercely competitive. Whether your child melts down when they lose, struggles to say they’re having fun, or takes rules a little too seriously, this episode will help you parent the way they’re wired instead of fighting against it.Episode Recap:Join Wire Talk+, our VIP club for listeners (3:45)Is it okay to let my sensitive child pout in his room? (4:27)My “blue child” never says she’s having fun and it’s discouraging to me (9:55)How do I handle an overly strict rule follower? (13:30)My 9 yr old cannot bear losing - should I give him consequences for meltdowns? (17:28)You’re not going to change the way your kid is wired, but you can understand it (20:00) Scripture: Proverbs 22:6 (NIV) “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.”Discussion Questions: Does my child need space or correction in emotional moments?Am I reacting to their personality, or am I training their character?Do I expect my child to respond emotionally the way I would?Where do I need to be more consistent with consequences?How can I model emotional regulation in my own responses?Resources:Listen to the rest of our conversation on WT+: boaw.mom/insiderSend us your questions through the BOAW Moms app [Apple] [Google Play]Check out our BRAND NEW Bible study: How To Teach Your Kids the BibleCheck out Raising Emotionally Strong Boys by David Thomas Want More of This Conversation?Wire Talk+ listeners get extended conversations every week! Today Karen is sharing insights on parenting “blue” temperaments specifically.Head HERE and join us for the full conversation.

Are you parenting a Gen Z child and wondering why everything feels so different from when you were growing up? Today Karen and Emily sit down with leadership expert Tim Elmore, founder of Growing Leaders, to talk about the unique pressures facing this generation.From overexposure to information and technology and underexposure to real-world experiences, Tim helps moms understand what’s really happening beneath the surface in a Gen Z kid. Don’t miss his fantastic illustration of what it means to be a “velvet-covered brick” as a parent!Episode Recap:Growing Leaders was created to help parents understand the next generation (00:54)Who is the Gen Z kid? Who is Gen Alpha? (2:00)Gen Z makes us better leaders (4:20)Gen Z is overwhelmed by their overexposure to information (8:25)This generation is underexposed to experiences (10:09)How can a generation be so connected and still so lonely? (13:06)How do I equip my kids to overcome hardship? (16:04)Parents allow their kids to risk too little, and then rescue too much. (18:54)What intentional habits can make a difference for this generation? (22:44)Enter our giveaway on @birdsonawiremoms to win one of Tim’s books (27:20)Scripture: James 1:2-4 (NIV) “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.”Discussion Questions: Where am I most tempted to rescue my child instead of coaching them through something hard?When my child says they’re overwhelmed, how do I typically respond?How well am I balancing “be yourself” with teaching my child to belong to something bigger than themselves?What is one real-life experience I could intentionally create this year to help my child grow up (not just grow older)?Resources:Listen to the rest of our conversation on WT+: boaw.mom/insiderCheck out all of Tim’s books on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4tQ7IigCheck out our BRAND NEW Bible study: How To Teach Your Kids the BibleWant More of This Conversation?Wire Talk+ listeners get extended conversations every week! Today Tim shares his perspective on the top 3 mistakes parents of teens are making with this generation.Head HERE and join us for the full conversation.

Do you ever feel overwhelmed, overtouched, overstimulated and find yourself wondering, why does this feel so hard?Today Karen answers real questions from moms about marriage, resentment, anxiety, exhaustion, and the emotional weight of motherhood. From mismatched sex drives in the toddler years to school-day overload and traveling husbands, this conversation will remind you that you are not alone. Motherhood can be beautiful and exhausting at the same time- and good and hard can truly run on parallel lines.Episode Recap:Good and hard can run on parallel tracks! (3:10)How can I honor my husband’s higher sex drive and actually enjoy sex right now? (4:33)My afternoons are exhausting with 3 school age daughters - is this normal? (6:57)My husband travels for work & chooses golf on weekends, I feel resentful (12:50)My job and homeschooling has me feeling so anxious, I dread my day to day life (18:28)Scripture: Philippians 4:19 (NIV) “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.”Discussion Questions: Where am I currently feeling the most overwhelmed — marriage, work, parenting, or emotionally?Is there resentment quietly building in my heart? What honest conversation needs to happen?What small buffer or margin could I create this week?Am I trying to solve everything myself instead of laying it before the Lord?Where do I need to remind myself that “good and hard can run on parallel lines”?Resources:Listen to the rest of our conversation on WT+: boaw.mom/insiderCheck out our BRAND NEW Bible study: How To Teach Your Kids the BibleListen to episode 131 or 165 on having a healthy sex life after kidsWant More of This Conversation?Wire Talk+ listeners get extended conversations every week! Today Karen shares a personal story about a painful season when she had to “bend the knee” to God’s will in her life. Join us and we hope you’ll come away encouraged.Head HERE and join us for the full conversation.

Friendships in motherhood are rarely as simple as we expect them to be. Today Karen and Emily are continuing our friendship conversation by tackling comparison, conflict, cliques, and what to do when a friendship changes. They answer listeners’ questions about unmet expectations and learning when to lean in and when to let go. If friendship feels confusing, discouraging, or just plain messy right now, we hope this episode encourages you! Episode Recap:What is happening over on Wire Talk+? (4:01)Where do your friendship expectations come from? (10:30)How have your healthy friendships naturally changed over time? (12:56)Ask God for what you need - even in your friendships (14:52)Friendship doesn’t always look exactly like what we have imagined (18:02)How do we handle conflict and tension in friendship? (18:30)You can create space without ghosting people (21:37)How do I make friends when everywhere around me is full of cliques? (22:00)My friend continually brings up a topic of conversation that irritates me (25:25)Scripture: Proverbs 17:17 (EST) “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.”Discussion Questions: How has comparison (especially through social media) shaped your expectations of friendship?Are there friendships in your life where proximity (distance, schedules, seasons of life) has changed the relationship?When conflict or tension shows up, do you tend to address it or pull away? Why?What kind of friend do you have the capacity to be right now? What kind of friendship do you realistically need in this season?Is there one practical step you could take this month to strengthen a current friendship or pursue a new one?Resources:Listen to the rest of our conversation on WT+: boaw.mom/insiderJoin our BOAW Moms Facebook groupCheck out our BRAND NEW Bible study: How To Teach Your Kids the Bible

Friendships in motherhood can feel complicated, especially when old wounds and insecurities get stirred up in new seasons. In this episode, Karen and Emily talk honestly about why friendships can feel hard for moms and how to move forward with grace, healthy expectations, and a “generous explanation” for the people around us.Episode Recap:Friendship is difficult as a mom (2:23)We all have past hurts that impact how we receive or offer friendship today (4:30)How do we prevent self-sabotaging friendships? (6:17)Communicate clearly when you have moved into a new season of life (8:06)Choose a generous explanation whenever possible (10:02)How do I handle someone who is not a good fit wanting to be friends?! (13:54)How do I maintain friendships in a very full season? (16:45)Continue this conversation on WT+ at the link below (20:16)Scripture: Ephesians 4:2 (NLT) “Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love.”Discussion Questions: Have you had a friendship since becoming a mom that didn’t turn out the way you expected. What made it hard?When friendships feel disappointing or painful, what past experiences or insecurities tend to get stirred up for you?Where do you think your expectations in friendships might need to shift to match the reality of your current season?What would it look like for you to give a “generous explanation” instead of assuming the worst in a friendship right now?What is one practical way you can pursue friendship with more grace this month without overextending yourself?Resources:Listen to the rest of our conversation on WT+: boaw.mom/insiderJoin our BOAW Moms Facebook groupCheck out our BRAND NEW Bible study: How To Teach Your Kids the BibleWant More of This Conversation?Wire Talk+ listeners get extended conversations every week! Today Karen and Emily share how their past relationships have affected the kind of friend they are today. To become a Wire Talk+ Insider, head HERE and join us for the full conversation.

Parenting doesn’t end when your kids turn 18. In many ways, it gets more complicated! Today Karen and Erin are joined by longtime parenting expert Jim Burns for a wise and honest conversation about parenting adult children. They talk about releasing control, shifting your role, navigating boundaries, resisting unsolicited advice, and discerning the difference between helping and enabling. Whether your kids are still at home, newly launched, or already raising families of their own, this episode will help you parent with clarity, peace, and long-term perspective.Episode Recap:Jim is the founder of Homeward Ministries (3:06)When our children become adults, we have to give up control (4:43)What does it look like to embrace a new “job description” as moms? (7:00)How can we offer wisdom to our adult children or do we just bite our tongues? (11:37)Resist the urge to become a “one topic” parent (13:15)What’s the difference between helping your kids and enabling them? (15:45)How do we place good boundaries when adult kids move back in? (19:10)What does it mean to, “wear beige and keep your mouth shut?” (24:00)Can you cast vision for the grandparent years? (28:00)Continue this conversation on WT+ at the link below (32:00)Scripture: Ecclesiastes 3:1 (ESV) –  “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.”Discussion Questions: What part of parenting adult children feels most difficult for you right now? If you don’t have adult children yet, what fears or worries do you have about that season of life?How can you shift from giving advice to asking permission before speaking?Is there an area where helping may have crossed into enabling dependency?What expectations need to be clearly communicated in your family right now?How can you focus on relationship building rather than behavior correcting?Resources:Listen to the rest of our conversation with Jim over on WT+: boaw.mom/insiderGrab a copy of Jim’s new book, Doing Life With Your Adult ChildrenConnect with HomeWord Ministries onlineCheck out Jim’s podcast and his recent episode on Long Distance GrandparentingCheck out our BRAND NEW Bible study: How To Teach Your Kids the BibleWant More of This Conversation?Wire Talk+ listeners get extended conversations every week! Today we go deeper into parenting wayward adult children, setting boundaries, and navigating complicated family dynamics.To become a Wire Talk+ Insider, head HERE and join us for the full conversation.

Discipline is hard, especially when the results feel slow or invisible. In this final episode of our Parenting Principles from Proverbs series, Karen and Emily shift the focus to the long-term fruit of faithful discipline and the peace it brings to both children and parents.Drawing from Proverbs and Hebrews, Karen reminds moms that discipline is discipleship. It is not about control or behavior management in the moment, but about shaping hearts, building security, and leaving a generational blessing.  Don’t miss the end of today’s episode, when Emily announces our big winners from last week’s giveaway!! Episode Recap:What does the fruit of discipline look like? (2:30)Discipline now will bring peace later (7:10)How do I teach my son to obey without all the drama? (11:30)How do I stay calm while disciplining my bonus child? (14:12)My kids argue and whine about everything. I’m exhausted! (17:30)Discipline takes time and repetition (21:17)Discipline leaves a generational blessing (22:54)Our big giveaway winners announced! (24:42) Scripture: Hebrews 12:11 (ESV) – “For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.”Discussion Questions: Why do you think discipline feels especially hard when results are not immediate?How does seeing discipline as discipleship change your perspective?Which scripture from this episode encouraged you the most and why?Where might God be asking you to stay consistent, even when you feel tired?What kind of long-term fruit do you hope to see in your children ten years from now?Resources:Check out our BRAND NEW Bible study: How To Teach Your Kids the BibleListen to episode 347 with David Thomas, Raising Emotionally Strong BoysGrab Thomas’ book: Raising Emotionally Strong Boys

We are celebrating 500 episodes of Wire Talk and using this milestone to talk about something every mom wants: wisdom that actually works in real life. Today Karen breaks down what it means to be a wise mom, not a perfect one, and offers a simple grid for everyday moments by asking, “Will my response build my house or tear it down?” From discipline to independence, this conversation focuses on proactive parenting that shapes our kids over time.Episode Recap:Wire Talk is celebrating 500 episodes - don’t miss our BIG GIVEAWAY (2:34)A wise mom builds her house up in all she does (7:10)Children are born with a sin nature (11:00)Being intentional is hard work (14:31)What is the difference between teaching, training, and discipline? (15:50)Consistency builds trust (20:30)Discipline sets your child up for success long term (23:40)Listener question - how do I discipline my biter? (26:44)Listener question - is it too late for me to disciple my child in faith? (29:39)How do I discipline tantrums in public? (31:52)I don’t know how to help my daughters solve sibling conflict… (33:30)Scripture: Proverbs 14:1 (NIV) – “The wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down.”Discussion Questions: Karen’s guiding question is, “Will my response build my house or tear it down?” Where do you most need that filter right now? (Discipline, mornings, homework, sibling conflict, or marriage?)Where do you tend to parent reactively, and what would it look like to be proactive instead?How does remembering your child’s sin nature change both your expectations and your compassion?Karen talks about how tearing down can show up in our words with kids or a spouse. Where do you need to shift from criticism to building up?Which do you lean toward most: teaching, training, or disciplining, and which one do you tend to avoid? Why?Where do you need to ask God for help right now, one specific area where you are asking Him to meet you with encouragement?Resources:Join our giveaway by commenting on this episode over on YouTube! Check out our BRAND NEW Bible study: How To Teach Your Kids the BibleListen to Wire Talk Episode 1! Start a new habit this year with Karen’s devotional: Moments with God for Moms

Karen and Emily are kicking off the year with a three-part series about parenting principles we can learn from the book of Proverbs. Today, Karen addresses the confusion many moms today feel around discipline, authority, and the pressure to “get it right.” Drawing from Solomon’s teaching, she reminds us that children need leadership, clear boundaries, and parents who are willing to direct them with confidence rather than fear. We hope this conversation encourages you to trust God for wisdom no matter what you are facing this week!Episode Recap:Wire Talk is celebrating 500 episodes next weekSubscribe to our YT podcast so you don’t miss the giveawayGentle parenting does not workStop Googling and start getting into the Word of GodWe are bombarding ourselves with information overloadMoms are afraid of messing up and uncertain of what to doWhat are the 3 stages of discipline? How do I discipline without introducing shame? Children are so resilient, we do not give them enough creditTrust that God will give us wisdom exactly when we need itScripture: Proverbs 1:1-5 (ESV) – “The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel: for gaining wisdom and instruction; for understanding words of insight; for receiving instruction in prudent behavior, doing what is right and just and fair; for giving prudence to those who are simple, knowledge and discretion to the young—let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance…”Discussion Questions: What messages about parenting have influenced you the most in recent years—culture, social media, your upbringing, or Scripture?“More information is not always good information.” Where have you felt overwhelmed or anxious because of too much advice?Why do you think the word authority has become uncomfortable in parenting conversations?How does Proverbs reframe discipline as protection and love rather than punishment?What is one area of parenting where you need to ask God for wisdom instead of trying to figure it out on your own?Resources:Check out our BRAND NEW Bible study: How To Teach Your Kids the BibleListen to our series on the 3 stages of discipline: 154, 155, 156Grab Karen’s devotional book: Moments with God for Moms 

As Christmas approaches, we are turning our focus to love this final week of Advent. In this episode, Karen and Emily unpack what it looks like to love like Jesus in everyday moments: choosing presence, serving quietly, pausing before reacting, and remembering that we love others because Christ first loved us. If the holidays have stretched your patience thin, we hope this conversation will help you refocus your heart on what truly matters! Episode Recap:We’re talking about love this week (6:05)How do we respond to God’s love practically? (7:55)Loving others looks like not being selfish (8:44)Take an interest in others this Christmas (12:34)Choose presence over perfection (15:54)Speak life with your words (16:31)Pause before you react (18:42)Enjoy simple moments (20:20)Serve quietly (21:15)Focus on gratitude (22:42)Scripture: Philippians 2:1-5 (NIV)“Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus.”Discussion Questions: Why do you think loving others feels harder during the holidays?In what ways do you catch yourself trying to impress others rather than love them?Which part of Philippians 2:1–5 challenges you the most right now?What does “choosing presence over perfection” look like in your home?What is one thing you can do this week to respond with love instead of frustration?Resources:Please give today to help us reach more moms with Wire Talk in 2026!