Parenting to Impress Podcast

Parenting to Impress, your go-to podcast to learn practical ways to love God and love others, and “impress” this on the hearts of your children (Deuteronomy 6:4-9). It’s like having a heart-to-heart chat with friends who understand your parenting journey.

Hosted by Heidi Franz, the creator of ABCJesusLovesMe, and her dear friend Melanie Simpson, this podcast offers a warm, inviting space where you can find practical advice, share in their experiences, and feel supported. Tune in for relatable discussions that make you feel connected, inspired, and never alone in your parenting adventure. Listen on your favorite app or right here on our website!

“I love your podcast! If it is possible, I can feel the love and care you have for the parents that listen through your voices on the show. I always come away with encouragement and new things to practice with my family. Thanks so much for another great resource!” –Becky

#72: God, Sleep, and Sanity: How to Train Your Child to Sleep In, Part 2

Discover how to train children to respect wake-up times and stay in bed, allowing parents to reclaim their mornings for essential quiet time with God. In this episode we share 7 practical tips and a step-by-step training process that works for even the most determined early risers. Read more…

#71: God, Sleep, and Sanity: Bedtime Routines that Work, Part 1

If bedtime feels like chaos and you’re desperate for a little peace (and sleep!), you are not alone. We’ve been there — exhausted and unsure what would actually help our kids stay in bed and sleep well. 

In this 2-part podcast, Melanie and Heidi are sharing the bedtime routine that worked for their families—what they did right, what they’d do differently, and how you can create a plan that brings rest to everyone in your home.  Read more…

#70: 10 Tips to Guide Children Through Grief

Grief is hard, especially when you’re trying to help a child process loss. In this episode, Melanie and I share 10 practical ways to walk alongside kids as they navigate sadness, whether from the death of a loved one, the loss of a pet, or even disappointment over unmet expectations. From preparing them for what to expect at a funeral to offering comfort in ways they understand, this episode will equip you with tools to provide the support and reassurance children need. Discover helpful ideas, encouragement, and real-life experiences. Read more…

#69: Introducing Colors and Shapes the Right Way

In this episode, Heidi shares practical tips on teaching colors and shapes through fun, play-based activities that build your child’s vocabulary, creativity, and early math skills. Using everyday conversations, Bible stories, books, and play, she helps parents and teachers introduce colors and shapes in a natural, engaging way. Whether you’re just starting or looking for fresh ideas, this podcast will inspire you to teach these foundational concepts with confidence and joy.

#68: Raising Emotionally Resilient Kids

In this episode, we’re diving into a topic that every parent can relate to—helping our kids manage their big emotions and build emotional resilience. It’s not always easy, but it’s so important! We’ll share practical tips on teaching kids to identify their feelings, model emotional resilience ourselves, and use books and daily routines to make learning fun. Plus, Melanie and I discuss the impact of screen time, gratitude, and other key areas that can influence a child’s emotional well-being. Read more...

#67: Making Reading Time Count

Reading to children is a crucial aspect of their development, creating a strong foundation for vocabulary, comprehension, and emotional intelligence. This episode dives deep into the characteristics of quality children’s literature and practical tips for making reading an enriching experience for both parents and kids. Read more…

#66: Embracing More This Year

Join Heidi Franz and Melanie Simpson in our virtual booth as we reflect on our spiritual goals for the year ahead. We share personal stories of letting go of distractions to grow closer to God, with Melanie’s word of the year, “more,” representing a desire for more joy and connection. In this episode, we discuss how godly friendships fuel spiritual growth and help us stay focused. Whether modeling a godly life for your children or strengthening your faith through friendships, we hope this conversation offers encouragement and practical insights. Read more…

#65: How to Speak God’s Truth Over Your Child’s Life

In this episode, Heidi and Melanie dive into the power of speaking truth over your children and the lasting impact it can have on their lives. We’ll explore what it means to speak truth, why it’s so important, and practical ways to begin doing this in your everyday parenting. They’ll also share a personal example from Priscilla Shirer that really highlights how meaningful this practice can be. Plus, there’s a special Valentine Affirmation printable that ties perfectly into this idea—so stick around to hear more! Read more…

#64: Empowering Independence: A Guide to Letting Go

Join Melanie and Heidi as they discuss the delicate balance of parenting without over-helping, based on Stanford’s research and their own experiences. They emphasize the importance of letting children face challenges to build independence, a strong work ethic, and a sense of purpose. By stepping back, parents can help their kids develop self-regulation, emotional understanding, and responsibility.

In this episode, you’ll learn a practical four-step process inspired by how Jesus taught his disciples, applicable for all ages—from helping a toddler clean up to teaching a teen to drive. With personal stories and insights into how parental control affects children’s future, they encourage a supportive rather than controlling approach. Read more...

#63: Simple Steps to Starting a Family Bible Time

Bringing God’s Word into your home is one of the most powerful ways to shape your children’s spiritual foundation. While the church plays a key role, the real impact happens when faith becomes part of your everyday family life. In this episode, we explore practical ideas for creating meaningful family Bible time, offering ways to weave Scripture and faith-filled conversations into your daily routines—even on the busiest days. These simple tips will help you build a lasting spiritual legacy for your children, right at home. Read more…

#62: Does Your Home Have Structure? Here’s How to Tell

A listener to the Parenting to Impress podcast, raised an insightful question: “How do I know if my home has structure? Is there a right or wrong amount?” Structure seems abstract, but I believe there are a few hints to gauge your family’s structure. And be sure to listen until the end, where I offer guidance for parents who are providing structure but still find their children resisting it. Read more…

#61: Teaching Respect in Your Home: A Biblical Perspective

Why do children sometimes show more respect to one parent than the other? In this episode we will take a dive into various parenting styles—uninvolved, permissive, authoritarian, and authoritative—exploring how each impacts the level of respect children show parents. You’ll gain valuable insights into teaching children what respect truly looks like, all through the lens of biblical principles and the importance of seeing each family member as an image bearer of God. Read more…

#60: What’s a Christian to Do with the Enneagram?

Dive into the intersection of faith and personality as the Parenting to Impress Podcast duo discusses the spiritual implications and use of the Enneagram. Addressing concerns about its possible evil origins, we explore how Christians can thoughtfully approach and utilize this tool used to understand the nine personality types. Join us as we explore what a Christian is to do with the Enneagram and its potential for spiritual growth, parenting, and healthy relationships. Read more…

#59: Teaching Kids Responsibility Through Household Chores

Discover how teaching children household chores can reduce anxiety and foster responsibility. Inspired by Chris and Lindsay Wheeler’s book, Kit and the Missing Notebook, this episode explores how engaging kids in daily tasks can create a peaceful family dynamic and prepare them for a life of service to God and others. Melanie and Heidi offer tips for starting young, building lifelong habits, and balancing support and self-esteem. Transform your parenting approach and integrate meaningful chores into your family’s routine. Read more…

#58: Elevate Your Parenting with Effective Communication

Can the way you talk with your children really shape your child’s cognitive, emotional, and social development? Discover the transformative power of balancing instructional and relational talk in this popular episode of Parenting to Impress. Read more…

#57: From Chaos to Calm: Family Vacation Survival Guide

Can a family vacation really be both relaxing and fun when you’re juggling young kids, single-bathroom situations, and meal planning? Tune in as we unravel the joy and chaos of family trips, offering practical advice on everything from mastering staycations to understanding the nuances of hotel etiquette and VRBO meal prep. Learn why setting realistic goals is key and how adjusting your expectations as your children grow can lead to more fulfilling trips. And if elaborate travel plans seem daunting, fear not—discover the beauty of meaningful family time close to home. Join us for a refreshing perspective that prioritizes shared experiences over picture-perfect vacations. Read more…

#56: Shaping an Intentional Summers for Your Kids

Embark on a journey to craft the ultimate summer experience for your kids. Together, Melanie and Heidi peel back the layers of parenting during those sun-drenched days, drawing inspiration from Mark 12:30 to fill our children’s time with intention. Whether you love the slower pace or grapple with guilt as a working parent, our conversation is brimming with actionable strategies to help you plan a summer.

Discover how to strike that perfect balance between nurturing your child’s academic and spiritual progress and embracing the carefree spirit of the season. Tune in and transform those fleeting summer moments into lasting memories and lessons for your little ones. Read more…

#55: How to Break Free from Lies to Embrace the Truth

Ever felt like you’re not measuring up? It’s a common struggle, and my friend Melanie and I are diving into it on Parenting to Impress. We’re tackling doubts about our worth and our kids’ success head-on because those thoughts can be relentless. But amidst the chaos, there’s Truth, and we’re eager to share it. We’re learning to sift through the lies and find God’s Word. Whether you’re a perfectionistic parent or just need a boost, tune in for inspiration and practical steps toward embracing abundant life. Read more…

#54: Tips to Help Kids Tackle Test Anxiety

As a parent who’s experienced the challenges of raising children, I understand the stress tests and tryouts can place on kids. Today, I want to offer some heartfelt advice to help your children cope with test anxiety, whether it’s a spelling test, ACT exam, or sports tryouts. I’ll share three practical tips to ease their worries, including praying together using scripture, sending them encouraging notes, and emphasizing the role of faith in their successes. Additionally, I’ve created a free PDF of Bible verses specifically for testing times, available for you to download. Let’s use these challenges as opportunities to strengthen your child’s faith and confidence. Read more…

#53: When Your Marriage Doesn’t Match Your Dreams

Her inquiry was raw and brimming with emotion. To conclude, she anonymously posted, “I’m committed to our marriage, but I am tired.” I’m aware that many have experienced this same sentiment in their marriages, even though Christians often feel pressure to have a different kind of marriage. Yet, what are you to do when you feel trapped and unhappy? Can love and connection truly endure in a marriage?

I invite you to join me on what may be my most candid podcast yet. I welcome you to sit in the booth as my guest and I engage in an honest conversation about expectations for date nights, issues of control, and the impact of sin and discord. This is a marriage podcast that diverges from the typical “Christian” responses you may have encountered. Discover that you are not alone. There is hope. Read more…

#52: Understanding Fostering, Adoption, & Orphan Care

Let’s talk about adoption and foster care. Some adopt to expand their families. Others personally feel a command to “look after the orphans” (James 1:27). Recently, I sat down with my friend Holly to learn about her journey of foster care and adoption. It was eye-opening and inspiring, to say the least.  Join us for a conversation that’s not just about building a family, but about redefining what it means to love unconditionally. Read more…

#51: Discovering Sabbath Rest: Trusting God in the Whirlwind of Parenthood

Imagine a life in which you trust God with your time so much so that you pause work on Sundays.  Sounds intriguing, right?

Join us, your hosts Heidi Franz and Melanie Simpson, as we share our personal journeys about observing Sabbath – even as busy moms. From the ancient roots of Sabbath in the Old Testament to its place in the 10 commandments, we dig into why God established this practice and how we strive to balance rest with our parenting responsibilities.

Parenthood can often feel like a non-stop whirlwind, but we’re here to remind you there is freedom in establishing a Sabbath routine that works for you. From navigating weekend tournaments to aligning with your spouse on spiritual goals for your children, we share our experiences and learnings in finding balance. So, whether you’re a busy mom or a dad trying to figure out rest in the midst of chaos, this conversation will offer you practical insights and spiritual encouragement. Let’s journey together in discovering the beauty of Sabbath rest in our lives as parents. Read more…

#50: Love that Lasts: Preserving Your Marriage Amidst a World of Divorce

This podcast episode explores the sacred covenant of marriage. Join us as we uncover the truths behind common misconceptions and reveal the divine blueprint for matrimony. In this personal discussion, Melanie and I dive into the wisdom of 1 Corinthians 13:4-9, offering practical advice on cultivating love and humility within your marriage. We’ll debunk the notion of perpetual happiness, emphasizing instead the journey towards holiness that marriage entails.

Discover the true meaning of submission as a reflection of surrender to God, not a tool for control. We’ll also address common challenges like the ‘seven-year-itch’ and offer insights on how to guard and nurture your relationship. Through personal experience and insights from God’s word, we’ll show you how facing life’s trials together has strengthen our marriages, allowing them to not just endure, but thrive. Tune in for a fresh perspective on marriage that will inspire and encourage you on your own journey of matrimony. Read more…

#49: Teaching Children to Live Out Biblical Principles

Delve into the transformative journey of guiding your child’s spiritual growth with our latest podcast episode! From laying the foundational truths of Scripture in preschool years to navigating its application in the teen phase, we unravel practical insights for every stage. Join us as we explore how to bridge the gap between Bible stories and real-life application, equipping your child to navigate life’s challenges with wisdom rooted in faith. Tune in for invaluable tips and heartfelt encouragement on nurturing a lasting relationship between your child and God’s Word. Read more..

#48: Cultivating a Lifelong Love for the Bible: A Parent’s Guide From Toddlers to Teens

In this episode of Parenting to Impress, we guide you to cultivate in your child a lifelong love for God’s Word. Explore hands-on activities for early years, teaching the importance of listening to scripture. Move to preteens and teens, tackling challenges and offering strategies for a meaningful connection with the Bible. Join us on the journey of nurturing your child’s fulfilling relationship with scripture. Read more…

#47: From Pages to Hearts: Finding the Best Children’s Bible for Your Child

Join us on the journey to find the perfect children’s Bible! From engaging stories for preschoolers to comprehensive options for early readers, we cover it all. Discover crucial factors and aim to help you make an informed choice tailored to your child’s spiritual needs. Plus, we emphasize the joy of Bible reading for both children and adults, framing a spiritual journey that fosters a deep love and understanding of scripture. Read more…

#46: Thriving Amidst Differing Spiritual Beliefs in Marriage

Navigating spiritual differences within marriage and parenting can be a tricky terrain, but we promise you, it’s not an insurmountable obstacle. We’re here to guide you through maintaining your personal faith practices even if your spouse isn’t on the same spiritual wavelength. We’ve faced these challenges ourselves and have emerged stronger and more understanding, sharing the lessons learned with you so you don’t have to walk this path alone. Follow us as we debunk unrealistic expectations of a Christian spouse and emphasize the importance of focusing on your own spiritual journey rather than your partner’s. 

In the second half of our discussion, we delve into the challenges of spiritual parenting and managing varying beliefs within a marriage. We underline the need for humility in discussing faith-based matters and the significance of understanding each other’s personalities for maintaining spiritual accountability. Turning to the delicate issue of imparting faith to children, we ensure to remind you that God’s ways often surpass our immediate understanding. We wrap up our conversation with the power of prayer, especially for those grappling with difficult marriages or non-believing spouses. We offer our prayers for struggling marriages and the opening of hearts to Jesus Christ. Join us for this enlightening discourse immersed in grace, truth, and hope. Read more...

#45: Navigating Grumpiness: Finding Gratitude Amidst the Hard

Ever feel like you’re walking through life with a perpetual frown? Are you tired of how your grumpy moods are impacting your relationships, especially within your family? You’re not alone.

Today, we unpack the mystery behind our random, or not so random, bouts of grumpiness and how they can hinder our connections with loved ones. We highlight the role of basic needs and we disentangle how our view of God can significantly influence our attitude and consequently, our interactions. We also debate the critical importance of being selective about what influences our lives and how that can fundamentally affect our overall mood. Read more…

#44: A Parent’s Crucial Role in Teaching Sin and Redemption

What if we could transform our children’s understanding of sin and accountability, without discouraging them? Join us, your hosts, Heidi Franz and Melanie Simpson, two seasoned mothers who have walked this parenting journey, as we dive this challenging conversation about teaching kids about sin. We navigate the tricky waters of explaining that sin involves the choices we make, and how to turn missteps into opportunities for pointing our little ones towards Christ.

Moving beyond just defining sin, we delve into the importance of instilling accountability in our children. We caution against making light of sin and instead, share strategies on utilizing teachable moments to communicate its essence effectively. We also reveal insights on empowering their thought processes and nurturing a spirit of inquiry and critical thinking about their faith. And in the midst of this weighty discussion, we provide a comforting reminder of the promise of transformation and redemption that comes with obedience to God. This is an episode that promises to uplift, enlighten, and encourage. Read more…

#43: Seeking God Amidst Diapers and Dishes: Is it Possible?

Do you wonder how to find time for God when your schedule is bursting at the seams? If you’re a mom, this question might hit close to home. Melanie and Heidi, two moms who’ve been there, understand the struggle all too well.

Tune into this podcast episode, where Melanie and Heidi come together to explore this common dilemma. They’ll delve into their own experiences, provide relatable stories, and present down-to-earth advice on discovering and nurturing your faith within life’s chaotic moments. Read more…

#42: EXPLORING THE AI FRONTIER IN A CHRISTIAN HOME

Ready to explore how AI (Artificial intelligence) could transform everyday life? With a focus on biblical parenting, this conversation with data engineer and architect, Christopher King, will definitely expand your horizons. Uncover the creative potential of generative AI, a technology capable of producing text, poetry, songs, and images from limited input and grasp the implications to for your family and your children’s futures.

Chris, our guest, isn’t just theorizing; he’s a hands-on practitioner who uses AI in his daily work and to create illustrations for his books, D is for Data: The ABC’s of Data Anayltics. Learn from his experience, gain tips on how kids can safely interact with this transformative technology, and discover how AI is transforming our daily lives.

Highlighting the importance of vocabulary in STEAM education, we also delve into AI application across different age groups – from preschoolers to teenagers. Don’t miss out on Chris’s inspiring perspective on this groundbreaking technology. Read more…

#41: Four Ways to Give Your Child Purpose

“One of the things that hinders us from living courageously is a lack of purpose and calling?” I would wager that happiness and generosity would fit into this sentence as well. Could it be that we are focused on character when we really should to be focused on purpose?

In this episode discover four ways to help your child discover their God-given purpose.  With specific ideas for preschoolers, elementary-age, and teenagers, this podcast will speak to all parents and teachers. Read more…

#40: Navigating the Conversation: A Parent’s Guide to Discussing Sex with Their Child

Join us for an honest and heartfelt discussion on parenting and grace as we delve into the important topic of talking to our children about sex. In this podcast episode, we reflect on our own experiences, acknowledging the missteps and fears we’ve faced. But we also explore the transformative power of approaching this conversation from a biblical perspective.

Tune in as Melanie and Heidi share valuable insights, lessons learned, and the wisdom we wish we’d had earlier in shaping our children’s understanding of sexuality. Discover the path to grace-filled and meaningful conversations with your kids on this episode of our podcast. Read more…

#39: The Power of One-Liners and Broken Records

If asked what the most beneficial tool in my parenting toolbox is, I would say – without any hesitation, “One-Liners.” Also called broken records, these pre-scripted, parenting quotes have been instrumental in training my children. And parents and teachers continue to echo my sentiments as they have also seen these short phrases transform their homes and classrooms.  In Episode #39, discover the what and how of one-liners. Read more…

#38: My Discipline Mistakes

Have you ever asked more experienced parents what they wish they would have done differently in parenting had they known what they know now? What about the boundaries that they are so glad that they held firm to?  Melanie and I share on every podcast that we are “two moms who have made a lot of mistakes but have found grace and peace along the way.” Today we share some of our discipline blind spots and what we learned through each. Read more…

#37: How to Give Even When Money is Tight, Part 3

70% of people are living paycheck to paycheck. 2/3 of people don’t have a written plan for spending. The majority of people are not ready for an emergency over $1000. With money so tight, how can one even think about giving or tithing? Read more… Listen to Part 1.

#36: Teaching Money Management to Kids, Part 2

How can parents be wise financial disciples to help their children avoid the financial struggles many adults have?  Discover in this 3-Part series tips for teaching preschoolers to teens money management.  Listen to Part 1. Read more…

#35: HOPE IN CHRISTIAN FINANCES, PART 1

TR Laughlin of Freedom 5:One ministry says, “The enemy has found a way into the Christian home through the backdoor of personal finances.”  It is through finances that marriages and families are being torn apart.  With six different money personalities is there any hope of a Christian couple getting on the same page?

Discover in this 3-Part series why financial conflict occurs and how a married couple can get on the same page and develop a God-centered plan. Read more…

#34: What’s a Christian to do with Pagan Holidays?

Continuing our “Blind Spots in Parenting” series, today’s topic is going to hit on the controversial topic of holidays. Some believe that widely accepted holidays like Easter and Christmas have pagan roots making it wrong for Christians to celebrate. Is this correct?

Join the Parenting to Impress duo as they look at what the Scriptures have to say (or not say) about holidays and how a family can decide what is best for them. Read more…

#33: Why Raising Good Kids is So Dangerous

So many of us enter parenting like a ship without a captain allowing the waves of exhaustion and society to dictate our parenting purpose. But Melanie and Heidi believe that God has a better way! In His Word, God has provided purpose that is beyond morality. Discover what the Parenting to Impress duo have learned along their parenting journey and why raising good kids can be a dangerous goal. Read more…

#32: You May Be Raising a Selfish Child

Are you raising a selfish child?  Continuing the Blind Spots in Parenting series, Heidi and Melanie take a look at some ways we might unintentionally be raising selfish kids. As they share their own experiences and perspectives, the podcasting duo also looks to God and His Word. Listen in and be encouraged as they chat about how they’ve tackled selfishness in their families. Read more…

#31: A Guide to Raising Successful Kids

Society pushes academics, but college professors tell parents and students that there are more factors to success. Listen as Melanie and Heidi talk through one professor’s tips and how you can begin working on these aspects even in the preschool years. Read more…

#30: Raising Tech-Savvy, Godly Kids, Part 2

A favorite phrase of this ministry’s is “Begin with the end in mind.” It’s far easier to make parental decisions if you know where you desire to end up! 

But what about in the realm of technology?   How do we allow our children to use technology for good while training them to stay away from the evil, such as pornography or unhealthy use?

Join Melanie and Heidi as they warn about the dangers of technology, seek wisdom from the Bible, and share personal stories of triumph and disappointments. Read more...

#29: Raising Tech-Savvy, Godly Kids, Part 1

Managing technology has proven to be one of the hardest aspects of my parenting journey. While I see the benefits of electronics, I also know the extreme dangers. Is managing technology a lost cause or is there a way protect our kids while teaching them self-control of devices? I believe God has provided wisdom in the Word to answer these questions. Read more…

#28: New Year, New You – Really?

There is something about turning the calendar page to the first day of a new year that feels fresh and invigorating. Many of us plan and dream, set goals and draw up plans to help us achieve those goals. And many of us fail or fail to plan at all. Listen in as Heidi and Melanie share how they view goals and planning, what God says about goals, and discover encouragement along the way.  And as a bonus discover the podcast team’s goals for 2023! Read more…

#27: How to Overcome Loneliness in Motherhood, Part 2

As Heidi and Melanie talked about loneliness as moms they realized seasons of loneliness didn’t just happen when their kids were little. As mommas of tweens and teens, loneliness had crept in and would likely occur again when their kids leave the house. So how can moms of older kids navigate loneliness? Listen in as Heidi and Melanie get real about friendships, time management and what they did to move beyond feeling lonely. Read more…

#26: The Big Announcement is Here!!

It’s time!  Finally, the day has come to share the exciting news.  Listen as Melanie and Heidi share all the details.  Then use the links below to get started on this amazing journey. Read more…

#25: How to Stay Happy and Holy in the Christmas Crazy

How are you feeling as you head into this Christmas season? Frazzled and scattered or calm and cozy? For either of those and for everyone in between, this episode is for you. Heidi and Melanie chat about how to be intentional with your kids this year so that Jesus remains the focus of Christmas. They also get into traditions, expectations and how to be both holy and happy as you celebrate the Jesus’ birth. Read more…

#24: How to Overcome Loneliness in Motherhood, Part 1

A momma asked Melanie and Heidi the question, “How do you deal with loneliness?”  We think all moms can relate to this question.  With honesty and transparency, the Parenting to Impress duo share how they overcame loneliness and what God taught them through the journey. Read more…

#23: Ideas to Keep Jesus the Center of Christmas

Do you know how to keep Christ the center of Christmas?  Heidi and Melanie discuss a brand new ABCJesusLovesMe product that will empower you to do just that.  You will love the simplicity of the ideas as you use them with your family or as an outreach with friends, neighbors, your students, or even in your church. Read more…

#22: How to Build a Heart of Thanksgiving in Your Child

As Christians we know being thankful and grateful is more than just a certain month set aside to be thankful. But do we really know how to live that way? Let’s consider what it means to live gratefully and pick up some tips for how we can teach thanksgiving to our children. Read more…

#21: How to Turn Ordinary Moments into God-Moments

Have you ever wondered how some parents can take ordinary moments and turn them into God-moments that impact children’s hearts for eternity?  Around Parenting to Impress and ABCJesusLovesMe we call these “Teachable Moments.” And with just a few tips, Melanie and Heidi believe you will be able to have multiple God-moments with your kiddos too! Read more..

#20: Characteristics of a God-Centered Family, Part 3

In the final episode of this series, we wrap up our fantastic conversation with Scott. We also get an answer to the cliff-hanger question Heidi left us on in Part 2!  We have both been challenged and encouraged by Scott’s observations about the attributes and rhythms he’s noticed in God-focused families. We have some great take-aways to process through and implement in our own families, particularly around the way we steward time. Read more...

#19: Characteristics of a God-Centered Family, Part 2

The world tells us our feelings are our truth. Emotions or circumstance defines you…in that moment. But feelings and circumstances change leaving an unstable foundation of beliefs. Friends, this is one of the biggest issues facing our tweens and teens today. Two others are busyness and a cultural value of specialization. We invite you to dig deeper into these three issues in the 2nd of the 3-part podcast series Heidi and Melanie recorded with youth pastor Scott Jones. Read more…

#18: Characteristics of a God-Centered Family, Part 1

We live in a microwave society. Everything happens at breakneck speed. According to social media, if our calendars aren’t jam packed with activities, we are failing our kids. I mean, what kind of bad mom would let her kid be bored??? But is this best for our children? Will it reap the God-centered families that we desire?

Today begins a 3-part series looking at the good and bad characteristics – or rhythms – that youth pastor, Scott Jones, sees in families. We also asked him to dive into the hidden struggles teens face. Then we discussed how we can foster a godly family. Read more…

#17: True or False: God Won’t Give Me More Than I Can Handle

Is it true that God won’t give believers more than they can handle?   Heidi and Melanie invite you to listen to their journeys to find out if this common saying is even Biblical.   Discover the circumstances that caused them to let go of control, trust God, and believe that even when things get really hard, God never leaves nor forsakes us. Read more…

#16: What is Causing Your Parental Exhaustion?

Being a mom is hard work, but what do we do when it just feels like too much? When you are overwhelmed, hate being a parent, and dread getting up each morning?  Be encouraged as Heidi and Melanie open up about their own struggles with this issue and how they have found hope in the exhaustion. Read more…

#15: How to Raise Children Who Serve

In this second episode about teaching our kids the value and purpose of work, Heidi and Melanie get into the nitty gritty of dealing with older kids, defiant kids, and kiddos with disabilities. As always, there are practical ideas with lots of love and grace to cover it all! Join the discussion about chores and work and be encouraged to parent your kids with the end in mind. Read more…

#14: Is “Work” a Dirty Word?

Let’s dig into the idea of work.  What does the Bible have to say about work and chores? And, as parents, what’s our responsibility in teaching our children to work?

As always, the Parenting to Impress team rely on scripture to guide their choices. In this episode Melanie and Heidi share the ideas they’ve incorporated into their families as they taught their children about work. They also reflect on how the training they did in the early years is beginning to bear fruit in their teenaged kids. Read more…

#13: How to Create Purpose for Your Summer

The school year is almost over! For our kids it’s a time to play, spend time with family and friends and have a different daily rhythm. But for moms (and dads too), the 3 months with no structure or routine can make us feel anxious-what will we do with all this time! Whether you are ready to embrace summer or are worried about how to fill your days, this episode is for you! Heidi and Melanie chat about all things summer including how to be intentional with your days so that you don’t look back at the start of the next school year with regret. Read more…

#12: Should Self-Help Books Be Used in Your Quiet Time?

In this episode, Heidi and Melanie discuss how to avoid the common pitfall of using self-help books during your quiet time. What’s wrong with self-help books? Should I never read a book from this genre? The ladies answer these questions and offer encouragement as you decide what to use other than the Bible when you meet with God each day. Read more…

#11: How to Choose a Church

With often so many choices, it can be overwhelming when choosing a church for your family. If only there was a formula to use! Unfortunately, there isn’t, but Heidi and Melanie have created a list of questions to help you get started. Read more…

#10: How to Have a Daily Quiet Time with God

If you knew you could transform your life by changing how you spend 1% of your day, would you do it?  While it hasn’t always been easy, Melanie and Heidi made the change and today’s podcast shares their stories.  Join the Parenting to Impress Podcast team as they process through the what, when, where, and how details of this change. And be encouraged and challenged to give it a try! Read more...

#9: How to Have Successful Family Vacations

Does the idea of planning a family vacation stress you out? Or do you enjoy fine-tuning the details of a trip? Wherever you land on planning a family vacation, this episode offers practical advice as you process what a family vacation looks like for your family! Make sure to listen to the end when Heidi shares one of the most freeing pieces of advice Melanie’s ever heard about family vacations. Read more...

#8: Fun High, Low, Buffalo Conversations

Heidi introduces Melanie to a fun way to jumpstart a conversation, with your family or in any situation. You’ll hear both ladies share their Highs, Lows, and one random thought. And you’ll hear how quickly this “game” leads to further conversation. Listen in and get to know Heidi and Melanie a bit better as they share their hearts and encourage one another along the way. Read more…

#7: Advice We’ve Learned Along the Way, Part 3

In the final episode in this series, Heidi and Melanie wrap up their list of the best parenting and marriage advice they’ve learned over the years. Spoiler alert! Even though there weren’t supposed to be any “favorites,” Heidi and Melanie reveal the advice that has meant the most to them. Be sure to listen to Episode #5 to hear the first part in this series. Read more…

#6: Advice We’ve Learned Along the Way, Part 2

Heidi and Melanie continue their conversation about advice they’ve received as well as the lessons they wished they’d learned earlier in their parenting journeys. Be sure to listen to Episode #5 to hear the first part in this series. Read more…

#5: Advice We’ve Learned Along the Way, Part 1

Join Heidi and Melanie in the first episode of a 3-part series on parenting and marriage advice they’ve learned over the years. Some of it may be familiar to you but expect a few surprises too! Read more…

#4: How to Teach Your Child to Pray

One of our most important roles as mom is to teach our children the joy of talking with God in prayer. But what if we don’t know how to do this? How do we begin introducing prayer to our little one? Heidi and Melanie talk about how they taught their children to pray, offer ideas for how to introduce prayer to your children, and encourage you to start wherever you are, no matter how old your kids are! Read more…

#3: How to Pray the Scriptures for Yourself and Your Family

We know God wants us to pray and that it’s a valuable part of our walk with Him. But sometimes prayer is hard. We don’t know what to say, or how to pray and often we find ourselves in a prayer rut. In this episode Heidi and Melanie discuss the benefits of praying Scripture and share ways you can incorporate this into your prayer life. Read more…

#2: How to Engage Your Children in Meaningful Conversation

Can talking to my child really enrich her vocabulary and raise her IQ?  Do conversations with my child create space for connection and spiritual growth? Listen in as Melanie asks Heidi to share what she’s learned in her own research and work in developing the ABCJesusLovesMe curriculum and as a mom of four kiddos. Learn about the differences between “Instructional Talk” and “Relational Talk,” why we need to pursue both, and how to take advantage of God-given opportunities to engage in meaningful conversations with our children.  Read more…

#1: What Lies Are You Believing?

I’m not enough. I’m a failure. I just can’t get it right. Everyone else seems to know what they’re doing.  

We wear so many hats as wives, moms, employees and the enemy wants to distract us from living out our God-given purpose. How can we recognize and reject the lies from the enemy?  Is there a way to stop this destructive cycle and experience the abundant life we read about in the Bible? Join Heidi and Melanie as they talk about how they’ve experienced this in their own lives, share ways they’ve learned to counter the lies, and offer hope and encouragement. Read more…

Trailer: Welcome to the Parenting to Impress Podcast!

In the trailer to the Parenting to Impress podcast, Heidi and Melanie introduce themselves and share the heart behind this much anticipated podcast. Read more…