It's easy to get caught up in perfectionism in a world that gives us so much to worry about and so many "perfect" families to measure ourselves against. The question is what to do about it—and the Church, it turns out, has a lot to say. In this episode, Dr. Philip Mamalakis is back to share his advice for overcoming perfectionism, building life-giving relationships with other parents, and finding the freedom to stop caring what everyone else thinks. Download this week's free Discussion Guide here.

Episode Recap:

• Today we're talking with Dr. Philip Mamalakis about how the Church helps free us from perfectionism.
• What does the Church teach us about responding instead of reacting?
• How can the Church community support parents?
• How do we avoid the comparison trap?
• What can we do to stop fearing judgment as parents?
• How do we navigate a betrayal of trust?
• What can we do when our kids are feeling hurt or excluded?
• How do I balance motherhood, work and the life of the Church?
• Can you share tips for fasting with children?
• I’m scared my kids will grow up and leave the Church. What should I do?

Resources:

• Follow and rate the podcast on Apple, Spotify or YouTube
• Download this episode’s free Discussion Guide
• Explore the full library of Faithtree Resources
• Download The Encounter App
• “10 Things Every Orthodox Parent Should Know”
• “Parenting Toward the Kingdom” by Dr. Philip Mamalakis

Whatever schooling option your family has chosen, you are your children’s primary educator! In this episode, Liz Caddow joins the podcast to talk about her work as the founder and head of school at Trinity Classical Academy. She explains why education is ultimately about a child’s formation, shares advice for parents on understanding their school’s curriculum and offers guidance on supplementing schoolwork with the Church’s wisdom. She also reminds us that education is not just about what our children are learning but also who they are becoming. Download this week's free Discussion Guide here.

Episode Recap:

• Today we’re talking with Liz Caddow about education as formation and transformation.
• When did you realize education could be more than grades and test scores?
• What advice would you give to parents with children in public school?
• How can parents continue learning in the home?
• What should we do when we don’t feel qualified?
• What role does community play in our children’s formation?
• How can parents evaluate what their kids are learning and absorbing?
• How do you teach Scripture and history in tandem?
• What fruit have you seen in the lives of your students?
• What are you most excited about right now?
• How can we help our children redefine success?
• What’s the biggest mistake parents make about education?
• What is one thing listeners can start doing today?

Resources:

• Follow and rate the podcast on Apple, Spotify or YouTube
• Download this episode’s free Discussion Guide
• Explore the full library of Faithtree Resources
• “Navigating the Digital Tsunami”
• Get The Relationship Project
• Learn more about Trinity Classical Academy

We were never meant to raise our children alone, and one of our most valuable resources is one we often take for granted: grandparents! In this episode, Dr. Josh Mulvihill joins the podcast to break down the biblical role of grandparents and explain why the grandparent-child relationship is so vital. He also answers some of your most pressing questions about navigating the sometimes complicated but always important relationships between parents, grandparents and the children we’re called to disciple. Download this week's free Discussion Guide here.

Episode Recap:

• Today we’re talking with Dr. Josh Mulvihill about the importance of grandparents when raising children in the Church.
• What does the Bible say about the role of grandparents?
• How can families find the grandparenting “sweet spot”?
• Why “How can we help?” is the most important question for grandparents to ask.
• How can grandparents play an intentional role in discipleship?
• When might parents need to set boundaries with grandparents?
• What do you say to parents who wish the grandparents would be more involved?
• How can parents navigate relationships with grandparents who aren’t believers?
• What can grandparents do when there’s estrangement?
• What role can adoptive grandparents play in the Church?
• How can grandparents set expectations and draw healthy boundaries?

Resources:

• Follow and rate the podcast on Apple, Spotify or YouTube
• Download this episode’s free Discussion Guide
• Explore the full library of Faithtree Resources
• Download The Encounter app
• “10 Things Every Orthodox Parent Should Know”
• More resources for Christian grandparenting
• Find Josh’s work at Renew a Nation