Shows
Stories from the Presbyterian PewBecky's Story Part 1: The Night it All Blew UpWe begin Season 2 of the podcast with Becky's story - a story that includes pain and betrayal, but also hope and the triumph of the Gospel in the face of sin and brokenness. Becky and her husband were missionaries with the PCA's international missions organization, Mission to the World (MTW). You can find the MTW website here. Stories from the Presbyterian Pew depends on financial support from listeners. To contribute to the costs of producing and hosting the podcast, please visit https://presbyterianpew.org/donate/
2025-09-3048 minStories from the Presbyterian PewSeason 2 Intro: Longing for Safety, Living in TensionFor an understanding of the purpose behind the Stories from the Presbyterian Pew Podcast, we recommend the first episode from Season 1. You can find that here or on your favorite podcast app. A year ago, I wrote "Why I Refuse to Pick Good Guys and Bad Guys in the PCA". Today's episode covers similar ideas. The live Zoom conversations from our DASA Discussion Facebook group can now be found in our free online course, Presbyterian Church Abuse Response 101. To volunteer or find out more about the opportunities, visit our Volunteer page. If yo...
2025-09-2312 minStories from the Presbyterian PewPersonal Reflections on the 2025 PCA General AssemblySign up to be a Presbytery Companion: https://presbyterianpew.org/companion/ Donate to send Lynna to General Assembly next year and get a "I Support BCO Education for Everyone" sticker: https://presbyterianpew.org/send-me-to-ga/ A collection of X updates about the Overtures Committee business: https://presbyterianpew.org/2025-overtures-committee-actions/ Timestamped links to all major debates and decisions during the main meetings of General Assembly: https://presbyterianpew.org/highlights-2025-general-assembly/ Speech in support of Item 3 (expanded representation for accused): https://www.youtube.com/live/W8LQRTMDFzk?t=12317s Minority Report on Overt...
2025-07-0841 minStories from the Presbyterian PewSpecial Guest Adair Evans: MTW Missionary to Victims of Sex Trafficking in GermanyLearn more about Adair's work, sign up for her newsletter, and support her financially on her MTW profile here. You can also email her at adair.evans@mtw.org Stories from the Presbyterian Pew depends on financial support from listeners. To contribute to the costs of producing and hosting the podcast, please visit https://presbyterianpew.org/donate/
2025-07-0156 minStories from the Presbyterian PewJeanie's Story Part 3: How An Apology Caused Additional HarmHere is the text of Book of Church Order chapter 40, paragraph 5 (BCO 40-5) When any court having appellate jurisdiction shall receive a credible report with respect to the court next below of any important delinquency or grossly unconstitutional proceedings of such court, the first step shall be to cite the court alleged to have offended to appear before the court having appellate jurisdiction, or its commission, by representative or in writing, at a specified time and place, and to show what the lower court has done or failed to do in the case in question. ...
2025-06-2453 minStories from the Presbyterian PewSpecial Episode: 2025 General Assembly Overtures Part 4Today is our final episode about Overtures to the 2025 PCAGeneral Assembly. Here is a link to the article written by the family of Sarah Young, author of Jesus Calling. Here is the post with a summary of all 2025 Overtures to General Assembly. Join our free Facebook Group to discuss and ask questions about General Assembly. Download the 2025 Overtures Tracking Sheet here. Listen to the Polity Matters guys talk about Overtures for elevating a censure and the court case behind it here (minute marker 16:54) Article on Overture 31 - The Impo...
2025-06-1730 minStories from the Presbyterian PewSpecial Episode: 2025 General Assembly Overtures Part 3In our third episode about Overtures to the 2025 General Assembly we discuss Overtures related to various committees and agencies of the General Assembly. Here are some diagrams that show the difference between how slots on most of the committees and agencies of the General Assembly are filled vs how slots on the Administrative Committee are filled. Here is a link to an article about a PCA pastor whose Temporary Protected Status was removed. The Refugee and Immigrant Ministry is under the umbrella of MNA (Mission to North America). H...
2025-06-1324 minStories from the Presbyterian PewSpecial Episode: 2025 General Assembly Overtures Part 2This is Part 2 of our special series on 2025 PCA General Assembly Overtures. Here is a link to the MASSIVE post we published summarizing all the Overtures. And for discussion and questions, join our Facebook Group here. You can find the article about the MTW and CDM reports on Jesus Calling here. Stories from the Presbyterian Pew depends on financial support from listeners. To contribute to the costs of producing and hosting the podcast, please visit https://presbyterianpew.org/donate/
2025-06-1029 minStories from the Presbyterian PewSpecial Episode: 2025 General Assembly Overtures Part 1Today, we're doing something a bit different. Instead of hearing from one of our storytellers, we'll take a few episodes to talk about the upcoming PCA General Assembly. You can find an article describing all of this year's Overtures here. And if you'd like a space to ask questions and learn more about how General Assembly operates, you can join our free Facebook Group. Stories from the Presbyterian Pew depends on financial support from listeners. To contribute to the costs of producing and hosting the podcast, please visit https://presbyterianpew.org/donate/
2025-06-0329 minStories from the Presbyterian PewLane's Story Part 2: A Woman of Her StatureLane joins us for Part 2 of her story and shares what she discovered when she and her husband requested the session minutes. Stories from the Presbyterian Pew depends on financial support from listeners. To contribute to the costs of producing and hosting the podcast, please visit https://presbyterianpew.org/donate/
2025-05-2752 minStories from the Presbyterian PewLane's Story Part 1: The Question That Changed EverythingIn this story, Lane talks about filing a complaint with the session of their church. Chapter 43 of the Book of Church Order covers complaints, but the only explicit information about what a complaint includes are these two sentences from 43-1 and 43-2: "A complaint is a written representation made against some act or decision of a court of the Church. It is the right of any communing member of the Church in good standing to make complaint against any action of a court to whose jurisdiction he is subject, except that no complaint is allowable in a...
2025-05-2050 minStories from the Presbyterian PewAshley's Story Part 4: The Shepherding Committee that Didn't ShepherdOne aspect of this part of Ashley's story is the difficulty she had being released from her membership in a PCA church after she had been harmed there and was struggling to find a safe place to worship. Ashley is very much not alone in this struggle. If you are facing that difficulty, please reach out to us through the form on our website. We can help you to navigate all of the factors involved in your decision and to understand your options. https://presbyterianpew.org/contact/ Stories from the Presbyterian Pew depends on financial s...
2025-05-131h 02Stories from the Presbyterian PewAshley's Story Part 3: What She Discovered at PresbyteryHere are some relevant sections from the Book of Church Order about teaching elders serving "out of bounds". 8-7. A Presbytery may, at its discretion, approve the call of a teaching elder to work with an organization outside the jurisdiction of the Presbyterian Church in America, provided that he be engaged in preaching and teaching the Word, that the Presbytery be assured he will have full freedom to maintain and teach the doctrine of our Church, and that he report at least annually on his work. As far as possible, such a teaching elder shall be a member...
2025-05-061h 10Stories from the Presbyterian PewAshley's Story Part 2: What Was Happening at SchoolHere are the definitions of Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment from the DASA Report. Sexual Assault Sexual assault is any type of sexual behavior or contact where consent is not freely given or obtained. It is accomplished through force, intimidation, violence, coercion, manipulation, threat, deception, or abuse of authority. Sexual Harassment Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination prohibited by Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. It consists of inappropriate verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature that has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with a...
2025-04-291h 12Stories from the Presbyterian PewAshley's Story Part 1: What Was Happening at HomeIn the state where Ashley grew up and now lives, clergy are mandatory reporters of child abuse. That was not the case when Ashley was a minor, however, that does not excuse the callousness and neglect she experienced when reaching out to church leaders for help. For more information on state laws about clergy and mandatory reporting, see the document Clergy as Mandatory Reporters of Abuse and Neglect. Here are two sections of the Book of Church Order (BCO) about the nomination and election of officers as referenced in the podcast. 24-3. All communing members i...
2025-04-221h 17Stories from the Presbyterian PewJeanie's Story Part 2: How She Found Herself Under Church DisciplineThis podcast episode covered a lot of factual information about the BCO - the Book of Church Order - that governs church discipline in PCA churches. If you would like to learn more about the ideas we discussed, we recommend our free course Presbyterian Church Discipline 101. We also referenced a case of the standing Judicial Commission: SJC 2019-06. You can download the full report of the SJC on this case here. Stories from the Presbyterian Pew depends on financial support from listeners. To contribute to the costs of producing and hosting the podcast, please visit htt...
2025-04-1549 minStories from the Presbyterian PewJeanie's Story Part 1: How a Podcast Opened the Door to UnderstandingIn this episode, Jeanie mentioned that she found help from two podcasts and a group. Here are links to those resources: The Flying Free Podcast The Bare Marriage Podcast The Flying Free group In the introduction, we read a quote from the report of the Domestic Abuse and Sexual Assault Committee of the PCA. At the end of the episode, we also recommended the paper "Divorce and Domestic Abuse". It is written by Shane Waldron, PCA Pastor and founder of Refuge Ministries. The paper is included as an attachment to the PC...
2025-04-0843 minStories from the Presbyterian PewStories from the Presbyterian Pew: IntroductionWhy tell stories of harm? Why another podcast? Why this podcast? Today, we're talking about the purpose behind Stories from the Presbyterian Pew, plus responding to possible objections to sharing these stories. Stories from the Presbyterian Pew depends on financial support from listeners. To contribute to the costs of producing and hosting the podcast, please visit https://presbyterianpew.org/donate/
2025-04-0121 minStories from the Presbyterian PewStories from the Presbyterian Pew TrailerThe first episode of Stories from the Presbyterian Pew, a brand new resources by Advocacy from the Presbyterian Pew drops April 1. Until then, listen to the intro from the first episode to get an idea for what we've got planned!
2025-03-2301 min
Untangled Faith125: Meet the "Sharon Says So" of the PCA denomination. Guest: Lynna SutherlandLynna Sutherland, whom Amy refers to as the "Sharon McMahon of the PCA" stops by the Untangled Faith podcast to talk about her work in her ministry Advocacy From the Presbyterian Pew Subscribe to my newsletter: https://untangledfaith.substack.com Amy and Lynna talk about What inspired Lynna Sutherland to start Advocacy from the Presbyterian Pew Complexity of the PCA How understanding the origin of the PCA helps Lynna in her work Current issues: DASA Advice for men in leadership in the denomination Advice for women Featured Guest...
2025-01-2100 min
Safe to HopePCA GA, "So What?" Part 2 of 2Part 2 of PCA GA, "So What?" Join the conversation with Lynna Sutherland (Advocacy from the Presbyterian Pew) and Donna Westcott (The Psycho-Theologian) as we further discuss the happenings, nuances, and responses to last week’s PCA General Assembly. We will also explore the questions, hopes, and wisdom as we move forward. An insider’s look into the 'business' of GA.SHOW NOTES:From Lynna’s ministry Advocacy From the Presbyterian Pew:PCA GA 2024 https://presbyterianpew.org/tag/pcaga24/Free course Presbyterian Church Government 101 https://presbyterianpew.org/courses/presbyterian-church-government-101/Donna Westcott, The Psycho-Theologian http://donnawestcott.com/Tim Ke...
2024-06-201h 00Safe to HopePCA GA, "So What?" Part 1 of 2What does the PCA General Assembly mean to us as women? Are we safe in the denomination? Tune in for this special Safe to Hope podcast featuring Lynna Sutherland (Advocacy from the Presbyterian Pew) and Donna Westcott. Hear how they heard and experienced the denomination’s “business” last week and what this may mean for women.Safe To Hope is one of the resources offered through the ministry of Help[H]er, a 501C3 that provides training and resources for those ministering in one-another care, and advocacy for women in crisis in Christian organizations. Your donations make it pos...
2024-06-181h 16
Simply Convivial: Biblical Homemaking, Homeschooling & Mom Life—Without BurnoutTips for Organizing Mom Life - with Lynna Sutherland!Free workshop: AnswerOverwhelm.comSibling Relationship Lab: https://www.siblingrelationshiplab.com/Lynna's channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/LynnaSutherlandLarge Family Homeschooling: https://yourlargefamilyhomeschool.com/Lynna Sutherland is a homeschool mom of eight and the host of the Sibling Relationship Lab podcast. She loves to encourage moms in the freedom they have in Christ in parenting and homeschooling.In today's episode she tells us her best tips for realistic and practical organization of home and stuff when you have a large, homeschooling family.
2022-06-1412 minSimply Convivial: Biblical Homemaking, Homeschooling & Mom Life—Without BurnoutOvercome overwhelm as a large family mom - with Lynna Sutherland!Free workshop: AnswerOverwhelm.comSibling Relationship Lab: https://www.siblingrelationshiplab.com/Lynna's channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/LynnaSutherlandLarge Family Homeschooling: https://yourlargefamilyhomeschool.com/Lynna Sutherland is a homeschool mom of eight and the host of the Sibling Relationship Lab podcast. She loves to encourage moms in the freedom they have in Christ in parenting and homeschooling.In today's episode she addresses how she handles feelings of overwhelm as a large family homeschooling mom. It's encouraging and practical.
2022-06-0917 min
Sibling Relationship LabSRL036: Apologizing BackwardsApologizing is hard. Teaching your kids to apologize is even harder! But you might be making the task more difficult than it has to be by the way you explain it to your kids. If your kids struggle to apologize and to be sincere in their apologies, I'd like to recommend that you teach them to apologize backwards!
2022-05-1413 minSibling Relationship LabSiblings Babysitting SiblingsOne of the hardest parts about having young children is the challenge of finding babysitters and the cost involved in hiring them. But what if your older children could handle the babysitting? Today, we're diving into just that topic - how do you know if or when your kids are ready to babysit younger siblings, and what needs to happen to make that a workable setup? We'll talk theory and practical tips, too!
2022-05-0319 minSibling Relationship LabTeaching Kids RespectI often hear from parents who ask for help on teaching their kids about respect. But when I sat down to write a podcast epidose on that topic, I had a bit of a light-bulb moment, and my planning took a little bit of an unexpected turn! Listen in as I share something that I think will have a major impact on the way you teach your kids about respect, and how you can model it in your home, too!
2022-04-0922 minSibling Relationship LabCommon Sense ModestyModesty is a "hot topic" (no pun intended) in Christian circles. You'll hear lots of talk about fabric and hemlines and necklines, temptation and stumbling blocks and female virtures. But have we gotten off track in the way we talk to our kids (especially our girls) about modesty? What have we lost in the conversation that needs to be revisited, and what are some of the potential pitfalls of the current discussion? In this episode, we're revisiting something I touched on briefly in Episode 15 to add more clarity and context. I'd love to know what...
2022-03-1815 minSibling Relationship LabWhy Common Grace MattersIn the last episode of the podcast we took some time to define Common Grace. In this episode, we're diving a little deeper into how a misunderstanding of common grace can lead to problems, and a proper understanding of common grace can lead to ... freedom!
2022-03-0416 minSibling Relationship LabSRL031: What is Common Grace?Common Grace may sound like an intangible theological term. But understanding this idea is essential to careful and wise parenting. This week, we're taking a look at what common grace is and the examples we see of it in Scripture.
2022-02-2213 min
Homeschool Better Together with Pam BarnhillYMB #109 What if My Kids Fight in Morning Time: A Conversation with Lynna Sutherland. It happens to all of us. We cozy up with our kids and a good book expecting a blissful Morning Time of family learning when all of a sudden, "He hit me!" erupts from the couch. How are we supposed to focus on truth, goodness, and beauty with bickering, punching, and yelling are going on in our living room? is it even worth the effort when all our kids want to do is duke it out in Morning Time? Let's get some strategies and talk about that very topic today with our guest Lynna Sutherland. For show...
2022-02-0829 minSibling Relationship LabSRL Season 2 IntroIt's been a long time. Too long! I'm so excited to get back to podcasting. And I've got a lot of thoughts that I've been chewing on that I can't wait to share with you. I'll tell you a little bit about what I've been up to in the meantime, and some of the things I have planned for this season!
2022-02-0410 min
Homeschool Conversations with Humility and DoxologyBanish the Homeschool BlahsLynna Sutherland, Mary Wilson, and Amy Sloan are 3 homeschool mamas right there in the trenches with you! We have over 30 years of homeschool experience among us (well, more if you count Amy and Lynna’s experience as homeschooled students!), and we know that sometimes the Homeschool Blahs strike when you least expect them.
Listen in as we share a few simple tips and encouragement for banishing the homeschool blahs!
Find Amy: Humility and Doxology (https://humilityanddoxology.com/) and the Homeschool Conversations with Humility and Doxology Podcast (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/homeschool-conversations-with-humility-and-doxology/id1526734966)
...
2021-02-1748 min
Truth.Love.Parent.How the Gospel Reshapes Sibling Conflict Resolution | Lynna Sutherland InterviewDo you have more than one child? Do those kids ever have conflict with each other? Today AMBrewster and Lynna Sutherland from “The Sibling Relationship Lab” talk about how the Gospel can reshape how our children handle their conflict resolution. Check out 5 Ways to Support TLP. Click here for our free Parenting Course!Click here for Today’s Episode Notes and Transcript. Like us on Facebook.Follow us on Instagram.Follow us on Twitter...
2021-01-2342 minHomeschool Conversations with Humility and DoxologyDecember Bonus: Lynna Sutherland- Sibling Conflict and the Homeschooling FamilyDid you know that before Homeschool Conversations was a podcast it started as a video interview series? I uploaded all those original interviews to the feed back when I first launched this podcast, but those older conversations are unknown to many of you! As a special holiday bonus between Season 2 and Season 3, I'm dusting off a few of my favorites to share with you. I hope they keep you company as you wrap presents, bake holiday goodies, and keep the laundry folded. Because, after all, laundry doesn't stop just because it's Christmas. Enjoy!
Show Notes: https://humilityanddoxology...
2020-12-2844 min
Sibling Relationship LabParenting Advice: Take It or Leave It?Once you become a parent, you can pretty much count on changing diapers, losing sleep ... and fielding lots and lots of parenting advice from other directions! Parenting books and blogs are just the beginning. We might also get advice from friends, relatives, or well-meaning strangers! What does it look like to be teachable and open to correction while also having the confidence to make decisions for yourself and your own unique family? Here are five things to keep in mind.
2020-11-0115 min
Sibling Relationship LabThe Best Way to Prevent a Sibling from ListeningNobody likes to be wrong or to hear correction and criticism from someone else (maybe especially not from a sibling!). But there's one thing siblings can do that almost guarantees the other person won't be able to listen well. We're talking about that today!
2020-10-1018 min
Sibling Relationship Lab5 Strategies for Internal MotivationAre you tired of running around after your kids and reminding them to do every last think they are supposed to be managing? In the last episode, we talked about behavior modification - rewards and consequences. While those tools have their place, they can't bring about lasting heart change. Today, I'll share five tips for building internal motivation that will benefit your children for their whole lives!
2020-09-2619 min
Sibling Relationship LabAre You Over-Focused on Behavior Modification?How do you know if you're practicing gospel-centered, heart-focused parenting ... or if you've slipped into over-relying on behavior modification? We'll talk about some of the red flags that will help you to see where you've been off track. And then we'll discuss a basic framework for re-focusing on a heart-centered approach!
2020-09-1220 minHomeschool Conversations with Humility and DoxologySibling Conflict and the Homeschooling Family (with Lynna Sutherland)Sibling conflicts can be one of the most disheartening, difficult aspects of homeschooling (or even just parenting in general). What’s a mom to do when she feels like homeschooling is ruining the relationships in her home? How do we get to the heart of parenting issues in the midst of full, complicated lives? My friend Lynna Sutherland is here to share her wisdom and experience as a homeschool mom of 8!
There were so many gold nuggets in this conversation. I felt like I was getting my own personal therapy counseling session! I’ve typed up just the...
2020-08-1243 min
Sibling Relationship LabHandling the Overwhelm of Sibling ConflictIn Episode 25, we talked about how emotional sibling conflict can be for moms. We talked about healthy ways to process and understand those emotions. But what if you can't even get enough of a break from the conflict to handle or manage the emotions? In this episode, we'll talk about some quick-fixes to reset the cycle of bickering and arguing and give everyone (mom included) some room to breathe and cool down!
2020-06-1321 min
Sibling Relationship LabWhy Sibling Conflict is So Emotional for MomsNo mom likes sibling conflict. In fact, most of us dread it. But have you ever stepped back to ask yourself why? Why is sibling conflict so stressful for moms? Why does it trigger painful mom guilt and self-doubt? Let's take a closer look at the emotional triggers and how we can process them in healthy and gospel-centered ways!
2020-05-3019 min
LIVE without Training WheelsYour Homeschool and the EnneagramSherri Lund is a Christian, veteran homeschool mom, and life coach. She has found the Enneagram to be particularly helpful in understanding her own healthy and unhealthy tendencies in relationship and how she can take those into consideration. She joined us to talk about how the Enneagram can be useful in our homeschools and families in recognizing that we are all different and might react differently to the same situations.
2020-05-2331 min
Sibling Relationship LabThe Only ChildKind of an odd topic for a sibling podcast, right? Why would people listening to a sibling podcast need to hear about raising an only child? And why would a person raising an only child be listening to a sibling podcast? That's what I thought, too. But then I started exploring this topic at the suggestion of someone I hold in high respect and, well, it turns out that this is quite the relevant topic for us. I often hear from moms who grew up without siblings and wonder if they are handicapped in their...
2020-05-1614 min
LIVE without Training WheelsWhen One Kid Needs More AttentionIf you're homeschooling more than one child, and especially if you're homeschooling a crew, changes are good that there will be times when one child - because of learning or behavior struggles, metal or physical health challenges or other reasons - needs a lot more of your attention than the other kids. My dear friend Kendra Fletcher joined me to talk about this challenge - both how to navigate it and how to think about it. If you've ever struggled with balancing attention to multiple children, I think you'll find this episode encouraging!
2020-05-0953 min
LIVE without Training WheelsTeaching to Their StrengthsBefore she became a homeschool mom (unexpectedly) Shawna Wingert was a corporate consultant teaching big-league companies how to maximize employee productivity and boost morale by focusing on making the best use of employee strengths rather than trying to correct weaknesses. When Shawna began homeschooling, she wondered if these same science-based, researched-backed approaches could work with her children in her home as well. And now, with two nearly-grown sons of her own and loads of experience coaching other moms, she can confidently say, that yes, it does! Listen in as Shawna describes her experience and encourages...
2020-04-181h 00
Joyfully HomeschoolingSibling Struggles while Homeschooling with Lynna SutherlandAs you may know, podcasting takes a lot of time. I typically mass record 3 months’ worth of episodes in one month. This gives time for editing, show notes to be written, and for me to record introductions beforehand and solo episodes. Therefore, this episode will of course not address the current COVID19 pandemic. It may also reference homeschool conventions or other events that are now closed. I apologize in advance, however, the content and advice given in the episode is something we can all learn from regardless of the time it was recorded. Today’s podcast episode with...
2020-04-1047 min
Sibling Relationship LabSocial Distancing and Sibling ConflictDuring this strange time of quarantine and social distancing, you might be noticing and up-tick in sibling conflict in your home. You are not alone. Lots of moms are adapting to new schedules and routines. And lots of kids are processing changes and disappointments, too. Here are a few thoughts to keep you afloat during these - or any other - challenging, unusual circumstances.
2020-04-0417 min
LIVE without Training WheelsBecoming a Brave WriterDo you feel overwhelmed teaching writing in your homeschool? Have you tried other methods or programs that left your kids believing they were bad at writing or that they hated writing? Julie Bogart joined us on the LIVE without Training Wheels show to talk about the Brave Writer program, how it's more mindset than method, and how it differs from other writing instruction or curriculum you may have tried!
2020-03-2948 min
Sibling Relationship LabSiblings and Screen Time Part 2In this follow-up conversation, we're continuing our discussion about siblings and screen time with some practical tips and approaches for handling the drama during or post-screen time. Plus, we're also talking about some of the benefits (yes, positives!) of screen time for sibling relationships! (This episode builds on the framework we established in Episode 21, so if you haven't already, go back and listen to Episode 21 first.)
2020-03-1427 min
LIVE without Training WheelsWriter's Workshops with Multiple AgesHomeschooling multiple ages and wondering how to manage writing instruction? Let's chat about using Writer's Workshops from Layers of Learning! Sisters Karen and Michelle - sisters, homeschool moms, and creators of Layers of Learning are here to chat with us about how to teaching writing to multiple ages with their new Writer's Workshop resources!
2020-03-0944 min
Sibling Relationship LabSiblings and Screen Time - Part 1Whenever the topic of screen time comes up, I often hear moms say, "My kids fight more after they've had screen time." And I believe them. But let's dig a little deeper. Is the digital demonic? Let's consider this topic from a Biblical worldview. What does the Bible have to say about screen time conflict? Plus, we'll talk about the popular idea of a "screen free week" or "screen free summer". Does it really do any good? Or is there a hidden danger?
2020-02-2916 min
LIVE without Training WheelsOf Morning Times and Autopilots with Pam BarnhillIt was my distinct pleasure to chat with my friend Pam Barnhill about managing life as a work-from-home mom as the creator of the popular Morning Time Plans and Plan Your Year homeschool resources. Pam shared how she manages her time, how she uses social media without getting sucked in to time-wasting and how she and her husband have made their unique set-up work!
2020-02-2344 min
Sibling Relationship LabLoving When It's HardYou tell your kids they're supposed to love each other. But how is one child supposed to love a sibling who's being mean or even violent? What does it look like to be kind to someone who isn't being very kind to you. And is that even something reasonable to require of your children?
2020-02-1521 min
LIVE without Training WheelsLayering on the Learning - by Moms for Moms with Michelle Copher and Karen LoutzenhiserWe all have a lot to balance (or juggle?) but what about those moms who are working and homeschooling? Some of the best examples of this are those moms who are working to create homeschool resources for the rest of us while they labor in the trenches homeschooling right along side of us, like moms Karen and Michelle, sisters and creators of Layers of Learning!
2020-02-0856 min
Sibling Relationship LabWho is to Blame?When there's a conflict or when one child gets mad at another kid, we're very careful to make sure our kids take responsibility for their actions. And we usually try to figure out who is to blame for the upset. But is it possible that no one is to blame? Or that the behavior in question is just one small piece of the puzzle?
2020-02-0124 min
LIVE without Training WheelsFrom Writing Resource to Lifestyle with Julie BogartDuring the "By Moms, For Moms" series, we're talking with moms who are both experienced in the homeschool trenches and are actively creating resources to bless and benefit homeschool families. What's it like to homeschool and run a business on the side? How do moms make that work? We'll chat with Julie Bogart, creator and owner of Brave Writer, about how her gift grew from hobby to business to household word for a homeschool lifestyle. Listen in to find out what it's like to manage the behind-the-scenes aspect of her work-life balance!
2019-11-2352 min
Sibling Relationship LabRights vs. ReasonsSometimes it's clear whose turn it is. Or maybe someone has a right to something because it is his own personal property. But what about those times when it isn't so clear? Do your kids know how to negotiate effectively? We'll talk about some important elements of healthy negotiation ... plus the number one thing that will put the breaks on a successful negotiation.
2019-11-1621 min
LIVE without Training WheelsA Year of Living ProductivelyMaybe you've read a lot of books or articles on productivity. But if there really are good ways to be more productive, how come people have so many different ideas about the right way to do it? Join us as we chat with Melanie Wilson about her new book "A Year of Living Productively". She spent a year experimenting with various methods of productivity and sharing what she discovered. She'll share what she tried and what she recommends if you'd like to conduct your own experiments!
2019-11-0947 min
Sibling Relationship LabTaking TurnsOne way to avoid unnecessary conflicts between siblings is to take turns. But what if you can't remember whose turn it is? Here are some ideas.
2019-11-0219 min
LIVE without Training WheelsNavigating Homeschool Options OnlineOnline courses and websites can be a great way to supplement or outsources some of your homeschooling. But how do you evaluate the resources you use? And what about online safety? Screen time? And computer purchasing and sharing? We'll chat with Beth Napoli, the Techie Homeschool Mom, for some of her best tips for navigating online homeschooling options.
2019-10-2651 min
Sibling Relationship LabBad Examples for SiblingsParents are often concerned about television shows or books that are a bad example to their children of how to handle relationships and the effect that might have on the sibling relationships in their home. In this episode, we'll talk about that - how to recognize the bad examples, what story lines might actually be helpful, and one particular bad example that might not even be on your radar.
2019-10-1917 min
LIVE without Training WheelsParenting Beyond the RulesEveryone warned you about raising teens. Maybe you're nervous about it. Maybe you think you've got a fool-proof plan. But Connie Albers joined us to remind us that parenting teens isn't about rules - it's about relationships. Listen and be encouraged!
2019-10-1253 min
Sibling Relationship LabDifferent Rules for Different Kids?If you've got a number of kids, you might have had trouble balancing the rules you make or the rulings you hand down. Do they have to be the same for everyone in order to be fair? Also are rules just for kids? Do grown-ups (a.k.a. parents) have to keep the same rules we make for our kids? And if we don't is that hypocrisy? Let's chat about those things!
2019-10-0515 min
LIVE without Training WheelsParenting Tweens with GraceYou expected challenges parenting teens. But were you caught off guard with the unexpected emotional reactions of your tweens? Let's talk about the 9-12s! Join us as we hear from Hal and Melanie Young of Raising Real Men and author of "No Longer Little: Parenting Tweens with Grace and Hope".
2019-09-2849 min
Sibling Relationship LabThe Worst Thing That Could HappenOf course you want to protect your child from physical or emotional pain. That's part of why God gave children parents - for their safety and well-being. But what do we convey to our children about the things that are most dangerous to them? What would your kids say is the worst thing that could happen?
2019-09-2111 min
LIVE without Training WheelsFrom Brave Writing to Brave Learning with Julie BogartJulie Bogart, owner and creator of the popular Brave Writer program is now the author of The Brave Learner, a book that explores the way children learn and how to support that learning journey effectively and lovingly. Julie shares some about the writing journey as well as some of the big ideas in her book.
2019-09-1457 min
Sibling Relationship LabGossipSo your kids are talking to each other about their siblings. Or they're talking to you about their siblings. Or you're talking to them about their siblings. And not all of it is positive. Does that make it gossip? Let's talk about what gossip is ... and what it isn't.
2019-09-0716 min
LIVE without Training WheelsHomeschooling through DepressionHomeschooling under any circumstances can be a challenge, both physically and emotionally. But what if you are dealing with depression - either postpartum or otherwise? Is it possible to keep homeschooling? Let's talk about some strategies and encouragements to keep you going, even when depression is dragging you down.
2019-08-3154 min
Sibling Relationship LabTruth and LiesMost if not all families deal with a lying problem at some point. In this episode, we'll talk about how to understand the possible motives behind this struggle, how to encourage truth-telling, and how to talk to your other children about whether or not they can trust a person who has a history of lying.
2019-08-2419 min
LIVE without Training WheelsCure the Fear of Homeschooling High SchoolYou've gotten into a groove with homeschooling, found your style and determined your comfort level with routines and academics. And then high school looms on the horizon. Does everything change? Are all bets of? Do you have to crank it up a notch? And what about preparing for SATs and college? Join guest Ann Karako as we chat about homeschooling high school!
2019-08-1748 min
Sibling Relationship LabGood Siblings and Bad SiblingsDo you have one child who seems to be the center of most of the conflict in your home? Do you have one child who seems more difficult to parent than all the other children put together? Is there one child that you're sure draws the stares of the neighbors or the other shoppers at the grocery store? Let's talk about good siblings and bad siblings.
2019-08-1016 min
LIVE without Training WheelsHomeschooling as an Extrovert MomAre you an extroverted homeschool mom? Then you're invited to a homeschool mom party with Mary Wilson of Not Before 7 and Amy Sloan of Humility and Doxology! What are the particular struggles that come with homeschooling when you're an extrovert. Let's chat about how extroverts can get peopled-out, too, and what it looks like for an extroverted homeschool mom to recharge!
2019-08-0354 min
Sibling Relationship LabWhen Pretending Isn't Fun AnymoreYou know that it's important to help your children distinguish between real and pretend. You know that the need to understand the different between make-believe and "real life". But what happens when someone gets hurt or upset during pretend play. Does it still "count" even if they were just pretending?
2019-07-2722 min
LIVE without Training Wheels3 Gifts You Can Give Your KidsThis episode was originally aired around the holiday season, but it is applicable all year round. There are many good material gifts we can give our kids. But in this episode, I share three things that every child needs and that you can bless them with each day.
2019-07-2017 min
Sibling Relationship Lab"I Was Just Kidding!"You're listening as they tease and joke with each other. It seems harmless enough. You want them to have a sense of humor. But inevitably, one of them gets his or he feelings hurt and you've got yet another fight on your hands. What do you do when your child says "I was just kidding!"?
2019-07-1316 min
LIVE without Training WheelsYes, You Can Have "Big" Conversations with Your KidsYou want to connect with your kids. You want to ask good questions and be a good listener. But ... it doesn't always work. Despite your best attempts, you get one-word answers. Mary Wilson joins us to share her best tips for fostering great conversations with your kids - from littles to tweens and teens!
2019-07-0750 min
Sibling Relationship LabPositive RulesHave you ever felt like something was missing in your sibling guidance to your children? They aren't technically breaking any rules. Nobody actually did anything wrong ... on purpose. But still, it seems like there's a loophole. You might be missing the positive rules, or the positive aspects of God's law.
2019-06-2915 min
LIVE without Training WheelsHomeschooling with DyslexiaAre you homeschooling a child with dyslexia (or considering it)? Do you wonder if your struggling learner might be dyslexic? Or, do you just need some encouragement to embrace the beauty and purpose of homeschooling? All of these are great reasons to listen to Marianne Sunderland - veteran homeschool mom of eight, seven with dyslexia - share her wise words about homeschooling!
2019-06-2253 min
LIVE without Training WheelsAnswering the Homeschool Skeptics{Note: Audio from live-streaming video was rather rough for this episode.} Are you facing gatherings with family who don't exactly support your choice to homeschool? How do you answer the homeschool skeptics? How can you wisely protect your children from unnecessary scrutiny and also love your family well?
2019-06-2231 min
The Homeschool Solutions ShowHS 164: Big Family Homeschool Planning by Lynna Sutherland and Heather TullyPlanning for one or two homeschool kids is challenging enough, but planning for school with six or more? Now that is a Herculean feat. But never fear, we have some mamas on the show today who have been doing that for a number of years. Lynna Sutherland (mom of 8) and Heather Tully (mom of 10) join me today to discuss the ins and outs of big family homeschool planning -- what's different than regular planning, where to combine, and how to meet the needs of all.the.kids. Enjoy!
2019-06-181h 04
Sibling Relationship LabWhen Hubby Doesn't Handle Sibling Conflict "Right"You've thought a lot about sibling conflict. Maybe you've read some books, or some blog posts. Maybe you've even listen to some podcasts (wink, wink). But what if your hubby isn't on board? What if he doesn't adopt your methods or even has his own opinion about how sibling conflicts should be mediated? What's a girl to do? How can you talk with your husband about this important but sensitive topic?
2019-06-1521 min
The Homeschool Solutions ShowHS 163 [AUDIOBLOG]: Don't Be Afraid to Face Sibling Complaints by Lynna SutherlandIt's happened so many times you can replay the scenario in your head. One of your children runs in from another room screaming. He's got a complaint against a sibling and he wants justice. How do you respond? What do you say when faced with the accusations of one sibling against another? Eventually, you'll need to get them both involved in the conversation, but here are three things you can do before you add another person to the conversation. Listen or read more at https://hswotrainingwheels.com/face-sibling-complaints/
2019-06-1111 min
Sibling Relationship LabFear of Regret{LAST CHANCE to get on the waiting list for the Sibling Opposition Solution Online Course. Flash Sale for those on the waiting list opens 6/4! Go to SiblingRelationshipLab.com to join the waiting list.} Do you fear that you'll mess up your kids? Do you worry that you'll look back on your parenting and have regrets? What's the different between learning from your mistakes and regretting your choices?
2019-06-0117 min
LIVE without Training WheelsTeens and Social MediaAre your teens on social media? How do you know when they are ready? Should you even allow them to have their own social media accounts? How will you know what guidance to offer or recognize the signs of online bullying? Let's chat with Leah Neiman as she shares wise words for moms about navigating the world of social media with our teens.
2019-05-2454 min
The Homeschool Sisters PodcastEpisode 73: Sibling Stuff (because we're together ALL the time)The sibling relationship is unique, especially when we're young and all living together in the same home.
Add homeschooling to that, and it's really vital to have some sibling strategies.
Cait + Kara have called in sibling expert Lynna Sutherland of Homeschooling Without Training Wheels for this episode. Lynna is a mom to 8 and host of the new podcast Sibling Relationship Lab. She also offers sibling courses, devotionals and more through her site.
Tune in to learn how to see our kids as people, get to the bottom of sibling strife, and raise our...
2019-05-2156 min
Sibling Relationship LabThat's Not Fair!You want to be a good parent. You want to do what's best in each situation. But sometimes, the kids don't agree with your choices. What do you do when they claim "That's not fair!" Are you playing favorites? What do they mean when they said "fair"? Should you try to convince them that you're right? Let's talk about three things you can do to help in this situation.
2019-05-1717 min
LIVE without Training WheelsMaking Morning Time Work for YouHave you added Morning Time to your homeschool? My friend Amy Sloan joins us with her take on morning time as well has her tips for making it workable for a wide range of ages and interests. Her approach was both refreshing and encouraging and re-reminded me of the original purpose of Morning Time!
2019-05-1134 min
Sibling Relationship LabWhen They Say "I Hate You"It cuts a mama right to the heart to hear one of her children say "I hate you!" to a sibling. But what do our children actually mean when they say that? Is it the death of a loving relationship? And how can you, as a parent, respond wisely when your child is dealing with strong emotions like anger and fear?
2019-05-0422 min
LIVE without Training WheelsHealing from the Burden of LegalismHave you been burdened by expectations and obligations that are not requirements God places on his children? Have you struggled to regain your hold on the gospel while clearing away the cobwebs of legalistic thought and behavior? Kendra Fletcher, author of "Leaving Legalism" shares wise words of comfort and encouragement perfect for the weary homeschool mom looking for freedom!
2019-04-2740 min
Sibling Relationship LabShould Sibling Be "Best Friends"?If you're like a lot of parents, one of the reasons you had a second (third, fourth, ...) kid was because you wanted them to be friends. You imagined that your kids would be best buddies. But now? You watch how they play with the neighborhood kids. They are super polite and kind. They love being with their friends. But when they get home, the claws come out and they treat each other like bitter enemies. Have you missed the mark? Will they ever speak to each other as adults? Should siblings be best friends?
2019-04-2022 min
Sibling Relationship LabSibling Parenting Between the LinesSometimes we discuss parenting concepts at if we need to be on the "right" side of a line. Don't be *that* kind of parent, articles tell us. Instead, be *this* kind of parent. But what about when we hear conflicting opinions? Should we be hyper-involved and always available? Or should we be hands-off and foster independence through tough love? And, to get right to the point, what does that look like when it comes to sibling conflict? Is there a "straight and narrow" way to parent the siblings in your home? Let's talk about what...
2019-04-2018 min
LIVE without Training WheelsBundling and UnbundlingIn the homeschool, learning doesn't have to be divided up into separate-subject boxes. Sometimes combining skill practice can save time. On the other hand, sometimes you need to separate out concepts in order to determine mastery. How do you know which to do when? Listen in and learn some tips and strategies for implementing bundling and unbundling in skill training!
2019-04-1230 min
LIVE without Training WheelsThe Easily Distractable ChildWhen Lynna asked moms what is the biggest obstacle to consistency in their homeschools, they often joke "the children"! It's funny, but there's some truth to it. You'll understand that especially if you've got an easily distractable child. They can't seem to stay focused on a task. They can't remember what it was they were sent to do. And you're left wondering if this is a character issue or just a developmental phase. Join Lynna as she explains the dilemma, suggests some diagnostic tools, and helps moms to have some strategies to implement in their...
2019-04-1229 min
LIVE without Training WheelsLIVE without Training Wheels is a PodcastLynna Sutherland is the owner and author of Homeschooling without Training Wheels where she shows moms how to ditch what's slowing them down and look to Jesus, embracing the freedom and flexibility of the gospel. Every Tuesday night, Lynna hosts the LIVE without Training Wheels show on Crowdcast, Facebook, and YouTube. When the show is done, we grab the audio track and turn it into a podcast so you can listen on the go. Join us and start homeschooling and parenting without training wheels!
2019-04-0926 min
Sibling Relationship LabWelcome to the LabI believe that the gospel transforms sibling conflict from obstacles to opportunities. I believe that the home is the relationship lab of life. It is our children's first, best, hands-on experience of the gospel in action. Come join me as we explore what it looks like to parent the siblings in our homes in light of the gospel and in dependence on Christ. I'll tell you a bit about a pivotal moment in my home that helped to shift my perspective on what gospel-centered sibling parenting looks like and share with you my heart and vision for...
2019-04-0916 min
The Homeschool Solutions ShowHS 143: Do You REALLY Want the Children to Stop Fighting? by Lynna SutherlandWe've all been there. You're tired. The kids are bickering. Again. If only they would just stop fighting. If only they could just quit all the arguing. If you had a magic word, you'd say it, right? (Hey, magic words might be better than the other kids of words you're tempted to say when the children are fighting!) Listen or read more at https://hswotrainingwheels.com/children-stop-fighting/
2019-01-2207 min
The Homeschool Solutions ShowHS 126: The REAL Reason Sibling Conflict is a Problem in Your Home by Lynna SutherlandIs sibling conflict a problem in your home? Maybe you think that question is just a joke. Maybe you think it's a nice way to begin a post by making everyone feel normal and right at home because DUH! of course sibling conflict is a problem. In everyone's home. Always. But it may not be for the reason you're thinking. Listen or read more at https://hswotrainingwheels.com/sibling-conflict-problem/
2018-09-2108 min
The Homeschool Solutions ShowHS 113: The Issue is not the Issue by Lynna SutherlandWhen Matt and I were first married, one of our ongoing fights was about counter space. Matt took a practical approach. Anything you use on a regular basis should stay on the counter top. In the bathroom, the toothpaste, deodorant, and shaving cream should be stored on the counter. In the kitchen, the cutting board and toaster stay up top all the time. In my view, spaces should be clear and free of clutter, save the cute color-coordinated themed containers we registered for and received as wedding gifts! It may have seemed that we we...
2018-06-2209 min