Advertise on podcast: The Gospel Shaped Family Podcast

Money shapes daily life for every family, yet many parents feel unsure how to teach their children to handle it wisely. In this episode of the Gospel Shaped Family Podcast, Josh and Jen Mulvihill walk through how to ground money conversations in Scripture rather than culture. They explain why money is a heart issue, not just a practical one, and how early habits shape lifelong faith and stewardship.  You will hear five core biblical principles that help children see money as a tool, not a master. Topics include work, generosity, contentment, debt, and wisdom. Josh and Jen also share real examples from their own family, including jobs, small businesses, budgeting systems, and teaching kids to think carefully before spending. Whether your children are young or approaching adulthood, this episode gives parents clear, practical ways to disciple their children financially while keeping Christ at the center.  Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://bit.ly/50thingspc Renewanation: https://bit.ly/rangsfpc  Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://bit.ly/gsfhpc    Bible in 365: https://bit.ly/b365gsfpc 

This episode continues the Why Worldview Matters series and focuses on one issue every parent and grandparent must understand: the authority of Scripture. Josh and Jessica walk through why the Bible can be trusted, how its authority shapes a child’s worldview, and why families cannot rely on church attendance alone. They describe the crisis of worldview facing today’s kids and explain why parents need to take an intentional role in helping their children root their lives in God’s Word. The conversation outlines eight reasons the Bible is the Word of God, from manuscript evidence and archaeology to fulfilled prophecy and the unity of Scripture’s message. They share personal stories of facing challenges to the Bible’s authority and how to help children stand firm when Scripture is questioned. This episode gives families simple, practical ways to build their home on the truth of God’s Word.   Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://bit.ly/50thingspc   Renewanation: https://bit.ly/rangsfpc    Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://bit.ly/gsfhpc    Culture Proof Podcast: https://podcast.cultureproof.net/    The Dr. Nurse Mama Show: https://www.drnursemama.com/show 

Many parents want their children to love reading but feel unsure where to start. In this episode, Josh and Jen Mulvihill explain why a love for books does not begin with pressure or early academics, but with shared stories, patient guidance, and a family culture that values reading. You will learn why reading aloud matters at every age, how waiting to teach reading can actually help struggling learners, and how parents model a lifelong love of books. Josh and Jen also discuss choosing books that shape imagination and worldview, encouraging physical books over screens, and using biographies and classic stories to build faith. This conversation offers practical guidance for parents, homeschool families, and church leaders who want to raise children who love truth, think deeply, and grow in wisdom through great books. Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://bit.ly/50thingspc Renewanation: https://bit.ly/rangsfpc  Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://bit.ly/gsfhpc    Bible in 365: https://bit.ly/b365gsfpc 

This episode continues the Why Worldview Matters series and focuses on one of the most important pieces of a child’s faith: helping them develop a deep love for the Bible. Josh and Jessica talk about why Scripture must be the foundation of every child’s worldview and why parents cannot assume their children will believe the Bible is true. They walk through common misconceptions, the reliability of Scripture, and the danger of neglecting God’s Word. They also share personal stories about how their own love for the Bible was shaped, why Scripture has endured through history, and why it has changed so many lives. The conversation gives parents and grandparents practical encouragement for building a home where the Bible is read, trusted, and lived. Key takeaways include how to talk with children about where the Bible came from, why it is trustworthy, and how doctrines like inerrancy, authority, and sufficiency guide everyday life.   Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://bit.ly/50thingspc   Renewanation: https://bit.ly/rangsfpc    Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://bit.ly/gsfhpc    Culture Proof Podcast: https://podcast.cultureproof.net/    The Dr. Nurse Mama Show: https://www.drnursemama.com/show 

Children’s and youth ministry has become the default approach in many churches, but few parents stop to ask what role it should actually play in the discipleship of their children. In this episode, Josh and Jen Mulvihill walk through the history of age-based ministry and explain the different forms it has taken over the years. They offer a clear, Scripture-centered framework to help parents think carefully about children’s and youth ministry without dismissing its value. You will learn how family-first discipleship shapes healthy engagement with the church, why corporate worship matters, and how ministries should function as a supplement rather than a replacement. This conversation equips parents to ask better questions, stay engaged, and take responsibility for the spiritual formation of their children. It is practical, thoughtful, and grounded in biblical priorities that help families navigate church life with confidence and clarity.   Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://bit.ly/50thingspc Renewanation: https://bit.ly/rangsfpc  Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://bit.ly/gsfhpc    Bible in 365: https://bit.ly/b365gsfpc   

Most parents want to pass on a strong faith, but many feel pulled in different directions as culture competes for their child’s attention. In this Worldview Wednesday conversation from American Family Radio, Josh explains the five major influences that shape a child’s worldview. Parents, grandparents, teachers, peers, and the church all play a part. Josh and Dr. Jessica Peck walk through the research and share practical ways to be intentional in each area. This episode helps parents and grandparents recognize where their child is being shaped every day and why a passive approach is not enough. You will hear real stories, common struggles families face, and clear steps to guide children toward a biblical worldview. If you want your home to be a place where faith grows and truth is lived out, this conversation gives you a strong starting point. Key themes include parental influence, the power of grandparents, education choices, media and screen time, and the church’s role in grounding children in God’s Word. Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://bit.ly/50thingspc   Renewanation: https://bit.ly/rangsfpc    Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://bit.ly/gsfhpc    Culture Proof Podcast: https://podcast.cultureproof.net/    The Dr. Nurse Mama Show: https://www.drnursemama.com/show 

A strong marriage is one of the greatest gifts parents can give their children. In this episode, Josh and Jen share their own story of 25 years together and discuss the habits, decisions, and biblical principles that have kept their relationship steady through every season. They talk about prioritizing one another, learning to forgive quickly, guarding unity, and protecting marriage from the subtle drift that often happens during the busy years of parenting. You will hear how Scripture defines the heart of marriage, why oneness matters, and how to build a home where both husband and wife serve one another with joy. They also discuss common challenges couples face and offer practical ways to strengthen communication, deepen trust, and bring more life into the everyday moments of marriage. This episode gives couples a simple roadmap for growing a marriage that honors God, blesses children, and stands firm when life feels demanding or uncertain.   Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://bit.ly/50thingspc   Renewanation: https://bit.ly/rangsfpc    Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://bit.ly/gsfhpc    Bible in 365: https://bit.ly/b365gsfpc   

This episode explains why a child’s worldview shapes every part of life and why parents must take an active role in forming it. Josh walks through what a worldview is, how early it develops, and why kids absorb cultural messages long before parents expect. You will hear how Scripture provides clarity, purpose, and stability in a world where truth is often treated as personal preference. Josh also outlines six truths children need to understand about God’s Word so they can stand firm as they grow. The conversation gives parents simple steps to begin shaping their child's beliefs at any age, with encouragement for families who feel they are starting late. The goal is to help you guide your children toward a steady, Scripture-rooted view of life.   Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://bit.ly/50thingspc   Renewanation: https://bit.ly/rangsfpc    Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://bit.ly/gsfhpc    Culture Proof Podcast: https://podcast.cultureproof.net/    The Dr. Nurse Mama Show: https://www.drnursemama.com/show 

Crushes begin earlier than many parents expect. Elementary-aged children experience a spark of interest and often have no idea what to do with their feelings. In this episode, Josh and Jen talk about how to guide these early attractions with clarity and wisdom. They explain why crushes are normal, what they reveal about the heart, and how parents can use these moments to shape a child’s view of marriage and relationships. You will hear how the Bible frames desire, why timing matters, and how Song of Songs helps parents understand when not to awaken love. Josh and Jen share practical conversations they have had with their own children, including how to spot character, how to name feelings without being ruled by them, and how to keep the door open for honest questions. This episode gives parents a simple way to walk beside their children with wisdom and warmth. It reminds us that crushes are not something to fear. They are invitations to talk about the kind of men and women our children are becoming.   Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://bit.ly/50thingspc   Renewanation: https://bit.ly/rangsfpc    Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://bit.ly/gsfhpc    Bible in 365: https://bit.ly/b365gsfpc 

In this special episode, Dr. Josh Mulvihill joins Dr. Jessica Peck on American Family Radio’s Dr. Nurse Mama Show to talk about one of the most urgent needs in Christian parenting today—helping children develop a biblical worldview. Josh shares from his book Biblical Worldview: What It Is, Why It Matters, and How to Shape the Worldview of the Next Generation, explaining how parents and grandparents can become the primary spiritual influencers in their families. Together, they discuss why the home—not culture, schools, or media—needs to be where faith is formed and passed on, and what it looks like to raise children who trust God’s Word in a world filled with competing voices. You’ll also hear practical encouragement for building family habits that strengthen faith: reading Scripture together, praying for your children by name, and cultivating relationships that reflect authentic love for Christ. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or mentor, this conversation will equip you with hope and tools to help the next generation see life through the lens of God’s Word.   Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://bit.ly/50thingspc   Renewanation: https://bit.ly/rangsfpc    Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://bit.ly/gsfhpc    Culture Proof Podcast: https://podcast.cultureproof.net/    The Dr. Nurse Mama Show: https://www.drnursemama.com/show 

Many families want to eat healthier, but it is hard to know where to start. In this episode, Josh and Jen share the story behind their shift to real food, why they changed their lifestyle, and how they began removing processed foods from their home. Their journey started with simple swaps and grew into raising their own meat, dairy, and eggs. You will hear the practical steps that helped them make lasting change and why it matters for health, stewardship, and family life. They explain the difference between real food and ultra processed food, why so much of the modern diet creates problems for families, and how Christians can think wisely about caring for their bodies. You will also learn ten simple steps for moving from processed foods to real foods without feeling overwhelmed. If you want to give your family a healthier year or need a realistic plan for getting processed foods out of your home, this episode gives you a clear starting point you can use right away.   Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://bit.ly/50thingspc   Renewanation: https://bit.ly/rangsfpc    Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://bit.ly/gsfhpc    Bible in 365: https://bit.ly/b365gsfpc 

The start of a new year provides a natural moment to pause, look at the past season, and set clear goals for the months ahead. In this episode, Josh and Jen share how they assess their home, pray together, and make a simple plan for the growth of each child. Their approach is practical and grounded in Scripture, with a focus on stewardship, purpose, and unity as a couple. You will learn how to create a small parenting retreat, ask the right questions, and use ten key categories to guide your goals for discipleship and family life. Josh and Jen also walk through real examples from their own home, from spiritual habits to character growth to life skills their children need. If you want a clearer direction for your family, or you feel the years moving faster than you can keep up, this conversation can help you slow down, think with intention, and prepare for a stronger year of family discipleship.   Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://bit.ly/50thingspc   Renewanation: https://bit.ly/rangsfpc    Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://bit.ly/gsfhpc    Bible in 365: https://bit.ly/b365gsfpc 

In this Ask Josh and Jen episode of the Gospel Shaped Family Podcast, Josh and Jen answer three real questions from listeners—about marijuana use, when children become adults, and how to keep the Sabbath as a family. They start by examining marijuana according to the Bible, explaining why recreational use doesn’t align with Christian sobriety and what Scripture teaches about medical use and self-control. Next, they tackle the question of adulthood—when it begins, how responsibility prepares children for it, and why our culture often delays maturity. Finally, they explore what it means to rest as God intended, offering practical ways to make one day each week look different from the rest. In this episode: Is marijuana use a sin or a wisdom issue? How to talk with kids about drugs and self-control Why responsibility—not age—defines adulthood Practical ways to honor the Sabbath as a family How weekly rest reminds us of our eternal rest in Christ Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://bit.ly/50thingspc   Renewanation: https://bit.ly/rangsfpc    Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://bit.ly/gsfhpc    Bible in 365: https://bit.ly/b365gsfpc    Culture Proof Podcast: https://podcast.cultureproof.net/    Air-Popped Popcorn Popper: https://amzn.to/3LCzops   White Truffle Salt: https://amzn.to/4p9CUpA Some links are Amazon affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you buy through them.

In this episode of the Gospel Shaped Family Podcast, Josh and Jen address two cultural ideas shaping modern homes—child-led parenting and marriage as a capstone—and help listeners think through both from a biblical perspective. They discuss why giving children authority in the home leads to confusion, inconsistency, and spiritual harm, and how Scripture calls parents to lovingly lead with truth and discipline that produces holiness. Then, they turn to the growing trend of delaying marriage as a personal achievement rather than viewing it as a foundation for life. With biblical wisdom and real-life experience, Josh and Jen show why early marriage often leads to stronger families, shared growth, and deeper faith. In this episode: What “child-led” parenting gets wrong about human nature Why biblical discipline is about holiness, not control How the “capstone” view of marriage distorts God’s design Research showing the benefits of early marriage How parents can model God’s order and authority in the home Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://bit.ly/50thingspc   Renewanation: https://bit.ly/rangsfpc    Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://bit.ly/gsfhpc    Bible in 365: https://bit.ly/b365gsfpc    SchoolHouse Rocked Podcast: https://www.schoolhouserocked.com/episodes    Child Led Parenting: https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2025/10/27/were-doing-child-led-parenting   Marriage as a Capstone vs Cornerstone: https://praxiscircle.com/blog/marriage-capstone-event-or-cornerstone-for-life Marry Early and Flourish Together:  https://ifstudies.org/blog/marry-early-and-flourish-together  Is Marrying Later Always Better?: https://nationalmarriageproject.org/2022-state-our-unions  Servant Not Savior by Levi Secord: https://amzn.to/3LLduQK The Flip Side of Feminism by Suzanne Venker: https://amzn.to/49qr0TI How to Build a Better Life by Suzanne Venker: https://amzn.to/43BlXvZ Some links are Amazon affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you buy through them.

What if your Christmas traditions did more than create memories—what if they pointed your family to Christ? In this episode, Josh and Jen share three simple, timeless traditions that have shaped their family’s Christmas celebrations for more than twenty years. These ideas are meaningful, practical, and work for every stage of family life—from young children to college-age children and even grandchildren. You’ll learn how to make Scripture reading, music, and worship central to the holiday season with traditions that cost little but leave a lasting spiritual impact. Josh and Jen also explain the true meaning of Advent—why the longing for Christ’s coming still speaks to every heart today—and how to celebrate it intentionally. Whether you’re starting new habits or refreshing old ones, this episode will help your family focus on what matters most: celebrating the coming of Christ with joy and purpose.   Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://bit.ly/50thingspc   Renewanation: https://bit.ly/rangsfpc    Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://bit.ly/gsfhpc    Bible in 365: https://bit.ly/b365gsfpc    Culture Proof Podcast: https://podcast.cultureproof.net/    Legend of the Candy Cane:https://amzn.to/480OE6L   If He Had Not Come: https://amzn.to/4oHy8zL   The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: https://amzn.to/4pfXRiz   The Family Under the Bridge: https://amzn.to/43zh6eN   Behold the Lamb of God Music: https://amzn.to/4805hzB   Some links are Amazon affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you buy through them.