Wire Talk With Karen Stubbs

Today, DeDe Wilbanks joins us to explore how we can set healthy boundaries around the technology in our homes. With John 10:10 as our guide, DeDe reminds us of our God-given role to protect our children's hearts and minds from the addictive nature of technology. While we can't control everything, we can be intentional about setting limits that nurture our families, trusting God with the rest.Episode Recap:4:30 What downtime and screen time parameters do you put on your devices? 9:43 Is there a right age to give kids a phone? 13:09 Why do screen time limits matter? 15:15 What mistakes have you made when it comes to technology in your home?19:10 I had to learn to enjoy the “no”22:00 How do you actually set limits on the iphone? 31:22 What simple practical tips can you offer to get started?Scripture for Reflection:John 10:10 (NIV) "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”Questions for Discussion:What boundaries are in place around the tech

Election Day can bring a lot of uncertainty and even fear into our lives. Today, Karen and Emily remind us to keep our focus on God, no matter who ends up in the White House. They encourage us to pray for our leaders and show us how to foster peace, especially if our families are divided on political views. Karen shares powerful biblical truths to help us navigate the ups and downs of the election season with faith and grace, reminding us that our hope is always in Christ and that we are citizens of heaven. Episode Recap:7:12 How should Christians approach political elections?10:20 What does Jesus say about engaging with governments and politics? 13:04 Daniel 2:21 says God “deposes kings and raises up others”14:30 We have to focus our eyes on God and not our circumstances15:45 Go vote! And also, pray for our leaders17:45 Look at the story of Nebuchadnezzer, God can turn the hearts of evil leaders20:39 We can have different opinions and still love one another21:58 Your children are watching youScripture for Re

“You just have to last one second longer…” If you are constantly fighting discipline battles these days, we hope those words stay with you long after this episode! In this conversation, Karen tackles questions about disciplining your younger children. From chaos in the car, to rough play, to bad behavior that only happens at school, Karen offers practical advice for finding consequences that work for your child. Episode Recap:6:37 My four year old is constantly getting in trouble at school - what can we do?12:30 Car rides are the worst! How can I stop the cycle of craziness?17:00 You just have to last one second longer than they do!18:25 My son plays too rough at school - does he need therapy? 21:30 How do I know which things are discipline worthy and which things I should let go? 27:18 My son gets really angry- we don’t want to punish him for feeling emotions, but know we need to find ways to help him regulate, any advice? Scripture for Reflection:Proverbs 29:17 (NIV) “Discipline your children, and they will

Are your kids’ personalities shaped by their birth order? In today’s episode, Karen and Emily explore how birth order influences personality. They share insights from their own families and tackle questions like, “How do I help my oldest think of others before herself?” and “How can I teach my daughter to let go of things without holding on to everything?” Plus, Emily talks about how she’s using the BOAW Moms app to keep up with studies and episodes!Episode Recap:2:00 Emily is loving using the BOAW Moms app to watch studies and look up podcast episodes3:45 Karen and Emily share how their personalities were shaped by their birth order 7:13 Is it possible to avoid reinforcing birth order stereotypes as a parent?10:25 How do I help my 5 year old let go of things? She wants to hold onto all the things!15:24 How do I help my oldest daughter think of others before herself? 20:45 How do I help nurture my daughter’s kindness? 24:50 Send in your question on the app using the “Ask Karen” sectionScripture for Reflection

“There is nothing that beats conversation with our kids.” Today we’re chatting with Erin Mashaw about the new book she co-authored, A Student’s Guide to Sexual Integrity. We touch on purity culture, pornography, and the constantly shifting cultural values around us. Erin shared the importance of having small conversations early and often and offered practical tips for getting over the awkwardness! Our hope is that you will be encouraged to engage in new conversations this week in your home and feel equipped that YOU are the best source of information for your child. Psst - pop some earbuds in for this one! Episode Recap:3:20 What is the difference between integrity and purity? 6:54 ‘The Talk’ is no longer one marathon session, it’s simpler than that! 8:30: Is it possible to make these conversations less awkward?11:37 Your mind is your most important sex organ 14:00 Teach your kids to live by the Integrity Code18:30 How do we share the truth that the historical biblical sexual ethic is loving and not exclusive

When your kids are little, the challenges of day-to-day parenting often pit one spouse against another. Today Karen and Emily are answering questions from weary moms. They discuss practical ways you can connect with your spouse, strategies for handling the stress that comes with parenting young children, and remind us of the importance of prioritizing our husband’s needs during this season of life. Episode Recap:4:50 BIG announcement coming later this month - get the app to be the first to know 10:45 How do we find time to connect as spouses with 3 little kids at home? 15:05: Help! My 3 yr old twins are pitting us against one another! 17:14 Our marriage is struggling! We need help. 22:20 Ask your spouse: what is one way I can love you better this month? 25:20 I want to move back to where my family lives. What do you think we should do?Scripture for Reflection:Mark 10:9 (NIV): “Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.”Questions for Discussion:How do you currently prioritize connection with

Understanding how your child is wired can be a key to resolving conflict in your home! In today's episode, Karen dives into the dynamics of family conflict and emphasizes how important it is to recognize your child's personality type. By taking the time to understand their unique traits, we can cultivate patience and empathy in our relationships. Join us as we explore practical ways to bear with one another instead of butting heads!Episode Recap:6:08 I’m worried about my 9 yr old son’s lack of sociability…should I be? 9:05 My daughter and I are constantly butting heads! Help!12:15 What are the four core needs of the Red personality? 14:08 How did your husband being away for so long affect your children and the home? 18:32 My 1st grade daughter’s social awkwardness is affecting her relationships, what can I do? Scripture for Reflection:Ephesians 4:2 (NIV): Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.Questions for Discussion:How well do you know each of your children’s personal

Today we’re diving into the idea of being a countercultural parent. Join us as Karen shares how important it is to parent in a way that aligns with God’s will instead of seeking the approval of others. From practical tips on renewing your mind to choosing God as your guiding “North Star,” Karen offers encouragement to moms who may feel out of step with the world – but exactly in step with God’s design. Episode Recap:3:51 Karen shares about her newest curriculum, The Counter Intuitive Parent8:36 How have you seen parenting trends/choices change over the years?11:38 Were you always countercultural as a parent or did you change as you realized you needed to parent differently from the world? 16:25 What worldly patterns do you see affecting families right now? 19:05 What can a mom do today to renew her mind? 23:00 God is our “North Star” as believers26:30 There is a lot on the horizon for BOAW Moms this year! Scripture for Reflection:Romans 12:2 (NIV) – "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transfo

Today Karen is answering questions from moms whose kids are in college or working and living on their own for the first time. She shares how to support them without enabling them, how to gently guide them toward wise-decision making, and how to encourage them toward maturity while simultaneously stepping back. She also reminds us that now, more than ever, is the time to get on your knees and PRAY for your kids! Moms, this season is hard, but the fruit of these years is worth the investment of time and energy. Episode Recap:3:41 How do I help my college-age daughter who is already struggling with time management while she’s away? She’s calling me in tears weekly!8:00 I feel like my son is growing apart from us as a young adult living in another state. Is this normal? How can I adjust my mindset? 13:02 My daughter calls me all the time about every little thing now that she’s living on her own. How can I help her be more confident in her decision making? 17:18 I think my son could be classified as “failure to la

Literacy coach Welsley Jongko joins us in the studio today to talk about the process of learning to read and to encourage those of us who have beginning readers at home! She explains the current reading crisis in America and the simple but effective things parents can do to support their children on their way to become lifelong readers. There are so many great tips and resources shared in the conversation today, be sure you check the links in today’s show notes! Episode Recap:2:11 Welsley is a literacy coach supporting teachers in the K-5 school system4:00 Karen shares the story of Abby’s dyslexia diagnosis 7:56 Tips for parents who are already overwhelmed by the new school year9:40 How can parents help foster a love of learning in their child? 12:12 Is there a difference between a late learner and a struggling reader?16:00 What are the red flags your child is struggling to read? 23:08 Additional early signs of dyslexia26:00 What is the problem with “whole language” instruction? 30:37 Tips and strategies for

Today Karen is answering questions from moms juggling packed schedules, managing family commitments, and trying to make a little time for themselves! From balancing kids' activities with family time to learning when to say no, in this episode you’ll hear practical advice to help you protect your energy and prioritize what matters most. Pop in those earbuds or grab a basket of laundry to fold and let's figure out what your best "yes" is for this season.Episode Recap:- 3:57 Survival Guide to Motherhood is now available as an online course! Register today- 6:14 My schedule is packed and I was recently asked to lead a group at church. I want to say no, but how can I?  - 8:37 I’m conflicted about travel sports - help! - 12:31 I’m exhausted, how do I stay connected to my husband in this season of parenting?- 15:42 How can I set boundaries now to avoid overcommitment in the future? Scripture for Reflection:Matthew 6:33 (NIV) "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you

Today Karen and Emily dive into the dynamics of marriage and parenting, reminding us that we are not our husband's Holy Spirit! Karen talks about letting go of the urge to control her husband's spiritual journey, addresses differences in parenting styles, and offers practical wisdom for managing the emotional ups and downs that come with doing life together. Lean in for practical advice rooted in love and respect, remembering that it is God who ultimately guides our growth.Episode Recap:5:15 How do I let go of my husband’s lack of a quiet time? 7:41 Our job is to love and respect our husbands8:00 My husband is harsh when he disciplines, what do I do? 11:29 How can I get my husband to take more initiative?15:55 My husband’s moodiness brings me down! Scripture for Reflection:1 Corinthians 3: 6-7 (NIV): "I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow."Questions for Discussion:Can you re

In the final episode of our 3-part series on Ephesians 6:14-18, we're taking an in-depth look at verse 18 and Paul's call to pray in the Spirit on all occasions. Karen and Emily explore what it means to be vigilant in prayer and the different types of prayers we should keep in mind. They also dive into how we, as moms, can cultivate a consistent and effective prayer life and teach our kids to pray. This conversation is rich with wisdom and Scripture, so pull up a chair and have your Bible nearby as we close out this powerful series! Episode Recap:5:55 Ephesians 6:18- Paul’s admonition to the church to pray in the spirit on all occasions8:54 What are the different types of prayers we need to keep in mind? 13:20 How can we develop a consistent and effective prayer life as moms?14:41 How do we teach our kids to pray?  17:47 Putting on the armor of God empowers us21:30 Karen shares various times from her life when she depended on prayer Scripture for Reflection:Ephesians 6:18 (NIV): “And pray in the Spirit on all

Today we're diving deep into Ephesians 6:14-18, exploring how to equip ourselves with spiritual armor needed for the daily battles we face. Karen and Emily discuss the practical steps to "put on" the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, and the gospel of peace, empowering you to stand firm against the challenges of life. This conversation is chock full of Scripture, so grab your Bible and follow along as we discover how to stand firm, knowing that God is with us in every fight.Episode Recap:4:19 Today we’re looking at Ephesians 6:14-18 together 6:54 We have to strap on the truth of Jesus Christ. We have to know what He says, which means reading our Bibles7:58 Use Scripture to combat the lies we face in our daily lives15:10 How do we practically put on the belt of truth? 17:39 What is the breastplate of righteousness and how do we “put it on” practically speaking?22:43 Let’s break down what it means to “have your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace”26:00 We can’t hold

Back-to-school feels like the start of a new year for moms, so it’s a perfect time to prepare our hearts and minds. Over the next three weeks, we're diving into Ephesians to explore the armor of God, a biblical metaphor Paul uses to remind us that we are in a spiritual battle every day. This isn't about fear—it's about living a victorious life through Christ.Join us as we encourage you to wake up, equip yourself with God’s truth, and get ready to stand strong in this new season. You’ve got this, and with God’s help, it’s going to be an amazing school year!Episode Recap:4:30 Karen recaps upcoming speaking events and her travel calendar 6:00 The new school year as the real "new year" for moms9:11 Why is the armor of God crucial for spiritual battles?12:32 We don’t think about the fact that we are in a spiritual battle everyday16:43 How do we practically apply this in our families? Karen offers tangible examples22:14 ‘Stand firm’ means we have to be ready. Wake up! Expect the battles to come and be prepared.24:2

What does God say about you? Do you know?! It is all too easy to get caught up in who the world says you are, so today Karen and Emily remind us the truth of what God says. They talk about identity, the phrase “just a mom,” and fighting against comparison. We hope today’s conversation encourages you to celebrate your unique gifts and talents and focus on the truth that you are fearfully and wonderfully made! Episode Recap:3:45 Survival Guide to Motherhood releases today! 6:30 Karen’s purpose at BOAW Moms is to be your biggest cheerleader11:50 It is critical that we base our identity and find our worth in who we are in Christ16:40 Get off social media and stay in your lane if you struggle with this! 21:15 You are fearfully and wonderfully made, start out each day by meditating on that truthScripture for Reflection:Psalm 139:14 (NIV): “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”Questions for Discussion:Are there specific areas where you’ve struggle

Are you raising confident kids? Today Karen encourages moms to take a step back so our kids can step up. She and Emily discuss the pitfalls of doing things for our kids and the reasons we often fall into that trap. They also talk about the difference between nurturing and enabling and share the critical connection between kids who take ownership and confident kids! Episode Recap:6:40 Why is there a whole chapter on confidence in this book? 8:32 Where are moms missing the mark when it comes to raising confident kids?12:56 What role do chores play in confidence? 14:04 Small, practical ways you can allow your children to grow in confidenceScripture for Reflection:Galatians 6:5 (NIV): "For each one should carry their own load."Questions for Discussion:Can you identify any specific behaviors or actions where you might be enabling your child rather than nurturing their independence? What changes could you make to shift from enabling to nurturing?Reflect on a recent situation where you stepped back and allowed your

In this third part of our series on Karen's new book, "Survival Guide to Motherhood," Karen and Emily discuss the importance of raising kids with a strong foundation in biblical principles, even when it goes against the grain of today's world. They chat about how teaching kids to obey their parents leads to a more peaceful home in the long run. Don’t miss Karen’s prayer at the end of the episode asking for wisdom, courage, and blessings for all the families tuning in! Episode Recap:6:29 Discipline is hard and different for every child and in every season7:43 Discipline has to be taught - it does not come naturally to children11:42 Discipline has to be consistent.13:00 The 3 stages of discipline each require a different focus from parents 17:07 The “B”s of discipline are: Be Consistent, Be United, Be Clear18:08 In the later years, we have to give our kids the “why” behind the noScripture for Reflection:Hebrews 12:11 “No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harves

How do you make sacrifices for your kids without sacrificing yourself in the process? In today’s conversation, Karen and Emily explore this question and Karen offers wisdom on knowing when it’s time to prioritize yourself. We'll dig into taking care of your mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual health because a healthy mom equals healthy kids! Episode Recap:(3:31) There is a difference between sacrificing for others and sacrificing yourself in the process(5:42) Surround yourself with the wise counsel of those who are ahead of you on the journey(10:19) Good emotional health for a mom results in good emotional health for her children(15:26) Take care of your spiritual health and invest in a resource to help youQuestions for Discussion:Can you share a time when you felt you were sacrificing too much of yourself for your children? How did you recognize this, and what steps did you take to find a better balance? If you’re in the middle of this right now, can you share more about what’s going on?Karen mentions

Today we’re cracking the spine of Karen’s newest book, Survival Guide to Motherhood. Karen shares insightful excerpts from the opening chapters, exploring the ideas that kids develop like Crock-Pots, joy is a choice, and moms are the CEOs of their homes. Grab your copy of Survival Guide today. Check the show notes for the link.Episode Recap:3:17 Survival Guide to Motherhood is available for pre-order9:58 Process of recording the audiobook version13:25 Moms all want to “get it right” and we all want someone to walk alongside us16:43 Kids are like Crock-Pots21:19 Joy is a choice24:20 Moms, you are the boss of your home26:25 You’re not in control (God is!) but you can control the atmosphere in your homeQuestions for Discussion:Reflecting on Karen's analogy that kids are like crock pots, how have you seen your child's growth and maturity reflect the concept that progress takes time, much like a slow-cooked meal? Is there something going on right now with a child where you are finding it hard to be patient with th