Sparking Everyday Discipleship

Summary Join us as we explore how children's books about the resurrection can teach young children about faith, Jesus' resurrection, and how to introduce spiritual concepts in an age-appropriate way. Laura Sassi shares insights on faith development, storytelling, and practical tips for parents and educators. Sound Bites "Use bright colors to symbolize the joy of Easter." "Avoid graphic depictions to prevent scaring children." "Children's faith development is a lifelong journey." Chapters 00:00Introduction to Laura Sassi's New Book 04:04Exploring the Themes of Resurrection in Children's Literature 06:33Navigating Difficult Conversations with Young Children 09:11The Role of Parents in Faith Development 11:44Personal Stories of Faith and Teaching 14:11The Importance of Prayer and Spiritual Growth 16:44Encouraging Early Exposure to the Gospel 19:22Conclusion and Call to Action 19:52Introduction and Engagement 20:14Encouragement and Empowerment for Discipleship Resources Laura Sassi's Website Easter Activity Kit by Laura Sassi

Summary In this conversation, Glenys Nellist and Terrie Hellard-Brown discuss the significance of children's books that focus on blessings, love, and peace. They explore how these themes are woven into Glenys's book series, emphasizing the importance of positive reinforcement in children's lives. The discussion also touches on the creative process behind writing children's literature and the resources available for parents and educators to enhance the reading experience. Takeaways Children need to hear positive affirmations of love. Books can reinforce the idea that nothing can separate them from God's love. Illustrations play a crucial role in engaging children. Each book in the series has a unique theme and animal representation. Blessings can be personalized with a child's name. The power of words shapes children's self-perception. Blessings should be a lifelong practice, not just for children. Creativity in writing often leads to unexpected outcomes. Resources are available to support the themes of the books. The conversation highlights the importance of community in nurturing children. Sound Bites "Books are not just for children." "You are a blessing and I love you." "Our words have power." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Bedtime Blessings Series 05:22 Exploring God's Great Love 07:54 The Importance of Blessings in Children's Lives 10:45 Differentiating the Books in the Series 13:23 The Power of Words and Affirmations 16:03 The Role of Blessings Beyond Bedtime 18:47 Future of the Bedtime Blessings Series 21:39 Exploring Bedtime Blessings with Glenys Nellist

Summary In this episode of Sparking Everyday Discipleship, host Terrie Hellard-Brown discusses her journey in podcasting, focusing on the unique challenges faced by mixed needs families. She shares her favorite Bible recommendations for children and older kids, emphasizing the importance of quality translations and resources for spiritual growth. The episode concludes with encouragement for parents to remain steadfast in their discipleship efforts. Takeaways Terrie is transitioning the podcast to focus on mixed needs families. The new podcast is titled 'Mixed Needs Mama'. Sparking Everyday Discipleship will now be released once a month. Terrie shares her favorite storybook Bibles for children. The Kingdom and the King's Storybook Bible is highly recommended. The Biggest Bible Storybook offers a more comprehensive narrative. The Biggest Story Holy Bible is suitable for older children. Quality study Bibles enhance group Bible study experiences. Choosing a good Bible translation is crucial for understanding scripture. Parents are encouraged to remain diligent in their discipleship efforts. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sparking Everyday Discipleship 01:55 Focus on Mixed Needs Families 03:41 Exploring Bible Resources for Families 08:58 Choosing the Right Bible for Different Ages 16:23 The Importance of Solid Bible Translations

Summary In this conversation, Terrie Hellard-Brown discusses the importance of building a positive family culture, especially in mixed needs families. She emphasizes the need for clear communication, understanding expectations, and fostering a sense of belonging among family members. The discussion also covers the significance of emotional tone, routines, and the role of extended family dynamics. Terrie outlines a monthly focus for workshops aimed at helping families navigate these challenges and create a supportive environment rooted in faith and resilience. Takeaways Building a family culture requires intentionality and strategy. Expectations must align with reality to foster peace. Effective communication is essential for family harmony. Every child deserves to feel a sense of belonging. Emotional tone in the home influences overall family dynamics. Routines and habits provide necessary structure for families. A unified family mission can guide collective goals. Extended family dynamics can impact children's sense of identity. Resilience is crucial for overcoming family challenges. Discipleship should be integrated into everyday family life. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Anchored Parenting 02:38 Understanding Family Culture 04:29 Expectations and Reality in Parenting 06:10 Values, Beliefs, and Family Dynamics 07:36 The Importance of Communication 09:49 Identity and Belonging in Families 10:31 Emotional Tone and Relationships 11:28 Habits, Routines, and Family Goals 13:04 Cultural Roots and Extended Family 15:05 Support, Resilience, and Forgiveness 16:24 Monthly Focus Topics for Family Culture 23:48 Conclusion and Call to Action 30:32 Introduction and Workshop Announcement 31:32 Building a Family Culture for 2026

In this episode of "Sparking Everyday Discipleship," Terrie Hellard-Brown discusses the significance of bookish gifts for children, especially during the holiday season. She emphasizes the role of books in sparking important conversations and nurturing everyday discipleship within families. The episode features a variety of book recommendations, including those for reluctant readers and biographies of beloved authors, while also highlighting the joy of reading together as a family. Terrie encourages parents to consider their children's unique interests and gifts when selecting books, ultimately aiming to foster a love for reading and learning.

In this episode of Sparking Everyday Discipleship, Terrie Hellard-Brown discusses the significance of creating a meaningful family culture through storytelling, particularly during the Christmas season. She emphasizes the role of nostalgia, emotional connections, and the importance of choosing meaningful movies and books that foster conversations about faith and values. Terrie encourages parents to think critically about the media they consume with their children and to create traditions that will leave lasting memories and impart important lessons.

In this episode of Sparking Everyday Discipleship, host Terrie Hellard-Brown discusses various Christmas bundles designed to help parents disciple their children. The conversation covers the importance of cultural learning through children's books, the significance of engaging activities, and the value of family discipleship. Terrie shares insights on specific bundles, including the World of Pancakes, Izzy, Drandar, and Family Discipleship bundles, highlighting their unique features and benefits for families. The episode concludes with encouragement for parents to embrace everyday discipleship and utilize available resources.

In this engaging conversation, Terrie Hellard-Brown interviews Brenda Covert, a new author whose Christmas book, 'Meanwhile Back at the Manger,' explores the nativity story through the eyes of a stable boy. Brenda shares her journey as a writer, the inspiration behind her book, and the lessons it imparts for children. The discussion also touches on cherished Christmas traditions, favorite children's books, and valuable advice for aspiring writers. Brenda's passion for storytelling and her insights into parenting and discipleship make this episode a delightful listen for families and writers alike.

In this engaging conversation, Terrie Hellard-Brown interviews Brenda Covert, a new author whose Christmas book, 'Meanwhile Back at the Manger,' explores the nativity story through the eyes of a stable boy. Brenda shares her journey as a writer, the inspiration behind her book, and the lessons it imparts for children. The discussion also touches on cherished Christmas traditions, favorite children's books, and valuable advice for aspiring writers. Brenda's passion for storytelling and her insights into parenting and discipleship make this episode a delightful listen for families and writers alike.

In this conversation, Terrie Hellard-Brown and Gina Romero discuss the importance of everyday discipleship, the challenges of modern motherhood, and the heart of homemaking. They explore how hospitality can be redefined in today's culture, emphasizing that it is about the heart rather than perfection. Gina shares her personal journey into motherhood and how it inspired her book, 'Welcome Home: A Guide to Homemaking from the Heart.' The discussion also touches on the significance of mindset in homemaking, the role of expectations in teaching children hospitality, and the generational impact of these practices. Gina's insights aim to empower mothers to find joy and purpose in their daily lives while fostering a sense of community and connection.

The conversation focuses on the importance of instilling faith and hope in children, emphasizing that trials are temporary and that trusting in God can lead to healing and positive outcomes.

In this conversation, Terrie Hellard-Brown and Hannah Prewett discuss the challenges of parenting in a faith context, particularly when children begin to deconstruct their beliefs. They explore the impact of purity culture, the importance of open communication, and the need for grace in parenting. The discussion also touches on modesty, mental health, and the balance between faith and personal identity. Ultimately, they emphasize the importance of trusting God with their children's journeys and the necessity of fostering a loving and understanding environment.

In this episode, Terrie Hellard-Brown discusses the importance of accurate biblical teaching, particularly in children's literature. She expresses concerns about the Just Love Story Bible, highlighting how it alters biblical narratives and theological concepts. Terrie emphasizes the need for parents to be vigilant in what their children read and to ensure that they are being taught the true word of God. She also addresses the cultural representation in biblical stories and the accountability of teachers, encouraging parents to guide their children in faith and discipleship. She encourages parents that they can teach their children well with the help of the Holy Spirit.

In this conversation, Terrie Hellard-Brown and Debra McNinch discuss the challenges parents face in discipling their children, especially when dealing with prodigal children. They emphasize the importance of strategic prayer, community support, and overcoming shame. Debra shares her personal journey and the founding of the Battle Cry Prayer Movement, which aims to support parents in prayer and faith. The discussion also touches on how churches can better support families and the need for a battle plan in prayer. Ultimately, the conversation is filled with encouragement and hope for parents navigating difficult situations with their children.

In this episode of Sparking Everyday Discipleship, Terrie Hellard-Brown emphasizes the importance of teaching children about prayer as a means of entering into a relationship with God. She discusses the need for reverence in prayer, moving beyond rote practices, and fostering a genuine connection with God. Terrie encourages parents to model this relationship and to engage their children in meaningful conversations about faith. The episode also highlights resources for effective discipleship and the importance of community engagement in nurturing faith in the next generation.

In this week's conversation, Terrie Hellard-Brown speaks with Laura Sassi about her new children's book, Pumpkin Day for Boo and Belle. They explore the themes of friendship, grace, thankfulness, and forgiveness, and how these concepts can be conveyed to children through storytelling. Laura shares insights on how to incorporate faith into discussions around picture books, the importance of illustrations in children's literature, and the joy of reading with kids. The conversation emphasizes the value of using stories as a means to foster meaningful conversations about relationships and faith.

In this engaging conversation, Terrie Hellard-Brown interviews Mindy Baker, a children's author and educator, discussing her journey in writing picture books and middle grade literature. They explore the differences between these genres, the themes of courage and hope in Mindy's new book, and the importance of fostering a love for reading in children. Mindy also shares insights about her mini magazine and connection activities designed to enhance family literacy and bonding through books.

In this conversation, Terrie Hellard-Brown and Elizabeth Urbanowicz discuss the importance of early conversations about sex and sexuality with children, emphasizing the need for parents to be the primary source of information. They explore strategies for discussing sensitive topics, navigating puberty, and building a strong worldview within families. Elizabeth also introduces her new book, "Helping Your Kids Know God's Good Design: 40 Questions and Answers on Sexuality and Gender" aimed at helping parents guide their children through these discussions. Please note: Although this is a Christian discussion, the topic is sex and sexuality, so parental guidance is suggested. We talk openly and bluntly about the topic in this episode.

In this engaging conversation, Terrie Hellard-Brown interviews Cindy Sawyer, a children's author, about her writing journey, the themes in her books, and the importance of imagination, character development, and social emotional learning (SEL) in children's literature. They discuss how faith influences writing, the challenges of self-publishing, and the significance of fostering conversations through stories. Cindy shares insights into her creative process, future projects, and the role of books in everyday discipleship for families.

In this engaging conversation, Terrie Hellard-Brown interviews Carol Baldwin about her young adult novel Half Truths, exploring themes of family, identity, and racial relations in the 1950s South. Carol shares her inspiration for writing the book, the extensive research she conducted, and the importance of addressing family secrets and prejudice. The discussion also delves into the role of faith in writing, the challenges of being a writer, and the significance of intergenerational dialogue through literature.

In this conversation, Terrie Hellard-Brown and Jenny Gossell explore the intersection of writing, discipleship, and parenting. They discuss the importance of encouraging young writers, the role of fiction in spiritual growth, and how fantasy can serve as a tool for understanding deeper truths. Jenny shares her experiences from the Author Conservatory, the significance of critique in writing, and how parents can support their children's creative endeavors. The discussion also touches on the moral implications of fantasy literature and the importance of serving an audience through storytelling.

In this episode, Terrie Hellard-Brown discusses the importance of empowerment through faith, the challenges of parenting, and the necessity of trusting God amidst fear. She emphasizes the need for parents to guide their children while also allowing them to grow and experience life. The conversation highlights the balance between protection and trust in God's plan for our children.

In this conversation, Terrie Hellard-Brown discusses the importance of everyday discipleship, focusing on how parents can guide their children in making choices that honor God. She emphasizes the significance of modesty in dressing and the impact of our choices on ourselves and others. The conversation also touches on the need for open communication between parents and children regarding these topics, ensuring that children understand the values of respect and honor in their lives.

In this episode, Terrie Hellard-Brown discusses the concept of everyday discipleship, focusing on how parents can effectively disciple their children. She emphasizes the importance of understanding how children internalize teachings and the potential pitfalls of misrepresenting spiritual concepts. The conversation explores the balance between personal goals and spiritual growth, the significance of humility, and the need to teach children compassion and community awareness. Terrie encourages parents to engage with their children's thoughts and feelings to foster a healthy spiritual environment.

In this conversation, Terrie Hellard-Brown discusses the concept of Everyday Discipleship, emphasizing the importance of teaching parents to disciple their children. She explores the theme of comfort versus discomfort, highlighting how seeking comfort can lead to spiritual complacency. Through scriptural references, she encourages listeners to embrace discomfort as a means of glorifying God and living out their faith. The conversation also touches on the responsibility of parents to teach their children about the realities of faith, including the challenges and discomforts that may arise.

In this episode, Terrie Hellard-Brown discusses the importance of understanding grace in the Christian faith, emphasizing that good works are an outpouring of love and gratitude rather than a means to earn God's blessings. She warns against the trap of karmic thinking, where individuals believe they can earn favor through good deeds like a "Daddy's Girl" who has her father wrapped around her little finger. Instead, she encourages listeners to focus on following Jesus and glorifying God, while also providing resources for discipleship and parenting.

In this episode of Sparking Everyday Discipleship, Terrie Hellard-Brown discusses the importance of discipleship, healing, and faith in the context of personal experiences and cultural understanding. She emphasizes the significance of spiritual healing, the role of prayer, and the assurance of God's plan amidst suffering. Through personal stories and reflections, she encourages listeners to trust in God's sovereignty and to teach their children about faith and healing.

In this engaging conversation, Terrie Hellard-Brown and Hannah Prewett discuss their collaborative journey in creating a children's book, exploring themes of illustration, character development, and the importance of spiritual teachings for children. They delve into the creative process, the significance of the 'one another's' in their stories, and their future plans for the series, emphasizing the importance of surrendering to God's will in their work and lives.

In this episode of Sparking Everyday Discipleship, host Terrie Hellard-Brown celebrates the 300th episode with guest Kristin Wynalda. They discuss the evolution of the podcast, the challenges and rewards of podcasting, and the importance of discipleship in parenting. Terrie shares her writing journey, her new books, and the inspiration behind her podcast topics. The conversation emphasizes the significance of community, encouragement, and the ongoing journey of faith and discipleship.

In this episode of Sparking Everyday Discipleship, host Terrie Hellard-Brown celebrates the 300th episode with guest Kristin Wynalda. They discuss the evolution of the podcast, the challenges and rewards of podcasting, and the importance of discipleship in parenting. Terrie shares her writing journey, her new books, and the inspiration behind her podcast topics. The conversation emphasizes the significance of community, encouragement, and the ongoing journey of faith and discipleship.

In this episode of Sparking Everyday Discipleship, host Terrie Hellard-Brown celebrates the 300th episode with guest Kristin Wynalda. They discuss the evolution of the podcast, the challenges and rewards of podcasting, and the importance of discipleship in parenting. Terrie shares her writing journey, her new books, and the inspiration behind her podcast topics. The conversation emphasizes the significance of community, encouragement, and the ongoing journey of faith and discipleship.

In this conversation, Terrie Hellard-Brown interviews Dr. Paul T. Blake and Erica Wingo about their unique program, Financial Heirs International, which focuses on teaching financial literacy to families, particularly in the context of discipleship. They discuss the importance of instilling financial principles in children, the role of parents in guiding their kids towards financial health, and the significance of creating a legacy of generosity and wise money management. The conversation emphasizes practical strategies for teaching kids about money, the joy of giving, and the need for a shift in mindset regarding finances within the Christian community.

In this conversation, Terrie Hellard-Brown interviews Dr. Paul T. Blake and Erica Wingo about their unique program, Financial Heirs International, which focuses on teaching financial literacy to families, particularly in the context of discipleship. They discuss the importance of instilling financial principles in children, the role of parents in guiding their kids towards financial health, and the significance of creating a legacy of generosity and wise money management. The conversation emphasizes practical strategies for teaching kids about money, the joy of giving, and the need for a shift in mindset regarding finances within the Christian community.

In this conversation, Terrie Hellard-Brown and Danielle Papagiorgiou discuss the concept of life schooling, emphasizing the importance of integrating life experiences into education. They explore the four phases of life schooling, the significance of discipleship in parenting, and how to engage with children of all educational backgrounds. The discussion also touches on navigating the teenage years, encouraging exploration and independence, and applying life schooling principles in real-life situations. The conversation concludes with resources for parents looking to implement these ideas.

In this engaging conversation, Terrie Hellard-Brown and Kristin Wynalda explore the intersection of parenting, discipleship, and children's literature. They share their unpopular opinions on various books, discuss the role of parents in guiding their children's reading choices, and critique classic literature. The conversation also touches on the challenges within the publishing industry and the ongoing debate around book banning, emphasizing the importance of parental involvement in children's reading.

In this conversation, Lynne Rienstra discusses her book 'Sacred Refuge: Finding Unexpected Shelter in Your Crisis' with host Terrie Hellard-Brown. They explore themes of grace, faith, and the importance of community during times of crisis. Lynne shares personal stories of her own struggles, including a cancer diagnosis, and emphasizes the significance of finding peace and refuge in God's presence. The discussion highlights the transformative power of perspective in pain and the invitation to deepen one's relationship with God through trials.

Terrie and Sandra discuss healing from trauma and in that finding God's purpose for each life. They discuss Christ-centered, God-empowered healing rather than a self-centered focus.

Terrie and Sandra discuss healing from trauma and in that finding God's purpose for each life. They discuss Christ-centered, God-empowered healing rather than a self-centered focus.

In this conversation, Terrie Hellard-Brown and Lori Wildenberg explore the themes of parenting, faith, and discipleship. They discuss the importance of building strong relationships with children, conveying critical messages about love and capability, and the significance of God's presence in their lives. The conversation emphasizes the need for open dialogue, prayer, and grace in navigating the challenges of parenting, especially with prodigal children. Lori shares insights from her books and offers practical advice for parents seeking to guide their children in faith and purpose.

In this conversation, Terrie Hellard-Brown and Lori Wildenberg explore the themes of parenting, faith, and discipleship. They discuss the importance of building strong relationships with children, conveying critical messages about love and capability, and the significance of God's presence in their lives. The conversation emphasizes the need for open dialogue, prayer, and grace in navigating the challenges of parenting, especially with prodigal children. Lori shares insights from her books and offers practical advice for parents seeking to guide their children in faith and purpose.

In this conversation, Terrie Hellard-Brown and Jill Baughan explore the concept of joy, especially in the context of everyday discipleship and parenting. Jill shares her personal experiences and insights on how to find joy amidst life's challenges, emphasizing the importance of intentionality and hope. They discuss Jill's new book, 'No Matter What,' which serves as a devotional guide to help readers cultivate joy in their lives. The conversation also touches on the coexistence of joy and sorrow, illustrated through personal anecdotes, including a memorable story about a chimpanzee that brought laughter and joy to a family gathering.

In this conversation, Terrie Hellard-Brown and Gaylyn Williams discuss the importance of managing stress through faith and practical strategies. They explore the definition of stress, its impact on individuals, and the role of forgiveness in healing relationships. Gaylyn shares insights from her experiences and offers tools for stress management, emphasizing the need to focus on God amidst life's challenges. The discussion highlights the hope and encouragement available to those struggling with stress and anxiety, particularly for parents seeking to guide their children.

Elizabeth Urbanowicz challenges parents to equip our children to ask the right questions so they can discern truth and develop a strong walk with God throughout their lives.

In this conversation, Terrie Hellard-Brown and Melissa Kruger explore the challenges and joys of parenting, particularly during the teenage years. They discuss the importance of discipleship, the impact of technology and social media, the power of prayer, and the significance of maintaining strong marriages while raising children. Melissa shares insights from her books, emphasizing the need for hope and faith in parenting, and the importance of addressing idolatry in family life. The conversation provides practical advice for parents navigating the complexities of raising teens in today's world.

In this conversation, Terrie Hellard-Brown and Melissa Kruger explore the challenges and joys of parenting, particularly during the teenage years. They discuss the importance of discipleship, the impact of technology and social media, the power of prayer, and the significance of maintaining strong marriages while raising children. Melissa shares insights from her books, emphasizing the need for hope and faith in parenting, and the importance of addressing idolatry in family life. The conversation provides practical advice for parents navigating the complexities of raising teens in today's world.

In this engaging conversation, Terrie Hellard Brown interviews Laura Sassi about her new book, 'Faithful Feet.' They discuss the inspiration behind the book, its role in discipleship, and how it can be used to teach children about faith. Laura shares her journey as a writer and the importance of boldness in sharing faith-based messages. The discussion also touches on the impact of faith-based literature on families and the significance of illustrations in storytelling.

In this engaging conversation, Terrie Hellard Brown interviews children's book author Maria Antonia about her latest book 'Runaway', inspired by the true story of a sheep named Shrek. They discuss the themes of fear, trust, and the role of shepherds in children's lives, as well as Maria's other works and future projects. The conversation emphasizes the importance of faith and the lessons that can be drawn from children's literature.

In this engaging conversation, Terrie Hellard Brown interviews children's book author Maria Antonia about her latest book 'Runaway', inspired by the true story of a sheep named Shrek. They discuss the themes of fear, trust, and the role of shepherds in children's lives, as well as Maria's other works and future projects. The conversation emphasizes the importance of faith and the lessons that can be drawn from children's literature.

In this engaging conversation, Terrie Hellard Brown interviews children's book author Maria Antonia about her latest book 'Runaway', inspired by the true story of a sheep named Shrek. They discuss the themes of fear, trust, and the role of shepherds in children's lives, as well as Maria's other works and future projects. The conversation emphasizes the importance of faith and the lessons that can be drawn from children's literature.